Class of 2011

Ivory Alexis
Henderson State University

For the last four years I have been blessed with the opportunity to be a part of a wonderful organization, The Turner 12.

Entering the organization as a freshman in high school, I can recall thinking that the organization was all about academics. Shortly after, I realized that academics is a main focus, but not the only focus. Life lessons and qualities required to be a successful, productive young man in a constant growing society have been instilled in my heart, body and soul through the organization.

The time spent with my second family will be missed and never forgotten.

Mickendra Barrett
Navarro College

During the last few years, the “12” have been my family and my friends.

The organization was instrumental in my growth as a young lady with more confidence and experience under my belt. It kept me focused and strengthened my heart. It kept the thought in my head to be ready for any challenge that would come my way.

I will miss all of my brothers and sisters along with Coach Carter and Ms. Lisa.

I’m very grateful for the journey the Turner 12 organization sent me through.

Tosha Coleman
University of Texas

Being in the Turner 12 is the best thing that has ever happened to me and it has changed my life for the better.

I want to thank Coach Carter for always supporting me and staying by my side through all the hard times. I want to thank my mom for being a great mother and making sure I have all the love and support I need. I also want to give thanks to my T12 brothers and sisters for being great friends and accepting me for who I am. I want to especially thank the Board for making everything possible.

Kwanetta Davis
University of Texas

Being in the Turner 12 has inspired me to stay focused “all day everyday” and to do things orderly and on time.

Not knowing how challenging my four years of high school would be, I began to give up on myself and others. I couldn’t help but get myself together with Coach Carter’s constant encouragement. I know I will be ready and prepared for any obstacle that comes because I have had wonderful people to help me.

And to the next group of 12, stay focused in school because it will pay off. Don’t squander your time on unimportant things because later you’re going to wish you had that time.

Wendell Harris
Navarro College

The Turner 12 is the best thing that has happened to me. It has made me the productive, self-mannered young man I am today.

The Turner 12 has exposed me to new things and new places in life. Coach Carter would always say “2011 is coming.” Now that it's here, I am excited and blessed to embrace this opportunity to further my future goals and journey.

I would like to thank everybody who put their time and efforts into making me an “agent of change." And I would also like to thank my grandmother, Rosie Davis and my mother Sametra Davis, for believing in me.

Veronica Jacquez
University of Texas

WOW! Words can’t even express how thankful I am to have become a member of the Turner 12. All the life lessons I have learned, I will take with me. This has been a once in a lifetime opportunity and experience.

Thanks to my mentor Jana Hicks and especially my mentor, friend and father figure, Coach Carter! I wouldn’t have done it without you!

I pass the challenge to the next group and urge you not to give up because everything is possible.

“Life is like a coin. You can spend it anyway you choose, but you can only spend it once.” –Lillian Dickson

Joedecy Johnson
Grambling State University

My years in the Turner 12 were a UNIQUE experience. From the rigorous assignments to the relaxing vacations, the Turner 12 is a life changer that does not need to be taken for granted. I know the organization has made me the man I am today.

To the next group of 12, especially to the next Joedecy, take this opportunity seriously. The people you meet, the places you will see and the support you gain will set you up for a great future in the career you choose in life.

Thank you Coach Carter for disciplining me and never giving up.

Jeniece Madison
University of Texas at Arlington

I am on my way to college...yippie! This is one of the greatest feelings in the world!

Being a part of the Turner 12 has done wonders for me. I promise that I will not let you down and will make you all more proud of me. You have taught me to be different, take the initiative to make things happen and stay focused. I will fulfill my purpose in life through the works of my Lord and Savior.

To the next 12, get ready for an awesome experience. Stay focused “all day everyday” and graduate. I’m looking forward to working with you guys!

Damian Medrano
University of Texas

Focus, determination and a desire to achieve have become a part of me since I have been involved in The Turner 12. Since the beginning, I have grown and become a young man who is ready to take life head on.

The Turner 12 has been there to hold me accountable and Coach Carter has been a great role model to me. My goals are unlimited and I thank everyone who has helped me to achieve them.

Class of 2011, WE DID IT! Class of 2017, enjoy the opportunities that The Turner 12 will expose you to and become agents of change.

Keaton Miles
West Virginia University

Though not a part of the Turner 12 for long, I was able to take and embrace the ones around me not just as a program, but a family.

I want to thank all who are investments into my journey to greatness. My parents are the foundation to the young man I am today. My pops and mom, Stephen and Kimberly Miles, have pushed and molded me to be nothing less than a leader. I would also like to thank Coach Carter for being a great teacher, coach, mentor and most of all a great friend.

To the next group of Turner 12, take advantage of the things you will be exposed to. Again, thank you all and I will dearly miss you guys!!

Ariel Sanders
University of Texas

During these past few years of being a member of the Turner 12, I can say that I have grown from a child to a young lady. I am grateful for this organization. I am also thankful to have been provided such opportunities.

Even though procrastination is still a problem for me, “work now, play later” is definitely a saying that I will use during my lifetime.

For the class of 2017, I wish you well. I hope that you all will be able to endure the challenges that come with the commitment to this organization. Use the creed and lessons to come as motivation. Last but not least, don’t use your experience as excuses.

Antionette Steverson
Prairie View A&M University

My experience in The Turner 12 has been one that I will never forget.

I would like to thank The Turner 12 Board members and Coach Carter for giving me this opportunity. I give a special thanks to my parents Leaana Sloan & Antonio Stevenson and my coaches and mentors for teaching me skills that I will use for the rest of my life. To my brother, good luck on your journey through high school, I love you.

To my fellow Turner 12 members, I hope that we will remain in touch with one another as we take this next step. I love you guys.