Staff Writer
Staff photo Meridith Paterson ALEX BIRD – 2007 Heisman Maine state honoree. The first week of November, Bird was honored for her excellence as a student-athlete when officials announced her the state winner of the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award.
Organizers created the WHSH program to draw attention to senior high school students who go above and beyond in academics, athletics and community involvement. Bird participated in soccer, basketball and volleyball all four years of high school. She also serves in student government, the National Honor Society, civil rights group, senior play and band as a trumpeter.
Along with all of her school activities, Bird found the time to co-found Kids Kure with some of her classmates. The four Beaver athletes, including Kelsey Mclaughlin, Erica McDougall, Kristen Goupille and Bird, decided to create the organization after one of their fellow basketball players was diagnosed with cancer. That same year another classmate also fell ill with cancer. Last fall Bird and her teammates held an event to raise money to help toward medical costs and build awareness.
“It’s a chance to help other people who are struggling,” said Bird. They plan to continue the events focusing on different illnesses as the need arises.
Bird also actively engages in her church youth group, volunteers for the Special Olympics and assists other students as a tutor and mentor.
However, the Heisman announcement surprised her.
“It’s an opportunity to give back to the people who’ve helped me so much … It’s important because it helps you to meet other people and keep away from other bad influences,” said Bird about her community service.
Although Bird tore her ACL during the soccer season and is unable to play basketball this season, she will continue her work within the school and surrounding communities.
A group of judges will choose 12 national finalists from among the 102 state winners.
The schools of the Heisman recipients will receive monetary awards.
Other state finalists representing Aroostook county included Hilary McNamee of Fort Fairfield High School. McNamee combines biathlon with school activities and community work. “I am involved in my community as a way to express my gratitude for helping me to reach my goals,” commented McNamee about the support Fort Fairfield citizens have offered her during her training.
Otis Edgecomb, another Fort Fairfield senior, was also listed among the state finalists.
