Turning Opportunities Into a Commitment to Serve
For Chad Reed, a member of the Class of 2027 at Randle High School, leadership is about more than holding a title. It is about using the opportunities he receives to grow, serve others, and create opportunities for those who follow.
A student leader, athlete, community volunteer, and aspiring attorney, Chad has built a strong foundation through his involvement in academics, extracurricular activities, and community service. He serves as the 2027 Class President, founder and president of his school's Mental Matters Club, and the JROTC Squadron Chief. He also participates in varsity football and tennis, coaches girls' flag football, and serves in his church community.
Since joining the Expose Excellence Youth Program in 2023, Chad has participated in summer programs, field trips, volunteer opportunities, and experiences that have helped shape his interests and future goals.
A Journey That Began With Curiosity
Chad's journey with EEYP began with the Youth Law Enforcement Academy in 2023. Interested in learning more about law enforcement and the justice system, he joined the week-long program to explore the responsibilities involved in protecting and serving a community.
That first experience introduced him to opportunities beyond the traditional classroom and helped spark his continued interest in the legal profession.
Since then, some of his most memorable EEYP experiences have been the program's Freedom Tour, which provides opportunities to explore significant sites of the Civil Rights Movement.
For Chad, the trip has been about more than visiting historical landmarks. Learning about the struggles, sacrifices, and achievements of Black leaders has helped him connect history to his own identity and aspirations.
"Learning about the struggles, sacrifices, achievements, and leadership of Black people has helped me develop a deeper understanding of the strength and responsibility I carry as a young Black man with his own ideas and ambitions," Chad shared.
These experiences have encouraged him to reflect on the kind of leader he wants to become and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. They have also strengthened his appreciation for those who continued pushing forward despite difficult circumstances, reminding him of the importance of perseverance, purpose, and responsibility.
Growing Through Every Opportunity
Over the years, Chad has developed skills that extend well beyond the classroom. Through EEYP, he has strengthened his communication, public speaking, and networking abilities while learning to connect with people from different backgrounds.
One of the most important lessons he has learned is to look beyond the surface when interacting with others.
"Everyone has a story, experiences that have shaped them, and knowledge they can share," Chad explained. "Through EEYP, I have also developed my networking, communication, and public speaking skills while learning to value every opportunity I receive."
His experiences have reinforced his belief that personal growth often comes from stepping into unfamiliar environments and embracing opportunities that challenge him.
In 2025, Chad participated in EEYP's Youth Prosecutor Academy, where his team became the mock trial champion. In 2026, he gained additional exposure to the legal field through a judicial internship with Judge Toni Wallace through Fort Bend County's Youth Employment Program.
Together with his earlier experience at the Youth Law Enforcement Academy, these opportunities have strengthened his interest in pursuing a career as an attorney, particularly in areas involving civil rights and justice.
Leadership Beyond the Classroom
Chad's commitment to growth is reflected in his involvement across multiple organizations and activities.
As founder and president of the Mental Matters Club, Class President, and JROTC Squadron Chief, he has taken on responsibilities that require organization, communication, and accountability. His participation in varsity football and tennis has strengthened his understanding of discipline and teamwork, while coaching girls' flag football has given him another opportunity to support and encourage other students.
Chad also serves his church through the worship team, childcare, and intern operations support. His community involvement includes volunteering with Lunches of Love and participating in Youth in Philanthropy.
Each experience has contributed to his understanding of leadership. For Chad, leadership is not simply about having a title. It is about showing up, following through on commitments, and being willing to help when others need support.
Balancing academics, athletics, leadership, and community service has not always been easy. Chad has learned the importance of managing his time intentionally and staying focused on his priorities. His faith, the people who have invested in his development, and the lessons he has gained through EEYP help keep him motivated.
Preparing for a Future in Law
As Chad looks toward graduation, he plans to pursue higher education and eventually attend law school. He is particularly interested in the relationship between law, civil rights, and justice. He hopes to use his future career to advocate for others and make a meaningful difference in his community.
His experiences with EEYP and other organizations have helped him recognize the importance of mentorship and professional connections. He understands that one opportunity can lead to another when approached with preparation, curiosity, and a willingness to learn.
Beyond his own career goals, Chad hopes to remain involved in community service and mentorship. He wants to create opportunities for younger students, just as mentors and organizations have done for him.
A guiding principle behind that goal is his belief in passing blessings forward.
"I believe that when someone invests in me, gives me an opportunity, or shares knowledge with me, I have a responsibility to use that blessing for something greater than myself," Chad said. "Success should not stop with one person. It should create opportunities for others to succeed, too."
This mindset influences how he approaches leadership, relationships, and community service. Whether supporting a fellow student, helping a teammate, or volunteering in his community, Chad strives to share what he has learned and encourage others to reach their potential.
Encouraging Others to Take the First Step
When asked what he would tell another student considering EEYP, Chad encourages them to take the opportunity and give it their best.
"You never know what one experience, one conversation, or one connection could lead to," he shared.
He encourages students to come with an open mind, ask questions, build relationships, and take advantage of opportunities to learn. For Chad, participation should be about more than adding an activity to a resume. It should be about a genuine desire to grow and contribute.
He also believes students do not have to wait until they are older or hold a leadership title to make a difference. They can start by helping someone, sharing what they know, or showing up for their community.
Looking back on his journey since 2023, Chad recognizes how much his experiences have influenced his understanding of history, leadership, and his own potential.
His advice to other students reflects the same principles that have guided his own journey: faith, hard work, and a willingness to serve.
"Most importantly, when someone gives you an opportunity, make the most of it and look for ways to pass that blessing on to someone else."
For Chad, success is not just about how far he goes. It is also about how many others he can help along the way.
