Darren Poindexter
When Darren Poindexter walked the halls of Louisa County High School as a student, he dreamed of one day making a career out of music. Today, that dream has become a reality in spectacular fashion.
A 2012 graduate of Louisa County Public Schools, Poindexter has emerged as one of the region’s most successful young musicians, performing as the touring drummer for chart-topping artist Shaboozey and appearing on some of the nation’s biggest stages. His journey from rural Virginia to national television serves as a powerful reminder of the opportunities that public education can help create.
Poindexter’s love for music began early. He started singing at age seven, learned the trumpet during his school years, and taught himself to play drums at age twelve. Throughout his time at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, Louisa Middle School, and Louisa County High School, he continued to refine his talents while building the discipline and work ethic that would later defi ne his career.
While attending Louisa County High School, Darren discovered Berklee College of Music and realized that a career in music was possible. That realization inspired him to pursue his passion with even greater determination. After graduating from Louisa County High School, he enrolled at Berklee, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree and immersed himself in performance opportunities that helped launch his professional career.
Following college, Poindexter spent years performing with wedding bands and local artists while continuing to build his reputation as a versatile and highly skilled drummer. His dedication eventually opened doors to larger opportunities, including work with acclaimed artists such as Forrest Frank before ultimately joining the touring band for Shaboozey.
The opportunity placed Darren in the spotlight during one of the biggest years in modern music. Shaboozey’s hit single, “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” became a cultural phenomenon, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for 19 weeks and reaching audiences around the globe. As the band’s drummer, Poindexter found himself performing for sold-out crowds across the country and appearing on NBC’s Saturday Night Live in December 2024.
Despite his success, Darren remains grounded in the values he learned growing up in Louisa County. He often speaks about the importance of joy, preparation, and continuous learning. His journey demonstrates that talent alone is not enough; success requires perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to embrace every opportunity.
For current LCPS students, Darren’s story offers a powerful lesson: no dream is too big. Whether in a classroom, rehearsal room, or on a national stage, the skills developed through public education can open doors to incredible possibilities.
Louisa County Public Schools is proud to celebrate Darren Poindexter—a talented musician, dedicated professional, and outstanding example of what it means to be a Product of Public Education.
Kerry Wynn
For many football fans, Kerry Wynn is known for his accomplishments on the gridiron.
A 2009 graduate of Louisa County High School, Wynn helped lead the Lions to multiple district championships before earning a football scholarship to University of Richmond. His hard work and determination eventually carried him all the way to the National Football League, where he spent six seasons as a defensive lineman with the New York Giants and Cincinnati Bengals. During his NFL career, Wynn appeared in 65 games and recorded 143 tackles while establishing himself as a respected teammate and professional.
Yet, for those who know him best, football is only part of the story. In Louisa County, Kerry Wynn is known for something far more important: his commitment to giving back.
Since 2019, Wynn has returned to his hometown each February to lead and support the LCPS Black History Month Trivia Contest, an event that has become a cherished tradition across the division. Open to fifth-grade students from each of Louisa County’s elementary schools, the competition challenges participants to learn about the achievements, contributions, and history of African Americans who have helped shape our nation and world.
The contest holds special significance for Wynn. As a fifth-grade student himself, he participated in a similar Black History Month trivia competition. Years later, after reaching the NFL, he wanted to ensure that future generations of Louisa students had the same opportunity to learn, compete, and grow.
“Being able to learn and compete in something is a twist for the kids,” Wynn told CBS 6 News in 2021. “Being able to learn something they didn’t know before is what it’s all about.”
Each year, Wynn goes above and beyond to make the experience memorable. He visits all four elementary schools to meet with finalists, encourages students to pursue their goals, presents participants with autographed footballs, poses for photos, and personally attends the division championship competition.
His impact extends far beyond a single event.
Through his Why Not Me Foundation, Wynn established a scholarship program to support students in his hometown community. Since 2019, he has annually provided a $2,500 scholarship to a graduating senior at Louisa County High School who exemplifies the qualities he values most: character, perseverance, positivity, support for others, and determination. The foundation was created with a simple but powerful message—encouraging students to believe that success is possible for them, regardless of their circumstances.
Wynn’s passion for education and student success stems in part from the educators who helped shape his own journey.
One of the most influential people in his life was Mary Robinson, the longtime instructional assistant at Jouett Elementary School. Now in her 53rd year of service to Louisa County Public Schools, Robinson played a pivotal role in encouraging and supporting Wynn during his childhood. Every year when he returns to Louisa, Wynn makes it a priority to visit Ms. Robinson, a testament to the lasting impact that great educators can have on the lives of their students.
Those who know Wynn understand that his success was never simply about athletic ability. Long before NFL stadiums and Sunday afternoons, he developed the habits of discipline, perseverance, and hard work right here in Louisa County. Under the leadership of legendary head football coach Mark Fischer, Wynn emerged as one of the area’s top athletes, earning all-district and all-region honors while helping build one of the most successful eras in Louisa football history. He later became a standout defensive lineman at the University of Richmond, where he earned All-CAA recognition before signing with the New York Giants in 2014.
Today, Wynn has built a successful professional career beyond football, but he has never forgotten where he came from.
In a world where many accomplished athletes move on from their hometowns, Kerry Wynn continues to invest his time, resources, and energy into the community that helped shape him. Whether he’s inspiring elementary students through Black History Month, supporting graduating seniors through scholarships, or simply returning home to thank the educators who impacted his life, he demonstrates what it truly means to give back.
As Superintendent Doug Straley once said, “Kerry’s a great football player, but far more important, Kerry’s a great person.”
That sentiment perfectly captures why Kerry Wynn remains one of Louisa County’s most respected alumni. His accomplishments on the football fi eld are impressive, but his commitment to serving others is what truly makes him a hometown hero.
Louisa County is proud to call Kerry Wynn one of its own.