More than 20 Martin County School District students were recognized for their empathy and support at the 19th annual Sydney Young Golden Heart Awards, marking the largest group of honorees in the program’s history.
This program was established in 2006 by Susan Burrows, a former principal of Willoughby Learning Center, then called the Challenger School, after she watched student Sydney Young’s unwavering care for her brother with special needs. Since then, classroom teachers, administrators and campus staff submit nominations for students they witness consistently offering friendship, advocacy and help to their siblings facing challenges.
Each awardee received a certificate and Golden Heart pin during the event held on May 15, 2025, at Willoughby Learning Center, which was attended by family members, district leaders, Superintendent Michael Maine, School Board Chair Amy Pritchett, School Board members Jennifer Russell and Christia Li Roberts, and community supporters.
A heartfelt congratulations goes to the following students:
Ariana Abad, Jensen Beach Elementary School
Rolan Mahoney, Jensen Beach Elementary School
William Kiddy, Jensen Beach Elementary School
Ayan Bhatt, Jensen Beach Elementary School
Ian Darling, Hobe Sound Elementary School
Jase Hatzidakis, Jensen Beach Elementary School
Taylor Rettig, Hidden Oaks Middle School
Luke Durgee, Jensen Beach Elementary School
Jayce Fulks, Citrus Grove Elementary School
Emery Wilcox, South Fork High School
Ronan Triggs, Citrus Grove Elementary School
Khaliah Oliver, South Fork High School
Marlyn Domingo, Warfield Elementary School
Kayla Nieto, South Fork High School
Kenneth Morales, Warfield Elementary School
Ashley Hernandez, South Fork High School
Lamara Rivera, Warfield Elementary School
Elizabeth Johnson, Felix A. Williams Elementary School
Aura Fisher, Crystal Lake Elementary School
Hazel Gille, Pinewood Elementary School
Truett Gille, Pinewood Elementary School
Lucas Gibbs, Jensen Beach High School
View photos from the event here: Golden Heart Awards 2025