Before the end of the school year, Winfield High School held its annual Senior Awards Ceremony, an event dedicated to honoring the achievements of its graduating class. Students were recognized for academic excellence, scholarships, and contributions to the school community, and awards were presented by colleges, universities, businesses, organizations, and private donors

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One of the most notable accomplishments celebrated was that 58 seniors qualified for the West Virginia Promise Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship provides $5,500 per year for up to four years to students attending an in-state college or university.

Several students stood out with major individual honors:

Sydne Alexander received the WV MetroNews Scholarship, earning a full scholarship to West Virginia Wesleyan University. To receive this award, students apply as juniors, complete interviews, and compete in a public voting contest. The winner is announced at a luncheon at WV Wesleyan in early summer.

Mason Dailey was named a National Merit Finalist and awarded a full scholarship to the University of Alabama. Aden Stalnaker earned a full scholarship to Denison University in Ohio. Max von Wufflen was accepted to Dartmouth College, and Megna Pillarisetti was accepted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

In addition to these outstanding accomplishments, many other students earned merit-based and athletic scholarships from institutions such as Concord University, West Virginia State University, Davis & Elkins College, WVU Tech, the University of Charleston, West Virginia University, Marshall University, BridgeValley Community and Technical College, the University of Kentucky, Liberty University, and Belmont University.

The ceremony concluded with the announcement of the school’s highest student honor: the General of the Year award. This award is voted on by the senior class each spring and reflects the character, spirit, and leadership of the selected student. Seniors are asked to explain why they chose their nominee, and this year’s responses spoke volumes:

“She’s the embodiment of school spirit and what it means to be a General.”

“A perfect example of a WHS student—kind, hardworking, always smiling, and devoted.”

“She genuinely cares about the school and pushes herself to do her best.”

“She leaves no one out and makes everyone feel welcome.”

The 2025 General of the Year is Maddie O’Neal, daughter of Tim and Heather O’Neal. Throughout her time at Winfield High School, Maddie has made a lasting impression. She serves as President of Student Council, is a member of the National Honor Society, plays trumpet in both the Marching Generals and Green Machine show choir band, is a member of the state champion Emerald Elegance all-girls show choir group, and plays on the school’s tennis team.

This fall, Maddie will attend the University of Kentucky, where she plans to major in biomedical engineering and perform with the Wildcat Marching Band.

The achievements of Maddie and her classmates are a true reflection of the dedication, talent, and spirit that define Winfield High School’s Class of 2025.