Diving Right In: OM Student-Athlete Eager to Give Back to the Community

Student: Vaughn Tucker

School: Owings Mills High School

Achievement: Earlier this month, Tucker, a senior at OMHS volunteered to give back to the Baltimore inner-city community by speaking with youths at the James Mosher Baseball field (in West Baltimore) about staying in school and staying focused while maintaining positive attitudes throughout life. 

Tucker, also the Eagles starting third baseman and leadoff hitter, interacted with the kids by showing them how to pitch, catch, hit and run the bases. Looking to get more African-American youths interested in the sport of baseball, Tucker was a big hit among the crowd—both kids and their parents—as those in attendance swarmed him for autographs following the event.

Tucker’s desire to spend time giving back to the community earned him a citation for “outstanding service and dedication” from the Baltimore City Comptroller who officially recognized his character, talent and determination.

With sports, and physical activity in general, diminishing locally and across the country, Tucker’s goal of motivating young boys and girls to go out take a crack at baseball by serving as a well-liked role model deserves special recognition.

His effort left the kids with a positive message and vibe, not only toward sports, but toward life as well. Set to graduate this spring, Tucker will be attending—and playing ball for—St. John’s University next year.