by Jeremiah Hatcher
The Paducah Sun
October 8, 2024
Used with permission.
Russell Hancock, a senior at Paducah Tilghman High School and this week’s Murray State University Teen of the Week, aspires to take over his family’s business after college.
Hancock maintains a 3.5 GPA and is actively involved in various school activities and sports. His achievements include earning the rank of an Eagle Scout, participating in the Paducah Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Class 13, and participating in the Greater Youth Life program in Paducah.
He is also a kicker for the varsity football team, a member of the varsity soccer team, and works as a student ambassador.
“I attained my Eagle Scout rank in my sophomore year,” Hancock said. “Navigating the process was difficult and came with a lot of blood, sweat, and tears. However, looking back on it, I realize this honor is one of my proudest achievements.”
Hancock plans to attend the University of Mississippi to obtain a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. His parents attended the college, and he hopes to follow in their footsteps.
After college, he plans to travel to Birmingham, Alabama, where he has many connections in business.
If he decides to stay in western Kentucky, Hancock intends to take over his family’s business, Hancock Fabrics, in Paducah.
“I would be the fourth generation family business owner if I return,” Hancock said. “It’s been going for four generations before me. I just feel like I’d short my family and myself if I were to just let it go.”
He credits his mom and dad for his continuous success. He said they’ve always encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone. Hancock noted that when he ran for student council in the 2023-2024 school year, his parents were the ones who taught him how to keep going, even if it meant being comfortable with being uncomfortable.
Ross Barnes, Youth Life area director, said Hancock is unafraid to step out and use his influence for the greater good. He said Hancock is innovative, joyful, hardworking, and grounded.
Julie Price, college and scholarship coordinator at Tilghman, said Hancock is an “all in” kind of guy. Although she said he’s somewhat quiet, he is likable and possesses a wide range of interests.
“No doubt Russell will continue his ‘all in’ mentality when he gets to college and thereafter with life in general,” Price said. “He’ll continue his engagement with all of what life offers him, all while maintaining his kind, mannerly, unassuming disposition.”
Hancock had this advice for his peers: “Don’t be afraid to do the uncomfortable thing.”
“Maybe it’s speaking in public, joining a team, or promoting a new group or club. Also, there is a lot of pressure on high school students to be the best or number one in the class, president of every club, best athlete, etc. You don’t have to be all those things, you just have to work hard and put your best foot forward. Eventually, those things will come,” he said.