Cheryl Beckett, Class of 1996

Cheryl Beckett graduated as valedictorian from Clermont Northeastern High School in 1996.  After graduation Cheryl attended Indiana Wesleyan University, earning a degree in Biology.  While in college Cheryl traveled the globe and developed a passion to serve the less fortunate in every corner of the world. 

In 2004 Cheryl’s humanitarian efforts took her to Afghanistan where she worked tirelessly to support individuals displaced by war.  Her efforts centered around supporting the health of mothers and their children as well as the nutritional benefits of gardening.  In Kabul, Afghanistan Cheryl worked with local families to plant vegetable gardens and worked with residents to establish a local park for children.  She also led relief efforts for more than 200 families who lived in run-down homes without electricity or heat.

In the summer of 2010, Cheryl traveled to remote Afghanistan villages to assist aid workers in providing medical care to under-served individuals.  On August 5, 2010, Cheryl and 10 other aid workers were attacked by members of the Taliban.  Tragically, Cheryl and the other members of her team were killed by the terrorists as they attempted to serve the poorest members of the country.  Cheryl’s had a tremendous impact on the people of Afghanistan and her legacy highlights the importance of compassion and mercy.

Inducted in 2015