Page 91 - South Mississippi Living - April, 2026

Makayla Ardis Joelly Blackledge
photo courtesy of Makayla Ardis
Makayla Ardis is
a driven and well- rounded student
who demonstrates excellence across academics, athletics, leadership, and service. She maintains an outstanding GPA while taking multiple dual credit college courses, challenging herself with
rigorous coursework and preparing intentionally for
her future. With
plans to become
a dermatologist, Makayla is already building a strong foundation through her involvement in HOSA, where she continues to expand her medical knowledge and develop leadership skills.
A proud member of the National Honor Society, Makayla represents scholarship, service, leadership, and character with integrity. She balances her demanding academic schedule with athletics as an All-Star Varsity Soccer player and a dedicated travel soccer athlete with GCU. Her work ethic, perseverance, and team-first mindset have made her a respected leader both on and off the field.
Beyond the classroom and soccer field, Makayla is deeply committed to her faith and community. She serves faithfully at New Life Church and volunteers with local nonprofits, consistently giving her time and energy to support others.
Known as a dependable and compassionate friend, Makayla leads with quiet confidence, stands firm in her values, and approaches every opportunity with purpose.
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
April 2026 | 91
Compiled by Cherie Ward
Joelly Blackledge continues to raise
the bar—literally. Competing in her weight class, she originally set the state bench-press record
at 140 pounds. Not content to rest on
that achievement, she recently surpassed her own mark with an impressive 165-pound lift, earning a new state record. She
also claimed first
place at the regional powerlifting meet at St. Patrick Catholic High School.
photo courtesy of Joelly Blackledge
A dedicated member of the school’s powerlifting team for five years, Joelly’s commitment to strength training has been nothing short of remarkable. She approaches every practice with focus and grit, pushing herself to improve both her technique and her personal bests. Her coaches and teammates admire her consistency, determination, and the quiet confidence she brings to competition.
Just as impressive as her athletic success is Joelly’s performance in the classroom. She has maintained a GPA above 4.0 while balancing the demands of a rigorous training schedule and schoolwork. Her ability to juggle academics and athletics reflects discipline, time management, and a strong work ethic.
Whether she’s preparing for a lift or a test, Joelly approaches each challenge with intensity and heart. Her accomplishments reflect not only raw strength, but also the resilience and dedication that define her high school career.
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