Lopez, Hise named 2025 DAR Good Citizen Award recipients

By Melinda L. Lucas

Albany’s Gabby Lopez and Moran’s Ellis Hise were recently notified that they had received the 2025 Good Citizen Awards from the Lee’s Legion Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The award, which emphasizes the qualities of good citizenship, also seeks high school seniors who show dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. 

Recipients must fill out an application listing their accomplishments and extracurricular activities as well as write an essay that will be judged for a scholarship contest.

Lopez attended the Lee’s Legion Chapter award ceremony in Breckenridge last Wednesday, Feb. 5, but Hise was unable to be present because of a conflict with an extracurricular activity. He will receive his award at a later date, and his background information will be published at that time.

The Albany senior was accompanied at last week’s ceremony by her mother, Antonia Hernandez. She read her essay along with four other girls from the area who were being recognized.

The pins that honorees typically receive were delayed, but Lopez was given a cash award and a congratulatory letter.

“I did not expect to get this award, but I’m so glad I did,” Lopez said. “I’m also glad that I attended the ceremony.”

Lopez, who plans to pursue a degree in communication disorders at Hardin-Simmons University, already has an internship planned for this summer. At Albany High School, she is vice president of the student council, FCCLA officer, assistant editor of the Lions Roar, and a member of the National Honor Society. She is also active as a community volunteer.