Bode Shahan

Bode Shahan, an 18-yearold student at Madill High School, is a young individual with a clear vision for his future. Born to Michelle Chapman and Raymond Shahan, with step-parents LaceyShahanandIanChapman, he said he comes from a blended family that provides him with love and support. His grandparents are Barbara and Larry Burns and he said they play a significant role in his life.

Shahan has a large and diverse family, including siblings Austin, Bre, Justin, and Ryan Shahan, as well as step-siblings Luke and Lane Chapman, and Isaiah and Riley Sullivan. This network of siblings and step-siblings created a bond and camaraderie that has shaped Bode’s character and motivated him to strive for greatness.

The Madill School system has been Shahan’s educational home for his entire life, providing him with a sense of familiarity and community. Throughout his time at Madill, Shahan found his passion in sports, specifically track and field. He said his favorite memoryinsportsdates back to his junior year when his 4x4 relay team defied expectations. Starting the conference unranked, they managed to shave off an impressive seven seconds from their time and ultimately medaled at the state level.

When it comes to inspiration, Shahan said he looks up tohisbrotherRyan.Throughout their lives, Shahan has always strived to surpass his older brother in various endeavors, pushing himself to reach new heights.

Shahan said his ultimate inspiration in life comes from his faith in God. The belief in a higher power provides him with strength, guidance, and a sense of purpose. He finds solace and inspiration in his spiritual connection, allowing him to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

Expressing his gratitude, Shahan extended a heartfelt thank you to his coach. Despite facing difficult times and seemingly insurmountable odds, his coach never gave up on the team. The coach’s unwavering belief in their abilities and relentless push for improvement instilled a sense of resilience anddeterminationinShahan and his teammates. He said they learned that success is achievable through hard work and perseverance, even in the face of adversity.

Shahan also expressed his appreciation to his parents. His father’s constant encouragement and push for excellence have motivated Shahan to reach for his goals. He acknowledged his mother’s role in ensuring his well-being, recounting a time when she insisted on seeking medical attention for a fractured heel, preventing further harm. Shahan said he recognizes the importance of their unwavering support and guidance throughout his journey.

Looking ahead to the future, Shahan has set his sights on becoming a nurse anesthetist and owning his own business.

When offering advice to his younger peers, Shahan emphasized the importance of prioritizing education above all else. While sports and extracurricular activities hold significant value, he said he recognizes that they will become cherished memories in the years to come. He urged younger students to focus on their education, as it has the potential to shape their future and open doors to endless opportunities.