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Tobias’ story Dedication to excellence through service:
BY KRISTY BLOSCH . PHOTOS PROVIDED.
Antwine recalls that as PHS Student Council president, Tobias led just as well as, or even better than, most adults. “One of the things I admire most about Tobias is his desire to not only put in the time and energy to make sure that everything he does is a success but to help those around him succeed in their endeavors as well,” said Antwine. Always learning President John F. Kennedy said, “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other,” a sentiment that Tobias strives to embody. Always seeking to learn from the examples of others, Tobias began researching internship opportunities with the U.S. Senate as a junior in high school. Though he discovered those internships are typically reserved for college students, he did find an application for the U.S. Senate Youth Program, a unique educational experience for outstanding high school students interested in pursuing careers in public service. After a months-long process of applications, interviews and tests, Tobias was chosen as one of only two students to represent Oklahoma for a week-long program in
From ideals to action Tobias recalls walking along the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., during Boys Nation while hearing veterans’ stories of heroism and sacrifice. That opportunity inspired him to serve his nation and community by pursuing a career in public service. His parents, Emily and Trinity Johnson, taught him to embrace his potential to be a positive influence and build a strong work ethic. “My parents instilled in me the idea of setting a good example and always doing the right thing,” said Tobias. “I have to always remember who and what I’m doing it for.” The teen also gives credit to Alissa Antwine, leadership and Student Council sponsor at Piedmont High School, for helping mold him into who he is today. From all his mentors, Tobias takes the ideals instilled in him and puts them to work. “One thing I strive for when leading a team is to clearly communicate our goals and to get everyone on board, to show them what they’re capable of,” said Tobias of his leadership style. “I always want to be dedicated to excellence.”
What qualities come to mind when you think of a strong and effective leader? Perhaps someone who is driven and passionate. Selfless and caring. Encouraging and motivating. Polished and experienced. It can be challenging to find these characteristics in a single person, let alone a teenager. But that’s exactly what can be found in Tobias Johnson, an 18-year-old 2020 graduate of Piedmont High School. Tobias’ resume reads like that of a seasoned politician or executive, including impressive experiences such as United States Senate Youth Program delegate, American Legion Boys Nation delegate, Oklahoma Association of Student Councils state president, Oklahoma Hall of Fame Teen Board chairman, Piedmont High School Student Council president, PHS DUCK (Doing Unselfish Charities for Kids) Week co-chair — and the list continues on with leadership and community service experiences galore. But what really stands out about Tobias is his drive and motivation.
36 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JUNE 2020
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