Hermon Ekpenyong
Offensive Lineman, Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology
The High School Leadership Award honors a senior player who demonstrates exceptional leadership on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. This year’s Leadership Award goes to Hermon Ekpenyong from Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology.
Leadership just seems to come naturally to Ekpenyong. While attending Berry, Ekpenyong has served as JROTC Battalion Executive Officer, a position that allowed Hermon to lead the battalion, collaborate with other JROTC leaders, and help teach young cadets.
Ekpenyong was also honored with the Athletic Director Leadership Award in recognition of his willingness to step out of his comfort zone to assist others. Ekpenyong is described as leading without being asked and never belittling anyone. Other leadership awards learned by Ekpenyong include the 82nd Airborne Division Association Award and the Senior Army Instructor Leadership Ribbon. Hermon is also a member of the National Honor Society and has earned his Toastmaster Certification. Ekpenyong encourages his teammates to excel on and off the playing field. Leading by example, he was honored with the Highest Team GPA Award for 2023 and 2024. Hermon was also recognized with the Scholar-Athlete Award this season. Teammates and coaches also know Ekpenyong as a great leader and sport. Throughout his football career, Hermon and his teammates worked with three different head coaches. During each transition, Hermon welcomed the new coach and helped keep teammates calm through
the process. Off the field, Ekpenyong participates in multiple nonprofit organizations, including Junior
Achievement, Samaritan Feet, Crisis Assistance Ministry, a food drive for 1st Mount Calvary Church, and a YBLA service project in Belize. The Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Touchdown Club are pleased to present Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology’s Hermon Ekpenyong with the 2024 High School Leadership Award.