DARLINGTON, S.C. – Darlington County School District (DCSD) recognized 20 students for their commitment to strong character and drug-free choices during the 2026 STAND Awards ceremony held April 24 at Mayo High School for Math, Science and Technology.

These students represent what’s possible when young people choose leadership, responsibility, and a commitment to their future.

The STAND Awards—Students Taking Action, Not Drugs—honor one student from each school who demonstrates strong character, encourages positive choices, and shows a commitment to academic and personal growth.

Robert Hankins, a 2009 STAND Award recipient and current DCSD technology team member, served as keynote speaker. He shared his personal journey and encouraged students to stay focused, overcome challenges, and lead others through their actions. The ceremony also featured performances by the Mayo High School Concert Band.

DCSD Superintendent Dr. Matthew Ferguson also recognized the honorees, emphasizing that their choices today are helping build a stronger future for themselves and their community.

 The 2026 STAND Award winners are:

• Bay Road Elementary - Keira Wallace
• Black Creek Elementary - Brian Loggie
• Brockington Elementary Magnet - Rozzi Coe
• Carolina Elementary - Emmarie Lynn
• DCSD Digital 360 - Sivanee Deas
• Darlington County Institute of Technology - Itzel “Gabby” Itehua Gutierrez
• Darlington County Intervention School - Zymirion Davis
• Darlington High - Nessiah Steele
• Darlington Middle - Christopher Gehrke
• Hartsville High - DeMonte’ Pendergrass
• Hartsville Middle - Justice Washington
• J.L. Cain Elementary - Receiana Bailey
• Lamar High - Estefani Morales Rico
• Lamar-Spaulding Elementary - Kamryn Thomas
• Mayo High for MST - Zeke Latham
• North Hartsville Elementary - Anna Kate Atkinson
• Pate Elementary - Payten Euten
• Southside Early Childhood Center - Ezrahi Taisakan Joe
• Spaulding Middle –Sophia Knotts
• Thornwell School for the Arts - Jahmir Mitchell

 The STAND Awards are part of DCSD’s ongoing commitment to drug-free schools and character education, reinforcing the belief that strong choices today lead to stronger futures tomorrow.