April 29, 2026
CONTACT:
Ben Hill
615.253.1811
Ben.Hill@tnsos.gov
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Secretary of State Tre Hargett, alongside Representative Michael Hale, presented Jackson County High School their first Anne Dallas Dudley Gold Level Award on Wednesday. The award recognizes the school’s outstanding achievement in registering 70 student voters, which is 100 percent of their eligible student body.
“It’s wonderful to see the bright future of students right here in Tennessee,” said Secretary Hargett. “I’m very proud of Jackson County High’s enthusiasm for civic engagement, and this award reflects their hard work and dedication.”
The Anne Dallas Dudley Gold Level Award represents the highest distinction in Tennessee’s student voter registration initiative, honoring schools that demonstrate exceptional commitment to civic duty. Student ambassador Reece Thomas was commended by Secretary Hargett for his leadership and dedication to the effort. Principal Mr. Brandon Cross accepted the award on behalf of the school, and Director of Schools Jason Hardy was in attendance as well.
Senator Paul Bailey, as well as Representative Hale, have been strong advocates for civic engagement across their districts and throughout the state. Jackson County Election Commissioners Larry Williams and Irene Hamilton have also provided support throughout the registration initiative.
The Anne Dallas Dudley Awards program is open to Tennessee public, charter, private and homeschool associations. It is named for Anne Dallas Dudley, who helped lead the successful effort to ratify the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, granting women the right to vote. Tennessee became the 36th and final state to ratify the amendment on Aug. 18, 1920.
For more information about the Anne Dallas Dudley Awards and other civic engagement initiatives, visit: sos.tn.gov/civics.
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