At Lead the Way (LTW), every staff member plays a crucial role in shaping students' futures. One of those dedicated individuals is Frederick Lee Jr., a Student Success Specialist who has been with LTW for over a year and continues to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives.
Frederick’s journey to LTW was inspired by a vision shared with him organization CEO Anthony Murphy and his deep-rooted passion for making a difference in Columbus, Ohio. His path wasn’t a traditional one—he started at West High School, went on to play college football at Urbana University, and later built leadership experience in logistics and operations at Williams-Sonoma. But his true calling was helping young people find their path to success.
Empowering Students Through Career Exposure
As a Student Success Specialist, Frederick works directly with schools, students, and community partners to integrate LTW’s programs into academic settings. His role includes organizing career exploration field trips, particularly college tours and industry visits, giving students real-world exposure to potential careers.
“What I enjoy most about my work is being a stepping stone in a young person’s life,” Frederick shares. “I take pride in knowing that every day, in some way, I’m contributing to making a difference.”
But his job comes with challenges, too. He knows that students and colleagues rely on him, and while he encourages students to give themselves grace, he’s still learning to do the same for himself.
Transforming Students’ Lives
One of Frederick’s most memorable student success stories involves a high school junior who initially wanted to pursue a career in nursing but had never experienced the realities of the profession. She eagerly signed up for an STNA (State Tested Nursing Assistant) cohort, only to call Frederick on the first day saying, “Coach Frederick, I’m not wiping nobody’s bottom!”
That humorous moment allowed her to reconsider her career path before investing years in the wrong field. This is exactly why LTW prioritizes hands-on career exposure—students get the chance to “see, touch, and feel” what their future could look like.
For that same student, however, the STNA program opened doors to higher wages and new opportunities. Previously working at McDonald’s for $11.65 per hour, she completed her STNA certification and landed a job at Trueman Pointe Care Center making $19.00 per hour—all while still in high school. She is now on track to graduate with both her high school diploma and an associate’s degree, setting herself up for long-term success.
A Mission to Provide Hope and Opportunity
Frederick sees his work as a mission to provide clarity and guidance to students, many of whom are the first in their families to graduate or pursue higher education. “These students are the next generation of leaders,” he says. “They just need support.”
His goal is to expand LTW’s programs to reach more students and schools, fostering an environment of collaboration over competition. When asked what advice he would give to students preparing for their futures, his response is simple:
“Try everything.”
“If you haven’t had a chance to see it, touch it, feel it, or smell it, how will you know if it’s meant for you? Self-awareness is key—the more you know yourself, the better you understand your value and opportunities for growth.”
At Lead the Way, leaders like Frederick Lee Jr. are helping students discover their strengths, explore their interests, and take confident steps toward their future.
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