Chris Evers is a man with a plan.

And because of the hard work it takes to achieve that plan, he was chosen as the Andalusia Chamber of Commerce’s student of the year for 2014.

A senior at Straughn High School, he is the son of John and Astrid Evers. With a cumulative grade point average of 103.3, Evers ranks fourth in a class of 111. His student achievement list is staggering – SGA president, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Boys’ State representative and on it goes. A four-year varsity football player and varsity track member, Evers is also a member of the FFA string band, the chess club and the physics bowl team.

So what does a young man with achievement list like that want to do?

“I want to be an orthodontist,” Evers said. “My short-term goal is to graduate SHS with honors and then attend Auburn. Then, it’s on to UAB School of Dentistry, and then, practice orthodontics in our area.”

It’s a goal that family, friends and teachers feel that Evers will have no problem achieving.

“Chris is an extremely bright student and a proven leader,” said SHS counselor Linda Varner. “He has set high standards for himself personally and academically. He’s is very ambitious and has the desire, ability, and determination to attain his goals.”

In a recommendation letter for the chamber award, family friend Jeff Ledbetter said, “It is a passion for learning and a thirst for knowledge that exemplifies one of Chris’ many strengths. In his own words, (Evers) loves to learn and is focused on self-improvement.

He is interested in learning for the sake of knowledge – not just to make a grade or to receive another academic accolade.”

Evers will be among those honored Thu., Jan. 23, at the chamber’s annual banquet.