Lake Oconee Academy is proud to recognize senior Sara Duncan Hong as this year’s STAR Student and Mandy Lipscomb as the STAR Teacher she selected, a meaningful honor that celebrates both academic excellence and the lasting impact of exceptional educators.
The STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) program highlights the highestachieving students in Georgia and allows each STAR Student to choose the teacher who has had the greatest influence on his/her academic journey. For Sara Duncan, that choice was an easy one.
A member of the Class of 2026, Sara Duncan Hong has been part of the LOA community since Pre-K, growing up alongside the school and exemplifying its commitment to scholarship and excellence. Her selection as STAR Student reflects years of dedication, curiosity and hard work. In addition to her academic achievements, Sara Duncan has challenged herself through both AP and dual enrollment coursework, gaining valuable skills in time management and independence. “Dual enrollment has taught me to manage my own time and stay on top of my work,” she shared. “I feel like this has prepared me for college and the responsibilities that come with it.”
She chose Mandy Lipscomb as her STAR Teacher, who taught her AP Human Geography as a freshman and AP U.S. History as a junior. Mrs. Lipscomb has been a dedicated member of the LOA faculty for the past 12 years, influencing the lives of countless students. “Mrs. Lipscomb made a lasting impact on me not only academically, but personally,” Sara Duncan shared. “Her classes not only challenged me to think critically and see the world from new perspectives, but she also created an environment that was so fun and I felt supported and encouraged to do my best. Her personality and how she made me feel is what I will remember most”
For Lipscomb, the recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from a student she has had the opportunity to teach more than once and a family she knows well. “I had the pleasure of teaching Sara Duncan in both AP Human Geography and AP U.S. History classes, and she excelled in each,” said Lipscomb. “She has a genuine passion for learning and understanding the world around her. What makes Sara especially remarkable is her quiet leadership, leading by example through hard work, integrity and kindness, earning the respect of both her peers and teachers. I have no doubt these qualities will carry her far.”
Sarah Duncan and Mrs. Lipscomb attended the STAR reception dinner at the UGA Center for Continuing Education and were formally recognized at the most recent Lake Oconee Academy Board of Governors meeting, held on campus, where school leadership and community members gathered to celebrate their achievements.
Dr. Bowling, CEO of Lake Oconee Academy, expressed his pride in both honorees. “We are incredibly proud of Sara Duncan and Mrs. Lipscomb,” said Dr. Bowling. “Sara Duncan represents the very best of what it means to be a Titan, and Mrs. Lipscomb’s dedication over the past 12 years has helped shape the lives of so many students. This recognition is well deserved for them both.”
The STAR Student and STAR Teacher honor is not only a celebration of academic achievement, but also a reflection of the meaningful relationships that define the LOA community. Sara Duncan’s journey from Pre-K to senior year, alongside educators like Mrs. Lipscomb, is a powerful example of the lasting impact of a Lake Oconee Academy education.
At LOA, moments like these reflect the heart of the school, where excellence is nurtured, relationships are valued, and students are prepared to make a meaningful impact.