Just too impressive

BY DEXTER MCCREE & TIMOTHY GARNER

ST. PETERSBURG –Timothy Garner’s parents must be especially proud of their son. As a writer, I’m moved by his articulation and writing skills. There is hope that this generation of graduates will lead this society with well thought out direction.

Gibbs High School is proud to call Timothy one of their own, and the University of South Florida will be pleased when he steps onto the campus on Fowler Avenue.

In writing articles featuring our 2018 graduates, I’m impressed with many of their accomplishment; however, Tim’s communication abilities are awe-inspiring. So, without much change, I allow him to speak to you as he shares the journey that brought him to graduation.

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My name is Timothy Garner, and I am an early graduate of Gibbs High School. My current grade point average is a 4.0, placing me in the top 10 percent of my graduating class.  During my high school career, I was inducted into the National Honors Society, served as class president for four consecutive years, while being involved in the Pinellas County Center of the Arts magnet program, concentrating in vocal music.

I also served as the president of the Students Against Destructive Decisions club, while being a member of the 5000 Role Model mentoring club. I was appointed by my principal to be the Gibbs High School representative for the county Student Rights and Responsibilities Committee, where I, along with other high school representatives, meet with school board officials to discuss and modify school and district policies.

Also during my high school career, St. Petersburg College awarded me the Dr. Mac J. Williams Academic Award for three consecutive years; placed third in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity essay contest and placed first in the local Elks Lodge oratorical contest.

Within my community, I am an Omega Pathfinder, of the AKA AKademy, mentored by the Eta Rho Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Currently, I volunteer at St. Petersburg General Hospital, D.C. Eye Associates, Rock Solid Construction and MMP Production.

All has been and continues to be rewarding experiences. In my spare time, my hobbies include singing for various community church functions, traveling, designing and playing the piano or organ.

Presently, I am the organist for the Spirit of Tampa Bay Community Choir and a minister of music for Tabernacle of Praise Community Church.

In the fall, I plan to attend the University of South Florida, majoring in biology. I aspire to continue my schooling in hopes to become an ophthalmologist specializing in LASIK surgery.

I realize that it is only through God’s grace and mercy that has kept and brought me thus far in my life. I am a living witness that prayer works and that hard work is rewarding. For I am reminded of the scripture that says: be not weary in well doing, for in due season, you shall reap, if you faint not. (Galatians 6:9)

And because of that promise, I am learning how to push through difficulties and challenges that life brings, for I shall reap my future endeavors.