Alumni Scholarship 19

When I think about leadership and legacy, I initially think about people who were the first to achieve something. People who were groundbreakers. Those people who we are taught about in class like the first president of the United States or the first black baseball player to play in the major leagues. Also, I tend to look at great athletes and entertainers, like Kobe Bryant and Lebron James. Those are the first individuals to come to mind when I think about leadership and legacy. They are the first to come to mind because I can pinpoint their achievements. The lasting effects are widely known. You can find them written in history books or sports history. Also, most people if I were to repeat names would be able to tell me something about them. If I listed Jackie Robinson, one person could tell me he played for the Dodgers while another person could tell me that he played for the KC Monarchs. If I listed Kobe Bryant, one person could tell me how many playoff games you played in and won; while someone else could tell me that he was fluent in multiple languages. These individuals are who I think of first.

However, when I think about leadership and legacy more, I realize that I have been fortunate enough to know some powerful people who have engraved a lasting legacy for at least me. Legacy is defined as the long-lasted impact of particular events, actions, etc. that took place in the past, or of a person’s life, (oed.com/dictionary, 2025). These individuals include teachers, coaches, mentors, and even friends. In my experience with 20/20 Leadership, I’ve learned that there are multiple parts that play into one goal. 20/20 Leadership is helping to introduce and encourage a deeper dive into self-awareness, self-interest, and leadership.

One of the most important factors of leadership is realizing that everyone has the opportunity to be a leader. Not all great leaders are written in the Hall of Fame or included in our history books. Some leaders look like my 8-year-old cousin who takes pride in her ability to dance and perform gymnastics. She willingly tries to be a leader in her classes. Offering to help others who may need help. A leader is like my grandmothers who were teachers for many years. Students still comment on their efforts. Finally, a leader is someone like me who believes that sometimes the smallest act of kindness can help spark the greatest joy in others.

I have gained an understanding of my talents. I have been the captain of the football, basketball, and baseball teams at my high school. I am a youth intern for my church’s youth group and children’s service. I try to motivate and encourage my teammates on and off the field. My goal is not necessarily to leave a legacy in which everyone knows who I am. My goal is to leave a legacy that is of someone who is kind, someone who is hard-working, and someone who could relate to others. I want to be more than an athlete or a good student. My legacy is that I am someone who acknowledges the good in others and strives to give others the same opportunities that I have by growing, teaching, and treating others how I would like to be treated.