For Indian Meadows resident and Cabell Midland graduate Anna Elkins, leadership doesn’t mean standing in front of a crowd—it means showing up, serving others, and making a difference where it counts. Anna, 18, has spent her entire life in Barboursville with her parents, Kevin and Cara Elkins, and her siblings, Rachel (21) and Cole (14).

Anna recently graduated from Cabell Midland High School, where she was deeply involved in academics, student government, athletics, and a long list of service organizations. “Volunteering has always been a big part of my life,” she shared with Stroll Barboursville. “I started in fifth grade with the Nichols Elementary Service Team, and it just took off from there.” That early spark led her to found the Friends of Nichols Environmental Club, which has led cleanup projects and built garden boxes for local schools—work that earned her the District 5 Coordinator Award.

Her high school resume is a blueprint for well-rounded leadership: Student Council officer, National Honor Society member, HOSA competitor (earning third in Medical Law & Ethics statewide), BETA Club award-winner, and Vice President of Special Events for the Barboursville Leo’s Club. She also represented West Virginia at the FBI’s Youth Leadership Academy in Quantico, a highly selective national program focused on integrity, service, and character.

Despite her full schedule, Anna made time for athletics, playing both varsity and JV softball at Cabell Midland. Her sports journey began at Ona Little League in 2015, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing. Just before her 16th birthday, Anna underwent reconstructive surgery on her right foot, leaving her sidelined for months. “It was incredibly tough being away from the activities I loved,” she said. “But it taught me resilience. Coming back to softball and service work reminded me why I do it in the first place.”

That resilience is a trait she brings to every part of her life. “I’ve learned to value progress over perfection,” Anna said. “Whether I’m volunteering, studying, or on the field, I try to lead with empathy and show up consistently.” Anna shared, “Maintaining balance in my life requires a lot of planning, self-discipline, and knowing when to ask for help. I rely on a structured schedule that prioritizes academics while carving out time for practices, games, and volunteer work.”

This fall, Anna is headed to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where she’ll pursue a double major in biology and pre-medical studies with a minor in computer science. Her ultimate goal is to become a physician, continuing her lifelong commitment to helping others.

“My parents are my biggest inspiration,” Anna added. “They’ve taught me what it means to work hard, stay humble, and care deeply for those around you.   Their unwavering support, even in the most challenging moments, such as my recovery from surgery, has taught me the value of resilience, humility, and perseverance. They lead by example, showing me what it means to work hard, stay grounded, and uplift others.“