When you meet Corban McDaniel, you know right away there’s something different about him.
He’s the kind of person who walks into a room and instantly changes the energy – and always for the better. Whether it’s a classroom, a football field, or just hanging out with friends, Corban’s genuine spirit stands out.
One of the things people admire most about Corban is how real he is.
He’s never tried to be anything other than himself.
His friends say he’s been that way since they met him, and it’s what makes people feel comfortable around him.
“I just try to be that one friend for everybody,” Corban said. “Even if I meet someone once, I’ll dap them up later. I want people to feel seen.”
His teachers notice it too the way he smiles when he walks into class, the way he sets the tone for a positive, supportive environment where everyone feels safe to speak up and be themselves.
Corban’s impact goes beyond just making people feel good. He’s a leader, not by yelling or demanding attention, but by quietly setting an example.
“Whether it’s giving 100% on the football field, helping classmates with projects, or just offering a fist bump and a “thank you” at the end of every class, Corban leads with actions, not just words,” said English educator Luke Durney.
Mr. Durney also stated that “if you asked any educator what kind of student they want in their class, Corban would be at the top of the list.’’
His friends have countless memories with him from playing youth football when he first moved from Texas to big games in high school where he made game-changing plays. But what stands out more than any single moment is the consistency of who Corban is every day: loyal, uplifting, and always genuine.
“In a world where it’s easy to follow the crowd, Corban is the rare kind of person who inspires others just by being himself,” said English educator J. Mike Blake.
He makes people feel seen, feel valued, and feel ready to be the best version of themselves. That’s why no matter where he goes, Corban isn’t just liked, he’s loved.
Corban’s leadership extends past the field and the classroom.
“People trust him not just because he’s nice, but because he’s dependable,” Coach Drew said. “If he says he’ll do something, he’ll show up and do it and if he can’t, he’ll go down trying.”
He holds himself to a high standard, and that makes others around him want to do the same. His quiet confidence motivates people without pressure.
It’s not forced, it’s just natural and that’s rare.
Teammate and friend Kendall Scotton described Corban “as the type of guy who will dap you up when you’re having a bad day and make you feel like everything’s going to be all right.”
Scotton also said that “even if you haven’t talked to him in a while, he makes you feel like no time has passed. That’s just who he is, someone who builds people up and never tears anyone down.”
Whether it’s in the hallway, on the field, in class, or just in everyday life, Corban has a presence that leaves a mark. Years from now, the people who know him today will still remember how he made them feel supported, seen, and encouraged.
Not everyone has that effect, but Corban does. And that’s what makes him the heart of every room he enters.
Corban is more than just a student at Gibbons, he’s a source of positivity and energy for everyone around him.
From winning championships to offering a simple smile in the hallway, Corban has made his mark on the school in ways both big and small.
When asked about his favorite part of being at Gibbons, Corban didn’t hesitate.
“My favorite thing about Gibbons has been the community,” he said. “I feel like I could always belong in this community and with my friends like Chris Pinder, Kendall, all them. I love the community, the big community and the small community, too.”
Corban tries to lead by example, but he also brings a personal touch to everything he does. Whether it’s a quick handshake in the hallway or a word of encouragement, he wants others to feel seen.
“I always try to keep a positive attitude,” he explained. “Dapping up people in the hallway, no matter who they are. Even if I meet someone once, I try to dap them up later just try to be that one friend for everybody,” he said.
“I try to lead by example, but I also try to push others to not be in any gray area, just be black and white. Either do this or don’t. Keep going.”
His leadership style is all about honesty and pushing others to do their best.
Corban’s spirit is proof that leadership isn’t always about titles or positions, it’s about showing up for people, building real connections, and creating a place where everyone feels like they belong.
