MBTO ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET

MBTO presents each recipient with a monetary award, trophy, and other prizes in recognitiono of their outstanding accomplishments. An adult who has made a positive impact on yourh and young adults is also honored.

Some past award winners have received national attention in both television and print media for their success in the face of adversity.

Sometimes beating the odds means overcoming a physical adversity. Tiffany fields was stricken with cerebral palsy and was unable to attend school for several years. Despite this setback, she is ranked in the top 25 percent of her class at Sheffield High School and  made the honor roll on numerous occassions.

Although she is confined to a wheelchair and has difficulty writing and holding her head erect, Tiffany has set her sights on the future, and plans to attend college, possibly at the University of Tennessee at Martin.

"Tiffany has not let her handicap deter her from achieving her goals," says Counselor Jane Keough. "She is liked and respected by her peers and by adults. She is an inspiration to all."

James Wilkins was incarcerated when he was only 16 years old, facing four years of federal time. Many teenagers would have given up on their education, but Jason did not. He worked for his GED, and also earned six credit hours from the University of Tennessee. As a result of his good work, Jason serves as a mentor for new Shelby Training Center residents and tutors other inmates. He also comleted an honors Culinary Arts program.

"Jason has defeated some very amazing odds," says Principal James A. Clark. "He has displayed passion and courage unsurpassed by any other person I have ever met.:

Jason was accepted into Spaulding University and DePaul University. He also received a Leadership Scholarship from Boy Scouts of America.