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Duane Patrick, Jr. F O R T V A L L E Y S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y ' 2 7 One of my proudest accomplishments is knowing that the support is there. At Fort Valley State, we're family oriented. Everyone moves as a unit. I recently won my election for Student Government Association president, and that was a major goal for me. The support from my peers made it even more meaningful. I'm from Fayetteville, Georgia—about 90 minutes from school. One of the main things that Fort Valley is so prideful on is how family oriented and community based we are. So, one of the things I plan to do is continue to build those relationships that we have with our local community. It's so important because there are resources that they have, and resources that we have, that we both mutually need. It's vital that we continue to grow, foster, and nourish that relationship that we have with our community. They're ready to take on the world. These young adults are dipping their toes into making waves locally, nationally, and even worldwide, and we asked them how: N E X T I N L I N E AGE 18-24 Max Schutt M E R C E R U N I V E R S I T Y ' 2 5 I studied entrepreneurship at Mercer. Before that, I went to junior college in Maryland and won a national championship with an undefeated lacrosse season. At Mercer, I fulfilled my dream of playing Division I lacrosse. I also co-founded Play It Back Lacrosse, a nonprofit that provides gear and mentorship to underserved kids. We donated $3,000 in gear the first year, and $4,000 the next year—including to Rwanda. Now we're launching our first lacrosse league in Macon, keeping prices low and using profits for global outreach. Athletics changed my life. I grew up in a tough situation without many role models. Sports gave me confidence, leadership, and a community. I want to give kids here that same chance. 54 maconmagazine.com | August/September 2025