The Army’s Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps is one of the largest character development and citizenship programs for youths in the world. The program is in 10 high schools in Cumberland County Schools, with a total of 1,620 cadets participating this year.
JROTC's mission is “to motivate young people to be better citizens.” No one lives up to this mission better than Trinity Ashworth, the battalion commander for the JROTC program at South View High School.
A natural leader and strong communicator, Trinity has led her team to win placements for multiple drill meets as commander of the South View Tiger Battalion Fancy team. Additionally, Trinity organized South View's 50th annual Military Ball, where she was mistress of ceremonies and crowned the 2022 Queen.
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Trinity also has spent time on the school’s track and field team as well as the drill team. Despite her busy schedule, Trinity often tutors other cadets when needed.
Trinity is a leader in her community as well, volunteering at the 2021 Sandhills Purple Heart Dinner and the 2019 and 2021 Operation Turkey held on Thanksgiving Day, where she helped to distribute more than 500 meals to those in need.
“I have always tried my best to exhibit leadership skills in order to show others how they too can become a great leader one day,” says Trinity. “I know my legacy here at South View will live on through other students' continuation to give 110% in everything they do.”
Trinity, a 2022 graduate of South View, is thankful for her time in Cumberland County Schools and for the teachers who have helped shape who she is today. Army instructor Sgt. Maj. Ruby Murray has made a positive impression on Trinity, helping her realize what she is capable of accomplishing.
“Capt. Ashworth encourages others to not give up and to speak their minds because she wants people to stop listening to others’ degrading, discouraging words and to have confidence in themselves, to accept themselves and to know their worth,” says Murray. “All these are reasons why she is a true inspiration.”
Throughout her high school career, Trinity has learned the importance of taking opportunities even if she doesn't know how successful the outcome will be. In July, she plans to enlist in the Navy and continue developing her leadership skills and impact others in a positive way. She has also applied for the JROTC scholarship. If she gets it, Trinity would like to attend N.C. A&T State University.
There’s no doubt she will take advantage of every opportunity that comes her way.
Editor’s note: This is one in a series of stories about the Standout Seniors of 2022 as selected by Cumberland County Schools.
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