Every morning at 8:20 AM, NC students pack into their first-period classes, eager to take on the lesson plans that lie ahead. As they unzip their bags and pull out their note-taking apparatus, a familiar voice begins to bellow on the intercom, awaking every member of the school community with enthusiasm and motivation. That voice belongs to accomplished senior Kayden Williams, who, among a litany of other engagements, helps to ignite Warrior pride through his role as the Senior Class Vice President in Tribal Connections. While he resides within NC’s orange and blue halls, Williams embodies the meaning of inspiring excellence by always putting his premier foot forward in any endeavor. 

As an involved senior during arguably the busiest time in a young person’s life, William’s enthusiasm for various organizations in and out of NC still shines amongst the rain clouds of finals. A leader in myriad ways, William’s radiant personality encourages students to follow his lead and provide at least a sliver of sunshine into the day of a stranger. Between Cobb County Peer Court, Yearbook, National Honor Society (NHS) or Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), the promising student’s leadership qualities allow underclassmen to feel unafraid to tackle the challenges of taking charge. 

“Kayden has really transformed DECA. He was unanimously voted to be president, an obvious example of his impact that his peers recognize. His enthusiastic spirit and determination have landed him his well-deserved spot at the International Career Development Conference (ICDC). Congratulations, and we love you, Kayden,” magnet senior Katherina Sackey said.

Gallery • 5 Photos

Holly Botella

As a guiding force behind the Tribal Connections (TC) club, Williams has helped coordinate various events for the 3,000+ students within NC. Between Senior Field Day and the Senior Week Dress Up Days, his creativity shines, fueled by his love for school spirit. The above photo opportunity occurred during the middle school tours that TC organized, which Williams significantly aided in. “Kayden’s impact on TC and NC as a whole has been nothing short of remarkable. He is so willing to help and so passionate about supporting his peers that he will go the extra mile just to make sure everyone is happy. Since my sophomore year, when Kayden and I first became close, I knew that he was someone I could count on with anything, and his work and time he put into tribal connections proved that entirely. I love how involved he is not only in our school but also our community, and I could not be more proud of everything he has accomplished,” senior class president and magnet senior Isabella Alves said.

Alongside his pressing extracurricular schedule, William’s academic course load consisted of seven rigorous Advanced Placement (AP) courses over the past four years. From AP Environmental Science, AP Microeconomics and AP English Literature and Composition, Williams’ studies exposed him to an array of thoughts and ideas that challenged and intrigued him. As he intends to study political science on the pre-law track in college, his intricate knowledge of the world around him prepares him significantly to tackle issues in the courtroom. Additionally, his participation — and success — in NC’s Mock Trial team as Co-Captain only further highlights the array of opportunities that NC provides to students like Williams interested in pursuing law. 

While known for his unparalleled zeal for life, community and serving others, what motivates Williams to succeed lies in his determination to break generational curses. Understanding that pressure creates diamonds, and that success arises from struggle, he perseveres gallantly through obstacles that come his way — and still manages to support those who may need his assistance. 

Williams’ diligent dedication throughout his past four years at NC earned him his acceptance to the University of Southern California (USC), a prestigious institution that only admitted 10.4% of its 83,500 applicants for the 2025-26 school year. With options to attend the University of Michigan, the University of Washington at St. Louis, New York University or George Washington University, Williams chose USC due to the opportunities that the school provides in national intelligence and further chances for career growth. As the recipient of thousands of dollars in scholarships from various colleges, as well as one of NC’s two winners of the Cobb Schools Foundation Scholarship, Williams feels immense gratitude upon reflecting on his college journey, and hopes to embolden the next generation of NC’s students to shoot for the moon. 

“Just keep going. Things get tough, but you’re tougher. Do we sink or swim? We swim. Every single time. And no matter where life takes you, show up as your full self and inspire excellence every day. That’s how you succeed. If I could talk directly to any NC underclassmen, I would tell them to be real, be bold, and be kind. I hope students know that no matter where you come from, your story is powerful, and you never have to shrink yourself for anyone. Take up space. You belong here. Don’t change for anyone to like you — ever,” Williams said. 

The Chant wishes Williams success in all of his academic and career endeavors. Go Trojans!