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January 22, 2013
When you’re a high school senior involved in seven school organizations, several community projects and working to maintain a 4.0 GPA, one might wonder if there is ever any free time and, if so, do you spend it with your feet propped up or would you get cracking on something else?
For Christina McCain, 2012 Terrebonne Parish Teen of the Year, you paint. Or draw.
“It’s tough, but I enjoy all these things, so it’s no sacrifice at all,” she said. “I enjoy giving back.”
McCain, a senior at Vandebilt Catholic High School, was one of 24 high school students from the parish’s six high schools nominated for Terrebonne Teen of the Year. The 17-year-old was selected the top teen by the American Legion Lenox Hotard Post 31 in Houma, along with Post 272 Montegut and Post 380 Chauvin.
“I knew that I was one of the four students selected from Vandebilt, and I was honored just to be selected,” McCain, daughter of John and Michelle McCain of Houma, said. “All of the 24 students selected are exceptional. I was blown away by how accomplished all of the other nominees are. I was so shocked when they said my name. I’m still shocked. My mom was like, ‘Take your coat off before you walk up there.’ It’s such an honor to represent the parish and such an accomplished group of kids.”
McCain’s list of involvements include serving as the president of Vandebilt’s Art Club, artistic director of the Student Council and secretary of S.W.A.T., the school’s anti-drug club. The senior is also a general member of Sisters in Christ, National Honor Society, Pro-Life and the Key Club. In addition to her school commitments, McCain also serves on the Terrebonne Parish Youth Advisory Council, volunteers at the St. Matthews Church art events for children and at Heritage Manor and also participates in the Buddy Walk.
“I do lots of volunteer work, like car washes and such,” McCain said, laughing.
When it comes to classes, McCain, who is in the running for her graduating class’ valedictorian spot, enjoys art courses the most, something she may not see too much of come the fall.
“I’d like to major in microbiology, animal science or maybe pre-med, but I’m not entirely decided, ” she said. “I may even look into radiology and hematology. I’m not sure where I will be going to school, but I’ve been accepted to honors programs at LSU and Tulane.”
Vandebilt principal James Reiss is pleased that one of his students was again chosen as the parish’s Teen of the Year.
“We’ve had several Teen of the Year recipients over the years,” Reiss said. “Christina is a great kid. She is great at school, and she works hard in the community. She’s popular for all the right reasons and well liked by everyone. Her parents raised a good kid, and it’s obvious. She represents the school well. The parish couldn’t ask for a better Teen of the Year. It’s well deserved.”
McCain’s work in the community also made her a standout candidate when Jack Croaker, commander of American Legion Post 31, began reviewing the nominee packets.
“We have seven judges made up of past and present commanders,” Croaker said. “I read the packets several times and narrowed them down to three. Those are read by the judges, and votes are tabulated to decide the winner.”
The award is based on the teenager’s volunteer services at school, church and in the community and his or her academic record, resumes of service, achievements and letters of recommendation.
“Everything Christina does in and out of school is incredible,” Croaker said. “She is a very nice young lady.”
Christina McCain, a 17-year-old Vandebilt Catholic High School senior, was recently named 2012 Terrebonne Parish Teen of the Year by the American Legion Lenox Hotard Post 31 in Houma, along with Post 272 Montegut and Post 380 Chauvin. McCain’s list of involvements include serving as the president of Vandebilt’s Art Club, artistic director of the Student Council and secretary of S.W.A.T., the school’s anti-drug club.
