The Exchange Club of Waycross recently announced Matthew Lawton Davis as its 2025-26 Youth of the Year, selecting him from a distinguished group of monthly honorees recognized throughout the school year for excellence in academics, leadership, character, and service.
Davis, the son of John and Laura Davis, was first honored as the Club’s September Youth of the Month.
A standout student at Ware County High School, Davis has excelled in the classroom, in athletics, and across numerous leadership and service organizations. A four-year member of the WCHS swim team and a state qualifier, Davis has earned multiple team awards and served as captain.
He is a Platinum Senior, an accomplished BETA Club leader, a contributor to FBLA and the National Honor Society, and an active volunteer through church, civic boards, and community programs.
During the ceremony, all seven monthly honorees stood together as the Club recognized their achievements before announcing the overall winner. Program Chair Danny Bartlett praised the group for their dedication and service, stating each student “represents the very best of Ware County’s youth.”
The 2025-26 Youth of the Month honorees included:
• September: Matthew Lawton Davis
• October: Willingham “Will” Hines
• November: Kevin Lin
• December: JV Manabat
• January: Alexandra “Ally” McIntire
• February: Cayden Smith
• March: Carlie White Each student was recognized for outstanding contributions to academics, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and community service.
The Youth of the Year selection is based on the students’ overall record of achievement and the ideals of the Exchange Club.
In announcing Davis as this year’s winner, Bartlett highlighted his “humility, work ethic, and commitment to making a meaningful difference in the community.”
The Youth of the Month and Youth of the Year programs are part of the Exchange Club of Waycross’ long-standing mission to promote citizenship, encourage high standards in youth, and support community service throughout Waycross and Ware County.
