Cullman native Austin Monk hasnt even been out of high school for a decade, but hes already returned home as a prestigious, honored alumni.

Monk, a 2007 graduate of Cullman High School, was recently hired as director of the Economic Development Initiative in Washington County, Alabama.

He made the trek from the small, southern Alabama town of Chatom to attend the Cullman City Schools Foundation annual luncheon Friday, where he was honored as the 2013 Promising Alumni.

Its so great to be a part of this school system, and its because of school systems like this that well have a workforce trained and prepared for the global economy, Monk said, while crediting some of his favorite teachers. One thing I learned was cooperation, and regardless of whatever situation there might be, youre always able to move forward.

Monk was joined on the stage with two distinguished service winners and eight distinguished alumni, who were all honored by the Foundation.

We want to thank these honorees who have given so freely of their time, talent and love, mistress of ceremonies Dr. Ginger Holt said. We, and the success you see, are the fruits of their labor.

The two distinguished service awards were given to longtime Cullman City School board member Suzanne Harbin and former long-time speech and drama director Mona Hopper.

I never think of what I do as a service, because its a pleasure and a joy, Harbin said.

I love Cullman City Schools ... and it has always been great to be a Bearcat, Hopper added.

The Foundation recognized eight distinguished alumni, including several educators and industry leaders. Honorees include:

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City Schools Foundation honors alums (WITH PHOTO GALLERY)