***NEWS RELEASE***
Centreville, MD – Averie Mortimer, a senior at Queen Anne’s County High School, has been named to the 2026 Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore “18 Under 18” cohort. This highly selective program recognizes outstanding local students who demonstrate exceptional leadership in innovation, service, and academic achievement.
Mortimer’s work is defined by a profound commitment to veterans and community mentorship. She is the founder of Project Can Do, a student-led nonprofit that supports veterans in hospice care. Under her leadership, the organization has raised over $7,000, expanded to five different schools, and delivered more than 400 handmade blankets accompanied by personalized cards to those who served.
A visible leader within her school, Mortimer serves as the President of the Interact Club and President of the Social Studies National Honor Society. She is a recurring member of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, where she advocates for her peers and contributes to district-level discussions. Her dedication to youth development is further evidenced by her work as a woodwind instructor for middle school students and her role as a counselor at Camp Pecometh.
Mortimer is an accomplished instrumentalist and theatrical performer, proficient in the flute, piccolo, saxophone, and percussion. She serves as the Drum Major for the Marching Band and was selected as the piccolo player for the All-Shore Honors Band. Beyond the stage, she uses her musical talents for therapeutic connection, regularly performing for residents in local nursing home dementia and Alzheimer’s units.
Academically, Mortimer maintains excellence in a rigorous course load of AP and honors classes. Her diverse interests also include history; she has served as a historical lecturer for the 162nd reenactment of the Battle of Gettysburg and volunteers with the Museum of Gettysburg. “Leading, accountable, and driven are a few personal strengths that come to mind when I think of Averie Mortimer,” School Counselor Kimberly Betts said. “Her character and sense of service are unmatched!”
The Queen Anne’s County High School community and the public are invited to celebrate Mortimer’s achievements at the Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore “18 Under 18” Awards Ceremony on May 18, 2026, at 5 p.m. at the Junior Achievement Center in Salisbury, MD. The event will recognize her and 17 other incredible student leaders from across the region.
Tickets and Student Recognition Sponsorships are live and available to purchase now!
About Junior Achievement: Junior Achievement is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy. Through volunteer-led programs focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship and career readiness, Junior Achievement equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to build successful futures. To learn more, please visit www.easternshoreja.org.
Download a PDF copy of the news release here.