Michael Hayes, a member of the Class of 2028 at The Village School of Naples, has had a memorable and impactful journey at TVS, excelling in academics, leadership, and service. One of his greatest passions has been playing tennis for the school, though an injury prevented him from participating as much as he would have liked. Despite this setback, Michael’s commitment to the sport remained strong, and he appreciates the support and fun atmosphere that Coach Garcia and the team have created. He was still able to attend practices and matches whenever his injury allowed, deepening his connection to the team.

Michael’s leadership abilities have also shined in the classroom. In 7th grade, he co-founded the Geography Club with Mrs. Tarpley, combining his love for travel and learning about different cultures. The club explored the world through games, trivia, and even trying food from various countries. Having visited 18 countries himself, Michael’s passion for travel and curiosity about the world made leading the club an incredibly rewarding experience.

A key part of Michael’s personal development has been his weekly attendance at chapel. Chapel serves as a reminder to stay focused on his faith, providing a necessary pause in his busy schedule. His journey through Confirmation with fellow TVS students this year has strengthened his relationship with God, further solidifying his spiritual foundation. Michael’s favorite Christ Skill is leadership, inspired by the example of Jesus. He believes in the importance of having strong leaders to carry forward the values and teachings that Jesus imparted.

Reflecting on his time at TVS, Michael is particularly proud of being elected middle school student body president. His successful campaign was built on listening to his peers and offering honest solutions to improve their middle school experience. As president, he cherished the opportunity to connect with students he might not have otherwise met, fostering a greater sense of community.

In addition to his role as president, Michael has worked collaboratively with his peers through the Student Government Association (SGA) to achieve common goals. Whether organizing fundraisers and school events, creating monthly Duds Days, or improving lunchroom policies, Michael has been an active participant in making middle school life better for everyone. He is particularly proud of their efforts to increase snack sales and allow more students to sit together at lunch tables.

Service is also a big part of Michael’s life. He volunteers with Collier Harvest, delivering food donations from Publix to St. Matthew’s House and the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee. The joy and gratitude on the faces of those receiving the food are unforgettable for Michael, and these moments of connection remind him of the importance of giving back to the community.

Looking to the future, Michael has ambitious goals both academically and personally. He hopes to perform well, pushing himself and taking AP classes to grow as a student. Additionally, he aims to strengthen his friendships, stepping out of his comfort zone to meet more people and challenge himself. On the athletic front, Michael is determined to continue improving in tennis and golf, sports he is passionate about. With his dedication, leadership skills, and commitment to service, Michael is sure to achieve great success in the years ahead.

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