Daniel Stanley was part of the last graduating class at Lapeer East High School, graduating in 2014.

These days, he works as the rental car manager at Jim Riehl’s Friendly CDJR of Lapeer, in addition to being an active member of Gateway Assembly in Imlay City.

Looking back, Stanley says his time at Lapeer Community Schools, which also included time at Cramton, Turrill and Zemmer, taught him many life lessons that he still uses today.

"Lapeer Community Schools shaped me into the person I am today by the classes I took that gave me practical skills (personal money management, ethics) and with band and choir, how to work as a team for a common goal," said Stanley. "I'll always remember the East vs. West rivalry and annual football game. It was always crazy. To see the whole town rally for that game was something special."

Stanley also recognized a handful of teachers he had that were major influences on him during school.

"Definitely Liz Foster, Cheryl Burnside, Lyniece Fenner, Sommer Schons and Cheryl Butterfield," Stanley said. "Our fourth grade trip (with Foster) to the UP is one of my fondest memories. (Burnside) taught me so much about vocals in choir that I still use and remember. (Fenner) taught me to be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, and to be late is unacceptable, and (Schons and Butterfield) had insane school spirit that I loved."

In addition to band and choir, Stanley was also involved with National Honor Society, Class Council, Student Council, Boy Scouts Troop 144 and New Hope Youth Group.

"They all shaped me into the man I am now," said Stanley.

After graduation, Stanley was part of the Mott Community College Class of 2017 and Ferris State University Class of 2020.

Now, he's back in Lapeer working for a dynamic and reputable employer and enjoying life.

Stanley offers words of advice to current LCS students as well.

"Focus and study hard, but also enjoy the time you have with one another," said Stanley. "Those memories will be with you for many years to come. And don’t believe everything you’re told. Dig in and learn it for yourself. Know what you believe and why you believe it."

Do you want to be featured in our ongoing series on Lapeer alumni? Click HERE to submit your information!