Bryson Rosales, a senior at Rome High School, was named the recipient of the Vincent J. Dooley Award this past weekend for his achievements in academics, athletics, leadership, and community service, according to a May 22 announcement.
The award highlights the importance of recognizing students who excel both inside and outside the classroom. The Vincent J. Dooley Scholarship Awards are presented annually by Athletes for a Better World to Georgia high school student-athletes who demonstrate exemplary character, teamwork, leadership, and citizenship.
Rosales is graduating as the Class of 2026 Valedictorian with a weighted GPA of 4.768 after completing more than 20 Advanced Placement courses such as AP Calculus, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP Literature, and AP Biology. He has also been active in athletics as a four-year varsity soccer player and team captain at Rome High School. His athletic honors include First Team All-Region recognition and multiple Player of the Match awards. Additionally, he competed on the varsity cross country team as a state qualifier.
Rome High School Principal Parke Wilkinson said: “Bryson’s success is a reflection of his incredible dedication and the support of his family, teachers, coaches, and teammates. He has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead with character, serve others, and pursue excellence in every area of life. We are incredibly proud of him and this outstanding accomplishment.”
In addition to academics and sports achievements, Rosales has contributed nearly 100 hours in community service through mission work and involvement with youth soccer camps as well as Fellowship of Christian Athletes activities. He also works at Chick-fil-A while balancing school commitments.
Chris Boden wrote in his nomination letter: “Bryson is exactly the type of student-athlete this award was created to recognize. His leadership, work ethic, character and dedication both in the classroom and on the field are truly remarkable. He represents Rome High School and Rome City Schools at the highest level.”
Rome City Schools reports a graduation rate above 95 percent while offering technology access for all K-12 students along with Advanced Placement courses; its Board oversees academic policy across elementary through high school programs according to the official website.
