Memphis-Shelby County Schools is the proud home of three new recipients of the Keeper of the Dream Award! The National Civil Rights Museum announced Adaria Crutcher, Corey Mitchell Irby II, and Maria Fernanda Machado as the 2024 recipients of the prestigious award on Oct. 17 during the Freedom Award Student Forum. Community members say these students have left an indelible mark on their community.

The Student Forum serves as the opening event for the Museum’s Freedom Award celebration, an occasion that recognizes global trailblazers dedicated to the advancement of civil and human rights. Through this program, students and educators have the invaluable opportunity to learn from and be inspired by individuals leading the charge for civil and human rights worldwide.

The National Civil Rights Museum shared the following information about the winners:

Adaria Crutcher, a senior at White Station High School, provides a safe environment for students struggling with their mental health.

Corey Mitchell Irby II, a senior at East T-STEM Academy High School, planned and led an East Campus Cleanup with two classmates, Memphis City Beautiful, and East High’s PTO that garnered over 150 student volunteers.

Maria Fernanda Machado, a senior at Central High School who serves as a student attorney for Youth Court Services since 2022 fighting for civil rights and social justice.

“I believe true leadership is about listening, learning, and acting with compassion," said Machado in her personal statement, " and through these initiatives, I’ve seen how small steps toward equality can ripple out into larger waves of social change.”

Each recipient will be honored with a $500 prize, a trophy, and complimentary family admission to the National Civil Rights Museum.

Click here to read more details about this year's winners and previous winners on the Keeper of the Dream website.