The Finley Award rewards one senior from both Spain Park and Hoover High School, along with one employee from either school, for displaying exceptional character. The recipients are decided by a committee of school and community member.
This year, the prestigious award went to Hoover High School student Paul Norris, Trace Crossings Elementary School Principal Quincy Collins, and Spain Park High School student Lauren Choi.
Paul Norris, according to Steven Denney - Norris’s building construction instructor - is “dependable, kind, and perseverant.” Norris moved from Uganda to the U.S. when he was just a teenager. Not knowing the language and culture of a brand new country, Norris has consistently displayed an incredibly hard work ethic and compassion for others. His belief in and ability to love others makes him stand out among his peers. Jason Kervin, a biology teacher at Hoover High School, explains how Norris is “unequivocally one of the best human beings he’s had the pleasure to be around.”
Quincy Collins has been the principal of Trace Crossings Elementary School for three years, and in that time, many have described him to be a man of strong morals and an amazing dedication to his students and colleagues alike. Tamala Maddox, the principal of Bumpus Middle School where Collins was the former assistant principal, explains how Collins is a role model for many. “He exemplifies Christlike character each day,” she explains. Others describe him to be a “servant leader,” making sure the needs of those around him are met before his own.
Lauren Choi is undoubtedly gifted in many areas, whether it’s in academics, art, or school-club competitions. However, her character transcends all of these factors in that she is dedicated, prepared, and a true leader. Sara Love, an AP English teacher at Spain Park High School, describes Choi to be “a beautiful person inside and out” and someone who “eagerly awaits new information to savor.” She never fails to motivate her peers and treat others with the utmost respect.
Perhaps the most important quality these people share is humility. Collins was truly humbled and overwhelmed to hear that he had won the award. “To be able to have an award of this magnitude bestowed to me at this time is a blessing,” he said. Choi had a similar experience and response: “It’s definitely humbling. I am by no means a person of perfect character, but I’m really honored that people hold me in such high regard. I think this award is a reminder to always strive towards humility and kindness.”
Norris, Collins, Choi, and other nominees will all be honored at a ceremony on March 21 at the Finley Center in the Hoover Met Complex.
