North Ridgeville High School senior Alaya Wilson has earned the coveted American Vision award in the 2025 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for her striking photograph titled “Still.” This award is a significant honor, as only five American Vision awards are given out per county, allowing Wilson to advance to the national competition.
Wilson’s journey in photography began during her sophomore year at North Ridgeville High School. Since then, she has transformed her passion into a burgeoning photography business, specializing in portraiture and even capturing moments at two weddings over the summer.
Recognition and Impact
According to Dalia Erney, Wilson’s photography teacher, “The passion Alaya embodies for her photography has really become the avenue for her personal and creative growth on many levels. I have seen her become a shining star, and I couldn’t be more excited for her. I can’t imagine a more deserving student.”
Entries in the Scholastic Awards are evaluated by panels of professionals who award Gold Keys, Silver Keys, and Honorable Mentions. Those who receive Gold Keys qualify for the national competition, which annually recognizes more than 1,500 students. Notable past winners include literary and artistic icons such as Andy Warhol and Sylvia Plath.
This year, nearly 1,400 works were submitted for the 2025 season, with around 600 being selected for exhibition. Students from North Ridgeville achieved notable success, garnering a total of four Gold Keys, eight Silver Keys, and thirteen Honorable Mentions.
Upcoming Exhibition and Community Support
The opening reception for the exhibition showcasing these award-winning works is scheduled for January 18, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the LCCC Stocker Center, located at 1005 Abbe Rd N, Elyria.
Wilson’s achievement not only highlights her individual talent but also reflects the supportive environment fostered at North Ridgeville High School. As she prepares for the next steps in her photography career, her story serves as an inspiration to fellow students pursuing their artistic passions.
