FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TAMPA, FL (April 29, 2026) — Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to recognize Plant High School senior Charlie Nash, who has been named to the 2026 Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team, one of the most prestigious honors awarded to high school student-athletes in Florida.
The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) announced the 32nd annual Academic All-State Team on Friday. The program recognizes just 24 graduating seniors statewide — 12 girls and 12 boys — for exceptional achievement in academics, athletics, leadership, and community service.
“This recognition reflects Charlie’s commitment to excellence both in and out of the classroom,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “We are proud to celebrate him as a standout representative of Plant High School and Hillsborough County Public Schools.”
One of the most selective recognition programs sponsored by the FHSAA, the Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team awards a total of $50,000 in scholarships annually.
“Florida’s dairy farmers are proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of these dedicated student-athletes,” said John Larson, Florida Dairy Farmer and Board President of Florida Dairy Farmers. “These students exemplify the hard work and determination needed to succeed both in the classroom and in their sport, and we are proud to celebrate their accomplishments.”
Nash earned a 4.0 grade point average and the College Board School Recognition Award while demonstrating strong leadership across academic and extracurricular activities. He serves as vice president of communications for both the National Honor Society and National French Honor Society and is president and team captain of the Plant High School Mock Trial Team. His additional involvement includes Tri‑M, Order of the Gold and Black, Mu Alpha Theta, cross country, and track and field.
Beyond school, Nash completed an internship with the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida and volunteers with Special Olympics, Hyde Park United Methodist Church, the Gasparilla Distance Classic, and the St. Pete Run Fest.
To qualify for the Academic All-State Team, students must be graduating seniors with a minimum 3.5 unweighted GPA and have earned at least two varsity letters in two different sports during their junior and senior years. Selections are based on academic performance, athletic participation, extracurricular activities, community service, and an essay.
All honorees will be recognized at a banquet on Monday, June 8. From the 24 recipients, one male and one female student will be named Ronald N. Davis Scholar‑Athletes of the Year, the highest honor bestowed by the FHSAA.