A Washington native is making her home county proud after being awarded a Trustee Scholarship from Ringling College of Art and Design.

Robin Thompson, daughter of Jacki and Randy Thompson, and a 2013 graduate of Washington High School, was awarded the top honor for her work in illustration.

A total of 13 students were honored at the 22^nd-annual Trustee Scholar Awards, held a week and a half ago at Ringling College, which is located in Sarasota, Florida. Trustee scholars will each receive $5,000, according to a press release.

“Trustee Scholar is the highest collegiate honor awarded by the Ringling College Board of Trustees,” Ringling College President Dr. Larry Thompson stated. “Trustee Scholars exemplify the originality, talent and work ethic required for success within their respective areas of study, as well as exceptional leadership and citizenship to the Ringling community.”

For Thompson, the scholarship money represents the rewards of hard work, and she said she hopes students back home in Washington will be inspired by what she is doing.

“Being awarded the Trustee Scholarship means … a chance to be a role model for younger generations back home. I want to show them that anything is possible and not to be afraid of getting out of the hometown bubble and following your passions wherever they might take you,” Thompson said. “Do work; do lots of it. Even if you’re unhappy with it, don’t let it get you down. Let it fuel you.”

According to the release, recipients of the Trustee Scholarship must meet the following criteria: exceptional talent and knowledge; contribution to the college and community; showing leadership, citizenship and mentorship.

Designated as the “Capitol of Creativity,” Ringling College is right where Thompson wants to be, and she is looking forward to her future.

“I’ve never felt more at home,” she said. “My dream job is … to create something that will be remembered by generations to come.”

Thompson is set to graduate from Ringling College in 2017.