Two McKinley High students, Rya Wade and Keshawn Gadison, were presented with a Character Champion award for the month of April. The following biographical information was prepared by McKinley Senior High School. 
 
RYA WADE is an excellent choice for recognition for her character, as she is one of the most resilient students to ever come through McKinley Senior. She is also a very a hard worker. Rya is passionate about music, and her level of commitment to our band and choir programs and musicals is astounding. The hours she puts in performing, and even directing her peers, are countless, and she was a huge part of our successful "Whiz" production just last weekend to close out her senior year. Beyond this, she is in the National Honor Society, and a Canton Scholar, which requires many volunteer hours. She has a 3.68 GPA, earned through advanced, AP, & CCP classes. Rya's smile, strength, and upbeat personality will be remembered for a long time. Rya will attend the University of Akron in the fall to major in Psychology.
 
 
KESHAWN GADISON, is a student of great character. His level of responsibility has been evident as he has balanced his schoolwork with additional activities and employment. Keshawn has chosen to challenge himself with advanced courses and has maintained a 3.7 GPA. He is in the Culinary Arts program at school and excels in this program, being described by his instructor as a pleasure to have in the classroom and an asset to the program. He has also worked in the food service industry for the last year and a half in order to improve his skills. The activities that Keshawn chooses to align himself with also reflect his commitment to being a good citizen and caring about others. He has been a member of the Men of Honor at McKinley for 2 years and participates in the Get Connected mentoring program. In addition to these activities, Keshawn has participated in school sports including baseball and basketball and is always willing to help when volunteering in the attendance office. He is planning to attend the University of Akron this fall and major in Construction Engineering. Keshawn always has a smile on his face and is incredibly respectful to all who he encounters.