Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School senior RJ Meis was one of six Broward County students to receive the Chris Hixon Award for leadership, perseverance, and heart.

Meis, whose older sister Macy won the same award two years ago, was selected as one of six recipients from a group of 73 nominees representing 23 different schools.

“It means a lot because it represents grit, leadership, and determination to stand up for places where most everyone else would stay quiet,” Meis said. “Being able to carry on the integrity, never-ending leadership, and lasting impact Chris Hixon had on so many different people makes me truly happy to represent his name.”

Meis was a three-sport athlete in high school, competing in football, wrestling, and competitive cheerleading. He spent four seasons on varsity football and served as a team captain during his senior year. He also wrestled for two years and won a District Championship in competitive cheerleading.

Meis, who posted a 4.65 GPA, logged more than 350 community service hours during high school and served as a National Honor Society officer during his senior year. He plans to attend Florida Atlantic University, where he has been accepted into the Honors College. Meis will major in Management Information Systems with a specialization in cybersecurity through the College of Business while also attempting to walk on to the football team.

Meis was later recognized during the Eagle Awards and also joined his sister as one of four students to win the award, which is nominated and voted on by the administration.

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