Highpoint Health – Sumner with Ascension Saint Thomas Awards Scholarships to Three Gallatin High School Seniors

GALLATIN, Tenn. (November 13, 2026) – Highpoint Health recently recognized three Gallatin High School seniors with $3,000 scholarships for their commitment to honoring and growing the legacy of Gallatin High School and their hometown.  

Jevonna Montgomery, Tyler Jolley and Alyssa McKinness were honored during an on-field presentation ahead of the Green Wave football game. Rod Harkleroad, market president of Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas, and Drew Schefano, PA-C, a sports medicine provider, were on hand to recognize the recipients. 

“Being a community partner means more than putting a name on a banner or billboard. It means showing up, building relationships and finding meaningful ways to support our neighbors,” Harkleroad said. “Jevonna, Tyler and Alyssa have each strengthened Gallatin High School in their own way, and we are proud to support them as they take the next step in their journeys.” 

Montgomery is a decorated leader of the Lady Wave basketball team and a member of the Gallatin Tsunami. The daughter of a Gallatin High School teacher, Montgomery recalled running the halls as a child and dreaming of the day she'd wear the Green Wave logo herself. She plans to attend Auburn University to study genetics with a minor in social work and pursue a career in genetic engineering or genetic counseling. Her interest in genetics grew through AP Biology, where studying DNA and gel electrophoresis showed her how science could be used to improve people's lives. 

As a long snapper for the Green Wave football team, Jolley learned the value of perseverance after a tough moment early in his high school career. Rather than allow the setback to define him, he put in the work, continued improving and became a leader his teammates could count on. He plans to attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to study mechanical engineering and follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, a mechanical engineer. 

McKinness credits the Green Wave Band with helping shape who she is today. As a section leader and mentor, she helped strengthen the band's family culture while learning that true leadership means caring for the people around her and making decisions rooted in compassion. She plans to attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to study music education and pursue a career as a band director or conductor. Her interest in that path began during her freshman year, when participating in an honor band helped her recognize that music was a passion she wanted to share with others. 

Highpoint Health awards the annual scholarships to a male athlete, a female athlete and a band member. Recipients are selected through an application process by designated representatives of Gallatin High School and Highpoint Health – Sumner with Ascension Saint Thomas. 

The scholarships are one part of Highpoint Health’s ongoing partnership with Gallatin High School. Throughout the year, Highpoint Health leaders and sports medicine providers work alongside students, coaches, educators and families, supporting opportunities that help young people succeed both in the classroom and beyond graduation. 

Learn More: Visit Highpoint Health's Sports & Performance Community Hub for additional stories, resources and insights for athletes, parents, coaches and active individuals.