Glacier standout strives to help others succeed

As a first impression, people may see 18-year-old Lincoln Jones as just another top student and talented athlete at Glacier High School, but peeling away those labels reveals a leader who encourages himself and others to take on new challenges, push harder and strive for success.

“Lincoln has a genuine interest in seeing others succeed,” Glacier High School counselor Chris Weaks said.

A positive attitude is a trait Jones embodies whether in the Advanced Placement classroom, choir room, lacrosse field, hockey rink or church seat.

“I tried to pick the things that I enjoyed and then challenged myself with them,” he said about taking Advance Placement classes, but it is a sentiment that rings true in other areas of his life.

With only one “B” in high school, some people might rest on their laurels, but not Jones.

“What distinguishes Lincoln’s performance is his humble work ethic. Lincoln never has to be asked to do his best,” Weaks wrote in a letter of recommendation. “There is no pretension or pride with him. He is secure with who he is and does what is right because it is right. He has an incredible drive to learn, serve and support others without seeking attention for himself.”

These qualities likely played a role in Jones being selected as a team captain of both the lacrosse and hockey teams.

“Basically you’re running everything but practice,” Jones said, explaining what a team captain’s role is. “Team bonding is a huge deal as well. As a captain I take upon myself to make sure we’re doing things together outside of the practice and team schedule to build a family there. Keeping morale high kind of falls to the captain.”

As far as his own support network, Jones looks to his family and faith community. His family includes mother Colette, father Scott and brothers Caleb and Bridger.

A competitive streak among his brothers factors into his determinedness. During his freshman year, his older brother Caleb was a senior.

“I think a lot of the things I do, and have done, are just keeping step-in-step competing with him — a friendly competition, of course,” Jones said. “I had a blast [that year] because that meant we got to play hockey and lacrosse.”

Jones recalled getting into athletics at a young age. His father Scott encouraged him to take up hockey around age 4.

“My dad was into the hockey scene and he got us all on skates at a very young age,” Jones recalled.

He learned about lacrosse in sixth grade when a Whitefish team held an open-house event.

As a member of Easthaven Baptist Church, Jones’ faith serves as the touchstone of his life. At church, he and a friend hold men’s Bible studies. He also participates in a group for Christian athletes.

“My goal is that everything in my life can be traced back to my faith. That’s the goal — to set that example to strive to be exactly what Jesus wants us to be.”

In addition to being team captain, Jones also served as the vice president of Glacier’s choir council. He sings in concert choir and the select Glacier Echoes ensemble. He attributes his musical ability to his mother Colette.

“My mom has a big musical background with singing and piano. All my brothers and I have taken piano lessons with our mom,” he said, although he has transitioned into playing guitar.

Another big part of his life is fly fishing and backpacking, where he finds peace.

After graduation, Jones prepares for his biggest challenge yet — entering the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, where he will be for the next four years, followed by five years of service.

Jones said he wanted to join the military because he grew up with grandfathers who served in the Marines and National Guard.

While he isn’t certain what area he will study, he is leaning toward the engineering field.

“I love the math and the science classes — the physical sciences,” Jones said.

During high school, Jones hopes he’s made a difference by inspiring people to pursue what they’re passionate about, strive for self-improvement and — “mostly I hope I’ve encouraged others to dream a little bit bigger. I know it sounds a little bit cliche, but it’s what I’m going for.”

Glacier High School’s commencement ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in the gym. Approximately 237 students are expected to graduate.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.