Cross County High School students earned top recognition at Arkansas State University’s fourth annual Thrown to the Wolves innovation competition held Wednesday at the Reng Student Union, with two Cross County teams claiming both first and second place against competitors from across Northeast Arkansas.
Senior Jenna Organ and junior Donna McKenzie secured first place for their product OxyComfort, an innovative solution designed to reduce skin irritation for oxygen therapy users by cushioning oxygen tubing where it contacts the skin. The duo returned to the competition for a second year after narrowly missing the top prize in 2025 and used judges’ feedback to refine and improve their product.
As first place winners, Organ and McKenzie received $1,000 in prize money, a $500 scholarship each, and additional resources to help further develop their idea.
Also representing Cross County with distinction, juniors Linken Barrett and CJ Lloyd earned second place, receiving $500 in prize money and a $500 scholarship each for their achievement.
Hosted by Arkansas State University’s Delta Center for Economic Development, the “Shark Tank” style event featured 10 teams from five high schools across the region. Students presented original business ideas and inventions before panels of industry and academic judges in two rounds of competition.
In recognition of its role in preparing and supporting the competitors, Cross County High School’s EAST Program received $1,500 for sponsoring the two teams.
Cross County High School Principal Cody Goulart praised the students for their accomplishment.
“We are incredibly proud of Jenna, Donna, Linken, and CJ for representing Cross County High School with excellence,” Goulart said. “Their creativity, determination, and willingness to learn from feedback truly set them apart. This achievement reflects the hard work of our students and the support of our staff and programs.”
The strong showing underscores Cross County School District’s commitment to preparing students to think analytically, solve problems creatively, and communicate their ideas with confidence in a rapidly changing world.