The Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program has announced Donovan Macario-Avila, a student at Newport High School, has been named the 2025 Harold H. “Hal” Smith Scholar.

The recognition honors one outstanding Governor’s Scholar from Northern Kentucky each year and celebrates the legacy of Harold H. “Hal” Smith — an educator, leader, and advocate for student success across the Commonwealth.

Hal Smith, a native of Newport, dedicated his life to education and leadership. After graduating from Newport High School and Centre College, where he excelled in academics, athletics, and campus life, Smith went on to serve as dean of admissions and vice president at Centre College, vice president for development at Muskingum College, and president of the University of Pikeville.

Smith later led the Gov

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