Name: Joe May

Occupation: Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility

Employer: State and Federal Communications, Inc.

Name of High School and location: Cuyahoga Falls High School, Cuyahoga Falls Ohio

Name of College #1 and location: Kent State University, Kent Ohio

Name of College #2 and location: Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, Brookline, MA

Name of your favorite teacher and what made the person special to you (any grade level, including college):  Margaret Baxtresser was a piano professor at Kent State. Margaret opened up a whole new world of discovery for me. She modeled excellence in every area of her life and was unparalleled at encouraging young people to strive for excellence.

What were some of your most enjoyable times in school (any grade level): All the times we got out of the school for field trips - to the Akron Civic Theater, camping at Camp Y Noah, to New York City. I love seeing the world.

Looking back over the years, what advice would you give to your high school self or college self: Believe in yourself! You’ve got this!

The reason(s) you are raising funds to support Project GRAD Akron ’s scholarships and programs: I think children are not our future, but instead they really are our present. Project GRAD Akron offers wonderful ways to help students be their best and thrive in the world.

Favorite quote: “Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.” - Maya Angelou

Anything else you would like to share or highlight: Every one on this Homecoming Court and every one who donates to or volunteers for Project GRAD Akron is a winner in my book.