At just 10 years old, Noa Litton is already proving that excellence is not an accident—it’s a habit. The fourth-grader at Roy Shelling Elementary School walked into Monday night’s Black Tie Guys meeting with his usual bright smile, and walked out with something more: a $100 “Pat on the Back” award for maintaining Straight A’s.
The award, given by The Black Tie Guys mentoring program, recognizes members who not only excel academically but also demonstrate strong character, leadership, and a willingness to serve. For Noa, it was a perfect fit.
A Scholar With Consistency
Noa has been an honor student his entire life, even before his family’s recent move from Indiana to Monroe.
He arrived at Roy Shelling Elementary determined to continue his academic streak—and he has. Today, his name sits proudly on the school’s Principal’s List, a distinction earned by students who maintain top grades.
Math is his strongest subject, and he often finishes problems faster than they can be written on the board. He brings curiosity to the classroom every single day.
“He doesn’t just want the answer, he wants to understand how and why things work. That’s what makes him special,”’said one of his Black Tie Guys mentors.
A Future Chiropractor in the Making
Unlike many children his age who might dream of becoming athletes or entertainers, Noa already has his eyes set on a medical path. He wants to be a chiropractor—a choice he proudly announces with the confidence of someone twice his age.
“I want to help people feel better,” he often says, flashing the grin that has become his signature.
His mother, Shantanika Cotton, beams with pride whenever the subject comes up. She describes her son as well-spoken, articulate, and always smiling.
Noa works hard, he’s respectful, and he really loves to learn.”
Leadership in The Black Tie Guys
Outside the classroom, Noa has found a second home with The Black Tie Guys, a youth mentoring program sponsored by Tab-N-Action, Inc. The group teaches young boys important life skills—everything from etiquette and leadership to financial responsibility and community service.
During Tuesday’s meeting, the boys learned the meaning of philanthropy as they prepared for their upcoming Thanksgiving service project. Noa was quick to raise his hand, eager to answer questions, offer ideas, and volunteer to help.
Leaders in the program describe him as “always ready,” a student who listens carefully, moves with purpose, and isn’t afraid to speak up.
“He’s the kind of young man who gives you hope for the future,” one mentor said.
A Bright Path Ahead
For now, Noa enjoys being a kid—laughing with friends, and making memories at school. But with his sharp mind, his confident voice, and his genuine compassion for others, his future shines with promise.
Tuesday night’s $100 “Pat on the Back” was more than a reward. It was an affirmation that the habits he is forming today—excellence, leadership, kindness, and curiosity—are building a foundation for the young man he is becoming.
He says he’s going to save part his $100 prize so he can have enough money to become a Chiropractor.
And if his smile and determination is any indication, he’ll do just that.
