This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Alexis Ward from Saginaw High School in Saginaw, TX. Her nominator Chelsea Shields writes (lightly edited):
“When people think of a varsity cheerleading captain they typically think of someone who is popular, the ‘it girl’ who only hangs out with cheerleaders and football players. It is an unfortunate stigma. That is not Lexi Ward. Lexi not only serves Saginaw HS as the cheer captain but is the Vice President of Rider Renaissance. She balances both of these obligations with AP classes. Lexi does not meet a stranger. She will talk to anyone and make you feel like she is your best friend. She loves every student at SHS regardless of what social group they belong to. Lexi is the first person to offer fellow Renaissance members a ride if they can’t make it to an event so that everyone is included. She spends more time trying to better the culture at SHS then she does at her own home. Lexi not only believes in the Renaissance movement but she lives it each day. No matter how much she has going on or what she is trying to accomplish, she always has a smile on her face and will stop everything to help someone in need. Lexi is innovative in her thinking when it comes to new ideas and activities, she is a great example of ‘no’ just being an extra step, not a definite end to an idea. Saginaw HS is a better place with Lexi helping students and staff alike, and students like her are going to be the world changers.”
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
My favorite Renaissance moment was the Renaissance Rally my school put on last May. Just being able to see every kid get recognized for the amazing work they do was so fun and heart-warming, and really showed me what Renaissance was made to do.
How has Renaissance impacted your school’s culture?
Renaissance has impacted my school’s culture by making it an overall happier place. My school was never a bad school, however you can definitely tell we lacked in spirit. Overall, after we started Rider Renaissance I have seen a change even just walking through the hallways – everyone just seems like they like being here.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
Renaissance has affected me personally by making me a more positive leader and person. I truly enjoy being at my school, coming to out-of-school events, and showing school spirit all the time and Renaissance has helped me to learn how I can lead my classmates to enjoy it just as much as I do.
What advice would you give to someone just starting with Renaissance?
My school’s Renaissance program is pretty new itself, but if I had the opportunity to give someone else advice I would say just be patient – no change is going to come overnight. It takes a long time to truly change a school’s culture and attitude. You just have to stay positive and keep doing what you’re doing.
Alexis will receive a shirt and a lapel pin, and was entered into a drawing for free registration to this year’s Jostens Renaissance National Conference.
To nominate someone in your school for the National Renaissance Student of the Month honor, click here.