Before the world shifted, the Advancement Office had planned to share senior spotlights on some of the faces of the Class of 2020 and what Darlington means to them. These students represent everything Darlington’s faculty and staff work tirelessly for - our future alumni.
There has never been a better time to feature our seniors - they deserve the spotlight as the spring they so looked forward to has shifted. This series will feature several Darlington seniors who will share their favorite things about Darlington and also how they are adjusting to this new world of distance learning.
We hope you will enjoy getting to know these seniors better and will make a gift to honor the Class of 2020, who need our support now more than ever. To make a gift to the 2019-2020 Darlington Fund please click here.
How have you met the challenge of distance learning?
Distance learning has been an unexpected challenge. Over the past four years I have become accustomed to doing my work at school and when I get home for a break to stay away from schoolwork and spend time with my family. Due to distance learning I have had to readjust myself to be able to get work done here. Regardless of the challenges that these unprecedented circumstances pose I am happy to be a part of an institution that is understanding of its students and dedicated to our growth even when we cannot participate conventionally.
What’s your favorite song?
My favorite song is “Where the Streets Have No Name” by U2.
What’s your favorite thing served in the dining hall?
My favorite thing served in the dining hall is barbecue pulled pork.
Do you have any family that attended Darlington?
I am the first in my family to attend Darlington.
What house are you in and do you hold any leadership positions?
I am the head prefect of Summerbell House, president of the Discipline Committee, and captain of the golf team.
What are you involved in at Darlington?
I am a four-year member of the golf team and Golf Academy and I have been a dorm leader and Discipline Committee member since my sophomore year.
If you are in sports who is your favorite coach and why?
Coach Willerson (varsity golf) is the best. He makes a point to understand each player individually and he genuinely cares about us. I've never seen someone get so fired up for golf either. By the time the State Championship comes around, we are all ready to run through a wall for him.
If you are involved in fine arts what is your favorite role and why?
This year is my second year taking art, which has been challenging because I'm not the most artistically gifted but Mrs. O'Mara helps me out quite a bit and makes learning fun.
What is your favorite place on campus and why?
My favorite place on campus is the library because my friends and I can work on assignments together or just sit around and talk when we are free.
Who is your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher is Mr. McDurmon because he does a great job of relating U.S. history to our lives and making the information from class easily memorable.
Where do you want to go to college and what do you want to do?
I will be attending Purdue University as a member of their Honors College this fall.
If you could name the two new swans what would you name them?
Maverick and Goose
The Darlington Fund raises $1million every year. If you were given $10,000 what program would you want to give it to and why?
I would need to be more educated on the financial aspect of the school before deciding where to place such a substantial amount of money.
We have 1,500 donors who give to Darlington every year sure you have a great experience - in 10 words or less how would you thank them?
Your support means the world to this school.
What is your favorite thing about Darlington and why is that important to you?
The leadership opportunities. If someone told me back when I was a freshman that I would be a head prefect, the Discipline Committee president, and captain of the golf team, I would have said, "You're out of your mind." These opportunities have been incredible because they have taught me that in order to lead successfully I must get out of my comfort zone sometimes, see things from many different perspectives, and respect those who came before me as well as those who will come after me. The lessons I have learned from these opportunities are lessons I will use continuously throughout my life.
