3 Shorecrest Students Honored at USF's Annual MLK Awards Banquet

On Thursday, January 23, Shorecrest seniors Sinai Dunbar '25, Sabrina Everhart '25, and Ed Mitchem '25 were recognized at USF St. Petersburg's annual MLK Jr. Awards Banquet. The Shorecrest students were among a group of 20 middle school, high school, and college students recognized for their commitment to overcoming adversity, service, leadership and advancing the ideals of Dr. King. 

Of each of the Shorecrest students, the award committee shared: 

Sinai Dunbar is an extraordinary leader from Shorecrest Preparatory School who exemplifies the values of service, resilience, and social justice. As President of the Black Student Union, Sinai re-established the organization, growing it from five students to 30 members, creating a more inclusive community at Shorecrest. Her leadership shines as Cheer Captain, a Student Council member for four years, and a two-time Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year. Sinai’s advocacy extends to co-authoring Shorecrest's Land Acknowledgement and attending the NAIS Student Diversity Leadership Conference. Sinai would like to attend college and go on to be a Product Marketing Manager.   

Sabrina Everhart from Shorecrest Preparatory School is not only a top scholar—positioned to be salutatorian—but a changemaker dedicated to uplifting others. She serves as Co-President of the Asian Affinity Group; Vice President of Students Promoting Acceptance and Respect in the Community; founder of her school’s Distributive Education Clubs of America chapter, and a committed volunteer. Sabrina inspires those around her, tirelessly amplifying underrepresented voices, such as through Shorecrest's Land Acknowledgement initiative. Even while navigating personal challenges as a caregiver for her father, she radiates resilience. Sabrina’s future, in law and diplomacy, shines bright.

Edward Marcus Mitchem Jr. of Shorecrest Preparatory School is a humble and dedicated leader. Edward’s unwavering commitment to service is evident through his volunteer work with the Special Olympics, mentoring younger students, and supporting his church’s media ministry. As a leader in the Black Student Union he fosters a community of inclusion and meaningful dialogue. Edward’s mentoring program for Academy Prep students transitioning to Shorecrest is a testament to his compassion and initiative. With resilience, a 4.03 GPA, and a heart for service, Edward inspires us all.

"We are so proud to see Shorecrest so well represented at this meaningful event," shared Shorecrest Head of School Nancy Spencer. "Sinai, Sabrina and Ed each demonstrate Dr. King's ideals and the Shorecrest Core Values. We are inspired by their continued contributions to improving the lives of others; I know they will go on to do great things." 

The awards banquet was part of the University's series of events and student service projects honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event featured keynote speaker Alex Harris, an acclaimed singer, producer and founder of the Arts Conservatory for Teens. 

Pictured (L to R): Roderick A. Fludd, Shorecrest Director of Diversity & Inclusion; Nancy L. Spencer, Shorecrest Head of School; Sabrina Everhart '25; Sinai Dunbar '25; Ed Mitchem '25; Morgan M. '29; Isaac McKinney III, Shorecrest Trustee and Event Sponsor