By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Joanna Xiao named STAR Student
Joanna Xiao STAR student
Student Joanna Xiao (second from left) with parents Hua Xiao and Jun Huang and Lions Club members Tommy and Sharon Brookshire. Photo provided by RH Lions Club.
Special to the News
Published: Mar 8, 2024, 6:38 PM

In addition to the previously announced STAR Student, Ella Blakeborough, a tie has been identified by Richmond Hill High School. 


The Richmond Hill Lions Club is proud to announce that Joanna Xiao tied with Ella for the honor. Joanna, who is also a Bryan County School System winner, will compete later in March with other school system winners for Region Recognition. Joanna is the daughter of Jun Huang and Hua Xiao. She earned the recognition for academic achievement and performance on the SAT. Valeri Orloff, AP Psychology and World History (Honors) teacher at Richmond Hill High School, was selected by Joanna as her STAR Teacher. 


To obtain the 2024 STAR nomination, graduating high school seniors must have the highest score on a single test date on the SAT and be in the top 10 percent or top 10 students of their class based on grade point average. The Richmond Hill Lions Club, local STAR program sponsor, has presented $1,000 scholarships to each of the STAR students, Ella Blakeborough and Joanna Xiao.


Sign up for our E-Newsletters
Pembroke Mayor's Youth Council earns grant from Georgia nonprofit
pembroke mayor youth councilmembers
Erianna Morgan (left) and Madelyn Walraven, two members of the Pembroke Mayor's Youth Council, presenting  to the City Council Monday night for approval to use Pickett Park. (Photo provided)
Special to the News
Updated: Jun 17, 2025, 2:48 PM
Published: Jun 17, 2025, 2:33 PM
GeorgiaForward has announced that the 2025 Youth Placemaking Grant has been presented to the City of Pembroke Mayor’s Youth Council. The $500 grant, awarded to the city, will support a youth-led public placemaking project designed to foster creativity, community connection, and civic pride among young residents.
Would you like to keep reading?
You have 1 free view remaining. Use your last view to read more.
Latest Obituaries