Growing Up with Emerald

Abby Diggs might be the daughter of Emerald Youth’s president and CEO, but she has her own personal investment in the ministry and her community.

Abby has grown up in the heart of the city and graduated from Fulton High School this week.

She’s taken full advantage of her time at Fulton – playing four years of soccer and tennis, pursuing her love of photography by capturing images of Friday night football games, being president of the National Honor Society, being named Miss Fulton High School, and last, but not least, earning the title of valedictorian.

She also was connected to Fellowship of Christian Athletes throughout her high school career.

Abby has been engaged with Emerald Youth in many ways. She’s been connected through her youth group at Emerald Avenue UMC, played soccer and volleyball through Emerald Youth Sports, and during the summers in high school, Abby has enjoyed volunteering as a leader with elementary students in Emerald’s day camp.

“Whenever I think of Emerald Youth, I think of family. Everyone has always been very accepting and encouraging. They always support me, whether it’s something small for school, or helping me know I’m making good life decisions,” Abby said.

A special memory she has is when Emerald Youth leaders from her church showed up with their entire families to cheer her on at her soccer team’s senior night.

Going to a school in the heart of the city has been very meaningful for Abby. She says she can’t imagine going to any other high school than Fulton. Being in a diverse environment has afforded her the opportunity to be surrounded by peers who are from all different walks of life.

“As you get to hear other people’s stories, it helps open your heart a bit more and learn to be more considerate of others.”

While she has much planned for the summer, including serving as an Emerald Youth AmeriCorps member, Abby hopes to relax a little bit and then looks forward to attending Maryville College.