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Academic Achievers: Cayla Howard and Florence Mayo Shine in Pee Dee

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, December 17th 2025 at 5:25 GMT by Post and Courier

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Academic Achievers: Cayla Howard and Florence Mayo
Pee Dee Region – A Spotlight on Two Rising Stars in Scholarship and Service

The Post and Courier’s “Academic Achievers” column has long highlighted the most promising students in South Carolina’s Pee Dee region. In the latest edition, two bright-eyed scholars have taken center stage: Cayla Howard of West Columbia High School and Florence Mayo of Florence High School. Both girls have not only earned top grades but have also distinguished themselves through community service, extracurricular leadership, and a clear vision for the future. Their stories are a testament to the strength of the Pee Dee’s educational culture and a reminder that talent and opportunity can go hand in hand.

1. Cayla Howard: A Science‑Driven Visionary

Background & Academic Profile
Cayla Howard entered West Columbia High in 2019 as a junior. Over her high school career, she maintained a 4.0 GPA while taking an impressive course load that included AP Calculus AB, AP Biology, and several advanced science electives. Her dedication to STEM is evident in her final-year projects, most notably a groundbreaking study on the impact of microplastic pollution on local creek ecosystems. The project earned her the “Best in Science” award at the South Carolina Science Fair, a coveted honor that has propelled her into the spotlight.

Extracurricular Leadership
Beyond the classroom, Cayla has been an active member of the Science Olympiad team, contributing to the team’s record 10‑year streak of state championship appearances. She also served as the president of the National Honor Society, where she spearheaded a tutoring program for under‑classmen struggling with STEM subjects. Her role as the co‑founder of “STEM‑Girls of Pee Dee” has helped recruit and mentor young girls in the community, ensuring that more students like her have the opportunity to pursue science at a high level.

Future Aspirations & College Plans
Cayla’s achievements have earned her a full‑ride scholarship to the University of South Carolina, where she plans to major in Environmental Biology. Her long‑term goal is to work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to develop sustainable practices for coastal ecosystems. Cayla also has a scholarship from the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Technology, a prestigious program that will allow her to attend summer courses at the University of South Carolina’s Biodesign Institute.

Quotes & Perspectives
“I want to make a difference in how we treat our environment,” Cayla said in an interview. “Knowing that I have the chance to study at a top university and work with organizations that care about sustainability is amazing.” Her science teacher, Ms. L. Henderson, added, “Cayla is a rare combination of curiosity, diligence, and compassion. She is a role model for all our students.”

2. Florence Mayo: A Mathematical Mind with a Humanitarian Touch

Background & Academic Profile
Florence Mayo’s story begins at Florence High School, where she was a standout in mathematics, earning a perfect score on her AP Calculus exam and securing a place on the state Math Team for three consecutive years. She also achieved a gold medal in the 2023 International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) – a rare accomplishment for a U.S. high school student. Florence’s GPA of 3.95 is complemented by her coursework in computer science, where she developed a mobile app that helps local residents locate free community resources.

Extracurricular Leadership
In addition to her academic pursuits, Florence co‑founded the “Future Engineers” club, a program designed to inspire students of color to pursue engineering careers. She also volunteers as a math tutor for at-risk youth, and her leadership during the COVID‑19 pandemic helped deliver online tutoring services to students who lost access to in‑person help. Her commitment to service earned her a place on the national “Community Service Hall of Fame” by the American Association of Community Colleges.

Future Aspirations & College Plans
Florence has secured a scholarship to Clemson University, where she will major in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Data Analytics. She is also in talks with the National Science Foundation (NSF) for a post‑secondary research internship. Her ultimate goal is to design low‑cost, sustainable irrigation systems for farmers in Sub‑Saharan Africa—a cause that aligns with her personal experience: her family has always been rooted in community and helping others.

Quotes & Perspectives
“I want to bring math and engineering to people who need it the most,” Florence told the Post and Courier. “It’s not just about equations; it’s about applying them to solve real problems.” A former mentor, Dr. A. Ramirez of the Clemson Engineering Department, noted, “Florence’s blend of technical skill and altruism is what sets her apart. She will be an asset to any organization she joins.”

3. The Pee Dee’s Academic Ecosystem

Both Cayla and Florence’s stories highlight key factors that contribute to success in the Pee Dee:

• Strong School‑Based Support: Their high schools offered advanced courses, specialized clubs, and dedicated faculty who guided them toward national recognition.
• Community Involvement: Each student leveraged local resources—science fairs, math competitions, and tutoring programs—to broaden their impact.
• Scholarship Opportunities: The University of South Carolina’s Governor’s School and Clemson’s research internships provide critical pathways for bright students to reach higher education without the financial burden that often deters potential scholars.

The article also points readers toward additional resources: the University of South Carolina’s Biodesign Institute website, Clemson’s Engineering Department page, and the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Technology website for scholarship information. These links underscore the practical steps students can take to emulate Cayla’s and Florence’s success.

4. Conclusion

Cayla Howard and Florence Mayo represent more than individual triumphs; they embody the potential of a region that invests in its youth. Their journeys from local classrooms to national accolades demonstrate that talent thrives when paired with opportunity, mentorship, and a supportive community. As they head to university, both girls carry forward the Pee Dee’s legacy of academic excellence and civic responsibility.

For readers looking to learn more, the Post and Courier’s “Academic Achievers” column offers an ongoing series that showcases other standout students in the region. The article is an invitation to celebrate the successes of South Carolina’s future leaders and to recognize the institutions that help cultivate them.