By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

As a child, Lauren Potter always wanted to be a cheerleader.  The 23-year-old said she even tried-out for her school’s team as a junior high student in California.

The coach said “no.”  In fact, the coach not only said no, she threatened to quit her job before she allowed someone with a disability to join her team.

Potter, who has Down syndrome, does not know where the junior high school coach is now. But Potter? She went on to become a cast member of one of the country’s most popular TV shows —  and an acclaimed activist and White House adviser.

Potter plays the role of Becky Jackson, a cheerleader  on the popular sitcom “Glee.” In a presentation at Fort Hays State University on Wednesday, Lauren said she gets recognized all the time, but her favorite part about being a cast member on “Glee” has nothing to do with fame.

“(Glee) has given me a voice about bullying,  I now have a chance to speak up for other people,” said Potter.

Potter said she was bullied in school and even pushed down to the ground a few times. She asked the crowd to take part in preventing bullying.

“Try not to hurt others with your actions. Find your voice and and be whatever you want to be,” Potter encouraged.

While video was not allowed at the presentation, Hays Post did get a chance to speak to Lauren after the presentation and to others who received her message loud and clear.

Potter is a supporter of the international organization, “Best Buddies.”  The organization is all about support and friendship for children with disabilities. For more information, visit  bestbuddies.org.