When Corner Canyon High School was founded in 2013, there already was a pillar of the community ready to greet the first class of Chargers. As the first—and only— head secretary ever to serve at CCHS, Kathy Hilton has brought to the job trustworthiness, dedication, and a deep knowledge of the complex operations of a high school. She’s also had a front-row seat to the school’s meteoric rise from a fledgling 4A school that was gaining its ground to a nationally-known 6A powerhouse in everything from football, cheer and lacrosse to debate, music, and theater. “She embodies the spirit that is Corner Canyon,” says Principal Dina Kohler. “She is what we call one of the cores, or the ‘OGs,’ of Corner Canyon. She sets the standard for all of us, and the students feel a sense of security from her.” Hilton, who is often seen sporting Charger colors, is known to support CCHS students long after the last bell of the day. She cheers for the Chargers at athletic competitions, concerts, musicals, plays and academic contests. She also fondly remembers the first time Corner Canyon’s football team won the state championship—and keeps track of the progress of the current season. “I love these kids,” she says. “I love working at the high school. There’s an energy there that you can’t get anywhere else, and the kids are fantastic.” Hilton says she’s had the joy of watching her kids attend Corner Canyon, and now one of her grandchildren is a Charger. She recognizes that being sent to the office may not always be a pleasant experience for students. Parents also may be arriving with frustrations that have not been solved with phone calls or emails. However, Hilton tries to make sure everyone leaves with a smile. “Whether it is a team mom from soccer, myself as the principal, or a teacher, she gives us that base we need to succeed,” Kohler says. Hilton says her goal is to make everyone’s day a little better. “It’s about the little things,” she says. “That’s what makes it good. It’s never the same, and helping teachers get what they need and helping the kids, it all helps the school. Everyone here makes the school run better.” For her care, commitment, and Charger spirit, the Canyons Board of Education and Administration present the 2025 Apex Award for Education Support Professional of the Year to Kathy Hilton.