“The judges were just impressed with the creativity of Rachel’s photo and all that it represented,” said Porter.  “We are delighted to have this photo shown on our county’s directory, which will be distributed to more than 23,000 residences and businesses next month.”

The photo contest was jointly sponsored by Brevard College and Comporium, which also presented a $500 check to Anthony as the grand prize at a reception held on Nov. 15 at the Spiers Art Gallery on campus.  The freshman plans to major in voice performance and photography.

Cash prizes were also awarded for second and third places, both of which went to senior Graham Jones, a wilderness leadership and experience education major from High Point, N.C.  Jones was presented with checks in the amount of $300 and $200 for each of his winning entries, and he will have his photos featured in the “About Our Cover” section of the new directory.

“Graham managed to match Rachel’s cash award,” said Porter.  “The judges reviewed all of the entries, which did not have the photographers’ names on them, and Graham’s photos all just rose to the top.  He even got an honorable mention for one of his shots.  His entries resonated with the panel, and it’s obvious that Brevard College has fostered his passion for nature and the outdoors.”

The second place photo, “Appalachian Ascent,” shows five students making the final approach before reaching the top of Hump Mountain on the Appalachian Trail.  The third place photo, “Our Daily Debrief,” depicts the students meeting to discuss and reflect on the day’s activities at Deer Mountain Shelter on the Appalachian Trail.  The honorable mention entry captures the students running the rapid, “Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner” on the Davidson River.

On hand at the photo contest winners reception were several Brevard College faculty and staff members and Comporium representatives.  Porter acknowledged the institution’s impact in the community.

“We appreciate Brevard College’s presence here,” said Porter.  “We felt that this would be a wonderful example of higher education and business partnering to advance the arts, which enriches quality of life for all of us. 

I especially want to thank Wendy Jones, director of communications and media relations at the college, for her coordination with our team.”

Porter also noted the contribution of four individuals who judged the contest:  Nicole Bailey, graphics manager for Comporium's Publishing group; Sue Hershey, manager of the Bluewood Gallery in downtown Brevard; Kyle Lusk, sculptor and associate professor of art at Brevard College; and, Katy Rosenburg, owner and creative director of Think It Studio in Brevard.