Kaylynn Ivy Lane

New Kid on the Court

Fitting in by standing out.

Starting at a new school your junior year is challenging under any circumstances; for Kaylynn Ivy Layne, who goes by Ivy, the situation was particularly nerve racking. Used to being at the head of her class and an MVP of her various sports teams at her previous high school, she knew she was walking into a much larger school where both the academic and athletic competition would be steep. It was tough to fit in at first and Ivy admits to coming close to giving up. Instead, she drew on her family’s legacy of strong women to channel her inner drive. “I had to work and work hard to earn my spot here,” she says. Her attitude and her willingness to keep practicing her weaker skills made a huge difference. “I was given the chance to prove myself and I played more and more until I was a starter.” The effort was well invested, leading to personal improvement and treasured friendships. “I would not trade this experience for a smooth beginning. We learn from adversity not through comfort.”

While Ivy acknowledges that facing challenges is key to personal growth, she’s also passionate about doing her part to help others overcome obstacles and to smooth the way when and where she can. One way she gives back is by serving as the first JAG state officer from Eastern Kentucky. Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) is a state-based national non-profit organization that supports youth who face significant challenges in achieving economic and academic success. “I understand that I have been given a unique opportunity and it is my responsibility to represent our state, our geographic region, and our school to the best of my ability,” Ivy says of her role. She serves as a liaison with state administration, and she helped to bring the JAG program to a local middle school. “By middle school age, students need to understand how to set goals and how to work to achieve those goals. We must reach them before negative factors have invaded their young lives,” she says.

Whether in the classroom, on the field or court, or in the community, Ivy has found her place as a leader who sets the example by always giving her personal best while supporting others. Her peers acknowledged her contributions by electing her as Homecoming Queen. This honor confirms that attitude and effort always make a difference. “This time in my life has taught me many things. I have learned to keep working even when it looks bleak. I have learned that we are in charge of our own destiny. I have learned that I can overcome and that I am strong and capable.”