POWERGRAMS

EDUCATION Laura Hixon calls her daughter "a free spirit" who makes things happen. "Kelsey likes to have fun, but she can also be serious when she needs to be," said the Thomasville customer service representative. "She knows her own mind, and she's really strong-willed. When Kelsey gets her mind set on doing something, it's done." With that kind of resolve, it's no wonder Kelsey Hixon was selected as the Alabama Power Foundation's 2015 Presidential Scholar. That drive will stand the 18-year-old in good stead as she begins making her mark at the University of Alabama in the fall. Kelsey said she was drawn to the university because of its STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) program, which will allow her to pursue her master's degree in business administration while taking undergraduate courses. "It means everything," said Hixon. "Without the scholarship, I wasn't going to be able to go to Alabama. But now that I got the scholarship, I can. It will help me achieve my dream of being an engineer." Hixon, who graduated from Clarke County High School with a 4.2 GPA, said she became interested in engineering after a teacher suggested it would be a perfect career choice, considering her love of math and science. Hixon is well-prepared for the rigors of college. She was class salutatorian, scored 29 on the ACT and was the top student in both English and science her senior year. She took part in Alabama Southern Community College's dual enrollment program, which allowed her to complete college courses while attending high school. Kelsey was active in Clarke County High organizations including Beta Club, DECA Club and Health Occupations Students of America, and served as school ambassador during 10th, 11th and 12th grades. She played clarinet in the school band and was a part of the dance line during her senior year. The busy teen does her part to make a difference in her hometown of Grove Hill. She volunteered for Grove Hill Elementary's after-school program, tutoring students, leading them in arts and crafts, and helping them burn off steam with kickball, basketball and other recreational activities. "The kids love having us around because it's somebody to look up to," Hixon said. Hixon volunteered for the Grove Hill Area Chamber of Commerce, where she answered phones, wrote letters, handled mail or simply offered an extra pair of hands as needed. "Kelsey is the type of volunteer that everyone wants in their chamber office," said Cheryl Horton, executive director. "Kelsey is personable; she is intelligent; she's a team player; and she never complains about anything I ask her to do." Hixon said she got the "volunteering bug" while helping with a Civitan Club banquet. "I met Mrs. Horton and she asked me to volunteer at the chamber," Hixon said. "I found out I liked it, and I started volunteering on my own. I get to meet new people and do a lot of new things that I probably wouldn't get to do." An only child, Hixon loves to spend a day in the woods hunting deer with her father. She has been dancing since age 5 and has taken classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop and contemporary and lyrical dance. She is passing along her talent by teaching children at the Jordan School of Dance. Alabama Power Chairman, President and CEO Mark Crosswhite honored Hixon at a luncheon at Corporate Headquarters. For the past 24 years, the foundation has presented this four-year scholarship to an outstanding high school senior who is a dependent of an employee or retiree. The award is based on academic achievement, standardized test results, participation in extracurricular activities, leadership and financial need. Hixon received an engraved crystal trophy at the scholarship celebration. Her name will join the other Presidential Scholars on a plaque in the Corporate Headquarters atrium. "Kelsey, we're very proud of you," Crosswhite said as he presented the award. "We're glad you're part of the Alabama Power family. We want to say thank you for all you've done. You're going to do a lot more in the future." By Carla Davis 5 Presidential Scholar CLARKE COUNTY SALUTATORIAN MAKES MARK WITH GRADES, VOLUNTEERING Laura Hixon and her daughter, Kelsey, were honored by Crosswhite at Corporate Headquarters. Hixon, friends gathered for scholarship presentation. Photos by Billy Brown

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