Aaron Christopher Smith is a senior at Catawba Ridge High School in Fort Mill, South Carolina. He plans to continue his education at a four-year university, where he intends to major in Computer Science. He is the proud son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael T. Smith. Mr. Smith holds degrees from South Carolina State University and the University of South Carolina and currently serves as the Administrative Director of Radiation Oncology at Levine Cancer Institute in Charlotte, North Carolina. Mrs. Shauna Smith is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and currently serves as the Vice President of Global Operations for IDEX, an international manufacturer of engineering components.

Aaron is a compassionate and driven young man whose motivation stems from his enjoyment of challenges and his determination to overcome them to learn and grow. His greatest strengths include persistence, focus, and the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives. These qualities guide his academic pursuits and shape his desire to use his future career to empower others and contribute meaningful solutions.

As he approaches graduation, Aaron has continued to develop as a leader within his school community. He serves as a Senior Class Representative for the Catawba Ridge High School Beta Club and is an active member of the Book Lovers Club and the Digital Variation Club. In his role as a Beta Club officer, Aaron identifies and researches community service opportunities, participates in service initiatives, and contributes new ideas for future Beta Club events. He has also cultivated a strong appreciation for golf, beginning with the First Tee program and continuing through the PGA Junior Golf League, where he has focused on personal improvement, discipline, and collaboration.

Aaron has been recognized as a Catawba Ridge High School Honor Student throughout all four years of high school. He is a recipient of the 2024-2025 National Community Service Merit Award from the United Nations. He is also a participant in the Microsoft BAAM Summer Mentorship Program. Aaron plans to pursue a degree in Computer Science, with interests in game design, cybersecurity, or software development. He aspires to develop innovative technologies that help others solve problems more efficiently and effectively.