When Burton Foster Peebles was seven years of age in the second grade, life changed radically.  The flu had triggered his immune system to devour the cells in his pancreas that produce insulin.  From that point and for the rest of his life, Burton faced a daily grind of finger sticks and shots (30,000 and counting), counting food amounts, dealing with possible diabetic commas and shock, and regular doctor visits.  He began to hear from a variety of people over the next ten years, “You can’t!”  However, rather than using this time consuming disease as an excuse, Burton chose to face the challenge and excel in an unbelievable number of areas.

      Throughout his high school career, Burton excelled in academics, athletics, arts, and service.  He won the Mr. Graham High School competition as a sophomore. As a junior he auditioned and was selected for Governor’s School.  While there he was elected a student body officer and was a writer for the GSW newspaper.  He auditioned and was the only male student from Alamance County to be selected for the North Carolina Honor’s Choir.  He won numerous awards in drama and music, achieved All-conference in tennis, and participated in numerous charity events.  Burton has made large numbers of posters and banners for the twenty organizations he serves. 

      Recently, Burton earned recognition as Salutatorian of the senior class.  He was presented the Superintendent’s Award for Excellence for Scholarship, Citizenship, and Involvement.  In addition he won the 2008 Herbert D. Garmon Scholarship, the Jane D. McPherson Scholarship, The Flying J Scholarship, The William and Ella Turrentine Scholar, The Graham Rotary Club Scholarship, the Area Churchmen’s Fellowship Scholarship, the Kohl’s Department Store Scholarship, and others.  Even though Burton won a full –ride, including study abroad and an Academic Fellows position at a prestigious private university, he has finally chosen to attend The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  He plans to study journalism/communications, international studies, and vocal performance.

      Burton is an example and inspiration to all students who face daily challenges and voices of discouragement.  Take that same “true grit” and say with your actions, “I can!”

      Burton’s parents are Darryl and Rhonda Peebles of Graham, North Carolina.  His paternal grandparents are the late Randolph and Christine Peebles of Valley, Alabama.  His maternal grandparents are Glenn Westman and the late Harriet Westman of Kansas City, Missouri.