Cox Communications recognized 27 students from Macon‑Bibb County during its annual Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards ceremony on Thursday at the Bibb County School District’s Professional Learning Center.

The awards honor students who’ve demonstrated resilience and perseverance while overcoming significant personal challenges.

“Cox is proud to recognize these remarkable students and the inspirational impact they have on their peers and school staff,” said Caryn Frey, vice president of Cox’s Middle Georgia market. “Despite facing numerous challenges in their young lives, they continue to demonstrate strength and a positive outlook. They are true heroes who deserve to be celebrated.”

The students were selected by a committee of school leaders for their ability to overcome adversity and inspire others. Honorees have navigated challenges such as the loss of a loved one, medical conditions, difficult family circumstances or other hardships, while continuing to encourage classmates and contribute positively to their school communities.

“Recognizing our Cox Heroes is about celebrating the very best of who our students are,” said Dr. Dan Sims, superintendent of the Bibb County School District. “They overcome adversity, lead with integrity, and inspire others through their resilience and commitment to success. Their stories remind us that with support, determination, and high expectations, every student has the potential to thrive.”

During the ceremony, each student received a personalized engraved medallion and a certificate of honor in recognition of their accomplishments.

Macon-Bibb County’s Cox Inspirational Student Heroes for 2026 are:

• Grace Leitzsey, Alexander II Magnet School
• Kelvin Howard, Appling Middle School
• Deontre Haynes, Ballard Hudson Middle School
• Abella Jones, Bernd Elementary School
• Yuleidy Contreras, Bruce Elementary School
• Tysheem James, Central High School
• Whitney Baker, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School
• Amya Riley, Howard High School
• Aimerance Mokwa, Howard Middle School
• Mikayla Partridge, Hutchings College & Career Academy
• Tamiracle Sears, Ingram Pye Elementary School
• Sev'en M. Chaney, John R Lewis Elementary School
• Karma Nicole Thornton, Miller Fine Arts Magnet Middle School
• Isaiah Stubbs, Northeast High School
• Anylah Thorpe, Porter Elementary School
• Jayla Washington, Rosa Taylor Elementary
• Aaliyah Johnson, Rutland High School
• Kasey Flounoy, Skyview Elementary School
• Amia Camps-Robinson, Sonny Carter Elementary School
• Lyric Blash, Southfield Elementary School
• Jeffery Alexander, Southwest Magnet High School and Law Academy
• Jordyn King, Springdale Elementary School
• Ya’Miya Denmark, Union Elementary School
• Ya’Moni Denmark,   Union Elementary School
• Cole Rutherford, Veterans Elementary School
• Amari Oliver, Vineville Academy of the Arts
• Kennedy Slocum, Weaver Middle School

The Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards program began more than three decades ago in New Orleans, Louisiana. The program has expanded to several other Cox markets across the southeast and has recognized more than 5,200 students to date.