Aubree Lee
School Name: Legacy Magnet Academy
Nominated by Steve Kelly
Award: $250
Meet the 2025 Spirit of Purple Winner!
Aubree is a tremendous young lady who has made a huge impact on our campus and the surrounding community in her time here. Not only is she an exemplary student, she is also responsible for bringing the Herren Project to our campus and carrying out its mission. She approached me early last school year to tell me about what the Herren Project stood for and ask me to be the staff advisor for a campus club, assuring me that she would run all of the operations and all she needed was my signature and a space to hold meetings. Rarely do I trust a high school freshman, but Aubree is an exception!
She has made the Herren Project Club one of the most popular and active clubs on campus. Beyond our campus, Aubree has spearheaded volunteer activities at the local Boys and Girls Club, at our multicultural fair, at our trunk-or-treat event, and out in the community. Under her leadership and with her front and center, our club has engaged in reading, arts and crafts, games, and other activities with the children at the Boys and Girls Club, serving as mentors and having a positive impact. There is not a more caring, positive, capable, energetic, and enthusiastic ambassador for the Herren Project than Aubree Lee. She is outstanding and extremely deserving of recognition!
Gabrielle McFadden
School Name: Hilton Head Prep
Nominated by Abby Frey
Award: $250
Meet the 2025 Spirit of Purple Winner!
I am honored to write this letter of recommendation for Gabrielle McFadden, a young woman who has consistently shown a remarkable blend of grace, leadership, and a deep passion for helping others. While I have only known Gabrielle for a short period as she transferred into Hilton Head Prep as a Senior this year, I can confidently say that she is an extraordinary individual on a path to do great things in her future.
What I noticed immediately about Gabrielle is her “say yes!” mentality and her unwavering courage to embrace new opportunities. Gabrielle’s willingness to try new things, even when faced with unfamiliar challenges, sets her apart and demonstrates her growth mindset—a trait that will undoubtedly serve her well in the years ahead.
Gabrielle is deeply passionate about making a difference in her school & community. Prior to her arrival at Hilton Head Prep, she was involved with the Colgate University football program, where she volunteered her time to support the Director of Football Operations. Gabrielle brought her passion and experience to Hilton Head Prep’s football program by leading the management team to support the team and coaching staff. Gabrielle’s dedication and willingness to step outside her comfort zone highlight her strong work ethic and her genuine desire to make a positive impact wherever she goes.
Another one of Gabrielle’s passions is photography. What started as a personal interest has grown into something she is fully committed to. She has a genuine love for capturing beautiful moments. Gabrielle was instrumental in leading our Herren Club’s “Gratitude Video” during Gratitude month, in which she led our team in gratitude interviews around campus. She naturally steps up when needed and always earns the respect of those around her.
However, what truly makes Gabrielle stand out is her genuine kindness and her heart for others. Whether it’s lending a helping hand, offering support, or simply being a good friend, Gabrielle is intentional with those around her. Gabby brings light to every room she enters.
Gabrielle is an exceptional young woman with immense potential. Gabrielle will be attending Clemson University in the fall of 2025. I have no doubt that she will continue to achieve great things in her life and make a meaningful contribution to the world around her. She is intelligent, compassionate, courageous, and adaptable, and I look forward to watching her continue to shine her light on others. It has been an absolute privilege to know her.
