Memorial High School cheerleader Dani Willis isn’t one to sit around idly.

Besides the many hours required for cheerleading she’s also a member of The National Society of High School Scholars, earned All American Cheerleader at camp this year, is a top student in the school’s cosmetology program and member of the National Technical Honor Society, spent time with residents at nursing homes and last year went to state competition in powerlifting.

Her leadership skills are marked by cheer sponsor Sharon Kincade and by Margaret Norton, cosmetology instructor.

“She is a responsible, reliable young lady,” Norton said in a recommendation letter for Willis. “It is refreshing to see her take charge and not have to worry about negative consequences. Dani has a pleasant attitude and her clients love her work ethic here at Stilwell Technical Center.”

Norton goes on to call Willis an outstanding student with many great qualities.

With wide, bright smile, spoke about why she enjoys cheerleading.

“I like motivating the football players or any sports players, getting the crowd pumped up and excited about the game,” Willis said.

Willis began cheerleading at a young age for the Port Arthur Pop Warner Cowboys team and continued in middle school then high school.

When she’s not in school she works with Ivy League, sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha where she participates in community service and works towards her future and she enjoys crocheting.

Kincade said Willis is her ‘go to girl’ that is very grounded and does what is needed.

“Dani is a very vibrant, exciting person and all around very dependable which is what makes her a good leader,” Kincade said.

The high school senior is undecided about which Houston area college she plans to attend but wants to major in sports medicine.

Willis is the daughter of Samantha Briscoe and Danny Willis. Briscoe is proud of her daughter’s accomplishments.

“This young lady is going places,” Briscoe said.

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