C-N awards WGHS senior with weekend in the Smokies

^{Carson-Newman University selected West Greene High School senior Kenton Cobble, 18, and his family to win a 3-night weekend in the Smokies giveaway.}

(Dec. 8, 2020) JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. — West Greene High School senior Kenton Cobble balances more on his shoulders than most 18-year-olds. He keeps good grades, participates in football, basketball and baseball, and is faithful at his church — all while being a help to his family as his mother struggles with a serious, chronic illness.

Carson-Newman University selected Kenton and his family to win a free, 3-night stay at a lodge in the Smokies. C-N’s nominating committee chose Kenton from among more than 100 nominations of high school seniors who have gone above and beyond during this difficult year.

“Kenton’s perseverance and strong faith really stood out to us, even among dozens of amazing students and worthy nominees,” said Aaron Porter, C-N’s vice president for Enrollment Management. “It was clear to us that his personal relationship with God is a big part of his life. He’s given support to his friends and his family and still excelled on the field and in his studies during a year that has presented an incredible array of challenges. We hope this gift to Kenton brings joy to his family, the way his story has brought encouragement to us at Carson-Newman.”

West Greene guidance counselor Judy Bible was among several who nominated Kenton. She shared that his mother’s illness turned his world upside down, but said that he remained dedicated to his commitments, despite the challenges.

“Kenton has maintained his high standards in the classroom, continued to participate and excel in sports, and continued to be active in his church and youth group,” Bible wrote. “Kenton is an outstanding young man whose faith and confidence is in the power of Jesus.”

Kenton attends Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church in Greeneville and participates in Fellowship of Christian Athletes at West Greene. A running back, he was named to the All-Region Team in football this year and would love to continue playing in college. He plans to become a high school teacher and coach.

As Carson-Newman’s selected winner, Kenton and his family will choose among three lodges situated in the Smoky Mountains for their three-night stay.

Founded in 1851, Carson-Newman is a Christian liberal arts-based university affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention. The University is located in Jefferson City, Tennessee, among the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and has over 2,900 students. Carson-Newman offers 50 undergraduate majors, as well as associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.