Senior Spotlight: Payton Thompson ’25

When Payton Thompson ’25 transferred to Shorecrest as a ninth grader, a warm welcome from a Student Ambassador helped her feel at home. Just one year later, Payton became that ambassador for others - leading tours, coordinating transition events for new students, and helping prospective families get to know the Shorecrest community.

In her time at Shorecrest Payton has distinguished herself as both a leader and a learner. Motivated by a passion for science and service, she co-founded the Shorecrest Bone Marrow Registry Drive. After months of research she educated the community about donor disparities and the critical need for more registrants. She also served as Treasurer of the Pre-Med Club, gaining hands-on experience alongside medical professionals, and took part in summer programs at Northwestern and Wake Forest to deepen her interest in healthcare.

Payton’s leadership extended to the soccer field, where she captained her club team and helped lead the Shorecrest varsity team to multiple regional titles and two state runner-up finishes. Known for her strong communication skills and team-first mindset, she has been a steady presence on and off the field.

Beyond school and sports, Payton’s curiosity has taken her across the globe. As an ambassador and volunteer with Travel for Teens, she restored native forests in Hawaii and shared her experiences through student-created media. She also led Shorecrest’s Investment Club and was active in academic and leadership societies, including Mu Alpha Theta and the Hugh O’Brian Youth (HOBY) Leadership program.

Of Payton, one of her teachers shared, "She is a doer. She is an achiever. And she is one of those students that will sit in my long-term memory bank of young adults who have had a lasting impact on me." 

From Shorecrest, Payton will attend University of Colorado Boulder.