North Ridgeville High School senior Alaya Wilson has achieved significant recognition in the 2025 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, earning an esteemed American Vision award for her photograph titled “Still.” This accolade is particularly notable as only five American Vision awards are granted in each county, allowing her to compete at the national level.
Alaya’s journey in photography began during her sophomore year at North Ridgeville High School, where she developed a passion that has since evolved into a thriving photography business. She specializes in portraiture and has even taken on the challenge of shooting two weddings over the past summer.
Her photography teacher, Dalia Erney, expressed her pride in Alaya’s accomplishments, stating, “The passion Alaya embodies for her photography has really become the avenue for her personal and creative growth on many levels. I have seen her become a shining star and I couldn’t be more excited for her. I can’t imagine a more deserving student.”
The judging process for the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards involves panels of professionals who evaluate entries and determine recipients of Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mention awards. Gold Key winners are then eligible to compete nationally, with over 1,500 students receiving national awards each year.
In total, nearly 1,400 works were submitted for this year’s competition, with around 600 selected for exhibition. North Ridgeville High School students collectively earned four Gold Keys, eight Silver Keys, and thirteen Honorable Mentions. The opening reception for the exhibition of all selected artworks is scheduled for January 18, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the LCCC Stocker Center located at 1005 Abbe Rd N in Elyria.
The recognition of Alaya Wilson serves as an inspiration not only to her peers at North Ridgeville High School but also to aspiring young artists across the region. Her story highlights the importance of creativity and dedication in pursuing one’s passions.
