stats: 17, Senior at Eastwood Christian School
notable: National Spanish Exam Gold Medal Recipient, Alabama River Region Youth Ballet Company Member, National Latin Exam Magna Cum Laude Award Winner
quotable: “Try and find joy in everything you do.”
her story: Ballet is Millie’s passion— she has been dancing for more than twelve years and is currently a company member of the Alabama River Region Youth Ballet. When she’s not dancing, she can be found participating in Eastwood’s Beta Club, SGA, or Mu Alpha Theta Honor Society. She has been a member of the yearbook staff all throughout high school, and also participates in Eastwood’s yearly theater production. Millie volunteers her time at Ridge Haven in North Carolina each summer, working as a kitchen staff member, building relationships, and serving people of all ages. When asked to share what kind of legacy she wants to leave behind, Mille replied, “I want to be remembered as someone who was quick to listen and love while being slow to judge.”
what’s next: “In the future I would like to pursue a career in nutrition, specifically using my background in dance. Both ballet and my interest in science have sparked my interest in nutrition and helping with eating disorders that many dancers face today.”
PG (parental guidance) rating: Millie shared, “In a family of eight, it can be very difficult to get along with everyone, but I love the fact that we can all be close.” She added, “Someone who has provided inspiration in my life is my little brother Henry. He is eight years younger than me and is definitely my best friend who helps me remember to always be kind, learn new things, and have fun.”
parents’ perspective: Ray and Deana shared, “We’ve always known Millie is unique because she has red hair and blue eyes, which we’ve read represents only 2% of the world’s population. But God has gifted her with love for and a talent for ballet that has been so much fun to watch develop over the years.” They added, “Millie places a high priority on relationships. Like many teenagers, she loves her friends and spending time with them. But Millie also invests in each member of our family and makes it a priority to check in with each of her five siblings regularly.”
parent-to-parent: “After more than 25 years of parenting, we would probably advise parents to slow down and relax. Invest in your relationships with your kids. Talk to them, and more importantly, listen to them.”
