Rabun Gap names 2025 STAR Student and Teacher

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School proudly announces Anthony Qemali ‘25 as this year’s STAR Student. He selected Mr. Woody Malot as his STAR Teacher in recognition of his outstanding mentorship and dedication.

The Student-Teacher Achievement Recognition Program, organized by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, honors the state’s top-achieving seniors and their inspirational teachers. To secure the STAR nomination, high school seniors must have the highest score of the SAT taken and be in the top-10 percent or top 10 students of their class based on GPA.

Qemali, a day student from Lake Toxaway, NC, is a distinguished scholar and leader. He serves on the Honor Council and was one of the first members of Rabun Gap’s peer tutoring program, where he works with students in multiple subjects. He is also the founder of the Finance Club and serves as treasurer of the Science National Honor Society.

This year, Qemali is part of Nation Builders, a global leadership program that connects Rabun Gap students with students and government officials to collaborate on sustainable development goals. He is working alongside peers to analyze economic trends and resources in Colombian communities.

Beyond academics, Qemali is a standout athlete. He is an All-Conference golfer and captain of the varsity boys golf team. Ranked 74th in the state, he earned a Top 10 finish in the state championship last spring. He also played three years of soccer for the Eagles and was part of back-to-back NCISAA state championship teams.

Outside of school, Qemali has gained valuable experience in business and finance. He has worked for multiple local businesses in the Highlands-Cashiers area, including Library Kitchen + Bar, Wade Hampton Golf Club, High Hampton Club, Cullasaja Club, Tom Sawyer Tree Farm, and Main Street Gifts. Last summer, he interned with the accounting department at Lonesome Valley.

Passionate about finance and law, Qemali has his sights set on attending UNC Chapel Hill after graduation. 

“We are incredibly proud of Anthony for his hard work and dedication to academic excellence,” said Head of School Jeff Miles. “He represents the very best of the Class of 2025, and we are thrilled to celebrate his success alongside Mr. Malot, who has dedicated decades to inspiring students at Rabun Gap.”

Woody Malot, a beloved faculty member since 1990, was chosen as STAR Teacher. He serves as Director of Sustainability and teaches AP Physics. His passion for science and environmental education has left a lasting impact on generations of students. Malot oversees Rabun Gap’s beekeeping initiative, integrating hands-on sustainability education with honey harvesting and research. His mentorship extends beyond the classroom, guiding students in their academic and personal growth.

“I chose Mr. Malot as my STAR Teacher because not only has he been an incredible physics teacher over the two years I have been his student, but also because of the support he has provided for me outside of his class,” said Qemali.  “Whether it was helping me prepare for college interviews or simply answering a question I had regarding the way something random in the world functioned (which he almost always answered without having to give a second thought), he has always made time for me. His wisdom, patience, and genuine care have left a lasting impact, shaping not just my understanding of physics but also the way I approach daily challenges with confidence and curiosity.”