Suzanne L. Gilmore

Gilmore wanted to do something to help students psychologically and physically impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Her "Earn Your Stripes" program does just that by encouraging, recognizing and rewarding exemplary academic and citizenship characteristics of students at Bay-Waveland Middle School. Gilmore's program promotes work ethic, team building, goal setting and character in these students. Nearly the entire population of Bay St. Louis lived in FEMA trailers right after the storms and some students still reside there. Yet, Gilmore is determined to prepare these students for future success by implementing a recognition and reward program for those who rise above their daily challenges to set, achieve and maintain new heights in academic achievement, perfect attendance, and self-discipline. The program will not only benefit Bay-Waveland Middle School students, but also the entire town of Bay St. Louis as students take the lead in recovering and building a brighter future for the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast. Gilmore is a resident of Bay St. Louis.