North Lenoir’s Kennedy Sullivan was one of 30 North Carolinians to be named an Academic All-American at the 2019 AAU Junior National Volleyball championships. Sullivan currently holds a 4.625 GPA. Photo by Junious Smith III / Neuse News

By Junious Smith III

North Lenoir has a representative on the Academic All-American volleyball circuit.

Kennedy Sullivan was recently named one at the 2019 AAU Junior National Volleyball championships. The junior played for the ECJVC 16 Purple team and received the award due to her 4.625 GPA, along with her performance at the event.

“It took a lot of hard work and dedication, and I’m thankful to be a part of the list,” Sullivan said. “I love volleyball, but also know I have to work hard in the classroom.”

Sullivan plays libero for the Hawks; last season, she helped the team to a 16-5 season — the team’s most victories since 2015.

“She’s the true definition of a student-athlete,” North Lenoir volleyball coach Heather Carson said. “She’s been a defensive presence for us since her freshman year, but she works just as hard — if not harder — in the classroom and is a great person in general.”