There’s student-athletes who work around the clock – then there’s Gracen Hawthorne.
The Altus High School student serves as president of its FFA chapter and is a member of the pom team, present of National Honor Society, Student Council, vice president of Key Club and more.
She has also been president of her class. She works at Cirque Dance Studio in the spare time she has and enjoys reading, community service and traveling.
“Altus FFA President is a title I take the most honor in. I have spent almost five years in FFA and this organization has taught me so much,” Hawthorne said. “Having the opportunity to lead and serve the organization and people that gave me everything is really special for me.”
Hawthorne joined the pom team her freshman year.
“I have been dancing since I was 3 years old and the studio I grew up dancing at was where a lot of the high school and pom team girls danced at,” Hawthorne said. “I always wanted to be like them and was over the moon when I made the team my freshman year!” Keeping up with her several other activities and clubs can be a task.
“This is definitely something that I had to learn over my years in high school,” Hawthorne said. “The main thing I do is try to pick what is most important to me to keep my priorities in order. My color-coded schedule also helps a lot!”
Her passion for community service stemmed from a family emergency. When she was 8 years old, her cousins had to spend the early part of their lives in the hospital. While visiting them, she recognized that many others were less fortunate than her.
“In the second grade, I collected and donated toys to that hospital and still continue that every year. As I grow up, it has been important to me to help when I can,” Hawthorne said. “One thing I think everyone should know about me is that I am big on my faith! I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am today without God. I try every day to shine his light and love like Him!”
Growing up in Altus has afforded Hawthorne a lifestyle she enjoys. She calls it a “big school in a small town.”
“Altus really is a community and takes pride in every sport, club and person. Win, lose or draw, you can always count on the Bulldog community to be there standing behind you.” Hawthorne’s future plans include attending Oklahoma State University, where she will double- major in agribusiness and accounting.
“The plan is to eventually become a CPA,” Hawthorne said. “My dream job is to have my own non-profit organization!”
VYPE: Which classmate or teammate has had the greatest impact on you? Why?
GH: The teammate/classmate that has had the greatest impact on me is Calista Pavelchack. We are the only 4 year members on the team, so we have been through all the up and downs together. You will never hear her complain and she will always put her best foot forward.
VYPE: What piece of advice has a teacher or coach given you that stuck with you?
GH: My college math teacher, Mrs. George, once told me, “relax, take a breath because it will all be okay.” This really stuck out to me because in that current situation I was having a hard time and with her busy schedule as a college professor she took time to talk to me and let me know not everything will always be perfect.
