Commissioner Miller Travels to San Saba, Honors Texas Student With ‘GROW’ Award (3/17/2015)

AUSTIN – Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller visited San Saba High School today to honor senior Hailey Osbourn as the winner of the Texas Department of Agriculture’s monthly GROW award. The award Gives Recognition for Outstanding Work to middle and high school students who demonstrate leadership and excellence inside and outside the classroom. 

“I have to tip my hat to Hailey for earning this month’s GROW award, and what a pleasure it was to travel to San Saba today to meet one of Texas’ shining stars,” Commissioner Miller said. “Thanks to young leaders like Hailey the future of Texas looks brighter than ever. She symbolizes everything I look for in a great leader — a strong work ethic, dedication to community and family, and a can-do attitude. I couldn’t be more proud to honor Hailey, and it was a real privilege to talk to her and her classmates today about why Texas agriculture matters and the importance of leadership.” 

Hailey was chosen from hundreds of Texas students for demonstrating leadership in her school activities, as well as her commitment to community service. Her teachers note her strong work ethic, desire to succeed and self-discipline among the many talents that make Hailey shine.

She is a star member of her high school’s University Interscholastic League (UIL) Academic Accounting team, as well as the UIL Math and Calculator teams. Hailey also participates in UIL Ready Writing. She placed second at district competition in accounting, and Hailey helped lead her team to first place at district and second place at the regional competition. She also placed first at regionals in the individual category. Hailey placed fifth in the individual category at state competition. She actively recruits other students to participate in UIL. Hailey is a motivating force among her peers, encouraging them to do their best, work together and lead the accounting team to success.

Additionally, Hailey is a star in the show ring and proud member of 4-H, which she has been a part of for nine years. She also served as a 4-H treasurer. Hailey has participated in stock shows since she was in the first grade, and she has had class goat and barrow champions in the San Antonio Livestock Show.

“Hailey not only excels in the classroom, but she is a leader in sports, the show ring, church and community,” said Colleen Womack, teacher at San Saba High School. “Hailey is a well-rounded student with ambition. She is definitely a leader in our school and community. If there were ever a student who possesses leadership qualities, I would definitely say that Hailey Osbourn would be my pick!”

She has been a member of the student council for four years, as well as the Spanish club. Hailey was a class officer, where she served as a reporter. She is a two-year member of the National Honor Society and has served as vice president. Additionally, she is a three-year Rotary Honor Student. Her hard work has been noted around San Saba High School, where she was selected to receive the Presidential Award for three years and the Principal’s Character Award.

Beyond the classroom, sports are near to Hailey’s heart, as she’s participated in basketball, where she was named defensive MVP, along with track and cross country. Additionally, she was a football student trainer and baseball manager.

After high school, Hailey plans to attend the University of North Texas and pursue a career in physical therapy.

“Receiving this award is such an honor, and I would like to thank Mrs. Womack for nominating me,” said Hailey. “Participating in 4-H, stock shows and sports has taught me so much about leadership and responsibility.” 

For more on Hailey’s accomplishments, click here. The Texas Department of Agriculture established the GROW award to celebrate outstanding student leaders who demonstrate excellence in either their academic or extracurricular activities. Students can be nominated by community leaders such as teachers, coaches, school administrators, mayors, county judges or anyone else committed to recognizing youth leadership and achievement. 

To nominate a promising middle or high school student, visit the TDA website at TexasAgriculture.gov. One GROW award winner is chosen monthly. Nominations for next month’s award are due April 1, 2015.