Ripley County, Indiana – Genesis: Pathways to Success (GPS) is proud to present its November STEMstar, Chris Perdue! Perdue is a student at South Ripley High School and in the Construction Technology Program at the Southeastern Career Center.
“Chris is an exemplary role model for young people with his drive and determination,” Cheryll Obendorf, GPS executive director, said. “It is a pleasure to award the STEMstar certificate to such a deserving young man.”
Perdue is a member of Champions Together, which promotes servant leadership among student athletes while changing their own and others’ lives.
“Chris continues to make all of us at South Ripley very proud,” said Rob Moorhead, South Ripley superintendent. “Over the last year and a half, he has had some tremendous experiences and achieved remarkable recognition for his efforts. It is great to see him honored as the November STEMstar to add yet another accomplishment to his impressive list.”
Last year, Perdue competed in the Special Olympic World Winter Games in Austria, where he won a gold medal for Team USA in snowboarding. He was recently named the 2017 Spirit of Special Olympics Athlete of the Year by Special Olympics Indiana. Earlier this year, Perdue placed fifth in the Unified Giant Slalom event at the 2017 Winter X Games in Aspen, where he partnered with professional snowboarder Danny Davis. 
“Chris is very down to Earth and a humble recipient of all the accolades he has received,” said Trace Tucker, South Ripley teacher. “He has a big heart and is always helping out in my classroom, especially those in need. It has been a blessing for me to know Chris and to get to be a part of this tremendous journey.” GPS began the STEMstar program in January 2017 to recognize students and educators who are making strides in STEM. To nominate a STEMstar, please fill out the STEMstar form at http://bit.ly/STEMstar.
Genesis: Pathways to Success (GPS) is an initiative of the Ripley County Community Foundation dedicated to empowering students to succeed in STEM by developing programs in areas such as engineering, agriculture, health science and technology as well as by supporting events that encourage students to apply curious minds and critical thinking skills to real-world opportunities. GPS generates ongoing and meaningful dialogue and collaboration to prepare a talent pipeline for a globally dynamic marketplace. For additional information, please visit www.genesisp2s.org.
