2026 Star Student Contest
Landon Rudd
Opelika High School| Senior
We’re proud to recognize Landon Rudd, a senior at Opelika High School. Landon is a dedicated student-athlete who leads by example on the baseball field and in the classroom. Known for his kindness, leadership, and contagious smile, Landon’s hard work is opening doors for him to continue playing baseball at the college level—and his future is looking bright both on and off the field.
Maurice Payne (MJ)
Loachapoka High School | Senior
We are proud to recognize Maurice Payne (MJ) as our Student Star of the Week! Maurice has consistently achieved A/B Honor Roll throughout all four years of high school and is finishing his senior year with All A’s—an incredible accomplishment.
In addition to excelling academically, Maurice is a varsity basketball player and has earned multiple letters of recommendation from teachers and coaches as he prepares to attend college and pursue scholarship opportunities. He is also a proud member of the National High School Scholars, further highlighting his dedication and leadership.
Maurice truly embodies what it means to be a star student, and we are honored to recognize him as a winner of this contest. Congratulations, MJ—your future is bright!
Cameron Patterson
Pick Elementary School | 5th Grade
Bree Miranda is an 11-year-old 5th grader at Pick Elementary School in Auburn. Her zest for life is truly infectious! Bree loves everything about school — from academics to the morning news, flag crew, enrichment, and participating in school plays.
Outside the classroom, Bree enjoys spending time with her family, staying active in sports (especially Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu), creating art, and helping others whenever she can. She already dreams big and aspires to become an engineer one day.
We’re proud to recognize Bree for her energy, curiosity, and positive spirit!
Cameron Patterson
The Oaks | 7th Grade
This week we’re proud to recognize Cameron Patterson, a 7th grader at The Oaks! Cam is a quiet, kind, and intelligent young man who loves reading, enjoys playing video games, and recently won his school’s 6–8 writing competition—congratulations! He hopes to become a child psychologist one day and already shows a caring heart by helping his mom and dad with his little brother. We’re honored to celebrate such an outstanding young member of our community
Trindon Manior
Auburn High School | Senior
Congratulations to Trindon Manior, a senior at Auburn High School and a standout leader on the Auburn High School basketball team! As a dedicated student-athlete, Trindon is known for his strong court vision, unselfish play, and team-first mindset, making a positive impact both on and off the court. King Honda Car World is proud to recognize his hard work, leadership, and commitment to excellence—keep representing your team and school with pride!
Elsie Clay
Fox Run School | 6th Grade
Elsie is humble, polite, and consistently gives her best in everything she does. She has a kind heart and makes others feel welcome, even while remaining quietly confident herself. A 6th grade student at Fox Run School, Elsie loves math, her favorite color is pink, and she enjoys spending time with her family, playing board games, pickleball, and volleyball. She also loves doing crafts with her big sister, Emma.
We are so proud of you, Elsie — keep shining and being a positive example to those around you!
Mallory Jones
Morris Avenue Intermediate School | 4th Grade
Mallory is a truly special student whose light shines brightly in everything she does. Her kindness, compassion, and selflessness set her apart, and she consistently looks for ways to help others.
At just 9 years old, Mallory has started her own small business, Make a Mark, donating her earnings—along with chore money, donations, and proceeds from cake pop and lemonade sales—to breast cancer research and the Boys and Girls Missionary Challenge, which helps provide running water and Bibles to communities in need. On weekends, she also delivers flowers and spends time visiting residents in nursing homes.
Mallory demonstrates remarkable courage, leadership, and empathy well beyond her years. She chooses compassion when others choose indifference and reminds us all that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Our world is truly a better place because of her, and if selected as a winner, there’s no doubt Mallory would use her reward to help others.
We are proud to recognize Mallory as this week’s Student Star
Lauren T. Jones
Junior | Kamel Academy
Lauren, a junior at Kamel Academy, for her incredible dedication and heart.
Lauren fell in love with American Sign Language and turned her diagnosis of Auditory Processing Disorder into a powerful purpose. She has already completed multiple ASL courses through AIDB in Opelika and is admired by the local deaf community for her skill, compassion, and commitment.
She hopes to major in ASL Interpretation in college so she can help bridge the gap between the deaf and hearing worlds.
Lauren’s resilience, empathy, and service make her a true Star Student.
Week 9 Winner:
Katherine Ketring
Senior | Auburn High School
Katherine Ketring is a shining example of character, compassion, and excellence. A senior at Auburn High School, Katherine is known for her kindness, caring heart, and outstanding academic record. She’s a gifted artist and talented violinist whose positive spirit brings joy to everyone around her.
Katherine is currently playing violin in the Auburn High production of “Into the Woods” and has been part of the AUYO program since age 7. She has performed at All State twice and is admired for her creativity, musical talent, and dedication.
An AP/Honors student, Katherine is grateful for the teachers who have supported and encouraged her throughout her academic journey.
Outside of school, she is devoted to her four older brothers, loves being the favorite aunt to her nieces and nephew, and is active in her church youth group. She volunteers with the National Art Honor Society and participates in natural disaster cleanup efforts with her church.
Katherine plans to study to become a Medical Family Therapist.
Congratulations, Katherine — you inspire us all!
Week 8 Winner:
Mason and Carter Sistrunk
9th Grade | Opelika High School
We have a special package deal this week — twin brothers Mason and Carter Sistrunk, both 9th graders at Opelika High School!
Mason and Carter are identical in kindness, humility, respect, and determination. Mason has maintained all-A Honor Roll, while Carter consistently holds an A/B Honor Roll. Both young men are members of the National Jr. Honor Society and FCA, showing leadership both in and out of the classroom.
Mason plays on the 9th Grade Football Team at OHS, and Carter plays percussion in the Spirit of the South Marching Band. They’ve both competed on the OMS track team and will begin OHS track this spring.
Beyond school, they serve their community through Trinity Church of Opelika, where they actively participate in youth group, retreats, and mission trips. Their work ethic shines all year — from washing car windows at River Bank & Trust on summer Fridays to selling Auburn Football programs at each AU home game.
Mason and Carter never meet a stranger and are truly loved by everyone around them.
We couldn’t be more proud to celebrate these outstanding brothers as our King Honda Car World Student Stars of the Week!
Week 7 Winner:
Taniya Bogan
Junior | Auburn High School
Congratulations to Taniya Bogan, an 11th grader at Auburn High School!
Taniya is an excellent student academically and a wonderful, thoughtful young woman. She works hard in class and always has a great attitude. She is reliable, helpful, and actively serves others through Project Outreach, JROTC, and other community organizations. Taniya also aspires to join the Marines, showing her commitment to leadership, discipline, and service to others.
We’re proud to recognize Taniya for her dedication, leadership, and positive impact on those around her!
#KingHondaCarWorld #StudentStar #AuburnHighSchool #FutureMarine #CommunityExcellence
Week 6 Winner:
John Dalton “JD” Higginbotham
Junior | Auburn High School
Congratulations to John Dalton “JD” Higginbotham, a Junior at Auburn High School!
JD is the President of the Dance Club at AHS and a proud member of the International Thespian Honor Society (ITS). He’s also a standout student in AP Language and Composition, where his enthusiasm, hard work, and positivity make him the heart of the class.
Theater is where JD truly shines — he’ll be headlining in the school’s upcoming musical! Through his leadership, he helped grow the AHS Dance Club, giving students a fun and welcoming place to belong.
We’re proud to recognize JD for his leadership, creativity, and incredible school spirit!
#KingHondaCarWorld #StudentStarOfTheWeek #AuburnHighSchool #CommunityProud #LeadersOfTomorrow
Week 5 Winner
Ollie Simpson
King Honda Car World proudly recognizes Ollie Simpson as this week’s Student Star!
Ollie is a bright and amazing young student currently in first grade, homeschooled and attending co-op classes a couple of days a week. His teachers describe him as empathetic and joyful, always bringing positivity to those around him.
He’s a Sparks kid in Awana, and he truly shines in Music and Math, where his natural talent and enthusiasm stand out.
Congratulations, Ollie! Keep learning, growing, and spreading joy everywhere you go!
Week 4 Winner
Caleb Sistrunk
9th Grade | Opelika High School
King Honda Car World is proud to recognize Caleb Sistrunk for his outstanding leadership, character, and dedication to excellence. Caleb is an honor student at Opelika High School, a faithful member of his church, and a talented musician who enjoys playing the bass guitar.
He currently participates in the Young Professionals in Training (YPIT) program at Auburn University, where he’s developing valuable leadership and professional skills for future success. Beyond the classroom, Caleb trains in mixed martial arts and Jiu-Jitsu at Auburn Mixed Martial Arts, demonstrating discipline and perseverance in every aspect of his life.
Caleb plans to pursue a career in law, combining his passion for leadership, justice, and serving others.
Please join us in congratulating Caleb Sistrunk for being this week’s King Honda Car World Student Star of the Week — a shining example of hard work, faith, and excellence!
Week 3 Winner
Christopher Heard
Senior – Opelika High School
Christopher Heard is a true leader and an inspiration to those around him. As the founder of the “LoverAppeal” club at Opelika High School that supports women, he actively promotes community service, respect, and academic excellence among his peers. His passion for spreading the gospel and uplifting others has made a lasting impact both in school and throughout the community.
Christopher’s story is one of perseverance and faith — having overcome the challenges of foster care and adoption, he now uses his voice to motivate and inspire others, proving that your past does not define your future. He also serves as an usher at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church and continues to make a difference as a motivational speaker and mentor.
Christopher embodies what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and strength. King Honda Car World is proud to recognize him as this week’s Student Star of the Week!
Week 2 Winner
Camden “Cam” Railey
Senior – Opelika High School
Camden “Cam” Railey is a remarkable young man whose leadership, character, and achievements make him a standout in every way. Currently a senior at Opelika High School, Cam maintains an outstanding GPA above 4.2 while excelling in rigorous Advanced Placement courses. He has made the honor roll every semester of his high school career, setting the standard for academic excellence.
On the field, Cam has developed into a tremendous leader for Opelika’s football program. He is a two-year starting long snapper at the varsity level and adds valuable depth at the wide receiver position. Beyond the field, Cam leads in the weight room with encouragement, energy, and accountability—always leading by example.
Cam also works at Bazilia’s Café, serving his community with humility, and he is a leader in his church, classrooms, and hallways. Known for his authenticity and servant heart, Cam truly embodies what it means to be a student-athlete and role model.
His leadership carries deep meaning—last October, Cam lost his uncle, Jonathan “Jonny” Bazilia, to a base-jumping accident. Jonny was a great influence in Cam’s life, encouraging him to live fearless, love fearless, and lead fearless. Cam now carries that legacy, guiding his teammates and peers with compassion, humility, and strength.
For his unwavering dedication, academic excellence, athletic leadership, and servant heart, King Honda Car World proudly recognizes Camden “Cam” Railey as our Student Star of the Week.
Week 1 Winner:
Airyana Belcher
Beauregard High School
Congratulations to our Student Star of the Week — Airyana Belcher!
King Honda Car World is proud to recognize Airyana Belcher, an outstanding 11th grader at Beauregard High School.
Airyana is a bright and well-rounded student who ranks at the top of her junior class. She excels not only in her academic courses but also in dual enrollment classes, showing remarkable drive and dedication to her education.
Beyond the classroom, Airyana is a leader in her school and community. She actively participates in Choir, HOSA, National Honor School, church choir, and Young Professionals in Training (YPIT). Her achievements have earned her invitations to prestigious organizations such as the National High Honors Society and Future Medical Leaders.
Airyana’s hard work, leadership, and service to others make her a truly deserving recipient of this honor. Congratulations, Airyana — we are so proud of you!
— King Honda Car World
Week 6 Winner:
John Dalton “JD” Higginbotham
Junior | Auburn High School
Congratulations to John Dalton “JD” Higginbotham, a Junior at Auburn High School!
JD is the President of the Dance Club at AHS and a proud member of the International Thespian Honor Society (ITS). He’s also a standout student in AP Language and Composition, where his enthusiasm, hard work, and positivity make him the heart of the class.
Theater is where JD truly shines — he’ll be headlining in the school’s upcoming musical! Through his leadership, he helped grow the AHS Dance Club, giving students a fun and welcoming place to belong.
We’re proud to recognize JD for his leadership, creativity, and incredible school spirit!
#KingHondaCarWorld #StudentStarOfTheWeek #AuburnHighSchool #CommunityProud #LeadersOfTomorrow
Week 7 Winner:
Taniya Bogan
Junior | Auburn High School
Congratulations to Taniya Bogan, an 11th grader at Auburn High School!
Taniya is an excellent student academically and a wonderful, thoughtful young woman. She works hard in class and always has a great attitude. She is reliable, helpful, and actively serves others through Project Outreach, JROTC, and other community organizations. Taniya also aspires to join the Marines, showing her commitment to leadership, discipline, and service to others.
We’re proud to recognize Taniya for her dedication, leadership, and positive impact on those around her!
#KingHondaCarWorld #StudentStar #AuburnHighSchool #FutureMarine #CommunityExcellence