Lea Foster Khalil
Dillon, South Carolina
Current Career
Choreographer and Teaching Assistant at Dance Dimensions, Incoming Law Student at the University of South Carolina’s Joseph F. Rice School of Law
Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself and/or your personal journey.
A. Growing up, I always had a passion for helping others, seizing every opportunity that came my way, and leaving things better than I found them. I began in high school by joining every activity I could. I participated in the International Baccalaureate program, cross-country, honor choir, Viking Theatre Workshop, and the Academic Challenge Team, which won the state championship in 2018. Additionally, I served as the Student Body Vice President of Latta High School, Percussion Captain for the marching band, Dance and Cheerleading Captain for the varsity cheer team, and a Junior Counselor for ALA Palmetto Girl’s State. Each leadership role I held pushed me out of my comfort zone and reinforced my belief that I could do anything if I put my mind to it.
Once I began school at the University of South Carolina, I hit the ground running. I took each opportunity that came my way and entwined my love for community service in every way I could. I joined Gamma Phi Beta sorority and served as the Professional Development Chairwoman, founded and led the university’s first all-inclusive competitive dance club, broke records as the Executive Director of USC’s largest community service event (The BIG Event), worked as a research assistant in an exercise science lab, and won the title of Miss Gamecock. As the Executive Director of The BIG Event, I organized a project that sent over 1,000 volunteers into Richland County to serve several nonprofits and underserved communities. All of our volunteers made a cumulative economic impact of over $120,000. Through the role of Miss Gamecock, I was able to advocate for healthcare equity around the state, speak with members of local and state government about public health in the Pee Dee, and serve the place that I call home. With the support of my dear friend and Dillon County legend, Johnnie Luehrs, I was given endless opportunities to volunteer, raise money, and connect with my community at local events.
Last year, I completed my degree in Neuroscience with a minor in Medical Humanities and Culture. I received honors for my GPA, contributions to the university, and leadership distinction in research. I am currently in my gap year before beginning law school at the University of South Carolina this fall. During this time, I am working as a Choreographer and Teaching Assistant at Dance Dimensions, along with creating plans to give back to our community.
Q. What is one of your biggest accomplishments?
A. The most fulfilling reward in my life has been being able to serve my hometown. Thanks to the support of the City of Dillon, Johnnie Luerhs, Ms. Sherrie Adams, Ms. Jodie Branham, and Latta High School, I have been able to extend my outreach more than I ever believed was possible as a student.
Q. What is the best advice you have ever received?
A. The best advice I have ever received is that I do not need to be the best version of myself today. I just need to strive to be better than I was the day before, and the rest will fall into place.
Q. Hobbies/What Do You Like To Do In Your Free Time
A. In my free time, I enjoy dancing, spending time with my dog, reading, crocheting, and learning new skills or information.
Q. What is the key to success?
A. I have found that learning how to overcome failure is the key to success. Failure helps us grow, reflect, and realize just how far we’ve come. Some of my greatest accomplishments have stemmed from overcoming obstacles and forging new paths.
