To the graduating class of 2025, here’s a story that may sound similar to yours. As Cullman High School senior Max Townson prepares to graduate on May 23, he and his family reflect and express gratitude for all the years of growth, learning and experience. Students and parents feel whirlwinds of excitement, pride, celebration, moments of sadness and overwhelming hope for the next chapter in their lives.
For Townson, his next phase in life will focus on what shaped him into the person he is today: music.
Since sixth grade, Townson has been a Cullman Bearcat Band program member. From Beginner Band to Marching Band, Jazz Band and Symphonic Band, music became more than just a hobby for him.
“Most of what I’ve done in high school has involved music,” Townson shared. “It’s such a big part of who I am.”
His biggest influence throughout his high school experience was his assistant band director, Doug Teuscher.
“Every day, I aspire to be more like him,” said Townson.
Teuscher has helped him grow his skills as a musician, creating a lasting impact that will stay with Townson for the rest of his life.
“He’s seen me grow from a sixth grader who had never touched an instrument to someone who can now play drums, marimbas, piano and guitar,” he said. “I will never take any credit for my success without thanking my teacher, Doug Teuscher, who has worked with me in percussion since the beginning.”
Townson said his most significant accomplishment was learning to be a good leader, not a performance or a music competition. He hopes he leaves behind a good legacy that inspires others to be respectful to all and confident in themselves.
“My most proud accomplishment is learning how to be a better leader for those around me; even if being a leader is as small as just performing a task and another person just observing, it’s comforting to know I can lead just by example,” he said.
Looking to next year’s seniors, Townson offered advice that helped him through his time at Cullman High.
“Try your hardest in what matters. Don’t get caught up in the dumb stuff,” he said. “And most importantly, don’t take everything so seriously. You’ll find the good moments if you’re looking for them.”
Graduation is exciting for students and parents alike. Townson’s family shared their message to parents of graduating seniors.
“We’ve tried to be there for Max, but we’ve also let him figure things out. Today’s students carry so much pressure. Sometimes, just being there is enough,” they shared.
Townson’s parents Matt and Melanie Townson, expressed excitement and sentimentality as they watch their son reach this milestone.
“We, of course, have some sadness. But we are really excited and proud, as well. We are thankful to be able to see him move on to the next phase of his life,” they said.
Townson has grown significantly throughout high school, especially in music, which has been a defining element of his high school experience.
“He has matured and has been getting more involved with what he loves to do, playing music,” they said, crediting CHS Band Directors Teuscher and Christopher Smith for nurturing that passion. “We have enjoyed the marching band halftime shows, band competitions and concerts. Most of all, we will miss the Jazz Band shows,” they said. Their proudest moments aren’t just tied to his accomplishments, but his willingness to take chances and persist through challenges. “He is not afraid to try something new despite the challenges, and that’s what we are most proud of. Everyone who knows Max knows he is determined, genuine, fair and kindhearted. He is also very trusting and loyal. We pray that he shares his story and Jesus with others.”
Townson plans to study the music industry and production at Wallace State Community College. He’s excited about having the freedom to choose what comes next and is determined to live without regrets.
“In 10 years I see myself as, hopefully, someone who regrets nothing; I hope to choose everything I do with care and understand every situation as necessary in the form of a learning experience or an opportunity for change or growth,” he said.
Townson kept it honest and heartfelt when asked how he wants to be remembered, saying, “I hope my teachers and classmates will remember me as someone who tried. Someone who was passionate and had cared for what they believed in.”
When asked if he would go back and change anything about his experience, he replied, “I would change nothing; I believe everything happens for a reason, and what you do with that reason determines what your purpose is on this floating rock in space. You’ll only get to do this once — so make it count.”
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