teen spotlight
photography by Lauren Childs
stats
17, Senior at Alabama Christian Academy
notable
National Honor Society; SGA President; Model United Nations
Club, Secretary General; Key Club, Vice President; Honor Band;
Alabama Bridge Builders
quotable
“Never let your adversities define you, but rather, let your
response to those adversities define who you are,” David said.
how it began
Although David Swayne lost his father, MSgt. Daniel E. Swayne at
an early age, he has made it his mission to work as hard as he can
in whatever he does. “I want to be remembered for my dedication
to everything I take part in. I never want to be known as the
person who only worked half as hard as he could,” David said.
David has worked to receive the Class Scholar Award for
having the highest GPA in his class. He brought home several
awards after attending Model United Nations conferences
including Outstanding Delegate, Best Delegation, Outstanding
Position Paper and Best Dressed. During a marching band Spirit
Camp at Huntingdon College, he received the Outstanding
Leadership award as Flute Section Leader.
“My mom always told me, ‘Follow your heart.’ I have to
remember that when I get in a slump,” David said.
what’s next
Although David is not quite sure what he wants to do after
graduation, he’s considering a career as an editor for a publishing
house or becoming a registered dietician.
david swayne
PG (parental guidance) rating
“My biggest inspiration is definitely my dad. He died when I
was 8 years old, and though I’ve taken the time to mourn, I no
longer see his death as a tragedy. It has given me the opportunity
to let his life reflect in mine,” David said. “He was a man of great
character, integrity, talent and passion. He was a strong Christian
whose faith I can only hope to match one day.”
Montgomery, AL
parents’ perspective
“I admire David’s ability to turn adversity into something good,”
Patricia said. She believes that encouraging him to pursue his
interests and reminding him to give his best has helped him reach
his potential.
parent-to-parent
Patricia Swayne’s parents were hard workers who grew
up during the Great Depression. “My mom always said I
needed to be able to support myself if necessary because
you never know what would happen in life. They both
taught me to work hard, be myself and to have integrity.”
Patricia’s advice for parents: “Always support your child in what
they want to do. Encourage them to pursue their interests. Don’t
force them to do something they don’t like after they have tried it.
Help them to honor their commitments. Instill in them the need
for honesty, integrity and doing their best. Above all, pray for them
continually.”
www.potentialmagazine.com
39