POWERGRAMS

20 It's oen the oldest child who is the high achiever. But Spencer King, the youngest of five brothers, is the exception to the rule. "Spencer has always been quiet and reserved but very determined," said his mom, Jennifer. "When he was in kindergarten, Spencer was the kid who would cry if he made a 99 instead of 100 on his papers. That has been built into him. He has always wanted to do well and succeed. Whatever he chooses to do, he sticks with it, puts the work in and usually succeeds." That determination and drive have paid off for Spencer, whose dream of studying pharmacy at Auburn University is coming true. His parents were worried that sending him to a large four-year college would be out of the question, especially in light of the ongoing bale his dad, Plant Gorgas retired Security Officer Bob King, is fighting against Parkinson's Disease. But those doors are now wide open. Spencer is the winner of the Alabama Power Foundation's 2019 Presidential Scholar award, which covers tuition and fees for a university in Alabama. The scholarship is presented annually to an outstanding high school senior whose parent is an Alabama Power employee or retiree. It is based on academic achievement, standardized test scores, participation in extracurricular activities, leadership and financial need. "This scholarship is a godsend for Spencer and our family," said Bob, who retired in 2018 aer six years at Alabama Power. "It's a dream come true. I will promise you, and he will promise you, that it won't be wasted." A graduate of Jasper High School, Spencer wrapped up his senior year with many honors and achievements. He has a 4.3 GPA, scored 31 on the ACT and, out of 800 students, ranked in the top 10% of the students academically. He was a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society and Beta Club. But his best memories revolve around playing alto saxophone in the school's marching, jazz and concert bands, Spencer said. He began learning to play saxophone in middle school as a way to break the monotony of his regular classes, but now it holds a special meaning. EDUCATION Godsent Scholarship J A S P E R S T U D E N T N A M E D P R E S I D E N T I A L AWA R D W I N N E R BY CARLA DAVIS • PHOTOS BY NIK LAYMAN Presidential Scholar Spencer King

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