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Colleen McDermott

Welcome to my World!

As a proud nonprofit owner, accomplished titleholder, and active community leader, I'm not just your average teen – I'm on a mission to make a difference. Whether it's advocating for the environment, showcasing my Irish dance prowess, or spearheading initiatives through my nonprofit organization, Planet Youth, I'm dedicated to leaving a positive mark on the world. Join me as I share my story, passions, and dreams with you.

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Embodying the                of service and dedication.

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Champion of Change

Leadership Across NC

As Moore County, Johnston County, and Garner's Teen,  Colleen McDermott has proudly served communities across the state of NC with grace, dedication, and a commitment to service. Holding these esteemed titles allowed Colleen to amplify her voice and advocate for causes close to her heart. 

 

Throughout her time has a titleholder, Colleen has completed over 50 classroom visits, advocated for sustainable education at Garner Town Hall and Johnston County Town Council, and earned over $10,000 in college scholarships to help pay for her education as she has ambitions to one day go to law school. 

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She has been recognized for this service and achievement through receiving the ThinkApex Youth Service Award 2024 present by Apex Mayor Gilbert. She also received the Bronze Presidential Service Award for completing over 100 hours of community service. 

Irish Dancing

From the tender age of four, Colleen has been entranced by the artistry and grace of this traditional dance form. Over the years, she has honed her skills, gracing stages with intricate footwork and captivating performances. From local competitions to international showcases, Irish dance has been more than just a hobby – it's been a source of joy, discipline, and endless inspiration.

 

Follow Colleen’s journey with the magic of Irish dance to share glimpses of her dance adventures and moments that have shaped her both on and off the stage.

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Environmental Advocacy

With each step I take, I strive to be a voice for our planet, advocating for sustainability, conservation, and a greener future. From countless classrooms to partnering with eco-conscious organizations like The Crayon Initiative and TerraCycle, I'm dedicated to sparking change and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. Together, let's stand up for Mother Earth and create a world where every action counts and every voice makes a difference.

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  • National Honor Society 

  • AP Scholar with Honor 

  • United States Bronze Presidential Service Award ‘24 

  • Featured in Cary Magazine as a “Notable Teen” making an impact 

  • UNC Morehead Cain Scholarship Cardinal Gibbons High School Nominee 

  • Think Apex Youth Service Award presented by Apex Town Council and Mayor Jacques Gilbert 

  • Miss North Carolina’s Teen Community Service Award Scholarship, $500

  • Top 10 at Miss NC Teen ‘22, $4500 scholarship as 1st runner up ‘23, $3000 scholarship as 2nd runner up ‘24

  • Miss Garner’s Teen, Johnston County’s Teen, and Moore County’s Teen local competition community service award 

  • Cardinal Gibbons High School All A Honor Roll All Year 2023-2024 

  • Cardinal Gibbons High School All A Honor Roll 2024-2025

  • Cardinal Gibbons Green Team Club Leadership Council 

  • Cardinal Gibbons Admissions Ambassador Leader

  • Earned  $10000 in college scholarships, placing both 1st and 2nd runner up to the title of Miss NC’s Teen                                           IRISH DANCE

  • Top 5 at the Southern Region Oireachtas 2018, 2019, 2021

  • 5th at U.S Nationals ‘21

  • World Qualifier at the Southern Region Oireachtas 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023

  • 37th at the World Irish Dance Championships

  • Over 10 Southern Regional Team titles

  • 3rd in the World for Choreography Figure Competition

  • 4x local competition talent winner for Irish Dance at Miss America’s Teen competitions (Miss Moore County’s Teen, Miss Zebulon’s Teen, Miss Johnston County’s Teen, Miss Garner’s Teen)

  • Miss North Carolina’s Teen state level talent award for Irish Dance 2023, 2024 ($500 scholarship each)

  • Featured in article in Irish dancing Magazine for “Breaking Barriers” in Irish dance as a Miss America’s Teen delegate bringing Irish dance to new audiences

  • IDTANA (Irish Dance Teachers Association of North America) $1000 scholarship recipient 

Awards and Achievements

Going beyond

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