Dee Fleming – A Man of Integrity – The Exponential Factor

Update since the original post:
I have now graduated from the North Delta Training Academy and am working in the Patrol Division of the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office. In the academy, I graduated as the Vice President of Class 141, which consisted of collaborating with other officers and instructors to make executive decisions throughout our time.

I also started my own business, known as First Response Fitness, LLC. First Response Fitness offers personal (1 on 1 and Group Training), Speed and Agility, Pre-Academy Fitness Training, Programmed Workouts/Plans, and Online Training. I also have multiple clients who are first responders throughout Lincoln Parish and enjoy working to better the people of our community. See new photos at the end!!

Which Tenet of Tech means the most to you and why?
Integrity is the tenant that means the most to me. I feel that having integrity not only influences you to make the right decisions and be a positive influence on people, but to also be true to yourself and morals that you value. Integrity is what wakes me up in the morning and keeps me going.

Background
Hometown: Natchez, Mississippi
High School: Cathedral High School
Activities Involved In/Awards Received: Football (Team Captain), Senior Class Representative, Science Olympiad, Peer Ministry, Biomedical Research Unit. CARE Award Recipient- Concern for Learning, Attention to Others, Responsibility, Enthusiasm

What career path have you chosen and why?
Kinesiology and Health Sciences is what I decided to major in to pursue a career. I have always been interested in learning about what goes on in the human body and why. The best way to promote a healthier lifestyle is to learn about it, live it, and teach it.

Why did you choose Tech?
I felt at home the first time I stepped foot on Louisiana Tech’s campus. While it is a beautiful campus, the students and faculty make it much more appealing. Having that family atmosphere made all the difference in the world. I never questioned making Louisiana Tech my new home.

Why did you choose Kinesiology?
The kinesiology department welcomed me with open arms from day one. Talking to the instructors and students of the kinesiology department, you can feel the passion of wanting to make the world a better place. You form relationships with people that want the best for you, no matter what career path you choose to pursue. My mother became at ease when she realized that even away from home, I still have people that care and ensure that I am surrounded by positivity.

What things do you like best about the department?
I can honestly say that Tech’s Kinesiology department will teach you in other ways besides just reading a book. The department gives you an opportunity to participate in hands-on activities and even conduct lab studies. This not only makes the learning experience more fun, but it allows you to take initiative and realize that you are capable of so many things.

What collegiate activities are you involved in?
I was involved in Louisiana Tech Football and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).

What community activities have you been involved in?
I have been involved in the Tim Tebow’s Foundation “A Night to Shine”, Louisiana Tech’s Special Olympics, and I am a volunteer firefighter for the Lincoln Parish Fire Department.

What are the top 2 best experiences you have had in Ruston?
The top 2 experiences I’ve had in Ruston were: Enjoying the fun and atmosphere of game days as a college athlete, being a part of something much greater than myself. The other experience I really enjoyed was being a part of the Special Olympics, seeing the smiles on many faces and having a full heart.

If not from Ruston, how do you feel about the community?
I have enjoyed living in Ruston, Louisiana the past few years. One experience that made me realize how much I truly love this place was the night of the tornado. That night, many of us responded to numerous emergency response notifications, not aware of the significant damage we’d face. Driving in Ruston, I was in disbelief of the destruction that had occurred through the night. I saw homes and businesses destroyed, vehicles severely damaged, and people lost for words. Aside from the destruction and chaos, I witnessed a community come together for each other and the greater good. I saw people thinking about others and their well-being, not just themselves. I saw people collaborate and take on tasks that they didn’t necessarily have to. Most importantly, I saw the beauty of Ruston, Louisiana and its people.

What are some of your favorite educational experiences, classes you have had?
KINE 425 – This practicum provided me with an opportunity to apply knowledge from previous courses to hands on experiences. I got the opportunity to lead a water aerobics and chair exercise class, both geared towards promoting health of senior adults. I not only learned about proper exercises and techniques, but also about the participants of the class. Each and every person has a story, a passion, and a life that they have been so grateful for. The more I got to know each individual, the more inspired I became to be all I could be.

What is your graduation date? What are your future plans?
November 16, 2019. I have accepted a job in Law Enforcement in Lincoln Parish. I plan to serve this amazing community and be of support to the residents of it. I would also love to implement my degree by informing and training individuals and first responders about the importance of health and fitness.

What advice do you have for our freshmen?
Enjoy the experience and embrace the opportunity to become a better you. Don’t try to move too fast, because one day you’ll wish that you could slow the time down. Don’t be afraid to reach out and communicate to others outside of your comfort zone. Most importantly just be proud of who you are and be grateful for the opportunity to attend Louisiana Tech University.

What would you say to a high school senior trying to decide where to attend college to influence them to come to Tech?
I would tell a high school senior that I was once in his or her shoes. I was confused and nervous about the decision I was bound to make. I would also tell that senior that I am 100% grateful that I made the decision to attend Louisiana Tech. I not only received an education from here, but I’ve also made a family. I also made a new home. In the midst of it all, I’d tell a high school senior that I am PROUD to be a Louisiana Tech Bulldog!

Since graduation, Dee has accepted a job with a law enforcement agency here in Ruston and is attending the Police Academy in Monroe.

Lincoln Parish Fire Department