Dodgeville High School student and adviser earn national recognition, honored during surprise school visit

MADISON — State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly made a surprise visit to Dodgeville High School on Tuesday to celebrate student Addy Hoyer and Adviser Sarah James, who are among just 10 national finalists selected by the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). Both are being recognized for their outstanding service and leadership. 

“This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of Addy and Ms. James,” Dr. Underly said. “Dodgeville High School and the community are truly fortunate to benefit from their service and leadership. I am proud to have them represent Wisconsin.” 

Photos and video of the surprise announcement can be found on Dr. Underly’s Facebook page. 

Hoyer, a senior, is one of five outstanding student leaders selected as the 2026 Member of the Year Award National Finalists. Selected from more than 260,000 members nationwide, the finalists are honored for going above and beyond to uplift their chapters, advocate for their communities and inspire their peers.  

Hoyer has served multiple leadership roles within FCCLA, including chapter vice president of public relations, chapter president, Region 6 ambassador and Wisconsin state vice president of engagement.  In her state role, she developed a comprehensive toolkit for the organization’s Community Service Partner, helping chapters implement sustainable service initiatives. Her leadership contributed to raising over $5,000 for Paul’s Party and the donation of more than 200 kindness cards statewide. She also expanded member engagement by leading workshops, launching the “Lead the Way with FCCLA” podcast, and increasing access to national programs. A three-time national qualifier, Hoyer has excelled in competitive events while mentoring others to build confidence and succeed.  

James was selected as one of five finalists – out of more than 7,300 chapter advisers nationwide – for the 2026 Adviser of the Year. The award is the highest honor a chapter adviser can receive and celebrates the exceptional leadership, dedication and impact of advisers who support FCCLA members.

As adviser for the Dodgeville FCCLA Chapter for the past 10 years, James  has grown chapter membership significantly while building a strong, student-centered program that empowers members to discover their passions, develop real-world skills, and make meaningful contributions to their school and community. As a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher, James incorporates project-based learning and career-connected experiences across all her courses. Her commitment to service extends outside of FCCLA, as she also serves as the president of Little Givers Magic Market – a no-cost shopping experience for children, allowing them to select gifts for loved ones during the holiday season.  

Hoyer and James have both been awarded a $1,000 prize by the national organization in recognition of their outstanding service and will be honored at the upcoming National Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., where one student and one adviser will be named FCCLA Member of the Year and Adviser of the Year.  

Learn more about FCCLA opportunities on the Wisconsin FCCLA website.