Recent SMA graduate receives Exceptional Senior Award from Congressman Roy

Mackenzie Young, a member of the Class of 2021 at San Marcos Academy, was one of 41 students to receive the Exceptional Senior Award from Congressman Chip Roy (R-TX 21st District).

The Exceptional Senior Award (ESA) is presented to stellar seniors in the graduating Class of 2021 across Texas’ 21st Congressional District. ESA winners are students who have consistently displayed high levels of character, leadership, integrity, and diligence. These virtues were evident through their philanthropic activities, academic success, and reputations among peers and teachers.

The daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Young of Canyon Lake, Mackenzie was president of the SMA Student Council and participated in the National Honor Society, Student Ambassadors, B e a r Buddy program, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She also served as captain of both the volleyball and tennis teams.

During her time at the Academy, Mackenzie received the Mike Kipp Female Christian Athlete of the Year Award, the NHS Award for Religion, the Second Mile Award, the Gilt Edge All-Year Honor roll, Tennis MVP and the Academic All-State Award in tennis.

A cum laude graduate, Mackenzie was offered scholarships to Texas A&M-San Antonio, Dallas Baptist University and Texas State University, but she has chosen to pursue a career in outdoor education to show others the lasting benefits of experiencing nature. She will accomplish this by completing a leadership course from Outward Bound.

Congressman Roy visited with the award winners virtually to offer his congratulations. He offered encouragement for them to choose optimism throughout the days ahead and remain proud of their achievements.

Recipients of the Exceptional Senior Awards included students from both public and private schools from San Antonio, New Braunfels, Fredericksburg, Austin, Boerne, Kerrville, and other communities in Texas District 21.

Submitted by San Marcos Academy