A spirit of generosity surrounds Kaitlyn Barnett. She helps new students at her school feel welcome, she spends gift cards she receives on people she cares about, and gladly gave up her room when friends stayed with Barnetts during the winter ice storm. But perhaps the most telling example of Kaitlyn’s character is how she set out to help a family who was struggling financially. She took the initiative to raise money for them by making crafts and selling candy. She displayed dedication by spending a whole year selling the things she made at craft shows, schools, and a local bed and breakfast.

“She was able to rally people to help—even people who didn’t know the family,” said Melissa Barnett, Kaitlyn’s Mom. Kaitlyn has always been generous. “She loves to give and always puts others before herself.” Kaitlyn is in the fourth grade at Christian Heritage Academy in Del City and is the daughter of Brad and Melissa Barnett of Edmond.

Hollie James demonstrates compassion in many aspects of her life. When new students begin attending her school, Hollie makes a point of welcoming them. Hollie recently became friends with a Spanish-speaking student. Hollie made an effort to learn Spanish so she could communicate with her and be her friend. She displays deep loyalty to her friends and is always there when her friends need her. Hollie also shows generosity and compassion with her younger sister, Elizabeth.

“She’s really compassionate and has a giving heart,” said Jenny Brosius, Hollie’s Mom. Hollie is also forgoing her last middle school dance to attend her Mom’s 40th birthday party.

Fourteen-year-old Hollie is an 8th grader at Belle Isle Enterprise Middle School and is the daughter of Dave and Jenny Brosius of Oklahoma City.

The Spotlight on Character Awards are proudly sponsored by Oklahoma Energy Resources Board, OERB.