Dobyns-Bennett High School Students Receive College Board National Recognition

KINGSPORT, TENN. – Four Dobyns-Bennett High School students have earned academic honors through the College Board National Recognition Program, receiving First-Generation Recognition.

The National Recognition Program, available through BigFuture, celebrates the academic achievements of thousands of high school students nationwide to help them showcase their strong academic accomplishments to colleges and universities. The program recognizes students who meet specific academic criteria and identify as first-generation college students, as well as those from rural and small-town communities and students who identify as Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic or Latino.

Many colleges and universities use these awards as part of their recruitment efforts, helping connect high-achieving students with opportunities in higher education.

The following Dobyns-Bennett students received First-Generation Recognition:

Sawyer Gallaher
Benjamin Mai
Nathalie Mujica-Sanchez
Madison Starnes

“The Dobyns-Bennett faculty and staff are proud of the hard work these young adults have invested in their future,” said Dobyns-Bennett High School Principal Dr. Brian Tate. “They have challenged themselves academically and are on track for life-changing opportunities.”

To be eligible for the College Board National Recognition Program, students must meet one or more of the following criteria:

Earn a GPA of 3.3 or higher
Score in the top 10% of state test takers on the PSAT/NMSQT
Earn a 3+ on two or more AP exams

For more information about the College Board Recognition Program, visit collegeboard.org.

Kingsport City Schools (KCS) is a student-focused, world-class public school district located in Kingsport, Tennessee, proudly serving students across Sullivan and Hawkins counties. The district comprises 13 schools, including a Pre-K facility, eight elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, a high school program of choice, and an alternative learning program. With a total enrollment exceeding 7,600 students, KCS is dedicated to fostering educational excellence, empowering student success, and ensuring all students are college and career ready. To learn more, visit www.k12k.com, tune in to WCSK 90.3 FM, The Voice of KCS, or contact the KCS Administrative Support Center at (423) 378.2100. Stay connected by following us on Facebook (@kcsdistrict), Instagram (@kcs__district), and YouTube (@kcs__district).

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Published September 17, 2026 Print