Campus Chronicles - January 28, 2025
Lisa Valadez | 1/27/2025, 5:20 p.m.
Fort Bend ISD
Fort Bend's Akira Potts
Fort Bend ISD Travis High School graduate and University of Missouri alumna Akira Potts has achieved a sizzling milestone, landing her dream job as an Oscar Mayer Hotdogger. As part of this coveted role, Potts is now an official spokesperson for the iconic Wienermobile, representing the brand in media appearances and at events nationwide.
Potts is one of just 12 Hotdoggers selected from a competitive pool of over 7,000 applicants. The one-year program, known for its rigorous selection process, looks for candidates with bachelor’s degrees in fields like communications, public relations, or marketing, as well as outgoing personalities and strong communication skills.
Potts, who earned degrees in Communication and Public Administration & Policy with additional minors and a certificate in Multicultural Studies, credits her time at the University of Missouri for sparking her passion for the role. A chance encounter with the Wienermobile as a freshman left her inspired, and subsequent interactions with Hotdoggers solidified her goal of one day joining their ranks.
The job offers Potts the chance to engage with the public, share smiles, and travel across the country—all while driving one of America’s most unique vehicles.
Aldine ISD
Student Spotlight: Miguel Torres
Aldine's Miguel Torres
Miguel Torres, an Aldine ISD FFA student with a 3.0 GPA, has demonstrated a strong commitment to agriculture and animal care through his work raising lambs, steer, turkeys, and chickens. He is set to attend Sam Houston State University, where he plans to major in Animal Science and minor in Breeding and Genetics. His long-term goal is to attend Texas A&M's veterinary school to become a veterinarian. He also plans to join Sam Houston’s Beef Cattle Show Team to continue showcasing cattle and honing his skills.
Miguel’s journey in FFA began with an interest in the financial opportunities offered by livestock competitions. Over time, his involvement grew into a passion for agriculture, as the program provided valuable experiences, life skills, and personal growth.
Student Spotlight: Bra’Shon Oliphant
Aldine's Bra'Shon Oliphant
Bra’Shon Oliphant, an accomplished FFA student with a 3.4 GPA and a class rank of 89 out of 507, is focused on pursuing a career as a livestock veterinarian. He is considering attending Angelo State, Tarleton, or Texas Tech to further his education and achieve his goals.
Through his involvement in FFA, Bra’Shon has developed leadership skills, a strong commitment to community service, and a readiness to embrace new opportunities. The program has been instrumental in shaping his path and reinforcing his dedication to agriculture and service.
Katy ISD
Katy ISD
Katy ISD made history at the UIL 6A Division I Spirit State Championship in Fort Worth, TX, securing the top three spots in the competition. Mayde Creek High School took first place, followed by Seven Lakes High School in second and Jordan High School in third. The competition was intense, with less than one point separating the cumulative scores of the top three schools.
Taylor High School placed seventh, and Cinco Ranch High School rounded out the district's impressive performance with a 10th-place finish.
Seventy-five schools competed in the qualifying round, with only the top 20 advancing to the finals. Katy ISD’s strong showing highlights the district’s excellence in cheerleading, with the teams preparing for national competitions this weekend in Fort Worth, TX, and Orlando, FL.