News Summary
Students from Elizabethton High School showcased their skills at the state SkillsUSA competition, winning six medals and achieving significant recognition. Princess Russell stood out with a first-place finish in public speaking, leading her to the national competition in Atlanta. Many students also received FFA state degrees, highlighting the school’s emphasis on vocational training and student growth in various disciplines.
Elizabethton, TN – Students from Elizabethton High School have showcased their skills at the state SkillsUSA competition held in Chattanooga, achieving significant recognition. A total of 18 students represented their school and collectively won six medals during the event, which took place from April 13 to April 16, 2025.
One of the standout performers from Elizabethton High School was Princess Russell, who earned first place at the state SkillsUSA conference in the public speaking category. Her victory positions her to compete at the upcoming SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta this summer. Russell, who hails from the Philippines, faced linguistic challenges upon arriving in the United States but successfully overcame these obstacles through the support of her teachers.
In addition to Russell’s accomplishments, eight students from Elizabethton High School received FFA state degrees, recognizing their achievements in agricultural education. Furthermore, a student from the school placed second in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) state competition, qualifying for national-level competition scheduled for next month.
The SkillsUSA state competition is designed to provide students with opportunities to demonstrate their skills in vocational and technical fields. The competition evaluates participants not only on their technical abilities but also on their professional portfolios. These portfolios include items such as resumes and letters of recommendation, as well as presentation skills, all of which are critical for future career success.
Students from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Elizabethton participated in the SkillsUSA events as well, with four of them bringing home collegiate-level medals. These students excelled in various fields, including earning first and second place in power equipment technology. Their achievements further highlight the emphasis on skill development in vocational training through the SkillsUSA program.
Princess Russell’s portfolio, which has helped her secure her spot at the national competition, includes documented community service, participation in sports such as volleyball and track and field, and involvement in Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC). Her achievements reflect a well-rounded student committed to personal growth and community engagement.
Russell’s aspirations include becoming a pediatrician, and she plans to pursue her studies at East Tennessee State University, eventually aiming for the Quillen College of Medicine. Her journey underscores the importance of support from various individuals, including parents, community members, and school advisors, who have played a significant role in her success. Teachers Lauren Meier and Katie Dugger have noted Russell’s determination and positive attitude, which have been instrumental throughout her high school experience.
The SkillsUSA competition and its national counterpart serve as vital platforms for students to demonstrate their skills and gain recognition in their respective fields. The recent success of Elizabethton High School and TCAT Elizabethton students reflects the dedication of educational institutions in fostering talent and supporting student growth in vocational and technical disciplines.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Students Shine at SkillsUSA State Competition
Additional Resources
- Elizabethton Star: Elizabethton Teen’s Journey
- Wikipedia: SkillsUSA
- Johnson City Press: Elizabethton High School Students Succeed
- Google Search: FFA state degrees
- Johnson City Press: TCAT Elizabethton Medalists
- Google Scholar: Future Business Leaders of America
- Elizabethton Star: HVHS Students Place
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Technical Education
- Elizabethton Star: State Leadership and Skills Conference
- Google News: Chattanooga SkillsUSA 2025
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
