Story and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALorth Carolina State Universitystudent Grayson Bell is turning alifelong passion for agricultureinto a clear path toward a careerin the golf course industry.Bell, 21, a graduate of Whiteville HighSchool, traces his journey back to thesense of community he experiencedduring his high school years.“What I enjoyed most was growingtogether as a class and seeing everyonesucceed,” he said.That foundation led him to discover adeeper interest in agriculture, particularlythrough classes with teacher AshleyFowler, whose instruction and leadershipin FFA helped shape his future goals.“My passion for agriculture wasstrengthened through those classes,” Bellsaid.Now pursuing a degree in turf grassscience at NC State, Bell is building theknowledge and hands-on experienceneeded to enter a highly specialized field.His coursework — including soil fertility,turf cultural systems and pestmanagement — has given him a detailedunderstanding of how to maintain healthy,high-quality turf.“Each class has helped me understandhow everything works together to supporta healthy course,” he said.Bell’s ultimate goal is to become a golfcourse superintendent, a role that blendsscience, strategy and leadership. Hisexperience working at golf courses andinvolvement in NC State’s Turf Club —where he serves as president — havereinforced both his passion and his careerdirection.His success is rooted in a strong workethic and a commitment to growth. Bellcredits mentors such as EmmanuelKasitati and Dillan Edwards for teachinghim the value of effort and consistency.“I learned to give it your all and avoidtaking shortcuts,” he said.Faith also plays a central role in hislife, shaping both his perspective and hispurpose. He describes God as his greatestsource of strength and guidancethroughout his journey.“Trust in God,” Bell said. “He has aplan for all of us.”Bell’s involvement extends beyondacademics. In high school, he was deeplyengaged in activities including FCA, FFA,National Honor Society, Phi Alpha Packand athletics such as baseball and soccer,while also serving as class president allfour years. In college, he remains activethrough organizations like DucksUnlimited and Redpoint Bible Study, aswell as continued work and volunteerefforts at golf courses across theSoutheast.Those experiences have helped himbuild one of his greatest strengths — theN51Rooted in Purpose:N.C. State Student TurnsPassion Into ProfessionStory Continued on Page 54
Bell’s emphasis on relationshipshighlights strong interpersonalskills critical to his field.52
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54 ability to connect with others.“I’ve never met a stranger,” Bell said. “Ienjoy talking with people and building realrelationships.”Looking ahead, Bell plans to remain in theCarolinas and begin his career as an assistantsuperintendent, continuing to grow within thegolf course industry.At his core, Bell defines success not just bycareer achievement, but by character.“Success is being a kind and respectfulperson while finding what you love and turningit into your career,” he said.Grounded in faith, driven by purpose andcommitted to relationships, Bell represents astudent who has found both direction andmeaning in the path he has chosen.
55His career path shows a clearalignment between passion,education and real-worldexperience.
56 His combination of faith,discipline and leadershipreflects a grounded andpurpose-driven individual.
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58 This Page: Aurora Chase acts in a piece at the Celebrate theArts performance at West Columbus High School. Oppositepage: High school chorus members Essence Rouse, JuanPineda, John Faulk, Terry Riggins and Jordan Parnell singduring their segment of the show.
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This Page: At a recent meet at West Columbus HighSchool, an East Bladen High School track team membergive the shot put his best throw. Opposite page: Topleft, a West Columbus student pushes his shot put; topright, Jabri Dixon sends his shot put flying; bottom left,Jarell Antone pushes himself during the relay; bottomright, James McBride rounds the corner n the finalstretch.60
In the classroom,history is where hefeels most at home.McPherson enjoyslearning about pasteras and understandinghow earlier generationsshaped the world today.61
C62 Story Continued on Page 67Story and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALolumbus Charter School sixthgrader Drake Hatcher is buildinghis path with quiet determination,strong values and a love for theoutdoors.Hatcher, 12, appreciates the close-knitenvironment of his school, where smallerclass sizes create a more personalexperience.“It’s not as large as regularpublic school,” he said.That sense of familiarity hashelped him connect with teachersand mentors who have made alasting impact. Among them is Mrs.Hinson, whom he credits as one of thebiggest influences in his school life. Herresilience, especially after overcoming aserious accident, has inspired him.“She doesn’t let it stop her from doinganything,” Hatcher said.In the classroom, Hatcher’s strengthsare clear. Math stands out as both hisfavorite and strongest subject, reflectinghis natural comfort with numbers.Reading presents more of a challenge, buthe continues to work through it with thesame adaptability he sees as one of hisgreatest strengths.Outside the classroom, Hatcher ismost at home being active. Physicaleducation is his favorite part of the schoolday, giving him the opportunity to beoutdoors and moving. He also playsbaseball at school and spends much of hisfree time playing football with friends.His interests extend beyondorganized sports. Hunting and fishing areamong his favorite pastimes, reflecting adeep connectionto the outdoorsand time spent with family.That connection is especiallymeaningful when he speaks about whathe is most proud of — his grandfather —a figure who clearly holds an importantplace in his life.Hatcher has already earnedrecognition for his character and effort,receiving student of the month honorsmultiple times. Those achievementsQuiet Strength: Sixth-GraderGrows Through Resilienceand Real-World ValuesA love for the outdoors and strong role modelsshape a grounded sixth-grade student
63Hatcher’sadmiration forresilience —particularly in histeacher andfamily — reflectsa deep respectfor perseverance.
His connection tooutdoor activitiessuggests a grounded,hands-on personalitywith strong ties to hisenvironment.64
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66 His adaptability andopenness about his futureindicate a student who isstill exploring, but doingso with confidence andstrong values.
67reflect a student who showsconsistency, respect and a willingnessto grow.Looking ahead, Hatcher is stillexploring his future path, but onepossibility stands out. Inspired by hisfather, he is interested in becoming afirefighter — a role that reflects bothcourage and service to others.“I would like to be a firefighterlike my dad,” he said.Though he describes himself assomeone who doesn’t spend muchtime watching television, Hatcherenjoys stories in other forms,including music and books. Heappreciates country music for itsstorytelling and names Oh, the PlacesYou’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss as a favorite —a fitting choice for a student stilldiscovering the many directions hisfuture could take.At his core, Hatcher valuesadaptability, family and perseverance— qualities that continue to guidehim as he grows both in and out ofthe classroom.
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69Introducing OurNew 20-Image11x14 AlbumYour Favorite 20Poses Enhancedand Retouched inAll Their Glory asFull 11x14 Prints
This Page: In a recent game, East Columbus JuniorSenior High School softball player Aleigh Godwinfollows the pitch before taking a swing. Opposite page:Mckenzie Clemmons slides safely into third base.70
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Story Continued on Page 7772 WStory and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALhiteville High School, seniorEmilie Pridgen is embracing herfinal year with a blend ofleadership, creativity andpurpose.Pridgen, 17, describes the heartbeat ofher school as its strong sense of spirit —something she believes unites students andstaff alike.“It creates a sense of pride andbelonging,” she said. “It’s a core part ofmaking memories with friends andclassmates.”That connection has shaped her highschool experience, both in and out of theclassroom. A strong student academically,Pridgen excels in English, particularlythrough her coursework with Mrs.Richardson’s classes offered throughSoutheastern Community College. Whilemath presents more of a challenge, sheapproaches it with determination — aquality she identifies as her greateststrength.“My drive is to always get thingsdone,” she said.Pridgen’s influence extends wellbeyond academics. She is actively involvedin cheerleading, the High Times studentnews, Fellowship of Christian Athletes,Whiteville Juniorettes Club and theNational Honor Society. Among herfavorite experiences are cheering on thefootball team and working on the Sandspuryearbook, where she helps capture themoments that define student life.Her passion for dance also plays amajor role in her identity. As a competitivedancer with Simply Dance, she continuesto pursue the art form outside of schooland has earned multiple “Full Out”awards. While she enjoys cheerleading, sheDriven by Purpose: EmiliePridgen LeadsWith Heart,HardWork and VisionFrom yearbook to dance, Pridgen embracescreativity and commitment.
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Story Continued on Page 5975Pridgen’scombination ofcompassion,ambition andfaith points toa futurecentered onservice andmeaningfulimpact.
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Story and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALouth Columbus High School offersMadalyn Norris the kind of balanceshe thrives on. The 14-year-oldfreshman appreciates the mix ofchallenging academics, teachers whopush her to grow and the energy andteamwork she finds throughcheerleading.She said it is a combination ofeverything that makes the schoolspecial: the academics that challengeher, the teachers who support her, andthe cheerleading that gives her energyand allows for teamwork.“I wish my school offered morenotes that having a school dance team wouldbe a meaningful addition.“Dance is my passion,” she said.Pridgen credits much of her success tothe support of her friends, who share classeswith her and provide encouragement alongthe way. That sense of community ismatched by the influence of her parents,whom she describes as her greatest rolemodels.“My mom is full of forgiveness andkindness, and my dad pushes me to chase mydreams,” she said. “They remind me to leanon Christ.”Her faith continues to guide herdecisions and outlook, reflected inrecognitions such as Christian CharacterAwards, along with honors in healthoccupations and dance.Looking ahead, Pridgen has clear andambitious goals. She plans to attendUniversity of North Carolina Wilmington topursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing, withthe possibility of advancing to a master’sdegree in nurse anesthesia. She hopes tobuild a career as either a pediatric nurse or anurse anesthetist — paths that combinecompassion, skill and service.Beyond academics and careeraspirations, Pridgen values creativity andbalance. She enjoys painting, baking andspending time with friends and family,embracing both productivity and personalfulfillment.She also takes pride in her independence— a quality she has developed throughouthigh school while learning to manageresponsibilities and challenges on her own.“I’ve learned how to take onresponsibilities for myself,” she said.Her story includes unique experiences aswell, from being named a Pecan Belle duringthe 2021 Pecan Festival to sharing a closebond with her brother as an “Irish twin,”born just 10-1/2 months apart.For Pridgen, success is defined not onlyby achievement but by growth and character.“Success means reaching goals byputting in effort,” she said. “But it alsomeans having a good attitude and growing asa person.”That perspective shapes her broaderoutlook on the world, where she hopes to seegreater kindness, understanding and unityamong people.As she prepares to graduate, Pridgenleaves behind a legacy of determination,leadership and purpose — a student who hasmade the most of every opportunity whilekeeping her focus firmly on the future.77
Her definition ofsuccess reflects amature perspectivethat values bothachievement andpersonal growth.78
79Her ability tobalance leadershiproles, academicsand creative pursuitshighlights strongdiscipline and timemanagement.
A high school band members checks his music duringrehearsals for Celebrate the Arts at West Columbus HighSchool.80
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This Page: Green Sea-Floyds Middle School eighth-graderLane Harris follows the trajectory of his ball during play at theVineland Golf Course in Whiteville. Opposite Page: WhitevilleHigh School sophomore Landon Clifton is locked in on thetarget line.82This Page: A Red Springs batter concentrates on the ball asSarah Coleman prepares to catch it during a recent game atEast Columbus Junior-Senior High School. Opposite Page:Jenna King drops her bat after bunting as she starts her runtoward first base.
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W85Story Continued on Page 89Story and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALhiteville High School, senior R. J.Lacewell-Coard is defined byconfidence, connection and aclear vision for the future.Lacewell-Coard, 19, describes his highschool experience through one centraltheme: unity.“The unity and support amongst oneanother,” he said, reflecting on what hevalues most about his school community.That sense of connection has shapedboth his involvement and his outlook.Throughout his time at Whiteville,Lacewell-Coard has been active inFellowship of Christian Athletes, HOSAand ROCAME, while also taking classesthrough Southeastern Community College.He has also served as color guard captain,demonstrating both leadership andcommitment.In the classroom, Lacewell-Coard hasfound particular value in financial literacy,a subject he believes is essential for longterm success.“Everyone loves money, so why notlearn how to invest it and use it securely?”he said.English stands as his strongest subject,while automotive studies have presentedmore of a challenge. Still, Lacewell-Coardapproaches each experience as anopportunity to grow — a mindset reinforcedby the many educators who have influencedhim along the way.From lessons in discipline andperseverance to reminders about integrity,happiness and second chances, LacewellCoard credits teachers such as J.P. Price,Alister Sontag, Emily Barnes and others forshaping both his academic and personaldevelopment.Among them, Barnes stands out as aparticularly meaningful influence.“She taught me to ask questions, bebold and stay teachable,” Lacewell-Coardsaid.His greatest role model, however, is hismother, Nicole Lacewell. He credits herwith demonstrating how to balancepersonal life while consistently supportingothers — a standard he strives to reflect inhis own life.Lacewell-Coard’s greatest strength, hesays, lies in his social skills — an ability toconnect with others that complements hisleadership roles and involvement acrossDriven Forward:Senior Sets His Sightson Service, Successand GrowthFrom color guard captain to future militaryservice, Coard embraces opportunity.
86 Lacewell-Coard’sstrong emphasison unity andrelationshipshighlights a highlysocial andcommunity-drivenpersonality.
87His combination ofmilitary aspirationsand financial ambitionreflects bothdiscipline andindependence.
His confidence andself-awarenesssuggest a studentwho understandshis strengths and isprepared to applythem in the realworld.88
89campus.Looking ahead, Lacewell-Coard hasambitious and multifaceted goals. Heplans to enlist in the United Statesmilitary after graduation, while alsopursuing a future as a full-time daytrader. That combination reflects bothdiscipline and independence — qualitiesthat align with his broader definition ofsuccess.“Success is overcoming an obstacleyou thought you couldn’t,” he said.Outside of school, Lacewell-Coardenjoys volleyball, sightseeing, onlineshopping and spending time exploringnew experiences. He also takes pride inhis confidence and self-esteem — traitsthat have helped him navigate challengesand grow into the person he is today.“I’m proud of my self-esteem,” hesaid.He also brings a sense of balance andpersonality to everything he does, notingthat people might be surprised to learnabout his ability to fish and skate — smalldetails that add depth to a student alreadydefined by his presence and perspective.At his core, Lacewell-Coard is drivenby a desire for something bigger — notjust for himself, but for the world aroundhim.“I would wish for everyone to bedeeply rooted in peace and happiness,” hesaid.As he prepares to take his next steps,Lacewell-Coard leaves behind a legacy ofleadership, resilience and connection — astudent who understands both where he’sbeen and where he’s going.
This Page: Allyson Meggs follows her music with the middleschool band at Celebrate the Arts. Opposite Page: Top left,McKenna Lilly Beasley performs with her base guitar; topright, Abigail Bowen hits her trumpet notes; bottom left,Aiden Jacobs recites a poem; and bottom right, KolbyMcPherson listens to his director.90
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92 This Page: East Columbus Junior-Senior High School softballplayers cheer catcher Sara Coleman as she runs in followingher home run hit during a recent game. From left: SkylahCollins, Ashlynn Smith, Aleigh Godwin, Kynley Scott, RyleighOwens, Coleman, Addyson Spaulding, Amber Ochoa andSerenity Johnson.
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UStory Continued on Page 96Story and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALniversity of North Carolina atPembroke, Rylee Godwin isturning early inspiration into aclear and purposeful future in the medicalfield.Godwin, 21, a graduate of SouthColumbus High School, is entering herfinal year of college, set to earn herbachelor’s degree in exercise and sportscience with a concentration as a fitnessspecialist in December. Her journeytoward a career in physical therapy beganyears earlier — in a high schoolclassroom.“My favorite part of high school wasthe emergency medical training courses,”she said. “They gave me basic knowledgeof how to respond in emergencies andopened my eyes to what I wanted to studyin college.”Those early experiences laid thefoundation for a deeper academic focus.At UNC Pembroke, Godwin has found herpassion reinforced through courses likeanatomy and physiology and kinesiology,where she studies both the structure ofthe human body and how movementaffects it.“I’ve always been interested inpursuing a career in the medical field,”she said.Her long-term goal reflects bothambition and dedication. After completingher undergraduate degree, she plans toapply to graduate school to pursue adoctorate in physical therapy — a paththat combines her academic strengthswith a desire to help others improve theirquality of life.Godwin credits much of her successto the mentors who guided her early on,including Darren Norris and MandyHewett, who encouraged her to stay ontrack and pursue higher education.“They were always willing to lend ahelping hand,” she said.Her foundation, however, begins athome. She describes her mother andgrandmother as her greatest role models,shaping her values of independence,resilience and integrity.“They’ve taught me the importance ofhard work and staying true to who I am,”she said.94 From EMT to PT:College Senior Builds aCareer on Compassionand ScienceStrong mentorship and family values guide adetermined college senior.
95Godwin’s blend of academicexcellence and compassionpositions her well for a careercentered on helping others.
96 Throughout her academic career,Godwin has remained deeply involved inboth school and community. In highschool, she was active in National HonorSociety, Beta Club and SkillsUSA, whereshe earned first place regionally andsecond place at the state level in EMTcompetition. In college, she continues thatcommitment as a member of the Phi ThetaKappa Honor Society.Beyond academics, she has devotedtime to volunteer work and churchinvolvement, helping organize fundraisers,teach children and lead groups duringvacation Bible school — experiences thatreflect both leadership and compassion.Her personal strengths mirror heracademic drive. Godwin describesindependence as her greatest asset, aquality that has helped her navigatechallenges and stay focused on her goals.“Life has taught me to takeresponsibility and work hard to achieve myStory Continued on Page 99
97Her career path shows a clearprogression from earlyexposure to focusedprofessional ambition.
98 Her emphasis on independence andinternal fulfillment reflects amature, self-driven mindset.
99goals,” she said.That mindset shapes herdefinition of success — one rooted notin material achievement, but inpersonal fulfillment.“Success is about feeling fulfilledin who you are and proud of whatyou’ve accomplished,” she said.Outside of her studies, Godwinenjoys traveling, spending time withfamily and exploring a wide range ofmusic — a simple but meaningful wayshe stays balanced amid a demandingacademic schedule.At her core, she is driven not onlyby personal ambition, but by abroader hope for the world.“I would make it morecompassionate,” she said. “Kindnesscan have a lasting impact.”
100 This Page: Katelyn Tyree woks with her bass at Celebrate theArts. Opposite page: Top left, trombonist Jenna Long shares asmile; top right, a student listens to poetry; bottom left,Matthew Hammonds and John Faulk rehearse with the highschool chorus; and bottom right, Rashid Johnson rehearseswith the other actors.