Three Local Students are Walker's Rising Stars Finalists

Twenty-five Pinellas County high school students, including three from the Largo area, will compete for college scholarships at in Clearwater on May 24.

Dr. Jeffrey Walker, a Tampa Bay area neurosurgeon, sponsors the scholarship program through the Pinellas Education Foundation.

Public high school juniors and seniors will compete for scholarships in the areas of dance, drama, vocal music, instrumental music, video arts and visual arts.

The local finalists.

Singing is the number one passion for Senior Peter Jackson. He is one of four vocal finalists.

"I sing literally all day, every day. It allows me to communicate in ways I never would have dreamt of. I’ve met some of the best people doing the one thing I absolutely love to do," Jackson said.

" I am very thankful for this opportunity to continue my studies, and also to perform on such a great stage," Jackson said.

As an actor, Osceola Fundamental High School's Corey Phelps loves to tell stories. Phelps is one of four drama finalists.

"Through the story, I am teaching the audience something- whether it be an aspect of theatre, a life lesson, or a piece of history," Phelps said.

"I want to entertain and bring joy to people for the rest of my life. The opportunity to perform as a finalist in Walker’s Rising Stars is a great honor," Phelps said.

Pianist Aaron Lehrian is a junior at Seminole High School. He is one of four instrumental finalists.

"I love the piano because it gives me complete freedom of expression," Lehrian said.

"I am extremely excited to be able to share my music with the community. Playing as a soloist on stage at Ruth Eckerd Hall will be an unprecedented experience for me," Lehrian said.

Here's the complete list of 2012 Walker's Rising Star Finalists.

If you want to go:

What: Walker's Rising Stars Scholarship Competition Finals

Where: Ruth Eckerd Hall

When: Thursday, May 24 at 7 p.m.

Cost: $10 for adults in advance, $12 day of show, $5 seniors and students. Get tickets through the Ruth Eckerd Hall Box Office. Call (727) 791-7400 or visit www.rutheckerdhall.com