BUNKER HILL, Ind. – Maconaquah Elementary School staff members spent the first day of their summer vacation to gain inspiration. The staff heard from Damen Lopez, the founder of No Excuses University (NEU). NEU network includes like-minded schools that strive to instill the idea of college attainment in the mindset of its students. Principal Kelly McPike said discussions including college, career, and outstanding character are a result of the NEU philosophy at Maconaquah Elementary. She said these conversations have permeated with their students. McPike added that one of the quotes that impacted her from Lopez’s visit was, “Every child was born to do something great.” Lopez said each NEU school contributes the best practices to help other schools in the network, and Maconaquah Elementary is becoming a veteran member of NEU. He added that he looks forward to what they contribute in the next few years and that he expects to see the school focus on creating teacher and student leaders within their building.