Local Leader Recognized As Star Student

Owings Mills, Maryland — Maryland is full of bright, driven young people making a difference in and out of the classroom. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.

This submission comes from Phyllis N. Coley who nominated Clifton C. Sterling, III. of Maryland.

If you know a student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured as a Star Student on Patch.

What is the star student’s name?

Clifton C. Sterling, III.

What grade is the student in?

12th

How do you know the star student?

Mentor

Tell us about your star student's accomplishments and why they deserve to be recognized on Patch!

I, Phyllis Coley, C.E.O. of Pure Potential Enterprises, Inc., a nonprofit organization that empowers youth to reach their full potential through academic coaching, leadership development, and postsecondary access, am honored to nominate Clifton Claude Sterling III for recognition. Pure Potential Enterprises, Inc. has worked for nearly two decades to develop young scholars into purpose-driven leaders. Clifton stands as one of the most exceptional examples of what this mission looks like when fully realized.

His character, service, intellect, and vision embody the very essence of this award. Clifton is a senior at Western Tech High School in Baltimore County, where he excels both in and out of the classroom. He is a well-rounded student who balances academic rigor with extracurricular excellence. He is a dedicated member of the Football Team and Track & Field program, demonstrating discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. In addition to athletics, he was also a member of the school’s Literary Magazine Club, reflecting his creative side and appreciation for the power of words and storytelling. Affectionately known as “Trey,” Clifton currently serves as the Cohort President of Pure Potential Enterprises, Inc., where he has emerged as a true force among his peers. In this role, he leads student-driven initiatives that support college access, scholarship navigation, and leadership development. He has helped his fellow scholars complete the FAFSA, write and refine college and scholarship essays, and prepare for postsecondary transitions with practical workshops covering professionalism, time management, and self-advocacy.

Clifton’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility for those around him—making him both respected and relied upon. Clifton’s life mission is shaped by both personal experience and purpose. Coming from a loving two-parent household—both of whom are first-generation college graduates—he witnessed the weight of student loan debt and the consequences of financial miseducation. These experiences became the foundation for his own aspirations: to become a Financial Analyst and a national leader in financial education and equity. He is passionate about changing the narrative surrounding young African American males, not only through his own achievements but by creating pathways for others to rise.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Clifton played an active role in the Mayor’s Youth Summit, using his voice to represent Baltimore’s youth at a time when the city was grappling with increased violence and social unrest. His advocacy helped city leaders understand the urgent need for youth-led solutions, better access to mental health resources, and investment in safe, enriching spaces for young people. Clifton speaks with clarity, intention, and emotional intelligence—earning the attention and respect of adults while inspiring his peers to follow suit. Academically, Clifton is focused and ambitious. He plans to earn a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Maryland College Park, followed by a Master’s degree from Howard University, and ultimately a Ph.D. from Harvard University.

His educational journey is not about accolades, but access. He is preparing to build something greater than himself. In 2030, Clifton plans to launch Tri-Force, a nonprofit designed to serve youth ages 5 to 21. Rooted in his commitment to legacy and equity, Tri-Force will focus on financial literacy and wealth education, investing and homeownership, mental and physical health, educational equity, cultural enrichment, entrepreneurship and technology access, with a special focus on the power of artificial intelligence. Tri-Force is more than a nonprofit—it is a movement to close the racial wealth gap by developing the minds, bodies, and spirits of future leaders. Clifton believes that if we reach youth early enough, we can interrupt cycles of poverty, trauma, and disconnection—and replace them with hope, knowledge, and ownership. Clifton walks in purpose and leads with faith. Guided by the scriptures “To whom much is given, much is required” (Luke 12:48) and “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:17), he moves through life with a quiet fire and a servant’s heart. For his demonstrated leadership, his impact on peers and policy, and his bold vision for the future, Clifton Claude Sterling III is not just a strong nominee—he is the very example of why this recognition exists.

What three words best describe your star student?

Kind, Humble and Humanitarian

Keep up the great work, Clifton C. Sterling, III. If you know an outstanding student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.

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