Courtesy photo Devin Messina, of the Gladstone BraveBots robotics team, shows off her greasy fingers while working on a part. Messina was recently honored with the FIRST Robotics Dean’s List Award.

GLADSTONE — Devin Messina of the Gladstone robotics team, 4391 BraveBots, was recognized as an outstanding leader who has led her team and her community to an increased awareness of FIRST Robotics and it its mission recently when she was named received the Dean’s List Award at the state robotics competition. To be eligible for the prestigious award, students must demonstrate mastery, leadership and accomplishments within the robotics world as well as maintain exceptional academic status.

“I’ve never had a more dedicated, talented, well-rounded student on our robot team. Devin is both book and street smart, polite, mechanically inclined, strategic, personable and talented on so many levels” said Coach Tim Barron. “There is nothing this girl can’t do.”

To be nominated for the dean’s list one must exemplify the highest standards of FIRST. Messina competed at the District Events in Kingsford and Escanaba and is one of six finalists in Michigan to compete at the World Championship. She currently is the captain of the BraveBots and is on the drive, build, chairman’s, safety, electrical and strategy teams. She also holds down two part-time jobs, attends college classes and is on the varsity volleyball team and maintains a 4.0 at Gladstone Area Schools.

“I’m pretty sure she never sleeps,” said Barron. “Devin is going to change the world; it’s an honor to have her on our team.”

Dean’s List winners attract the attention of prestigious colleges and universities. Messina was honored at the World Competition in Houston, Texas this week for her outstanding accomplishments.