Most college students' biggest concerns are getting passing grades on tests and papers or performing well in upcoming athletic events. However, Tiffany Meadors (Lancaster, KY), who was the starting right fielder for the University of the Cumberlands Women's Softball team, finds time to be both successful in the classroom and on the field, as well as serve her community through numerous service and leadership activities.

"When you are younger, you do not really think of the values that your parents, coaches, and teachers have taught you and how much they become a part of who you are and what you represent," states Meadors. "As a young adult, I made the decision to start giving back to my community since my community has given so much to me."

In 2003, Meadors began helping with the Garrard County youth basketball camps as coach and mentor. This activity eventually led Meadors into volunteering her time with the area youth softball teams and camps. "Through this wonderful experience, I was able to help young girls learn about teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship," adds Meadors. "Spending time with the kids each summer is truly one of the most gratifying parts of my life."

Through Meadors home church, she has also adopted a homebound elderly couple. She visited them each weekend and even took them gifts on holidays and birthdays. "I love to listen to them tell old stories about when they were young and courting," comments Meadors. "I realized quickly that they enjoyed my visits but basically wanted someone to care enough to listen to them."

As part of the University of the Cumberlands softball team, Meadors has devoted time to a London, KY nursing home for the last three years at Halloween and Christmas. She has helped those patients participate in games, activities, trick-or-treating, and entertainment. At Christmas, Meadors also helped wrap hundreds of Christmas gifts for family members of the nursing home residents.

With high hopes to become a physical therapist, Meadors has volunteered her time at three area physical therapy clinics. While working at each one, she helped to change the bedding after each patient, assisted in patient exercise therapy, as well as learned how to perform ultrasound therapy.

UC Head Women's Softball Coach, Angie Dean, is highly impressed with Meadors both on and off the field. "When I think of young ladies that give of themselves more than they take, Tiffany is the first person that comes to mind," explains Coach Dean. "Tiffany's leadership and unselfishness has led to her being voted softball team captain for the last two years. This respect from her teammates has been earned through her hard work, dedication, sportsmanship, and positive attitude. Without her solid leadership and unquestioned integrity, our team would have a hollow core."

Meadors will be graduated in January of 2009 with a double major in Biology and Exercise Sports Science. She plans to pursue physical therapy as an occupation buts wants to continue serving her community long after leaving Cumberlands. "I truly believe that giving back is one of the easiest and most gratifying ways to contribute to one's community," states Meadors. "As long as each of us as human beings takes the time to serve others, in however small or large a way, this world will be a better place."

Article Provided by Kim Hamby, University of the Cumberlands Sports Information Student Assistant