Celebrating Student Achievement: The 2024-2025 Upward Bound Awards Wrap Up Another Inspiring Year

On a bright and hopeful morning, the Citrus County Rotary Ray Darling Upward Bound Awards Ceremony for the 2024–2025 school year came to a fitting close. Hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Citrus County at the Citrus Springs Community Center, this annual event—which began more than three decades ago—continues to be a shining example of community-driven support for education and student success. Now in its 33rd year, the Upward Bound Awards have recognized more than 20,000 students across Citrus County for their individual achievements and potential.

At the heart of the program lies its unwavering message: every student is worthy, capable, and deserving of recognition for their unique path to success. This message, beautifully embodied in the legacy of Ray Darling, the program’s namesake, lives on today thanks to the steadfast support of the Rotary Clubs throughout Citrus County.

Serving once again as the master of ceremonies was Rotarian Tommy Thomas, CEO of Weber Glass. With his trademark warmth and enthusiasm, Tommy guided the program smoothly and skillfully, bringing energy, humor, and heart to each moment. His longstanding commitment to both the event and the students it honors has become a cherished part of the Upward Bound tradition.

This year’s celebration featured an inspiring keynote address by Rick Reynolds—musician, songwriter, entrepreneur, and storyteller. With a career that spans decades and includes the release of over 20 albums, the composition of more than 1,000 songs, and the publication of two books, Rick’s journey captivated the audience.

He shared how his musical path began as a drummer playing alongside his brother. Over time, he taught himself to play various instruments. His passion and curiosity eventually led to a chance encounter with members of the Doobie Brothers—an experience that opened unexpected doors and helped launch his professional music career.

But Rick’s talents didn’t stop at music. His entrepreneurial spirit led him into the world of marketing and technology, where he played a pioneering role in developing some of the first accredited point-of-sale verification systems. He was also involved in one of the earliest credit card processing platforms for internet sales—a testament to his forward-thinking mindset.

Perhaps most inspiring to students was Rick’s humble reflection on his academic beginnings. “I wasn’t the smartest kid in the class,” he shared candidly. “I was average at best. My teachers used to call my handwriting ‘chicken scratch’—but now I make a living writing songs, presentations, and books.” His message to students was clear: the path to success doesn’t require perfection—it requires persistence, passion, and belief in oneself.

Following Rick’s moving presentation, each Upward Bound student was recognized individually, called forward to receive their award and pose for commemorative photographs. Proud family members, teachers, and community leaders beamed as these deserving young people were honored for their efforts, growth, and accomplishments in academics, character, and leadership.

The ceremony also featured a special breakfast for students and guests, generously sponsored by the Citrus County Rotary Clubs and lovingly prepared by Chef William Bunch and his team from Oysters of Crystal River. The meal added a warm and celebratory touch to an already uplifting morning.

As the event concluded, heartfelt thanks were extended to the many individuals and organizations that made the ceremony possible. The Citrus County Rotary Clubs remain the backbone of the Upward Bound program, keeping Ray Darling’s vision alive through their continued investment in local youth. Their belief in the potential of every student is a beacon of hope for families, educators, and the broader community.

Special recognition was also given to the Citrus County Community Services team for their invaluable support in hosting the event at the Citrus Springs Community Center. Their partnership helps ensure this long-standing tradition remains accessible and inclusive for all students.

As the final names were called and the last round of applause faded, it became clear that the Upward Bound program is far more than a ceremony—it is a celebration of what’s possible when a community comes together to believe in its students. From first-time recipients to those recognized year after year, each student left with more than a certificate—they left with the knowledge that their effort matters and that their community is cheering them on.

In a world often focused on simple outcomes, the Upward Bound Awards remind us to celebrate progress, persistence, and personal growth. As we look to the future, the program’s message continues to echo loudly: every student can succeed—and it’s our shared responsibility to help them realize that truth, year after year.

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