Earlier this week, Cox Communications hosted the annual Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards in Macon-Bibb County, recognizing 34 students who have overcome extreme hardships in their lives. The Heroes were recognized at a ceremony on Wednesday, May 18 at the Tubman Museum in downtown Macon. This is the first Heroes event that was held in person since the beginning of the pandemic. In 2020 and 2021, the students were recognized virtually via a television show. 

“We’ve all been through some difficult times over these past couple of years, but these students have overcome so much more in their young lives,” said Cox Middle Georgia Market vice president Caryn Frey.  “They’ve not only been through the pandemic, but other family tragedies or life challenges, and they’ve pulled through with a smile on their faces while bringing happiness to others. They deserve their time in the spotlight for being such an inspiration to us all.”

“Thank you, Cox Communications, for your support over the past 7 years,” said Dr. Curtis L. Jones, Jr., superintendent of Macon-Bibb County Schools. “Our school district’s vision is that each student will demonstrate strength of character and be college or career ready, and as we’ve dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been times where it has been challenging to keep an eye on the prize – to be able to stay focused on our ‘True North,’ some might say. The Cox Inspirational Student Heroes program is an example of how community partners have helped support our students throughout difficult times. Cox has helped our students to know their efforts have been seen and recognized. I commend the organization and thank them for continuing to recognize student achievements even through difficult times.” 

The students were chosen by a committee of leaders at their school, due to their resilience in the face of adversity.  Whether they have overcome a loss of a family member, medical issue, difficult family situation or other hardship, they did so with a positive attitude and continued to encourage and inspire others around them.