POWERGRAMS

21 Spencer King joined family members following the 2019 Presidential Scholar award ceremonies in Birmingham. "When he passed away, my grandfather set aside money for his grandkids to use to fuel their passion," Spencer said. "He always wanted to make sure we had something that was special and unique to us. I used the money to buy a professional alto saxophone. And ever since then, I have been passionate about playing the sax because it connects me to him." Playing in the band was almost like a "full-time job," Spencer said. In addition to practice aer school and taking part in band competitions on weekends, he was on the field with his sax during halime at every Friday night football game during his four years at Jasper High School. Spencer used his music to give back to the community. Through the band, he marched in Jasper's Christmas and Veterans Day parades and played for community fundraisers like Kiwanis Club pancake breakfasts. Aer marching season each year, Spencer and other band members helped organize and staff the local Special Olympics. "That was definitely a good experience," Spencer said. "Helping those kids who don't always have every single person's support really means a lot." Spencer also keeps busy outside the band room. He has a part-time job doing yardwork and maintenance at the Adam Bishop Center in Jasper, a facility for children with emotional and behavioral issues. In his free time, he loves to read and play football with friends in a local park. Jasper High School Principal Jonathan Allen lauded Spencer as one of a kind. "Honestly, having a student like Spencer represent our school and our community is an honor," Allen said. "He's a well-rounded student and is liked by his peers. Administrators pray for students like Spencer. We are so proud to see his future unfold." Alabama Power CEO Mark Crosswhite presented the scholarship to Spencer at a luncheon. Spencer's name will be listed with past winners on a plaque in the Corporate Headquarters atrium. "As I learned about all the hard work you've done in school, the extracurricular activities you've been involved in and the importance you place on helping others, it was clear you are deserving of this honor," Crosswhite said. "We're proud of you and your many accomplishments, and we want you to know that you will always be part of our Alabama Power family." Spencer received his own engraved plaque and gis, including a mini-refrigerator for his dorm room, luggage and a phone charger. "This scholarship means a bigger and brighter future for me," Spencer said. "We would have had to pay for school out of pocket. But geing this award helps pay for full tuition and then some, and that's a great blessing to have." Crosswhite presented King a trophy.

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