Congratulations to senior Peyton Ross, recognized by the Louisa Saint Clair Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). He was one of three students named a winner of the DAR 2022 Good Citizen Award. As the overall chapter winner, he was also awarded a DAR cord to wear at graduation. 

Additionally, Peyton advanced to the state level for a chance to earn an additional scholarship.

The Good Citizen Award is presented to graduating high school seniors who demonstrate the qualities of dependability, leadership, and patriotism. Students participate by writing an essay on a selected topic; the 2022 topic was “How do the qualities of a good citizen help support our nation?”

In his essay, Peyton noted the impact of the COVID pandemic on mental health; observing firsthand the effects of anxiety and depression on loved ones. 

He decided to take action by creating his own brand, called “Stitches Streetwear,” and posting inspirational messages. He created the clothing using a heat press, and has donated 2.5% of each sale to the non-profit organization Mental Health America. 

Peyton ranks near the top of his class, with a cumulative GPA of 3.97, and is taking Advanced Placement and Honors classes. He received a Cracchiolo Endowed Scholarship in 2021 and was the virtual Stock Exchange challenge runner-up in 2020. 

He is enrolled at the University of Georgia, in Athens, and plans to major in Criminal Justice, with an eye toward law school.

His activities include membership in the National Honor Society, Vice-President of the DLS Stock Market Club, Student Council representative, Link Crew, and DECA. He is also a personal tutor. 

Additionally, Peyton was captain of the DLS Varsity Cross-Country team where he was a state qualifier; he was named to the All-Catholic, All-County, and All-State Academic teams. He is also captain of the DLS 2022 Varsity Track and Field team. 

Peyton has held a variety of jobs, including working at restaurants, as a golf caddy, and in landscaping. 

Peyton attended St. Isaac Jogues in St. Clair Shores, and lives there with his parents Scott (‘91) and Heidi.