Senior Grady Mullica is heading to Florida this fall, where he will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach. Already a licensed pilot of single-engine planes, Mullica would like to become a commercial pilot. 

His interest in flying came about after talking with a friend’s father who is a pilot for United Airlines. Mullica began his training in April 2022, and recently completed 70 hours of training, 30 more than the required 40; he took his lessons at the Oakland County Airport in Waterford Township. 

Mullica, who will graduate magna cum laude, has taken Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes during his four years at DLS. His AP courses include U.S. History, American Government, Computer Science, and Calculus AB. He is also enrolled in the Studio Art class.

Mullica played soccer all four years, and DLS Varsity Soccer Coach Mr. Thaier Mukhtar has high praise for Mullica.

“Grady was a competitive young man who worked hard to make himself a starting goalie as a senior leading his team to the Regionals,” Mukhtar said. “Nothing came easy for him. He worked hard to force the coaches to put him on varsity and continued to push himself to become a starter. He was a good leader and role model.” 

In addition to soccer, Mullica joined the DLS Ski and Snowboard Club and was part of the group’s annual trip to upper Michigan each February. He was also involved in the DLS Sportsmen’s Club under the direction of Mr. Mike Jolly and enjoyed the trap and skeet aspects of that group. 

Mullica says his favorite teacher is Mr. Jim Singelyn, and his favorite class has been Studio Art. “I took Studio Art for fun,” Mullica said. “And I really enjoyed it. I like hanging out in the Art Room.”

He attended St. Thecla Grade School (Clinton Township), and came to De La Salle as his brother Gavin was already at DLS. Gavin, Class of 2021, is now attending the University of Detroit Mercy, studying pre-law.

Mullica says his favorite memory of his time at DLS will be hanging out with his friends.

He lives in Harrison Township with his parents Scott and Carrie; the family attends Mass at St. Thecla.