 Jeff Dennis (’85)
From Jeff: At Class Day 1985, I was given the “I Dare You” Award. This was given to a student, who the teachers and faculty felt like if they applied themselves and were “dared,” would go on to be successful. I didn’t apply myself, I didn’t study, and I had no desire to go to college. Receiving that award gave me more confidence and more determination to prove them right. Six months after graduating, I took a minimum wage job with a jewelry company polishing jewelry. I soon learned this trade, and I repaired jewelry for many years eventually working up to sales and management. In 2000, I bought my first jewelry store. Thirty-one years after receiving that award, I am the owner of Jeff Dennis Jewelers in Gardendale, Alabama. I have a wife and 14 and 16 year old daughters.
The fact that my teachers believed in me and dared me to be successful was the catalyst for my life. That determination has helped me to go through personal and family sickness and trials.
One piece of advice I would give the current students. Live for Christ. Period. The peace you will have to walk through life with Christ in your heart is much greater than anything else. Apply yourself. Live a life that would please your parents and learn now that people who will ask you to compromise your beliefs and your integrity are not your friends. Nobody can ever take your good name away from you, you have to willingly give that away!
Don’t blink. In what will seem like a blink of an eye, you too will be asked to submit a quote about your school that you graduated from 30+ years ago. Make every day count, make wise choices and listen to your teachers! They really do have your best interest at heart! |
