You have probably met senior Elizabeth Smith, aka Shelton The Eagle mascot. Enthusiastic and energetic, she always looks for ways to be involved and make a difference. In the past few years alone she has been elected to leadership roles in SGA, promRed, and Mu Alpha Theta, while also participating in National Honor Society, Beta Club, National Spanish Honors Society, and International Thespian Society. That is a lot of responsibility, but Elizabeth is the type of person who thrives on challenge and service. While maintaining high GPA, she has been an active and successful member of the Dozier School of the Arts, Cum Laude. She has even served as an Atlanta Super Bowl Host Committee volunteer. Amid all these activities, Elizabeth founded and serves as president of a nonprofit called Stuffed Full of Love. Elizabeth says all her extracurriculars have prepared her for “both college and the workforce; I have become very talented at multi-tasking.”
It is no surprise that Elizabeth recalls many teachers who have helped guide and encourage her over the years. She especially appreciates Mrs. Williams’ (drama teacher) teaching and direction since sixth grade that taught her “how to handle emotions and not be afraid of them” while making “the MAC (Murray Arts Center) my home away from home.” Spanish teacher Mrs. Troutman “inspired me to continue loving knowledge and to spread it to others.” She describes feeling strong connections to Bible teacher Mr. Minear’s advice and “fandom chats” and science teacher Mrs. Bailey’s encouragement to realize her ambitions.
Elizabeth is ambitious. While waiting to hear from several Ivy League schools, Mercer and Elon have already accepted her and offered multiple scholarships including the $96,000 Jesse Mercer Scholarship and $20,000 Elon Engagement Scholarship and Elon Honors Fellows & Leadership. With so many elite possibilities, Elizabeth plans to study Computer Science and Psychology and then work in federal law enforcement. She intends to continue growing her nonprofit and assist “promRed to become a national organization in multiple high schools.” She also wants to start a major hotel chain! Whatever the future holds, Elizabeth has the tools to succeed. As her proud parents note, MPCS has helped develop her strengths in leadership and perseverance: “She can see a future that embodies justice and equality for all.” There is no doubt that Elizabeth will continue to soar on Eagle’s wings!
