This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Tayon Smith from Goose Creek High School in South Carolina. Nominator Amanda Cooper writes:

“Tayon is a wonderful example of what it means to be a Servant Leader. He is in my Service Learning I and II class and is always working hard to make sure that our Staffulty and students are recognized. On any given day he can be seen high-fiving students before school, working on motivational notes for Staffulty and students, organizing events to celebrate our students’ achievements and he always volunteers to help with extra-curricular activities such as keeping score at volleyball games or working in the student section of football games. We are truly lucky to have Tayon on our Renaissance team!”

Tayon shares his Renaissance story:

What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
Participating in the Clean Laundry Initiative, which is a program started at our school where we provide laundered clothes to those who don’t have access to a washer and dryer at home.

How has Renaissance impacted your school’s culture?
The program allows everyone to be celebrated for their achievements. We plan rallies, spotlight every area of student achievement and complete monthly service projects to benefit our school and community.

How has Renaissance affected you personally?
It has made me a better person. It allows me to help others and not only worry about myself and my own needs. It taught me that you should always put others before yourself.

What advice would you give to someone just starting with Renaissance?
You have to be willing to help others. One act of kindness could change your school environment and the community. I am glad to be a Renaissance member.

Tayon 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.