Giving back and being involved with organizations on campus is a massive part of who I am. I have been involved with multiple school and charitable organizations that have allowed me to grow as a person. I have worked with the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Quantum Rehab, Vex Robotics and the Niner Times.
I have Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, which affects my mobility and strength in my muscles. With the Muscular Dystrophy Association, I was elected to the National Goodwill Ambassador position in 2012 and 2013. I traveled the nation while raising awareness, speaking to crowds and sponsors about disability rights and funds for treatments. I hosted two national telethons on the ABC network. My involvement with the MDA taught me many things about myself. I learned to stand up for others and speak for those who can’t speak for themselves. It doesn’t matter who you are; you can end up making a difference for people.
I am a brand ambassador for Quantum Rehab, a mobility company that creates and distributes wheelchairs while fighting for disability rights. I endorse Quantum products at tradeshows based on their accessibility features. I advocate for coverage of wheelchair features that promote independence and comfort by communicating with local politicians. I write blogs and create social media posts that raise awareness about living with a disability.
I am the head announcer and counselor for the robotics competitions and summer camps in North Carolina with Vex Robotics. These tournaments and camps give elementary and middle school students the chance to build a robot while learning engineering and teamwork skills. I announce and assist in putting on events by helping with judging, clock management and directing volunteers. Working on these events is helping me reach my career goal, which is becoming a sports commentator.
At the Niner Times, I am the sports editor, where I oversee a staff of 15 writers. As a staff writer, I published articles about games and players’ backstories for the sports sections. I was named Niner Times Writer of the Year, Rookie Writer for 2020-2021. I was also selected as the Assistant Editor of the Year in 2022, which were fantastic honors. Currently, I edit articles written by staff writers of the sports section for print and online editions. I also manage and assign writing assignments for my writer’s feature articles.
I am honored to be in the community helping others. I do believe that volunteering can help with school spirit. It can make people see how great the school is because it allows you to have a stronger connection to the community.
About Bryson Foster: Bryson lives in North Carolina. He advocates and raises funds for the development of treatments for muscular dystrophy. He loves sports and cheers for his favorite basketball team, the North Carolina Tar Heels. Click here to learn more about Bryson.