William Byrd senior Abby Spotswood has been named Top Terrier for 2017-2018. She was introduced at a pep rally on the opening day of school on August 23. Principal Tammy Newcomb initiated the tradition of Top Terrier last year in her first year as principal at WBHS.
“The Top Terrier represents the qualities of a Terrier— a champion,” said Newcomb in announcing Spotswood as the recipient. “The selection of the Terrier represents a proud tradition at William Byrd High School. The Terrier is a source of inspiration for all throughout the school year and it is the highest single honor bestowed on a student at William Byrd.
“The Terrier is nominated by students, elected by the faculty, and recognized as the Senior who best exemplifies the qualities of integrity, loyalty, and courage of character– one who serves as a model for everyone,” Newcomb said.
The Senior Class nominated five students. Those five submitted a resume that was shared with the staff, who then selected the Top Terrier by a vote.
Spotswood has a 4.2 GPA and is working toward an Advanced Studies Diploma, with AP courses in physics, calculus, English, World History, Va./US History, US Government, Biology, Statistics, and Latin.
She is enrolled in dual enrollment classes with Virginia Western Community College in Personal Finance and English. She is also an Insight Program Apprentice.
Spotswood has received numerous academic and athletic awards. She was the Virginia High School STEM Accelerator grant recipient, the Virginia Tech Summer Program “Blast Program” High School Participant/Awardee in 2015, the Chief Junior Marshall in 2017, JV Softball Offensive Player of the Year in 2013-2014 and 2014-2015, Pep Rally leader as a junior, Football Banner Captain in her sophomore and junior years, winner of the WBHS Cheerleading Terrier Pride Award in 2013-2014, and winner of the Cheerleading “Life of the Party Award” in 2014-2015.
She is a member of the Leo Club, a competition cheerleader in 9th, 10th, and 11th grades, a varsity letterman and team captain in sideline cheerleading, and team captain of the JV softball team in ninth grade. She has served on the Student Council Association as a sophomore and junior, and as an SCA officer this year. She is also a member of the Elephant Club and the Math Pound.
Her volunteer and service activities include being RELATE Program leader, a member of the Peer Mentors and Freshman Mentors Program. She has volunteered her time at the Feeding America Southwest Virginia Food Bank, Ronald McDonald House, and is also involved in mission work.
She also has worked as a contributor to Future Female Leaders writing articles about current news and politics. She works for the Salem Red Sox as well.
Abby is the daughter of Laurie and Shannon Spotswood.