Gage Dollar Alabama State University He fires that fastball in when he needs to and as the POP echoes from the catcher’s glove, the gun in the background reads 89 mph. He’s just 18, so with some luck and a little time in the gym, he’ll hit the mid- 90s soon. Gage Dollar knows he’ll need more to compete, however, so he’s worked hard to diversify; his onthe field arsenal includes three other pitches besides a fastball. This is how he operates every facet of his life. He’s an all-city ballplayer who has been on the varsity team since middle school and served as team captain since his sophomore year, but excelling in athletics just isn’t good enough for Dollar. He’s driven to be extraordinary in the classroom and the community as well. The stepson of Junction City Quarry Quality Assurance Supervisor Brad Melton, Dollar graduated sixth in his class of 402. He also was an active volunteer with his church, tutored 12 elementary school children in math, involved himself with countless charitable events and served in too many leadership roles to name, including chapter president of the National Honor Society. “It’s been a challenge to maintain all of this and still be a top-notch athlete, but at the end of the day, it’s paid off,” he says. “I’ve always tried to do the right thing and work hard. I hope to do the same once I get to college.” The Alabama State University freshman has big plans for his career. He’s always shown strength in math and science, so he plans to either study business or engineering. Regardless of which he chooses, he’ll aim for a graduate degree at some point. He’ll also continue to play baseball, knowing full well that he’s a student before an athlete. The ultimate goal, he says, is to position himself for a lifetime of serving others. “I have a heart for people and enjoy doing what I can to help them,” he says. “Once my career is started, I’ll look for where I can give back – whether that’s through my professional or volunteer efforts. Maybe it’ll be a mission in Africa. Maybe it’ll be something right here in my hometown. I plan to be ready.” Another priority for Dollar is family. One of several children, the teen has enjoyed being close with his parents and his siblings. Of his many volunteer activities in high school, Dollar held the chains during high school football games. Yes, the task was fun, but more importantly, it gave him a front-row seat to support his brother, Tucker Melton. “I wanted to be there for him as he develops,” Dollar says. “Family is my backbone. The decisions I’ve made so far have put me in a good place to succeed, but I don’t know that I would have made those same choices without them by my side at every turn.” ▼ 2017 Martin Marietta Scholarships Gage Dollar (left) stands with his mother, Nicole Melton, and stepfather Brad Melton. Just the Facts: Gage Dollar High School: Central High School (Phenix City, Alabama) Weighted GPA: 4.113 A Known Leader: Gage has been a leader in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes since freshman year of high school. “Friends know that no matter the situation, I will be there if they need me,” he says. 14 September/October 2017 The Conveyor | www.martinmarietta.com
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