'She Truly Is Exceptional': Danvers Student Celebrated With National 'Heart Of The Arts' Award

DANVERS, MA — Danvers High School senior Kylee Collins is being celebrated as a "true heart of the Danvers arts community" after earning national recognition for her contributions to theater, band, choir, and visual arts at the school.

Collins, who is also a cheerleader at the school, is this year's state recipient of the National Federation of High Schools' "Heart of the Arts" Award.

"Kylee is the central artery through which our creative energy flows," Principal Alan Strauss said. "She is a definitive cheerleader, role model, and talent."

The award is given annually to one student in each state who exemplifies "the positive impact of music, speech, debate, theater, visual arts, and performing arts."

It is considered the most prestigious state and national award in the performing arts.

"The arts in Danvers are pumping with renewed enthusiasm because of the gifts Kylie shares so selflessly," Strauss said. "She does not just meet the criteria for the Heart of the Arts award — she redefines it.

"We are immensely proud that she has received this distinction."

Strauss added that Collins' fellow students watch her in "awe," that "her influence is universal," and that she is "the true heart of the Danvers arts community."

Collins is the captain and featured performer in the Color Guard and was instrumental in leading the band program to three first-place regional finishes in New England Scholastic Band Association competitions, as well as a third-place ranking in the finals.

She is also a soprano in her a cappella group and dance captain for theatrical productions.

DHS Fine Arts and Choral Director Alex Grover called Collins "a model performer across all disciplines."

"Kylee is a dynamic and dedicated member of the fine arts program here at DHS," DHS Marching Band Director Jeff Daniels said. "Two attributes that stand out to me are her kindness and her dedication to her craft. Kylee always makes everyone feel welcome and supported in all her performing groups."

Strauss credited Collins with being one of the reasons why the Danvers High arts programs have flourished during her involvement.

"Her enthusiasm is transformative," Strauss said. "We see an influx of interest in our programs fueled simply by a desire to work alongside her. Kylie's true legacy lies in her ability to empower every member of the ensemble, regardless of skill level. She commands the same level of respect and dedication as a director, yet does so with the grace of a peer.

"She truly is exceptional, and everyone is thrilled for her and so proud of her."