teen spotlight
photography by Lauren Childs
stats
16, Junior at Pike Liberal Arts School
notable
Fellowship of Christian Students; ACCELERATE / Dual
Enrollment; University of Alabama Capstone Leadership
Academy; Duke University Summer College & Academy
Ambassador; Snow Ski Champion of Skischule St. Johann in
Tirol, Austria; Scored 30 on ACT
quotable
Hayes’ outlook on life is inspired by a sign hanging in his room,
given by his grandfather, a former professional baseball player.
“Never let the fear of striking out get in your way.”
how it began
Hayes Lee is an athlete, scholar and leader. He participates in
varsity football, basketball and baseball, ranks as Valedictorian
of his junior class and is the Calculus Club President, Excel Club
President-Elect and Pike County Junior Ambassador. He’s also
served 200 hours of community service and is the recipient of the
Ronald Reagan Student Leader Award, Alabama Lions Delegate
of Choice and AISA Outstanding Student Award.
Hayes also has overcome adversity at home. “After my dad died,
my mom raised me alone for nearly 10 years,” Hayes said. “She
never wanted me to look back and think of all the things I could
not do because I only had one parent.”
what’s next
Hayes is considering a career in petroleum or chemical
engineering.
hayes lee
PG (parental guidance) rating
Hayes says he’s learned to count his blessings and is thankful
that, three years ago, his mom married “an awesome guy (with
a daughter) who had gone through the same experience that we
had. Now two children who lost parents, have a complete and
happy family, and a cool 3-year-old sister… I believe my family is
a real life example of a match made in heaven.”
Troy, AL
parents’ perspective
Natalie Lankford spotted her son’s athletic and academic
capabilities early on and encouraged him to pursue his interests.
“I encourage him to try anything and everything no matter the
obstacles, because life’s speed bumps are much smaller in the
rearview mirror,” said Natalie.
parent-to-parent
Both Natalie and her husband, Bo Lankford, have parents
that always encourage and support them.
“Our parents taught us to count our many blessings
and to appreciate the food on our table, the clothes on our backs and
the roof over our heads. They taught us to know that if God brings
you to it, He will bring you through it,” Natalie said.
They believe communication is key, and encourage parents to
listen to what their children are saying. “We strongly believe that
listening to our children has allowed us to do a much better job of
parenting them.”
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