On Friday morning, seven outstanding graduates of the Putnam County School District were celebrated for their unwavering dedication to community service and hometown pride during the 2025 Product of Putnam Awards.
The annual award, launched in 2019, highlights former students who not only graduated from Putnam County schools but also chose to remain—or return—to their roots, using their talents and passions to serve the community in meaningful ways. Each year, one honoree is selected in the categories of agriculture, business, healthcare, education, public service, industrial manufacturing, and community service.
Held at the district's administrative offices in Palatka, the awards breakfast brought together Superintendent Rick Surrency, School Board members, community leaders, and family members to recognize this year's recipients. The event also included the unveiling of an updated permanent plaque honoring all recipients throughout the program’s history.
“We want every student who walks through our doors to know that success doesn’t mean you have to leave home to make a difference,” said Superintendent Rick Surrency. “Our recipients today prove that you can build a life of purpose right here in Putnam County.”
The ceremony began with a heartfelt invocation from School Board Member Sandra Gilyard, who reminded honorees of the powerful example they set for students.
“You are the reason we are what we are,” Gilyard said. “With all the talent you bring, you could have chosen to be anywhere, but God saw fit to keep you here. And for that, we are so thankful.”
Honorees for the 2025 Product of Putnam Awards included:
🔹 Agriculture: Heather Deloach Pogue (Palatka High School, Class of 2000)
As the 4-H Youth Development Agent with UF/IFAS, Heather Pogue is a mentor to students across Putnam County. Her work connects young people to STEM education and agriculture through hands-on experiences, livestock partnerships, and leadership development. She follows in the footsteps of her father, George Deloach, a past Product of Putnam recipient.
🔹 Business: Jini McCool Robbins (Palatka High School, Class of 1991)
Although unable to attend, Robbins was honored in absentia for her leadership in the local business community. An insurance agent at Bates Hewitt & Floyd, Jini is also a past president of both the Kiwanis Club and the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce. Her parents, Jim and Susan McCool, proudly accepted the award on her behalf.
🔹 Community Service: Yvette Jones (Palatka High School, Class of 1992)
Yvette Jones has dedicated her life to mentoring young people, especially girls, through programs like Take Stock in Children and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Her behind-the-scenes work and presence at nearly every community event makes her a trusted and tireless advocate for Putnam’s youth.
🔹 Education: Ron Whitehurst (Interlachen High School, Class of 1982)
“Coach Whitehurst,” as he is affectionately known, has served Interlachen High School as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and community role model for decades. Whether tutoring students, offering rides to athletes, or picking up litter after a game, his devotion speaks volumes—without ever asking for recognition.
🔹 Healthcare: Kayla McClain (Palatka High School, Class of 2009)
As founder of DK Therapy, a pediatric therapy clinic, McClain has become a vital resource for families in the area. She supports youth through her business, purchases student livestock projects, and remains deeply connected to the children she serves. Superintendent Surrency, who once worked alongside McClain during her early teaching days, called her “a heart-driven professional and fierce advocate for kids.”
🔹 Industrial Manufacturing: Jeff Cahan (Palatka High School, Class of 1999)
Cahan has been instrumental in the growth and success of Seminole Electric’s natural gas plant in Palatka. He helped lead the construction and launch of the Combined Cycle Facility and is also known for coaching youth baseball and mentoring children—both on and off the field.
🔹 Public Service: Charles Overturf III (Palatka High School, Class of 1974)
Overturf, Putnam County Supervisor of Elections, has dedicated over three decades to public service and youth recognition. As co-founder of the Terrific Kids program, he has celebrated the achievements of over 10,000 elementary students across the county. “The only ceremony he’s missed in 30 years?” Surrency joked. “He was in a car accident. That’s the kind of dedication we’re recognizing today.”
To close the ceremony, Superintendent Surrency unveiled the newly updated Product of Putnam wall plaque, which now hangs proudly in the front office of the district’s administrative building.
“This display is more than a list of names,” he said. “It’s a testament to the power of education, the importance of community, and the incredible things our graduates can achieve when they give back. Putnam County produces greatness, and these seven are living proof.”