Celebrating the 2026 Hard-Working Hornet Scholarship Recipients
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For the eighth year, The Curtin Team is proud to recognize outstanding Roswell High School seniors through the Hard-Working Hornet Scholarship, an award that celebrates perseverance, initiative, responsibility, and a strong work ethic.
Established by Tom and Joanne Curtin, the scholarship reflects a shared commitment to education, community, and investing in the next generation. As a Roswell native and 1991 graduate of Roswell High School, Tom has long valued the impact the school and community had on his own journey. Joanne's connection to education runs just as deep. Before beginning her real estate career, she worked as a teacher, and she has always believed in the important role educators play in helping students grow and succeed.
Together, they created the Hard-Working Hornet Scholarship to recognize qualities that often extend far beyond the classroom. While academic achievement is important, this award is intended to celebrate students who demonstrate determination, resilience, accountability, and a willingness to put in the work required to reach their goals.
This year, the scholarship was awarded to two exceptional seniors: Ava Smith and Lindsey Kasakowski.
Different Paths, Shared Values
Although their experiences have been very different, both recipients embody the spirit of the Hard-Working Hornet Scholarship.
Ava distinguished herself through an unwavering commitment to pursuing opportunities in the medical field. Her persistence led to a research internship at the Cleveland Clinic, where she gained hands-on experience in genomic medicine research. She also co-founded Roswell High School's HOSA chapter, earned her HIPAA certification, and pursued additional healthcare-related shadowing opportunities. Her willingness to seek out challenges and create opportunities for herself reflects the initiative and determination this scholarship was designed to recognize.
Lindsey demonstrated a different, but equally impressive, form of hard work. Throughout high school, she balanced academics with leadership roles, community involvement, and multiple jobs. Along the way, she served as a Student Council Representative and Spirit Director, president of Diamond Dolls, a varsity baseball student manager, and a volunteer in numerous service initiatives. Her commitment to serving others has inspired her decision to pursue nursing at Georgia College & State University this fall.
Investing in Roswell's Future
One of the most rewarding parts of the Hard-Working Hornet Scholarship is the opportunity to recognize students whose character, dedication, and work ethic position them for success long after graduation.
For eight years, the scholarship has allowed The Curtin Team to celebrate students who make the most of the opportunities before them while contributing positively to their school and community. Ava and Lindsey are outstanding examples of those values, and we are honored to recognize their accomplishments.
Congratulations to both recipients, and best wishes as they begin the next chapter of their educational and professional journeys.
