Roxana Student Athletes Excel in Service and Leadership Roles

ROXANA - The Riverbend East Rotary Club recently recognized the December Service Above Self award winners from Roxana High School-Haley Schlemer and Sean Mayberry.

In photo above, Club Preisident Mark Smith presets Service above Self certificates to Haley Schlemer and Sean Maberry.

Haley Schlemer

Hayley is a senior who has balanced the demands of being a multi-sport athlete in volleyball, basketball, and track, while also being an active member of REEF. But what truly sets Hayley apart is her perspective on our Rotary motto, "Service Above Self.”

To Hayley, this isn't just a phrase; it's a mindset of purpose over ego. She believes that true service means choosing to care about the well-being of others even when it's inconvenient. She lives by the philosophy that we should serve with kindness for the sake of the impact, not for the credit or the praise.

"We see this philosophy in action through Hayley's consistent presence in our community.

"Whether she is assisting with youth basketball and volleyball camps or helping her peers navigate difficult schoolwork, Hayley is a person who "shows up." She doesn't just participate; she contributes effort, leadership, and a genuine care for the success of the project and the people around her.

"Perhaps most impressive is how she has integrated service into her entrepreneurial spirit. As the owner of her own baking and beverage business, Hayley has learned that business is a form of service. She takes immense pride in creating something positive that people enjoy, using her business as a way to practice responsibility and give back to those around her." - the Rotary Club said.

In her own words, Hayley reminds us that "helping others isn't always about going out and fixing stuff; it's also about being there to pay attention and respect the needs of someone else.”

Sean Maberry:

Sean is a senior who has truly left his mark on the halls of Roxana High School and community — whether he is on the football field, the basketball court, the baseball diamond, or serving as a leader in the National Honor Society.

When we speak about "Service Above Self," we often look for grand gestures. But Sean defines it differently. To him, service means doing the small things when no one is looking — helping someone when it is inconvenient and doing the right thing without expecting an ounce of credit.

Sean's commitment to his community started years ago with a simple bike ride home from the Roxana pool. He noticed local business owner Todd Laux working on a new building that needed a massive amount of "elbow grease."

Despite his mom calling him home for dinner, Sean stopped, put his bike down, and offered a hand. He remembered the help Todd had given him during his early training years and felt that giving his time was the least he could do. That moment defines Sean: he is someone who recognizes the investments others have made in him and seeks to pay them forward.

Sean's volunteer resume is extensive, ranging from the Soapbox Derby and the Roxana Football Fish Fry to the Boys and Girls Club of Bethalto. However, the event that truly captures his heart is Christmas for Kids. Sean fondly remembers walking children through the Keasler Center to pick out new clothes and shoes. For Sean, the reward isn't a certificate or a grade — it's the look of excitement on a child's face when they find a jacket they love. He believes in making sure every child feels wanted, loved, and happy.

Sean carries a piece of advice with him that he received from his fourth-grade teacher, and it's something we can all remember: "Always choose kind." He knows that a small act of kindness — even when you aren't in the best mood — can be something another person remembers for years.

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