A student deemed “the definition of determination” was awarded a set of wheels by syndicated morning radio host Rickey Smiley. Graduating high school student Corey Patrick has become a viral sensation with his story of taking a crosstown bus every morning at 4 to complete his high school education. The payoff: a brand new Jeep.
The student’s story gained traction when a bus driver posted a pic on social media of graduating student Patrick in Birmingham, AL. As a result, Patrick was invited to guest on “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show”—based in his hometown—where the host said, “We want to thank you Corey, for showing us the definition of determination”—and then told him he needed to get a driver’s license. With the assistance of University Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Anniston, AL; R&B hitmaker Tyrese; and SummitMedia rhythmic “95.7 Jamz” WBHJ Birmingham, Smiley then handed Patrick the keys to a new car.
Smiley said over the air, “You inspire so many people. You inspire me to do better.” He referenced the fact that Patrick woke up at 4am to catch a bus in the 5am hour to get to school at Tarrant High School in Tarrant, AL. The interview, video and pictures are gaining more traction on Smiley’s website and social media—and have also been covered nationally on NBC’s “Today” show, CNN, People and more.
“The Rickey Smiley Morning Show” is heard weekdays nationally on nearly 60 radio stations. It is syndicated by Reach Media.
Source: Inside Radio
