This week’s Senior Spotlight focuses on one of the most genuine people who keeps us laughing with her unique humor that always brightens the day: Olivia Naud. After moving from South Carolina, Olivia joined the class of ‘23 in sixth grade and immediately became an integral part of it. As a classmate, Nicole Mason says, “Olivia is a great friend who is always there for me and always supports me in whatever I do,” which I’m sure reflects how the many who adore Olivia feel.

Olivia is a determined and diligent individual, which has earned her the admiration and respect of her classmates, teachers, and coaches. You can find Olivia taking on an impressive course load that consists of Algebra III Trig, AP Psychology, AP Environmental, and Honors English. Due to her hardworking nature, Oliva has earned extensive awards, such as A Honor Roll (9, 10, 11) and Straight A’s (Grade 9); Academic Excellence in French I, Geometry, Algebra II, Honors French II, Honors US History; and Highest Academic Average in Advanced English 11 and Advanced Functions and Models.  Her electives this year are Sports Management and Art IV. Although she will probably not admit it, Oliva is incredibly creative, and as Mrs. Hunter can attest, Oliva excels in painting and has impressed us all with her work. This year, with help from two of her classmates, Olivia painted a “Peace Pole” that is located in the Harmony Trails right in front of the school and encourages peace and kindness. Not only has she promoted goodwill through art, but Olivia also spends every Wednesday at Southside Academy eating lunch and playing with the kids through her Sports Management Class. Her desire to help others is evident through her membership and involvement in Key Club, a community service organization at RMA. Additionally, Olivia is a member of FCA, or the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, where she spends time in devotion with friends to further her faith and sportsmanship as an athlete. 

Speaking of being an athlete, Oliva has been a Varsity cheerleader since her junior year for both football and basketball. As part of the team, Olivia has helped paint numerous banners, performed captivating dances at halftime, led pep rallies, based (or held up a flyer) in stunts, and– of course–cheered on the Eagles to victory. We know the teams and the crowds will miss Olivia’s presence next year. Besides cheer, in her free time, Olivia can be found soaking in the sun at her beach house located right on the water at Kure Beach. Olivia cherishes her friends and keeps them close, so whether it’s at the beach or elsewhere, Olivia is hanging out with her friends as often as possible–probably shopping, one of her favorite activities. One more thing readers should know about Olivia is her love for her cat, Paul Stanley. When Olivia is not with her (human) friends, she is kept in good company by her lovable furry friend that occupies many photos in her camera roll. I know Paul will definitely miss Olivia next year almost as much as the rest of us at RMA. 

This fall, Olivia applied to UNCW and ECU, as well as several South Carolina schools: Clemson, the U of SC, and the College of Charleston. She plans to return to her home state of South Carolina to attend the College of Charleston to major in marketing. While we all wish she would stay closer to Rocky Mount, the senior class is confident that Olivia will truly thrive in Charleston and is excited to see her flourish in college as the bright individual she is!

1. What is your favorite movie? The Notebook 
2. Describe your dream vacation. I want to go to Bora Bora and stay in one of the overwater bungalows.
3. Who is your role model? My mom
4. What is something nobody knows about you? My last name is actually pronounced “no.” 
5. If you were trapped on a deserted island, what three things would you bring? my flavored water, a friend, and a fan
6. What will you miss about RMA? The small, close-knit community
7. What is your funniest story at RMA? In 8th grade, Ms. Covolo had me dress up as Romeo and recite lines from Romeo and Juliet in front of the entire class. I forgot all of my lines and just stood there speechless, so I had to go back later to recite them with just her in the room. 
8. What is one piece of advice you’d give to an incoming freshman? The next four years will fly by, so be intentional about making memories and having fun.
9. What class would you take again, and why? Any of Dr. K’s science classes because he was the best teacher and somehow always knew how to make class fun.