Leading with Purpose: Ava's Advocacy Project

The A+ Student VOICES Team (SVT) is a group of passionate high school students dedicated to making a positive impact in their school communities. These student advocates work on various projects to address student needs and improve the education system for themselves and their peers. One member, Ava, has taken a significant step to foster community and fellowship among students at her school.

Recognizing the desire for faith, fellowship, and encouragement among her peers, Ava Quinones, a senior at W.P. Davidson High School, began leading the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at her school this year alongside a close friend. What began with just eight cross country teammates quickly grew to over 60 students gathering weekly to grow in their faith and friendship.

This year’s theme, “Fear Not,” encouraged students to rely on God’s strength in the face of life’s challenges. To support FCA activities, the group designed and sold T-shirts featuring the theme, raising funds to continue building the program. At the end of each month, they invited local youth pastors to speak, offering students deeper, faith-centered messages from leaders further along in their spiritual journeys.

FCA was promoted simply through posters around campus and word of mouth—but the impact was powerful. During special times like Christmas and Easter, the group held celebratory gatherings with free Chick-fil-A to fellowship with one another.

As a graduating senior, Ava made it a priority to build up younger leaders to carry FCA forward after her departure. Through mentorship and intentional leadership development, she ensured the group would remain strong and student-led for years to come.

Her dedication to FCA reflects the power of student leadership and the lasting difference young people can make by stepping out in faith to serve others.