Next Generation Leader :
Ann Fields

"Quiet Courage With Dignity and Discretion"

Next Generation Leader, Ann Fields, age 14, is a walking example of how style, sport, and controlled conservatism can be powerful ingredients for classic elegance. Ranked 2nd in her high school class of 520, being invited to represent her school in a statewide math competition are just a couple of the many awards in Ann's life, as she quietly excels at everything she touches. A standing back flip is a piece of cake for this tiny but power-packed gal, and as the amazing mid-fielder for the Sandhills Strikers Division 1 classic soccer team and for her high school team, Ann is a true team player who consistently disperses the ball to her fellow teammates while moving with lightning speed. This past fall, representing Pinecrest High School, Ann was named All-Conference and All-Region in Cross Country and qualified in four events for the North Carolina High School Indoor Track Championship. Carrying herself with sophistication and grace, Ann is a leader among her peers, and her respect, discretion, and wonderful sense of timing make her a finely crafted and cool young woman. Thank-you, Ann, for always being there and for the joy you add to my every day.

Next Generation Leader:
Katie Fields

"She came to live life out loud"

Eight years ago , Katie Fields, now age 14, was in surgery at Children's Hospital in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, having a right atrial catheter removed, marking the end to a 3 year battle with leukemia. Guess who won the battle? Katie did! With her determination, strength, and fighting spirit, Katie survived and now lives life out loud and in vivid color. On the soccer field and the cross country course, she is nothing short of electric. This past fall, as a Freshman, Katie was the Conference Runner of the Year, All-Region, and finished 14th in the State High School Cross Country Championships. In February, she finished 2nd in the 1000 meter race at the North Carolina High School Indoor Track Championship. This spring she is playing soccer on the high school varsity team and scored the winning goal in a 1-0 overtime victory against her school's archrival. Katie is living proof that anything is possible with hard work and a "never give up" attitude. All the while, Katie never hesitates to let you know exactly who she is and what she is all about. She affectionately refers to herself as "the crazy twin,"and her lightness and humor have enchanted a large community of friends who Katie is eternally dedicated to and grateful for. Thank-you, Katie, for the light and love that you bring to my life.

Next Generation Leader:
Jack Fields

"Passion, Vision, and The Ability to Innovate."

At the age of two, Jack Fields, now age 13, played his first round of golf. Using a set of cut-down clubs given to him by his dad, Jack began his walk in the direction of his vision...to play on the PGA Tour. Winning the Tarheel Youth Golf Association Championship for 12 & 13 year olds and the Eastern Junior Golf Association Tour Championship this past year pale in comparison to Jack's proudest feat: scoring two holes in one at The Country Club of North Carolina. Though only 4'8" and 85 pounds, Jack carries a 2 handicap! Jack's secret: practice, have a vision, and do what you love and a lot of it! Golf has not only made life rich and fun for Jack, it has taught him invaluable lessons about good manners, respect, and sportsmanship. Jack is known among his peers and teachers as a young man who consistently thanks everyone for their role in his success by writing 5-6 thank-you letters each week, extending his hand confidently for a hand-shake, and by greeting each person he meets with a warm smile and with respect. Jack has learned through golf to never give up and to not only create but to innovate. Through his ability to innovate, Jack has been able to master a craft that most of us only dream of. Jack is also a proud member of the Boy Scouts and recently achieved his Life rank. He is currently planning his Eagle Scout project and hopes to do a project that will benefit many. Thank-you, Jack, for teaching me so many life lessons through your brilliance and for the laughter and love you bring to our home.