Congratulations to Carson Bedics and DJ Bennett on being our spring 2025 PNC Achievers award winners!

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we announce Carson Bedics and DJ Bennett as our Spring 2025 PNC Achievers. Selected for their exceptional character, leadership, and commitment both on and off the field, these two student-athletes embody the spirit of the PNC Achiever program — which honors those who excel not only in athletics but also in academics, community service, and personal integrity.

In a world that is increasingly complex and demanding, Carson and DJ stand out as young leaders who are setting a remarkable example for their peers. Their achievements extend far beyond their respective sports, demonstrating a holistic dedication to excellence and positive impact. As PNC Achievers, they are not only being recognized for what they’ve accomplished but also for who they are — respectful, resilient, and responsible young adults with bright futures ahead.

Carson Bedics, a senior at [Your School Name], is the epitome of quiet leadership. A three-sport athlete and honor student, Carson has excelled in football, basketball, and track and field, earning the respect of coaches, teammates, and teachers alike. Whether he’s on the field calling plays or in the classroom dissecting advanced calculus problems, Carson’s work ethic and discipline set the tone for those around him.

Carson has maintained a GPA above 4.0 throughout his high school career, enrolling in numerous Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses. He’s known for his intellectual curiosity and his willingness to help others — often tutoring classmates in subjects like physics and pre-calculus during his free time. His academic achievements have earned him membership in the National Honor Society and several departmental awards.

“Carson is one of those students who doesn’t seek the spotlight but always seems to earn it,” said his AP Physics teacher, Mrs. Jennifer Morales. “He’s not only brilliant, but also humble and generous. That’s a rare combination.”

On the field, Carson is a fierce competitor. As quarterback and team captain of the football team, he led his team to back-to-back district championships. His vision, composure under pressure, and ability to inspire confidence in his teammates made him a standout not just statistically, but emotionally — a true glue guy for the program.

In basketball, Carson plays a pivotal role as a point guard, orchestrating plays and maintaining composure in high-pressure situations. In track, he excels in the 400-meter and 800-meter races, consistently posting top times in the region.

Despite a busy schedule, Carson finds time to give back. He volunteers weekly at the local food pantry and serves as a youth mentor for elementary school students through the school’s “Big Brothers, Big Sisters” partnership. He’s also been active in environmental initiatives, including tree planting drives and river clean-up projects.

“Community is very important to me,” Carson shared. “I think it’s essential to not just think about what you’re doing, but how you’re helping others in the process.

Carson has committed to attending Lehigh University in the fall, where he plans to study mechanical engineering and continue his athletic career in track. His long-term goal? To design innovative sports equipment that enhances performance and safety for athletes of all ages.

If Carson Bedics is the steady hand, then DJ Bennett is the dynamic spark. A senior at [Your School Name], DJ is a multifaceted student-athlete whose charisma, drive, and compassion make him an outstanding role model. Whether scoring a game-winning goal or organizing a charity fundraiser, DJ brings energy and heart to everything he does.

DJ ranks among the top students in his graduating class with a GPA of 3.9, excelling in a challenging course load that includes AP Literature, Government, and Chemistry. He is known for his thoughtful perspectives and strong communication skills, often leading classroom discussions and debates with insight and maturity beyond his years.

“DJ is an absolute joy to have in class,” noted Ms. Tamara Lewis, DJ’s AP English teacher. “He listens actively, speaks thoughtfully, and always seeks to understand different viewpoints. He’s not just a great student — he’s a great person.”

A star on the soccer field and an emerging talent in track and field, DJ has left his mark with his agility, creativity, and relentless work ethic. As team captain of the soccer team, he led the squad in goals and assists this season while also fostering a culture of sportsmanship and inclusivity.

Off the field, DJ is known for his rigorous training routines, often arriving early and staying late to sharpen his skills. His leadership helped the team qualify for the state playoffs for the first time in five years.

In track and field, DJ competes in the 100-meter sprint and long jump, consistently placing among the top performers in district meets.

DJ’s commitment to his community is as strong as his athletic and academic pursuits. He founded a youth mentorship club called “Rise Together”, which connects high school students with younger children in underserved neighborhoods. Through this program, DJ helps organize after-school tutoring sessions, recreational activities, and motivational talks.

He also spearheaded a fundraiser last year that raised over $4,000 for mental health awareness, donating the proceeds to a local non-profit that supports teens coping with anxiety and depression.

“Being able to use my platform as an athlete and student to help others is something I take seriously,” DJ explained. “We all have a responsibility to lift each other up.”

DJ will be attending Temple University in the fall to study public health, with aspirations of one day becoming a community health advocate or social entrepreneur. His vision? To start a non-profit that promotes health, fitness, and mental well-being for young people in urban areas.

The PNC Achiever program celebrates student-athletes who are making a difference. It highlights individuals who excel in the classroom, demonstrate leadership on the field, and make meaningful contributions in their communities. By recognizing Carson Bedics and DJ Bennett as the Spring 2025 PNC Achievers, we are honoring more than their resumes — we are celebrating their character, resilience, and commitment to others.

Their stories are reminders of what’s possible when talent meets purpose, and when ambition is paired with empathy. Carson and DJ are both destined for great things, but more importantly, they are already making a difference right now.

As they prepare to graduate and move on to the next chapter of their lives, we have no doubt that these two outstanding young men will continue to lead, inspire, and achieve — not just for themselves, but for the greater good.

“Carson and DJ represent everything the PNC Achievers program stands for,” said [Committee Chair Name], who helped lead the selection committee. “They’re not just high-performing athletes and top students — they’re exceptional young people who lead with kindness, purpose, and a desire to impact the world in a positive way. We’re incredibly proud of them.”

To Carson Bedics and DJ Bennett — thank you for showing us what it truly means to be an achiever. You have both left lasting legacies at [Your School Name], and we are thrilled to recognize your accomplishments with this well-deserved honor.

Your futures are bright, and the path you’ve paved will inspire generations to come. Congratulations again on being named our Spring 2025 PNC Achievers!