Dignity: Portrait of a Graduate and Leader

It is difficult today to get my thoughts together because it is an emotional day, but I am going to do my best. 

On June 1, 2025, my son Anthony will be graduating from high school and moving on to the next journey in his life. As a father you hope that your children will grow and have success. I have three children, and I am proud of the people that they have become, but today I am going to speak about Anthony.  

Last night was the Senior Awards night and Anthony was recognized with 4 awards. His mother, sibling, grandparents and I could not be any prouder of him at that moment. It is great to sit in a room with other parents and hear your child’s name called as he is recognized for his four years of hard work. This is a great moment for Anthony and our family, but I will tell you that I am most proud of the leader and person Anthony has become. When we talk about being a servant leader, that is what Anthony is. He has done more for others than he can ever know. How do I know this. I heard it from teachers and his fellow students, and I had the opportunity over the last two years to be a volunteer coach for the unified track team when Anthony was captain, and I saw his leadership firsthand. 

The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) recognized Anthony as one of four student leaders in the state of Massachusetts and the only one in Western Mass. He, along with the three other students, lead the MIAA monthly student meetings. Anthony took this role very seriously and often gave speeches on the meaning of sportsmanship and leadership. This young man who was afraid to speak in front of others was giving speeches and talking as if he had been a leader for 30 years. I was impressed by his insight and his understanding of what defines a leader. It took me well into my thirties to figure that out. But it was what I heard from two of his teammates that I truly understood the impact he has on others. 

On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, we were at the State Unified Track Championships. Anthony’s goal was to win the shotput championship for the second year in a row. He threw his personal best, but he did not win. Although he was disappointed, there was no greater cheerleader for his team than him. In the 4 X 400 relay our runner in the first leg was last. Suddenly on the last turn she put on a burst of speed and moved Wahconah into first place. We ended up winning our heat and almost set a school record. I approached Maddie after the race and said, “I knew you were going to speed up at the last turn.” She said to me it was Anthony who was there encouraging her. When she heard his voice, it helped her run harder. Anthony was there encouraging his teammates to do their best. This is a sign of a true leader. 

When we arrived home from states one of his teammates told him how rewarding he made the last two years for him. I almost cried. Anthony had an impact on so many people. These things cannot be measured by awards. He brought out the best in people and it didn’t matter who you were, teacher or student. Anthony was always there with positive thoughts and words of encouragement. 

Anthony, we are proud of you, and you will do great things as a teacher. I look forward to watching the person I know you will become. 

Anthony Craig Redd, leading with dignity. 

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”, John Quincy Adams 

Charles Redd RN 

Dignity Freedom Fighter