Stanford Award Winners

Gavin Cerilli, class of 2029, graduated from Stuart W. Cramer High School in Belmont, N.C. Gavin was nominated by the Rev. Josh Hjemvick of First Associate Reformed Presbyterian (ARP) Church, Gastonia, N.C., who served as his youth pastor. Sensing a call to pastoral ministry, Gavin engages in personal study of scripture and has led Bible studies at his school and in his church. Hjemvick said Gavin has served as a leader for elementary students at Camp Bonclarken as well as for middle school students at First ARP.

Hjemvick said, “God has grown in Gavin over his high school years a deep love for His word, a desire to serve the church, and God has placed in Gavin’s heart a burden for gospel ministry…Gavin’s faith and life in Christ is impacting our middle school students as he challenges them to live out their faith in radical obedience.”

Read a full article about the 2025 Stanford Award winners.

Kinley Hooker, class of 2029, graduated from Wren High School in Piedmont, S.C. As a high school student she volunteered at 5 Points Church leading worship, teaching children, and serving in the youth group. She has also been involved in leadership with Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Michelle Clary, executive director of ministries at 5 Points Church, who nominated Kinley, said, “Kinley shows Jesus in all she does. She goes above and beyond anything that is asked…She has a joy that exceeds most adults.”

Kinley was also nominated by Jeri Carter, a coach for whom Kinley played middle school basketball. He said, “Kinley’s love for the Lord has impacted me by her faithful service in our Fellowship of Christian Athletes huddle. She has served consistently as a student leader. Even in difficult times, she has remained steadfast. She is very kind and dependable and her testimony for Christ is evident through her actions.”

Read a full article about the 2025 Stanford Award winners.

Anna Grace Sturkie, pictured with Erskine staff member Dr. Jamie Williams

Anna Grace Sturkie, class of 2028, is Erskine’s first Stanford Award winner. As a high schooler, Anna Grace volunteered at Bethany World Outreach Center in Honea Path, South Carolina, serving as a teacher in the children’s department, a member of the praise team, and a member of the greeting committee. She has also been involved with TeenPact and Widows’ Watchman Ministries.

Tony Davis, a member of Bethany World Outreach Center and the one who nominated Anna Grace, said, “Anna Grace’s creativity and enthusiasm for sharing the love of Christ with the next generation is a constant source of encouragement to me.”

Click to read a full article about Anna Grace.