Rachel Johnson, a senior at Roanoke (Virginia) Patrick Henry High School, has been selected the 2015 Section 2 recipient of the “National High School Heart of the Arts Award” by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).

The National High School Heart of the Arts Award was created by the NFHS to recognize those individuals who exemplify the ideals of the positive heart of the arts that represent the core mission of education-based activities. This is the second year that the National High School Heart of the Arts Award has been offered.

An exemplary student in the classroom where she takes a number of advanced placement courses, Johnson also excels in the performing arts. A talented musician and visual artist, her strongest suit and greatest accomplishments might be in the area of drama. The captain of the forensics team, of which she is a highly successful three-year member, Johnson was a two-year state qualifier and won the 2014 Virginia High School League (VHSL) state championship in storytelling.

Johnson also has been a key four-year member of the Players Theatre group, on which she currently serves as an officer. In addition, she received several peer-elected “best actresses” awards, and consistently strives to selflessly support her fellow thespians with suggested ideas for improvement.

During the past year, Johnson was diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder and severe depression. After dealing with some distressing personal issues, her situation became life-threatening, medical help was sought, and she was placed in the hospital for a week.

While many in that situation might have given up or let their priorities fade, Johnson instead persevered and has maintained inspirational fortitude. In the face of these difficulties, she continues to perform at high levels in both the classroom and in the arts, and refuses to let her medical issues stand in the way of her success.

About the Award

The NFHS divides the nation into eight geographical sections. The states in Section 2 are Virginia, Delaware, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Nominations for this award were generated through NFHS member state associations and reviewed by the NFHS Heart of the Arts Award Selection Committee composed of state association staff members.

While the national winner will be recognized June 29 at the NFHS Summer Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana, the section winners will be recognized within their respective states and will receive awards before the end of the current school year.