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Winners Of The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 Announced!

2023 has been a fantastic year for The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC).

Celebrating the Commonwealth Year of Youth, the theme, 'A Youth-Powered Commonwealth,’ asked QCEC entrants to explore the power young people hold within the global community and to consider how this power can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

In the 140th year of this competition, the world’s oldest international writing competition for schools, we were delighted to receive a record-breaking 34,924 entries , an increase of almost 9,000 entries on the previous year, and from 50 Commonwealth countries, the most in the history of the competition!

This year’s top participating countries included Bangladesh, Ghana, India, Malaysia, the Maldives, Nigeria, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom.

In this special year, we are delighted to announce the winners of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition:

• Senior Winner: Miss Siddhi Deshmukh aged 17 from Mumbai, India for her piece titled, ‘An Angel that Burns’.
• Junior Winner: Miss Shreeya Sahi aged 12 from Panchkula, India for her entry titled, ‘Dear Little Prince’.
• Senior Runner-up: Miss Yong Sin Kong aged 15 from Kluang, Malaysia for her entry titled, ‘Observations made at a Local Kopitam, 13th of March, 2023’.
• Junior Runner-up: Miss Mitali Ragtah aged 11 from New Delhi, India for her piece titled, ‘Water Girl of India’.

We look forward to meeting these talented young writers in London next month for Winners Week and to celebrating their writing during a special Award Ceremony at Buckingham Palace hosted by Her Majesty Queen Camilla!

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The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023

We are delighted to share that the 2023 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is open to entries for writers aged under 18, who are nationals or residents of all Commonwealth countries and territories, as well as residents of Hong Kong, Ireland, and Zimbabwe.

The competition asks entrants to explore the power young people hold within the global community and consider how this power can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

• Top prize : the top two winners from each category will be awarded with a trip to London for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special awards ceremony at a royal palace.
• Awards : All successful entries will receive a certificate of participation and a number of entrants will receive Gold, Silver and Bronze awards for excellence in writing.

For full details, please refer here .

Enquiries about submissions should be directed to the Royal Commonwealth Society, please always refer to their website for complete details and information. 

Please note, this prize is run by the Royal Commonwealth Society, not the Commonwealth Foundation.

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Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition winners meet Camilla and visit the Evening Standard

The Queen praised "brilliant" young writers as they visited Buckingham Palace - after first taking a tour of the Evening Standard offices.

Camilla met the winners and runners-up of the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay competition on Thursday, saying the 140-year-old contest, had brought "communities across the Commonwealth closer together".

This year's participants in the world's oldest international writing competition for schools, aged between 11 and 17 from India and Malaysia, were asked to write on the subject of "a youth-powered Commonwealth".

Extracts from the winners' essays were read out at the palace by literary figures and actors including Dame Joanna Lumley, Sir Ben Okri and Sanjeev Bhaskar.

During her speech, avid reader Camilla described how Queen Victoria was also a "passionate lover of literature".

"She was particularly fond of the works of many authors, including Jane Austen, Lord Tennyson, Charles Dickens, Charlotte Bronte and Lewis Carroll.

"Legend has it that, having admired Alice In Wonderland, the Queen wrote to Lewis Carroll to request first editions of any of his other books.

"By return of post she received a copy of his Syllabus Of Plane Algebraic Geometry. Probably not what she was after," the Queen said.

Praising the entrants, Camilla said: "Well done to each and every one of you, you are quite brilliant and I have, as ever, enormously enjoyed reading your entries."

Senior winner Siddhi Deshmukh, 17, from Mumbai, and junior winner Shreeya Sahi, 12, from Panchkula in India, visited the Standard newsroom on Wednesday alongside runner ups Yon Sin Kong,15, from Johor in Malaysia and Mitali Ragtah, 11, from New Delhi.

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They took a tour of the Standard led by editor emeritus Doug Wills, who also gave them a walk through the newspaper’s history, and they joined a journalist workshop where they spoke about their entries.

Senior winner Siddhi, 17, explained how her poem, 'An Angel That Burns', was inspired by a Joan of Arc painting depicting Joan burnt at the stake, saying "I connected that with other wars and how other children have been affected by them. As for the language in my poem, I was inspired by Browning and Tennyson who I have learnt about in literature lessons, but I'm still trying to figure out my own style..."

She added: "My school made me realise this competition was a big deal and celebrated it after the news was revealed to me across Zoom."

Her father Sachin Deshmukh remarked that her accomplishments were "out of this world, not just for us but for the state we belong to and our country ( India )."

Junior winner Shreeya, who toys with the idea of becoming a food critic one day, wrote her piece on The Little Prince after reading the book several times. She spent four laborious days on her ode to the character that has inspired her. She said: “And just like that it clicked. I found my hero.”

Shreeya said she was "pretty excited" to meet the Queen, saying "it’s kind of unbelievable."

Inspired by the everyday life of the people around her, 15-year-old Yong Sin Kong wrote her piece, ‘Observations made at a Local Kopitiam' on observing the people in her hometown.

She said: “It's mostly just a mixture of my experiences in my hometown and exploring my culture.”

She said it “still feels like a dream,” even after two months of finding out she had been selected as senior runner up of the competition.

She spoke of actress Michelle Yeoh , a fellow Malaysian who she admires and her favourite film, The French Dispatch by Wes Anderson, which she said has inspired the structure of her piece and encouraged her to consider a future career in journalism. The visit to the Standard was one of several this week for the group who also managed to tour Bloomsbury, the House of Commons where they watched a debate in the Houses of the Parliament, and the Royal Shakespeare company. Their time in London been described as "exciting" with various trips they hope will inspire their futures as potential writers of fiction and journalists.

Winning entries can be read here .

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Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is the world’s oldest schools’ international writing competition, managed by The Royal Commonwealth Society since 1883. Every year, it offers all Commonwealth youth aged 18 and under the opportunity to express their hopes for the future, opinions of the present, and thoughts on the past through the written word. The competition is used by individuals and teachers to build confidence, develop writing skills, support creativity and encourage critical thinking, using literacy to empower young people to become global citizens.

All entrants receive a Certificate of Participation and one Winner and Runner-up from both the Senior and Junior categories will be invited to attend Winners' Week. Past winners include author Elspeth Huxley, Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Mei Fong, and the Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong.

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Two Singaporeans receive The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition awards in Buckingham Palace

LONDON - Gauri Kumar, 14, lived in London for three years until she moved home to Singapore last year.

While she was here, she had only seen Buckingham Palace from the outside. On Wednesday (Oct 26), she and fellow Singaporean Tan Wan Gee, 14, were escorted into the palace, put through a rehearsal and taught how to curtsy.

It was to get them ready to meet Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall.

The Duchess was presenting certificates to the two teenagers: Gauri came in tops in the junior category of The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition, while Wan Gee was the runner-up. The senior category was won by Inessa Rajah from South Africa and the runner-up was Esther Mungalaba from Zambia.

They beat 13,500 others from nearly all the Commonwealth countries, earning themselves a "Winners Week" in London which includes cultural and educational activities such as visits to Cambridge University, Houses of Parliament, The London Evening Standard newspaper, British Library and an award ceremony in Buckingham Palace.

Gauri said she was "extremely nervous" about the royal experience. "I haven't processed it yet. Hopefully, I'll be able to understand in a few days. But I'm still really confused about what's been happening," she said after receiving her award from the Duchess.

Wan Gee described the Duchess as "incredibly nice". She had asked the girls about the inspiration behind their winning essays, which had to reflect on the theme of the competition: An Inclusive Commonwealth.

Founded in 1883, The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition is the world's oldest international schools writing competition. This year drew the most number of entries. Singapore alone sent in 4,585 entries - more than any other country.

The last Singaporean winner was Selina Xu from Nanyang Girls High School, who was senior runner-up in 2014.

The entries were judged by a pan-Commonwealth body of judges from more than 30 countries, who have described the entries as "inspirational", "imaginative" and "moving".

For her winning essay "Tales Of An Insider/Outsider", Gauri, who attends Tanglin Trust School, wrote about her experience of feeling disconnected from her relatives and culture because she does not speak Hindi well.

Wan Gee, who is studying in Temasek Junior College, wrote a poem "Are We Really So Different? Dear Santa", in which she advocated the importance of equality.

The two are voracious readers, with Gauri enjoying dystopian novels and authors like J K Rowling and George Orwell, and Wan Gee finding inspiration in Charles Bukowski and Sylvia Plath.

"There's something about their poetry that resonates with me," said Wan Gee, who confessed to hating poetry before she took a module in school last year.

"I bought a book by Charles Bukowski the other day. It's the way he makes something very ordinary feel very relatable. I really like that kind of expression."

Mr Michael Lake, director of the Royal Commonwealth Society, which organises the competition, said the four winners represent the "very best and brightest that the Commonwealth has to offer".

"Their essays and poems explore contemporary themes with maturity, intelligence and depth beyond their years."

About 70 guests were at the ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday to celebrate the young writers' achievements. They included Mr Chia Wei Wen, Deputy High Commissioner for Singapore, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster Abbey and Ms Helle Thorning-Schmidt, former prime minister of Denmark and now CEO of Save the Children International.

Watching on proudly were Gauri's parents and younger sister, and Wan Gee's mother.

The girls are only too aware that when they go back to Singapore, their friends will ask them if they met the Queen. They had words of encouragement for aspiring young writers who might now be inspired to join the competition.

"There's no harm in entering the competition and if you do well, that's the most amazing thing," said Gauri.

Added Wan Gee: "Never give up on your writing. You never know where it'll take you, for example, here."

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Three northern region students top 2023 national essay competition

By Rosemary Wayo

Tamale, May 24, GNA – Three Senior High School (SHS) students in the Northern Region have taken the top spots in the 2023 national essay writing competition organised by the Bible Society of Ghana (BSG).

The first position was secured by Gladys Turomwine Dakura, an alumnus of the Tamale Girls SHS, who participated in the competition last year while in school.

The second and third positions were taken by Benedict Angsema from St. Charles Minor Seminary SHS and Benedicta Bayor from Ghana SHS respectively.

The first-place winner received a brand-new laptop for personal use and a printer for her school while the second and third place winners received a Samsung tablet and a Bible each.

The prizes were presented to them in Tamale at the launch of this year’s essay writing competition.

The top three winners excelled out of many applicants to the competition across SHSs in the country.

They were required to write a 1,000-word essay incorporating biblical references, of which they distinguished themselves in their submissions.

The BSG introduced the essay writing competition in 2016 with the objective to engage the youth with scripture towards enriching biblical literacy amongst them.

Reverend Charles Anaara, Northern Regional Manager, BSG, mentioned that it was the first time northern schools emerged winners in the competition since its inception.

He said it was also the first time a female won the overall title highlighting the need for all students to participate in the competition irrespective of gender and religious background.

Gladys Turomwine Dakura, the overall winner, speaking after receiving the award, gave thanks to God for her victory and expressed gratitude to her teachers for their nurturing support.

She further extended appreciation to the BSG for the recognition and encouraged other students to take such opportunities to shine.

Madam Christine Agana, Head of Tamale Guidance and Counseling Unit at the Tamale Girls SHS, on behalf of the Headmistress, congratulated all winners, particularly Gladys, who is the school’s alumnus.

She said Gladys’ academic abilities were undoubtable and indicated that she was a good student, who demonstrated excellence and resilience.

She urged students to utilise mobile phones for exceptional academic benefits.

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Local News | Meet the 2023-24 Top Scholars for Oakland County

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ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART

Morgan mcnally.

Parents: Renee and John McNally

Sterling Heights

With a 4.052 GPA, Morgan was named valedictorian at Academy of the Sacred Heart. Morgan served as a Blue & Gold Club leader, varsity soccer captain and varsity cross country captain, and participated in Travel Soccer. Morgan plans to attend the University of Notre Dame.

LENA ARMIJO

Parents: Maria and Ricardo Armijo

Rochester Hills

A 4.012 student, Lena was named salutatorian at Academy of the Sacred Heart. Lena was an All-School Representative and participated in Ethics Bowl, forensics and debate; and was a member of the golf team and the tennis team; and played piano. Lena plans to attend the University of Michigan.

A.G.B.U. ALEX & MARIE MANOOGIAN SCHOOL

Erika dafterdarian.

Parents: Harout and Lena Dafterdarian

West Bloomfield Twp.

A 4.0 student, Erika was accepted into the five-year Physician’s Assistant program at the University of Detroit Mercy. While in high school, Erika participated in cross country, volleyball, National Honor Society (NHS), Science National Honor Society, was a member of the student council, and served as a hospital volunteer.

NARINE JANJANIAN

Parents: Setrak and Mireille Janjanian

Commerce Twp.

A 3.99 student, Narine was direct admitted into the nursing program at Oakland University. While in high school, Narine was volleyball team captain; and was a member of the Student Council, NHS and the Science National Honor Society. Narine participated in Armenian Dance, provided tutoring to students, and served as a hospital volunteer.

AVONDALE HIGH SCHOOL

Parents: Amit Jain and Nidhi Agarwal

Auburn Hills

With a 4.0 GPA, Anish was named a valedictorian and was a 2024 US Presidential Scholar and National Merit Finalist. Anish was a member of the Varsity Tennis team, and was co-captain and a two-time OAA All-League Award winner. Anish was a member of NHS and served as vice president and secretary of the chapter. He was HOSA-Future Health Professionals chapter treasurer, RobotJackets Robotics Team (lead of software department), Journalism Club (founder/editor-in-chief), Avondale Computer Science Club (co-president) and Future Problem Solving chapter president. As a member of the Avondale Forensics Team, Anish was a state semifinalist in Informative Speaking. He was Elks Most Valuable Student State Finalist. Anish volunteered as the Evolve K12 Technology Director, and served as a Bharatiya Temple volunteer. He plans to attend the University of Michigan.

BIANCA CHANDEL

Parents: Richa and Subhash Chandel

With a 4.0 GPA, Bianca was named a valedictorian. Bianca was a member of HOSA-Future Health Professionals and won a bronze medal at the HOSA Regional Competition for Medical Reading in 2022 and was a state qualifier for the Michigan HOSA State Conference, 2021-2023. Bianca was a member of the Journalism Club, and the NHS, serving as historian. She was a member of the varsity girls tennis and bowling teams and participated in a theatre production. Bianca made Oakland Community College’s Dean’s List for Fall 2023, and was named one of WXYZ Detroit’s Brightest & Best honorees. Bianca volunteered at the NHS Red Cross Blood Drive, Key2Finesse Organ Donation Drive, and volunteered more than 50 hours with the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies. Bianca plans to attend the University of Michigan to study Data Science.

ADAM O’DEVEN

Parents: Joseph and Grace O’Deven

A 4.0 student, Adam was named a valedictorian. He was a two-time FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Dean’s List Semifinalist, received two Excellence in Engineering Awards, an Engineering Inspiration Award, and was named 2023 NMS Commended Student. Adam received the Michigan Tech Excellence Award, MTU Platinum Presidential Scholars Award, LTU STEM Scholar Award, LTU Presidential Scholarship, and the University of Michigan Regents Merit Scholarship. He was a member of National Honor Society, German Honor Society, RobotJackets (drive team), and Journalism Club. Adam plans to attend Georgia Tech.

CONNOR GOOD

Parents: Susan and Jeffrey Good

A 3.95 GPA student, Connor was named a salutatorian. He was a member of the varsity baseball team, serving as team captain for two years. He was named an OAA Scholar Athlete, made All-League, and received the Purple & Gold Award. Connor also played for Michigan Premier Travel Baseball for five years. He was a member of NHS, Future Problem Solving, and volunteered as Co-Director of Evolve K12 non-profit. Connor will attend the Michigan State University Honors College.

KAVIN VENKATESAN

Parents: Selvi and Elumalai Venkatesan

A 3.99 GPA student, Kavin was named a salutatorian. Kavin was a member of NHS, National Art Honor Society serving as secretary, and HOSA-Future Health Professionals where he qualified for States. He was also a member of Future Business Leaders of America where he received 1st place in Marketing, and Future Problem Solvers. Kavin volunteered at the Rochester Hills Public Library, Older Persons Commission, helping at the reception desk, Auburn Hills Public Library, assisting with children’s activities, and volunteered as a tutor. He was the recipient of the 2023 AP Scholar Award and plans to attend Oakland University.

DANNY NGUYEN

Parents: Dung and Tri Nguyen

A 3.96 GPA student, Danny was named a salutatorian. Danny was a member of the Junior Varsity Soccer team; the German Honor English Society, serving as vice president; Class Board, serving as co-president; and the Journalism Club. He was a member of marketing in SEERACC, (a nonprofit), Beans to Bags, Avondale Community of Mental Health, Avondale Community of Computer Science, Troy Saturday Sabbath Church, and was a volunteer for Oasis Soup Kitchen. Danny was also named Artist of the Year in 2023. Danny plans to attend Michigan State University.

GIOVANA MICIANO

Parents: Benjamin and Berenice Miciano

A 3.97 GPA student, Giovana was named a salutatorian. Giovana was a member of Class Board, serving as vice president and co-president; the Spanish and French Honors Societies; WAHS Radio, Avondale High School radio;  Avondale Literature Scholars; and Journalism Club, where she served as senior editor. Giovana was also a member of her church youth group and volunteered as a youth summer camp counselor. She is a certified IT Specialist in HTML and CSS and received the CTE Award in 2022. Giovana plans to attend the University of Michigan.

NICOLE SCHROEDER

Parents: Tami and Scott Schroeder

A 3.9 GPA student Nicole graduated summa cum laude. She earned the AP Scholar Award, Scholastic Portfolio Honorable Mention, and was a two-time Financial Literacy Art Contest Finalist. Nicole was dual enrolled at CCS college and was a member of the varsity swim team. Nicole was a member of Class Board, and the National Art Honor Society, serving as secretary. She also participated as an actor, choreographer, props crew chief, director, and two-time board for the Avondale Theatre Company, and performed in Avondale’s Band and Choir, earning 1st place as a MSVMA division soloist and division duet. Nicole also volunteered as a teacher at her church. Nicole plans to attend Westmont College.

CALEIGH BOVENSIEP

Parents: Robin and Kurt Bovensiep

A 3.95 GPA student, Caleigh was named a salutatorian. Caleigh was a member of National Art Honor Society, Ethics Team, Class Board, and was the Avondale High School Career and Technical Student of The Year. She was a multi-sport athlete, competing in cross country, track, and club track. Caleigh was named captain of the cross country and track team, receiving Purple & Gold Awards in both sports. She also competed in the Summer 2023 Junior Olympics and 2024 Indoor Adidas Nationals. She also volunteered annually for the Troy Daze Fair and 2023 Troy Traffic Jam. Caleigh received an OHM Diversity Scholarship and plans to attend Lawrence Tech, where she received a Presidential and Athletic Scholarship.

Parents: Raj and Reena Narang

A 3.98 GPA student, Ria was named a salutatorian. Ria was a member of NHS, Class Board, HOSA, Spanish Honor Society, Women’s Health Alliance Club, and Avondale Council of Mental Health. She was a member of the varsity girls golf team, serving as captain for two years, and was a two-time individual state qualifier, OAA Scholar, and All-League athlete. Ria performed in Avondale’s Mixed Chorus and Concert Choir, receiving first division as a soloist at the MSVMA State Solo & Ensemble competition. She volunteered for the American Red Cross, coordinating multiple blood drives, and volunteered for SEERACC, Blind Eye Foundation, and as a tutor at the school. Outside of school, she sang and played piano for over 10 years, competing at the state and national level at the American Guild of Music. She was also a part of TGA Premier Golf, competing and now coaching golf. Ria plans to attend Lake Erie College in the fall.

BERKLEY HIGH SCHOOL

Aria dwoskin.

Parents: Joanna and Jonathan Dwoskin

Huntington Woods

A 4.44 student, Aria earned an AP Scholar with Distinction Award. Aria served as editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, was a member of the varsity debate team and was awarded the Detroit Urban Debate League First Speaker Award. Aria was the school’s NHS Math Committee leader, Students Demand Action Group Leader, and served on the varsity tennis team, UMatter Teen Board and Jewish Fund Teen Board. Aria was an academic tutor and served as a field intern for U.S. Representative Haley Stevens. Aria plans to attend Duke University.

OLIVER MOSS

Parents: Andrea and Brandon Moss

A 4.45 student, Oliver was honored as a National Merit Scholar and Bob Jarvis Scholar-Athlete. Oliver participated in cross-country, indoor track, and track and field, and is the 5K school record holder. Oliver’s artwork is featured in Berkley’s ArtSpace plaza. Oliver plans to attend Carnegie Mellon University.

BETHANY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Daniel dorey.

Parents: Brian and Naomi Dorey

A 4.0 student, Daniel was named valedictorian. He was the president of his senior class and received several academic and fine arts awards in the school’s division at the state and national levels. Daniel plays the trumpet in the school band and the cello at both school and his church. Daniel sings in the school choir and ensemble group as well as the youth choir in his church. He was involved in sports throughout high school. Daniel  plans to attend Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC to major in Mechanical Engineering.

ALAINE HANSON

Parents: Ivan and Ronela Hanson

A 4.0 student, Alaine was co-salutatorians for the class, Alaine has been involved in many activities at school, church, and community. Alaine has won several awards for academic and fine arts competitions at both the state and national level. Alaine plays the flute in the school band as well as the church orchestra. She also sings in the school choir and special vocal ensemble groups. She has played varsity volleyball, basketball, and soccer throughout her high school career. Alaine plans to study Pre-med at the University of Michigan.

MATTHEW WISE

Parents: Timothy and Kara Wise

A 4.0 student, Matthew was co-salutatorian for the class. Matthew has been involved in the school choir and band throughout his entire high school career. He has won several academic and fine arts awards. Matthew has also been involved in playing varsity sports throughout high school. Matthew is involved at his church and teaches a children’s Bible study class. Matthew will attend Oakland Community College and then complete his degree at a trade school.

GABRIELLA DUDZIC

Parents: David & Natalia Dudzic

A 4.0 student, Gabriella has participated in many academic and fine arts competitions throughout high school. Gabby has won several awards for her artistic ability in textile design and drawings. Gabby sings in the school choir and special ensemble group and also plays the flute in the school band. Gabriella Dudzic plans to attend Oakland Community College and then transfer to Oakland University.

HARRISON KUMPULA

Parents: Craig and Jill Kumpula

A 4.0 student, Harrison has been involved in many areas of the school. Harry has participated in the high school band, competed in art competitions, and has played varsity soccer and basketball. Harrison plans to attend Oakland University and work towards a degree in the field of math or science.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

Ben saperstein.

Parents: Andrea and Drew Saperstein

With a weighted 4.49 GPA, Ben was named an AP Scholar with Distinction and a National Merit Finalist. Ben was editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, senior year, and was president and founder of Middle School Tutoring Club and a SAT Math Bootcamp peer tutor. Ben was co-president of Math Club, History Club, and Chess Club, junior and senior year, and was a member of NHS. Ben was a runner-up in school for the American Mathematics Competition and was a competitive Rubik’s Cube Speedsolver. Ben was a member of the varsity tennis team and served as captain senior year, and was a club player at Detroit Tennis Club. Ben received a Volunteer Service Award from The Greater West Bloomfield Michigan Week Committee and the Bloomfield Youth Assistance Outstanding Citizen Award. Ben plans to attend Northwestern University.

NICHOLAS GUETTLER

Parents: Deborah Guettler and Dr. Joseph Guettler

Bloomfield Hills

With a 4.47 GPA, Nicholas was a scholar athlete as a member of the varsity football, basketball, and lacrosse teams. Nicholas was a NHS chapter officer, president of Medical Club, DECA vice president of career development and state council member, and received a National Merit Scholar Honorable Mention. Nicholas is a concert pianist with 7 NFMC Superior ratings, an Eagle Scout with bronze, silver and gold Palms, and is founder and CEO of G&G Landscaping and Kitchify.co as an employee/junior manager at 220 Merrill restaurant. Nicholas studied neuroscience at Harvard’s Pre-College Program, is a volunteer at Beaumont Hospital’s Medical Observation Unit, and a student intern to Bloomfield Hills School Board Honors. Nicholas is a DECA district champ, 2-time state champ and 4th place international finalist. Nicholas plans to attend the University of Pennsylvania and study neuroscience and economics on the pre-med track.

ELENA ELIAS

Parents: Eid and Fahda Elias

A 4.43 GPA student, Elena was an AP Scholar with Honor and International Baccalaureate Programme Candidate. Elena was a member of Model United Nations, NHS, Science Olympiad, and participated in community service work. Elena plans to attend Michigan State University.

GAVIN LYNDEN CO

Parents: Jon Co and Stephanie Sage-Co

With a 4.51 GPA, Gavin was awarded the Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction Award and the President’s Award for Educational Excellence. Gavin was a member of the NHS. Gavin plans to continue his education at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

GURVEER KAUR CHADHA

Parents: Satinder and Rajbir Chadha

Gurveer is an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Candidate, who graduated summa cum laude. Gurveer was president of the South Asian Student Alliance, captain of the Model UN team and won distinction in the Southeast Michigan MUN Conference. Gurveer was a NHS small group leader, a regional champion in Science Olympiad, and a volunteer in the Emergency Department at St. Joseph Hospital. She plans to study Biology, Health and Society at the University of Michigan in the Health Sciences Scholars Program.

BRANDON HIGH SCHOOL

Henry majewski.

Parents: William and Adrienne Majewski

Henry was named valedictorian for the Brandon High School Class of 2024 and is ranked No. 1 in the class with a 4.35 GPA. Henry hopes to receive a degree in Food Science and Chemistry to become a food scientist working in product development. Henry plans to attend South Florida University.

ADAM BURGER

Parents: Frank and Shari Burger

With a 4.33 GPA, Adam was named salutatorian for the Brandon High School Class of 2024. While in high school, Adam was a member of the Varsity Bowling team for all four years, and was a programmer on the Robotics team from sophomore through senior years. Adam plans to take a gap year to attend the Winter Skills Instructor Internship program at Timberline Alpine Canadian Academy while interning as a snowboard instructor at the ski resorts in Banff, Canada. Adam plans to attend the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in fall 2025.

BROTHER RICE HIGH SCHOOL

John (jack) everly.

Parents: Amy and Jon Everly

Beverly Hills

With a 4.396 GPA, John was named as a valedictorian and received achievement awards in AP Comparative Government and Latin Honors III. John was historian for the NHS chapter, a CORE leader, a member of the Latin Honor Society and member of Investment Club,  played hockey, and volunteered more than 80 service hours. John plans to attend the University of Notre Dame, Business.

NICHOLAS HULGRAVE

Parents: Margaret Binkley and David Hulgrave

With a 4.396 GPA, Nicholas was named as a valedictorian and was awarded the 2024 Distinguished Senior Award and National Merit Commended Scholar. Nicholas was debate team captain, Kairos student leader, vice president of the Band of Brothers, baseball team manager and a member of NHS and the Latin Honor Society. Nicholas plans to attend the University of Notre Dame, Business.

BRIAN TOTONCHI

Parents: Amy and Dan Totonchi

With a 4.396 GPA, Brian was named as a valedictorian and awarded National Merit Commended Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction. Brian was a member of the BEAM & R Business Club, Investment Club, Engineering Club and NHS and was a FLL/FTC Youth Robotics mentor. Brian plans to attend the University of Michigan for Robotics and Business.

ENZO DEMARIA

Parents: Tony and Rosalba DeMaria

Shelby Township

A 4.375 GPA student, Enzo was named a salutatorian. Enzo participated in track, was treasurer of the NHS chapter and was awarded a Band of Brothers Scholarship. Enzo was a member of the Spanish Honor Society, Investors Club, BEAM&R Business Club and was a Forgotten Harvest volunteer. Enzo plans to attend the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

GEORGE SINISHTAJ

Parents: Lisa and Vaseli Sinishtaj

Addison Township

A 4.375 GPA student, George was named a salutatorian and received a certificate of Honorable Merit Summa Cum Laude. George was awarded Scholastic All-Catholic Academic team, Hugh O’Brien Leadership Awards and Scholar-Athlete Award. George participated in cross country and track and was a member of NHS, Latin Honor Society, Medical Club, Human Rights Club and Quiz Bowl and was a Kairos Student Leader. George plans to attend the University of Notre Dame, majoring in Neuroscience and Behavior/Pre Med.

DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

Dominic apap.

Parents: Mark and Angela Apap

Dominic was a member of the symphonic and marching band, jazz band, Quiz Bowl, student newspaper, the Spanish Honor Society and a Linking Hearts mentorship. Dominic plans to attend the University of Michigan, majoring in Biology, Pre-Med.

PARTICIO EZDEBSKI

Parents: Jeffrey and Maria Ezdebski

Particio was Junior Class President, and participated in DECA, NHS, student newspaper and was a Kairos Leader. Particio plans to attend the University of Michigan, majoring in Economics, Pre-Law.

JOHN HARVEY

Parents: George and Cheri Harvey

John participated in Robotics, Chess Club, Shotgun Club and NHS. John plans to attend the University of Michigan, majoring in Mechanical Engineering.

RYAN ILLIKMAN

Parents: James and Sue Illikman

Commerce Township

Ryan participated in cross country, track, DECA, yearbook production, Spanish Club and Honors Society and National Honor Society. Ryan plans to attend the University of Notre Dame to major in Finance.

LUCAS JRAICHE

Parents: Pierre and Colleen Jraiche

Lucas participated in CC Media, Academic Team, IBA, Shamstock, and DECA. Lucas plans to attend the University of Michigan.

OLIVER KAMMERAAD

Parents: Bryan and Julie Kammeraad

Oliver was Finance Club president, worked on the student newspaper and participated in cross country and Shamrock Study Hall Tutoring. Oliver was a member of the NHS, STEM Club and Quiz Bowl. Oliver plans to attend the University of Michigan.

DANNY MOORE

Parents: Scott and Katie Moore

Danny was a member of HOSA-Future Health Professionals, Finance Club, National Honor Society, Intramural Soccer, Quiz Bowl and worked as a tutor. Danny plans to attend the University of Michigan to major in Nursing.

JOE SIEVERT

Parents: Glenn and Karen Sievert

Joe participated in hockey, soccer, DECA, Finance Club, National Honor Society and Student Council. Joe plans to attend the University of Michigan to major in Electrical Engineering.

FRANCIS TOMA

Parents: Leon and Angie Toma

Francis participated in the media team, student newspaper and a Linking Hearts Mentorship and was a member of the Spanish Honors Society and HOSA-Future Health Professionals. Francis plans to attend Michigan State University to major in Biology, Pre-Med.

ANDREW ZOLTOWSKI

Parents: Kelly Bladzik and Jim Zoltowski

Andrew participated in Quiz Bowl, HOSA-Future Health Professionals, Shamrocks for Veterans, Esports, Ut Fidem, Spanish Honors Society and National Honors Society. Andrew plans to attend the University of Michigan, to major in PharmD.

FARMINGTON HIGH SCHOOL

Parents: Marnie and Jeffrey Hart

With an unweighted GPA of 3.9783 and a weighted GPA of 4.5163, Asher was a National Merit Finalist and was awarded the Scholar Athlete Award at Farmington High School. Asher participated in Quiz Bowl (Varsity), Robotics and IB Leadership. Asher plans to study computer engineering at the University of Michigan College of Engineering.

SHREYAS NARAYANAN

Parents: Archana Mani and Parasuram Narayanan

Farmington Hills

With an unweighted GPA of 3.9268 and a weighted GPA of 4.4207, Shreyas was awarded AP Scholar With Distinction and received a National Merit Scholarship Program Commendation. Shreyas was team captain of the Quizbowl team, Model UN president, captain of the varsity soccer team, and played club soccer. Shreyas was a member of Business Professionals Of America, DECA and Link Leaders. Shreyas was also mentored in a research project with Research Scientist Leland Pierce of The University of Michigan. Shreyas plans to attend The University of Michigan for Computer Engineering.

SANJANA DATLA

Parents: Vijaya and Ravi Datla

With a 4.0 unweighted GPA and a 4.5625 weighted GPA, Sanjana was a National Merit Scholarship Finalist and an AP Scholar. Sanjana was vice president of the NHS chapter, co-captain of the Robotics team, National Council for Women in Technology Michigan Affiliate winner, and DECA- VP of Competition, winning 2nd place at DECA Internationals. Sanjana founded Farmington High School Women in STEM and the Youth Robotics Team at Gill Elementary. Sanjana plans to study engineering at the University of Michigan.

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HAZEL PARK HIGH SCHOOL

Ryleigh hallas.

Parents: Kenneth and Rani Hallas

A 4.05 student, Ryleigh was named as valedictorian. Ryleigh was a member of the Student Council, varsity tennis team, marching band, Hazel Park Community Coalition, and NHS and was a college ambassador. Ryleigh will attend the University of Michigan.

LONDON ALEITH

Parent: Jeanine Aleith

A 3.99 GPA student, London was named as salutatorian. London was a member of the student council, DECA, Art Club, Youth Radio Show and NHS. London will attend Oakland Community College.

HOLLY HIGH SCHOOL

Dominic barber.

Parents: Dawn and Benjamin Barber

Dominic graduated valedictorian with a composite GPA/SAT score of 6,476. Dominic was an Oakland Technical Early College Graduate, Oakland University Presidential Scholarship and was named to Flint Metro Conference Academic All-League.

ALISON ROCKAFELLOW

Parents: Melissa and Todd Rockafellow

Alison graduated salutatorian and had a composite GPA/SAT score of 6,460. Alison participated in NHS, was captain of varsity cross country, captain of the varsity swim team, and a member of the varsity track team, and was a Flint Metro Scholar Athlete. Alison received the Duane Raffin Memorial Scholarship.

INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OKMA

Parents: Andrea and Matthew Moede

A 4.0 student, Mia was named a valedictorian and awarded the International Academy Math and French Department Award, was the 2023 Bloomfield Historical Society Essay Contest winner and the 2023 International Academy Open Editorial Contest Winner. Mia was the UNICEF Club treasurer and a member of the NHS and French Honor Society. Mia plans to attend Oakland University.

ASHNI KANSARA

Parents: Ekta and Dharmesh Kansara

A 4.0 student, Ashni was named a valedictorian, National Merit Commended Scholar, and awarded a Higher Level Math Department Award. Ashni was co-president of the National Honors Society chapter and Green Group, and participated in varsity figure skating throughout high school, serving as captain. Ashni plans to attend the University of Michigan to major in Astrophysics.

MARIA DUBIEL

Parents: Magdalena Bucka and Jacek Dubiel

A 4.0 student, Maria was named as a valedictorian. Maria was Science Olympiad captain and received Science Olympiad awards: 9 at the regional level, 2 from Ohio State Invitational and 8th place in Astronomy at the State level. Maria was National Art Honor Society chapter president, AeroAstro team lead, Cryptology Club president and founder, and received a National Service Award. Maria plans to attend the University of California Berkeley, majoring in Astrophysics.

TRISTAN DOBRZYNSKI

Parents: Phil and Laura Dobrzynski

A 4.0 student, Tristan was named as a valedictorian. Tristan was on the Varsity Science Olympiad team, and played trombone in the International Academy Jazz Band, full orchestra, and Stoney Creek Marching Band. Tristan earned Division 1 in trombone and piano solo performances at Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association Solo and Ensemble Festival. Tristan has also served as a tutor. Tristan plans to attend the University of Michigan to study Engineering.

VARUN TANDON

Parents: Vipul and Kiran Tandon

A 4.0 student, Varun was named a valedictorian and was a National Merit Semi-Finalist. Varun has participated in work on a transmission-blocking vaccine for Malaria. Varun has also participated in student government, Peer Corps Captain, and was a SAT tutor. Varun plans to attend the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

Parents: Danielle and Brett Todd

A 4.0 student, Quinn was named a valedictorian and received a German Department Award. Quinn was Economics Club President, Class Officer and Student Senator. Quinn was second chair, playing bassoon in the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association All-State Orchestra, MSBOA State Solo and Ensemble and was awarded a MSBOA Scholar Instrumentalist Award. Quinn plans to attend the University of Chicago to major in Economics.

MICAH ANDERSON

Parents: Cassandra and Mark Anderson

A 4.0 student, Micah was named as a valedictorian. Micah was a member of the student senate, student council, captain of Math Lab and violinist at Detroit Metropolitan Youth Symphony. Micah was Dramatic Interpretation Captain of Forensics Speech and was awarded Forensics State Champion for Poetry. Micah was a board member of Black Student Association and a student representative at Black History Month Roundtable with Congressman Andy Levin. Micah was awarded the College Board National African American Recognition Award, Society of Women Engineers Award, Orchestra Department Award, and Scholastic Art and Writing Awards: two Gold Keys and two Silver Keys. Micah will attend Harvard University, to major in Biomedical Engineering

SIYA CHHABRA

Parents: Diksha and Raman Chhabra

A 4.0 student, Siya was named as a valedictorian. Siya was a Model United Nations Head Delegate, Mock Trial Varsity Lawyer, co-creator of the Student Wing, Girl Security National Security Fellow, and received a Theory of Knowledge department award and Georgetown University SFS for International Politics and Asian Studies certificate.

VALERIA DERWARTANIAN

Parents: Bedig Derwartanian and Alena Dervartanyan

A 4.0 student, Valeria was named as a valedictorian. Valeria participated in the NHS and served on the Chemistry Club board. Valeria was an American Red Cross event coordinator, and assistant manager of Devari Jewelry. Valeria plans to attend the University of Michigan.

ANNA FISCHER

A 4.0 student, Anna was named a valedictorian and was a National Merit Semi-Finalist. Anna was awarded a WXYZ Brightest and Best award and Economics Department Award. Anna was a member of the student senate, NHS, French National Honor Society, and was founder and president of The Student Wing, president of UNICEF Club, volunteer at The Children’s Center and served as a math and physics tutor. Anna plans to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology to pursue Electrical Engineering and Business Administration in the Georgia Tech Honors Program.

SOPHIE FISCHER

A 4.0 student, Sophie was named a valedictorian and received the Economics Department Award and Biology Department Award. Sophie was a student senator, student council member, founder of the International Academy Food Pantry, board member of the IA Helping Hands Club, and member of the NHS and French Honor Society. Sophie was a microbiology lab intern, and participated in tap dance and ballet. Sophie plans to attend the University of California, Berkeley for the Haas School of Business Spieker Undergraduate Program, and plans to gain a second degree in Molecular and Cell Biology.

NISHA SINGHI

Parents: Amit and Usha Singhi

A 4.0 student, Nisha was named a valedictorian and was a National Merit Semi-Finalist, U.S. Presidential Scholars Program Semifinalist and was awarded the Congressional Award: Gold Medalist. Nisha served as a U.S. Senate Page, and was named a Bank of America Student Leader and a 2023 Girl Scout of SE Michigan Young Woman of Distinction and Gold Award Winner. Nisha was a member of the Bloomfield Hills Board of Education Student Advisory Council, Junior State of America Club founder, and a member of the Bloomfield Hills Tennis Varsity Team. Nisha championed “The Balloon Project” to spread awareness about the harmful effects of balloon releases. Nisha plans to attend Stanford University.

INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY

Parents: Biyu and Hi Huang

A 4.50 student, Guo achieved “All A’s” Honor Roll at both International Technology Academy and Oakland Schools Technical Campus. Guo was a Harvard/Arizona State University Poetry in America Valedictorian and earned certifications in HTML and CSS, JavaScript, Java, Python, Word specialist, and CIW-Advanced HTML and CSS3. Guo was a member of the National Technical Honors Society, and the National Education Equity Lab Honor Society. Guo plans to attend the University of Michigan.

MARCO MARTINEZ

Parents: Jose and Nadia Martinez

A 4.49 student, Marco was on the All “A” Honor Roll, and participated in the Aspire Higher Program, earning honor level status. Marco led P7 Bible Study Club and volunteered at Micah 6 Toy Drive. He also participated in a GM Internship and High Voltage Training. Marco plans to attend the University of Michigan.

LAKELAND HIGH SCHOOL

Hanna wegner.

Parents: Benjamin and Stacey Wegner

Highland Twp.

A 4.45 GPA student, Hanna was awarded an AP Scholar with Distinction award, HVS Academic Medal, and WXYZ Brightest and Best award. Hanna was a member of the NHS, National Technical Honor Society and Women in Stem award.

NOAH TIERNAN

Parents: Chris and Nicole Tiernan

A 4.44 GPA student, Noah was named salutatorian and was awarded AP Scholar with Distinction. Noah participated in track and baseball, earning eight varsity letters and HVS Academic medal. Noah was awarded an Athletic Boosters Scholarship, PTSA Scholarship and a Bronco Merit Scholarship. Noah plans to attend Western Michigan University and pursue a degree in Aviation Flight Science.

LAKE ORION HIGH SCHOOL

Michael drakos.

Parents: Steven and Teresa Drakos

Oakland Twp.

With a 4.542 GPA, Michael received an AP Scholar with Distinction award, Oakland Activities Association Scholar Athlete award, and coaches award in cross country. Michael was the NHS chapter president,  track and cross country captain, and was a member of Math National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society and Economics Club. Michael plans to attend the University of Michigan on a pre-med track.

Parents: Gerardo Mahuad and Nallely Hernandez

With a 4.54 GPA, Ana was the NHS chapter vice president, Math WJHS -president, and was a member of Business Professionals of America, Math Olympiad, Women in STEM, and the tennis team. Ana was a Joyce Juy Scholar, and rated Top 10 nationally in Administrative Support concepts and Spreadsheet applications (2023) for Business Professionals of America. Ana plans to attend Cornell to study materials science and engineering and biochemistry.

HOLDEN SCHOENHERR

Parents: Kristin and Scott Schoenherr

A 4.508 student, Holden was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction and an Oakland Activities Association Scholar Athlete. Holden was awarded a National Rural and Small Town Award and received a Sidney J. and Irene Shipman Scholarship, and James Lo Prete Scholarship. Holden participated in Rho Kарра honor society, Spanish Club, NHS, Economics Club, Key Club and the cross country team. Holden plans to attend the University of Michigan College of Engineering to Study Civil Engineering and Business.

JOHN LOGSDON

Parents: Lucy and Jason Logsdon

A 4.552 student, John received an AP Scholar with Distinction award and an Oakland Activities Association Scholar Athlete award. John was varsity track and field captain and varsity cross country captain and received a cross country coaches’ award. John was a National Honors Society officer, and participated in Math National Honors Society and Economics Club. John plans to major in Physiology at Michigan State University Honors college and work in research.

MINDY QUINN

Parents: Kara Quinn

A 4.487 student, Mindy received an AP Scholar with Distinction award, won second place in Business & Finance – BPA State conference 2023, second place in Meeting & Event Planning- BPA state conference 2024. Mindy also participated in varsity tennis, Key Club, Economics Club, NHS, National English Honor Society, Rho Kappa, and Mu Alpha Theta. Mindy plans to attend Boston University Questrom School of Business to study Business Administration, Accounting, and Data Sciences.

LAMPHERE HIGH SCHOOL

Parents: Don Vu and Tuyet-Hang Vu

Madison Heights

A 4.10 student, Kathy participated in NHS, Oakland Youth Orchestras and Interact Club, and has taken honors and AP classes. Kathy plans to attend the University of Michigan Ann Arbor and majoring in Psychology.

WAJEEHA AHMED

Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Ahmed

A 4.0872 student, Wajeeha earned honors certificates in AP Language and Composition, Chemistry and Jewelry. Wajeeha participated in NHS, Interact Club and Diversity Club. Wajeeha was a volunteer teacher at ILM Musaajid Inc. Wajeeha plans to study nursing at either Oakland University or Wayne State University.

MADISON HIGH SCHOOL

Scarlett carpenter.

Parents: Tim Carpenter and Tessa Rickard-Carpenter

With a 4.19 GPA, Scarlett graduated summa cum laude. Scarlett was awarded an Earth Science Award and Top Artist Award, and participated in student council, Mural Painting Club, softball and NHS.

GABRIEL YAMMINE

Parents:  Tony and Wafaa Yammine

A 4.12 GPA student, Gabriel graduated summa cum laude and also received honor cords for CASA, NHS, Top 10, NSHSS and student council. Gabriel was Class of 2024 president and NHS president and member, and participated in Dollars for Scholars. Gabriel was a member of the baseball, basketball and track teams and was awarded the MLK Jr. award for Excellence in Mathematics, Excellence in AP Statistics and AP Seminar at CASA, and the “million dollar club award” for earning more than $1 million in scholarships.

FIONA MADARANG

Parents: Philip Madarang and Margarita San Juan

A 4.05 GPA student, Fiona graduated summa cum laude. Fiona participated in marching band, symphony, and jazz band, art club, student council, NHS, Dollars for Scholars, and was a General Motors Student Corp Intern (2023) and awarded Madison Team MVP – General Motors Student Corps. Fiona received a score of 2 and 1 in MSBOA Solo and Ensemble and a score of 2 in MSBOA State Solo and Ensemble. Fiona was awarded the Presidential Achievement Award – University of Detroit Mercy.

OMARI FISHER

Parents: Deann and Dexter Thomas

With a 4.19 GPA, Omari graduated summa cum laude and was a Top 10 student. Omari participated in Esports.

MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL

Grace bitti.

Parents: Abdulkarim and Niran Bitti

With a 4.372 GPA, Grace was named a valedictorian while pursuing all Honors and AP courses. Grace was recognized by the Archdiocese of Detroit with the Scholastic All-Catholic Award each year and has earned Marian awards for High Honors, Science, the Girardot Social Studies award and scholarship and the Joe and Marilyn Balous Scholarship. She is an AP Scholar with Distinction and National Merit Commended student. Grace has been a member of NHS, Spanish Honor Society, Chaldean American Student Association and Medical Club. In addition, Grace competed with Model United Nations and was the Marian team president. Grace has been a member of the JV Tennis and Varsity Bowling teams. She is a tutor and a volunteer for her church’s communion program. Grace plans to attend Princeton University.

MOLLY O’BRIEN

Parents: Colleen and Michael O’Brien

With a 4.375 GPA, Molly was named a valedictorian and earned awards for English, Mathematics, and Science. She was recognized by the Archdiocese of Detroit with the Scholastic All-Catholic Award each year and was awarded the University of Rochester Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award in 2023. Molly has been a member of NHS, Spanish Honor Society, and Ambassador Club. She is a member of the Forensics Public Speech Team and a three-year qualifier for the Forensics Public Speech National Tournament. Molly has participated on the track and field and cross county teams throughout high school, and was captain for both teams, junior and senior years. Molly plans to major in Economics at the University of Notre Dame.

CHARLOTTE QUAINE

Parents: Paula and Michael Quaine

With a 4.357 GPA, while pursuing all Honors and Advanced Placement courses, Charlotte was named a valedictorian. She was recognized by the Archdiocese of Detroit with the Scholastic All-Catholic Award her senior year and has been part of the Archdiocese of Detroit All-Catholic Academic Team each year. She was also awarded the Harvard Club of Detroit Book Award her junior year and the Spanish Language Seal of Biliteracy. Charlotte has been a member of NHS, Spanish Honor Society, Ambassador Club, and was the Events Coordinator Officer of the Medical Club her senior year. She has been a member of the varsity basketball team, captain of the field hockey team and captain of the varsity lacrosse team, senior year. Charlotte has worked in a physician’s office over the past four years, and has volunteered with young children and the homeless, and served on mission trips to Guatemala and Honduras. Charlotte plans to attend Boston College.

MAGGIE SCOTT

Parents: Maria and Joe Scott

With a 4.367 GPA while pursuing all Honors and Advanced Placement courses, Maggie was named a valedictorian. She is a National Merit Finalist, and was part of the Archdiocese of Detroit’s Catholic All-Academic Team each year of high school. She has earned the Caritas Scholarship and the St. Marguerite D’Youville Scholarship and earned All-Academic honors in the Catholic League for volleyball. Maggie was president of Spanish Honor Society, officer of the Ambassador Club, and member of the All School Board. She has been active in the Forensic Speaking team, Marian Mindset Project, NHS, and DECA. As a senior, Maggie served as captain of the varsity volleyball team and varsity bowling team. Maggie engaged in more than 80 hours of community service at Sunrise Senior Living. Maggie plans to attend the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Ross School of Business.

Parents: Bruce and Mervit Toma

With a 4.367 GPA while taking all Honors and Advanced Placement classes, Chloe was named a valedictorian, and earned awards for High Honors. She was recognized with the Scholastic All-Catholic Award by the Archdiocese of Detroit each year of high school, and awarded the University of Rochester Bausch + Lomb Honorary Science Award her junior year. Chloe was president of National STEM Honors Society chapter, secretary of the NHS chapter, and a member of Spanish Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Ambassador Club, and Project Care. Chloe served as a Homeroom Representative throughout high school, and was captain of the JV Tennis team her junior year. Chloe is the pianist for Mother of God Chaldean Catholic Church and a volunteer with World Medical Relief. Chloe plans to attend Oakland University to study Biology on a pre-med track.

MERCY HIGH SCHOOL

Alexis rounds.

Parents: Suwanya and Darrell Rounds

A 3.99 GPA student, Alexis was a National Honors Society chapter officer; Human Relations Council representative, Focus Hope representative; writer and director of BASE’s Black History Month Assembly; One-Love workshop leader. Alexis was a member of the Mercyaires, Spanish Honor Society and International Thespian Society, and participated in the school’s fall plays and spring musicals.

Parents: Kristen and Glenn Holt

A 4.0 student, Julia was co-captain of the varsity tennis team, Mimes Club student director; Link Crew leader/commissioner; vice president of International Thespian Society; One-Love retreat leader; preschool coach at Farmington Gymnastics Center; scouting lead for FIRST Robotics Team; and a member of Mercyaires; NHS and Junior Classical League. Julia also participated in the school’s fall plays and spring musicals.

MAURA MCSWEENEY

Parents: Kelly and Dan McSweeney

A 3.96 GPA student, Maura was a National Honors Society chapter officer; Business Professionals of America chapter leader; Business Professionals of America State Association Executive Vice President; co-editor-in-chief of student newspaper; Varsity Mock Trial co-captain; Girls and Money Club leader; and was a member of Youth Mercy Associates, Debate Club and the Spanish Honor Society.

MILFORD HIGH SCHOOL

Priyanka patel.

Parents: Raj and Jackie Patel

With a 4.45 GPA, Priyanka was named valedictorian. Priyanka served as Student Council President, was the public relations officer for the NHS chapter, and was part of DECA and the school’s leadership program. Priyanka was a member of the Unified Basketball team and was a lifeguard and Childwatch assistant at the YMCA. Priyanka mentors students as a dance studio assistant teacher. She attended the National Student Leadership Conference’s Business and Entrepreneurship Intensive camp at Yale University. She received several scholarships, including the University of Alabama’s Presidential Scholarship and the University of Alabama’s Leadership and Achievement Scholarship. Priyanka plans to attend the University of Alabama’s Honor College, majoring in Accounting and Business Cybersecurity.

NOTRE DAME PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Macie krankel.

Parents: Lin and R. Mark Krankel

A 4.398 GPA student, Macie was an AP Scholar with highest honors (every semester), and received Scholastic All-Catholic Award (2022/2023). Macie was a competitive cheer member and a member of NHS, the Science National Honor Society,  Optimist Club and Entrepreneur Club. Macie plans to attend the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor.

NOLAN TOMPKINS

Parents: Melissa and Brent Tompkins

A 4.434 GPA student, Nolan was a Scholar Athlete, Academic All State and AP Scholar with Distinction, and was awarded a Knights of Columbus Scholastic All Catholic Award. Nolan was a member of Student Council, Student Council Parliamentarian and Peer Leader Coordinator. Nolan played tennis, basketball and lacrosse and served as lacrosse team captain. Nolan participated in Student Ambassadors, the Peer Leader Program, Campus Ministry, and was a leader at Kairos XVIII retreat. Nolan also was a member of NHS and Spanish National Honor Society. Nolan plans to attend the University of Michigan.

SOPHIA BAHU

Parents: Leena and Samer Bahu

Orchard Lake

A 4.39 GPA student, Sophia was named valedictorian and earned highest honors throughout high school, including Scholastic All-Catholic award, AP Scholar Award, and Highest Academic Achievement in Mathematics, Social Studies, and Spanish Student Council. Sophia was a member of the National Honors Society, Pre-med Club, Entrepreneurship Club, Peer Mentor Program, Wellness for Seniors and was a member of the volleyball and lacrosse teams. Sophia was a Student Ambassador, Best Buddies Secretary and social media manager of Student Council, Peer Leader Coordinator and vice president of Best Buddies. Sophia plans to attend Michigan State University.

ADDISON BELLOWS

Parents: Donna and Chad Bellows

A 4.44 GPA student, Addison was an International Baccalaureate candidate and earned highest honors in Mathematics, Religious Studies, Spanish, Science, and Social Studies. Addison was the NHS chapter vice president, president of Varsity Club, student ambassador for Blessings in a Backpack, Peer Leader Coordinator, Kairos Leader and was on the Varsity Tennis, Varsity Cross Country, and Varsity Basketball teams. Addison was sports editor of the school newspaper, co-moderator and chief writer of Talk of the Irish, Podcast Club, and served on the Advisory Council for Michigan Learning Channel. Addison was also an ACT prep tutor, and a member of the Be Nice Club. Addison plans to attend Duke University.

GEORGE MOUSSA

Parents: Lourin Chahin and Fadi Moussa

A 4.46 GPA student, George was a National Merit Scholar Finalist and an AP Scholar with Distinction. George was drum major, and made All-State Jazz Band. George participated in NHS, Optimist Club, president of Champions for Life Club and was varsity tennis team captain. George plans to attend Michigan Ross.

Parents: Eric and Margaret Wells

With a 4.418 GPA, Ryan was an International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate and was awarded the Founder’s Award, Scholastic All Catholic Award, All State Academic Achievement and Highest Honors. Ryan was a member of the Student Council, Business for Good Club, NHS Networking, co-chair of the Auburn Hills Teen Council, and treasurer of Student Council. Ryan was a member of the varsity tennis, varsity ski, junior varsity lacrosse teams. Ryan founded a jewelry business in 2020. Ryan plans to study business at either the University of Michigan or the University of Notre Dame.

JOSE MIGUEL TURRUBIARTES

Parents: Rodolfo Turrubiartes and Estela Tapia

A 4.398 GPA student, Jose was an AP Scholar With Distinction and a Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar. Jose was president of the Robotics Club and VEX World Championship Build Award Winner. Jose was Jazz Band section leader in the Marching Band, 1st chair Jazz Band, Peer Leader Coordinator, and a member of NHS. Jose played soccer and basketball, freshman year. Jose plans to attend the College of Engineering at the University of Michigan.

JEFFREY GUO

Parents: Xiao-Dong Guo and Joanne Liu

A 4.391 GPA student, Jeffrey achieved an AP Scholar with Distinction, and a Scholastic All-Catholic award. Jeffrey received the President’s Bronze Volunteer Service Award and was a member of NHS. Jeffrey was a co-president of the Robotics team and won the Build award at the Vex Robotics World Championships. Jeffrey was a member of the tennis team. Jeffrey plans to attend the College of Engineering at the University of Michigan.

JAZZELLE YALDO

Parents: Bashar and Dalia Yaldo

A 4.385 GPA student, Jazzelle earned an AP Scholar Award, an American Citizenship Award, and Highest Honors, Science Honors, Mathematics Honors, Spanish Honors,Physical Education Honors, and Literature Honors. Jazzelle was founder and president of the school’s Pre-Med Club, participated in Leadership Council/Ambassador Club, was president of the Be Nice Club, NHS, Entrepreneurship Club, Optimist Club office assistant at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital, researcher of the study of the detrimental effects of Bulimia Nervosa on the epidermis, head lifeguard at Forest Lake Country Club (Red Cross CPR/AED certified), Friendship Circle volunteer, student ambassador, varsity basketball player and team captain, and was on the swim team. Jazzelle plans to attend the University of Michigan.

​​

NOVI CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Reagan jones.

Parents: Roxanne and Robert Jones

With a 4.059 GPA, Reagan earned all A’s and was recognized as a Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. In addition, Reagan earned 26 college credit hours through dual enrollment and CLEP opportunities. Reagan was awarded the Michigan Youth Impact Award and the National Community Service Award. Reagan is active in church, and plays piano, bass and guitar. Reagan plans to attend Oakland University with future plans to attend a seminary with the goal of working full time in the ministry.

SHAUN CONNER

Parents: Nick and Heather Conner

A 4.002 student, Shaun took AP and honors classes and was awarded AP Distinguished Honors. Shaun participated in soccer, basketball, golf, and track and field and was a member of the school orchestra. Shaun was the yearbook editor, captain of the soccer team, and was a leader for Vacation Bible School at his church. He plans to attend Purdue University and study mechanical engineering after graduation.

ANNIKA STREEFKERK

Parents: David and Marcia Streefkerk

A 3.963 student, Annika has maintained a high GPA throughout high school and has been awarded high honors or distinguished honors each year. Annika was a member of NHS, the Student Life Leadership Team, yearbook editor, and a preschool leader at her church. Annika plans to attend Taylor University to major in Political Science and minor in Psychology, with plans to become a lawyer.

ANNA LOCICERO

Parents: Doug and Toni LoCicero

A 3.947 student, Anna has been awarded high honors each year of high school with a rigorous academic schedule including AP classes. Anna played the alto saxophone in the symphony orchestra all four years of high school, was a member of NHS and a member of the Student Life Leadership Team. She also volunteers with her church. Anna plans to attend Calvin University where she will pursue a degree in elementary education.

ISAAC COSMA

Parents: Joseph and Ibolya Cosma

With a 4.083 GPA, Isaac has been awarded distinguished honors every year of high school, while electing every AP class that his schedule would allow, and also earned 13 college credits through dual enrollment. Isaac served as vice-president of his class and vice president of the NHS chapter. Isaac serves as a member of the youth worship team at his church, assists with Vacation Bible School and participates in missions trips. Isaac was awarded the Chancellor’s Scholarship, a four-year full ride scholarship from the University of Michigan – Dearborn where he will study Engineering.

MYA GUILLERMO

Parents: Vernon Guillermo, Libby and Steven Schell

A 4.082 student, Mya has earned distinguished honors in 9th and 10th grades and AP distinguished honors in 11th and 12th grades. Mya was selected as the chaplain for her class and the student government chaplain. Mya gave a sermon for Regional Fine Arts during her junior year, and advanced to Nationals. She served as the girls’ captain for the varsity cross country team all four years of high school. She has also participated in the varsity track and field team, was a member of NHS, and won awards in writing competitions. She plans to attend Cornerstone University to study creative writing and communications and run on the cross-country team and indoor/outdoor track team.

HOPE JENKINSON

Parents: Paul and Sheila Jenkinson

A 4.021 student, Hope has maintained a 4.0 GPA each year of middle school and high school and has been on the honor roll. Hope was selected by faculty to serve as the class lead during her junior year and has also been a part of student government and NHS. She also serves in her church’s worship team and youth group. Hope plans to attend Taylor University where she will study English and creative writing.

JOSETTE DUBUC

Parents: Nathan and Sarah Dubuc

A 3.883 student, Josette has been on the high honor roll every year in high school, and was a member of the NHS. She has maintained a high GPA while challenging herself with honors and AP classes. She has been a member of the cross country team throughout high school, and was awarded the Coach’s Award in cross country in 2020 and 2021, made academic all-state in cross country in 2021 and 2022, and was named the MVP in cross country, junior year. Josette regularly volunteers at the Milford Public library. She plans to attend Eastern Michigan University where she will pursue a degree in pre-occupational therapy.

KALEIGH FRANK

Parents: Lucus and Crystal Frank

A  4.072 student, Kaleigh challenged herself by taking AP classes and honors classes. Kaleigh was a member of the school orchestra and NHS. She played basketball and volleyball and served as captain of the volleyball team. She served as a student aide in the school’s second and fifth grade classrooms. Kaleigh also volunteered at the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. Kaleigh plans to attend Purdue University where she will pursue a degree in Elementary Education.

Parents: Bryan and Sheryl Hoy

With a 4.053 GPA, Sophia excelled  with an academically rigorous schedule including two AP classes. Throughout her high school tenure, she maintained a 4.016 GPA while also serving as part of the Student Life Leadership team and a member of student government. During her senior year, she served as the NHS chapter president. Sophia has been a member of 4-H for 10 years and has won several trophies through 4-H baking contests. She won a gold ribbon scholarship which allowed her to advance to the state fair level and receive a $1,000 scholarship. She also volunteers in the community garden. Sophia plans to attend Purdue University focusing on communications and law and society. Her career goal is to become a civil lawyer.

OAKLAND EARLY COLLEGE

Malak ghazy.

Parent: Hosam Ghazi

Malak achieved highest honors at Oakland Early College, along with an academic letter and academic pin. Malak also achieved high honors at Oakland Community College and earned two associate degrees this semester. Malak was vice president of Muslim Student Association, vice president of Bookclub, executive board member for KNOW (non-profit organization for first generation immigrants) and a member of a volunteer committee at Muslim Community Mosque, and also held a job and was mother’s caregiver. Malak plans to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing while studying for the MCAT to attend medical school in the future.

Parents: Michael and Nicole Speck

Niko was named to the Dean’s List, awarded the Superintendent’s Excellence Award, and received highest honors at Oakland Early College. Additionally, Niko achieved high honors at Oakland Community College and earned four associate degrees this semester. At Oakland Early College, Niko was president of the NHS chapter, vice president of Queer Pride Club, founder and president of Chess Club, and HOSA Future Health Professionals State Finalist. Niko served as an intern at the Adolescent Health Initiative and as a Physics Supplemental Instructor. Niko was a WXYZ Brightest and Best scholar, and participated in piano concerts. Niko has committed to the University of Michigan Ann Arbor College of Engineering, majoring in Engineering Physics, with future plans to obtain a PhD, and become a professor.

LANA SALAHIE

Parent: Hunayda Asbahi

Lana achieved highest honors at Oakland Early College, and was awarded the Superintendent’s Excellence Award, Leadership Cornerstone Award and Outstanding Student Award. Lana was on the Dean’s List and achieved high honors at Oakland Community College and earned two associate degrees this semester. At Oakland Early College, Lana was vice president of service for the NHS chapter, HOSA secretary, Car Club secretary and volunteered as a tutor. Lana served an internship as an assistant social media manager for a realtor group and worked as an administrative assistant. Lana plans to attend the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and complete a bachelor’s degree.

Parent: Samia Elbaz

Sara achieved highest honors at Oakland Early College, and was awarded the Superintendent’s Excellence Award, OEC Cornerstone Awards and received Academic Letter and Academic Pin. Sara achieved high honors at Oakland Community College and earned two associate degrees this semester. At Oakland Early College, Sara was a NHS scholarship finalist, student government president, Muslim Student Association co-president, HOSA vice president of Membership, Muslim Community Mosque Girls Group counselor, Superintendent Student Advisory Committee Member, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib field coordinator, Consular Corps of Michigan intern and Civics/Economic Student Supplementary instructor. Sara plans to attend the University of Michigan, double majoring in Political Science and Business Administration at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business.

ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARY’S PREP-BOYS DIVISION

Brett alexander.

Parents: Mark and Maureen Alexander

A 4.28 student, Brett was the NHS chapter president and organized service learning for the campus. Brett was the varsity rowing team captain and his boat is ranked nationally. Brett was a Catholic League All Academic award winner. Brett has taken summer classes at Yale University, the University of Notre Dame, and Columbia University.

PETER BUNGART

Parents: Kathleen and Joe Bungart

A 4.22 student, Peter was treasurer of the NHS chapter, and was a six-time varsity letterman and team captain in two sports. Peter was All Catholic, All Region, and Catholic League All Academic. Peter has taken classes at Lawrence Technological University and Oakland University while volunteering in the community.

PARKER BRZUSTEWICZ

Parents: Alexis and Brian Brzustewicz

A 4.24 student, Parker was 1st team All-State, a 2-time national champion and 2-time All Catholic baseball player. Parker was a member of NHS and volunteered in the community helping children with different abilities learn the sport of baseball at the Miracle League.

JONATHAN KASSAB

Parents: Bianca and Clint Kassab

A 4.27 student, Jonathan was a member of NHS and played multiple sports. Jonathan has had three jobs and takes care of his elderly grandmother and siblings while serving the community and volunteering at his church.

NORMAN KLAWENDER, JR.

Parents: Norman and Mary Klawender

A 4.31 student, Norman was salutatorian of the senior class, received Academic Student of the Year awards, and is a 4-time Catholic League All Academic Award winner. Norman is an Eagle Scout and participated in three varsity sports and the NHS.

Parents: Danielle and Andy Kavc

A 4.35 student, Kyle was valedictorian of his senior class and was honored as a College Board Commended Scholar, and Scholastic All-Catholic three times. A varsity athlete, Kyle was Academic All-State, 2nd Team All-State, All Catholic, and MIHL Gold Division 2nd Team in hockey, Great Lakes All American and Academic All-District in baseball. Kyle also participated in the NHS.

ORCHARD LAKE ST. MARY’S PREP-GIRLS DIVISION

Reece mcnutt.

Parents: Michael and Michele McNutt

Walled Lake

A 4.36 GPA student, Reece was named valedictorian and honored with summa cum laude. Reece was awarded a Prep Bowl award, Knights of Columbus award and West Bloomfield Volunteer Service award. Reece was Academic All-State varsity basketball, freshman and sophomore year and was captain of the varsity rowing team. Reece was also a member of the NHS.

ALEXANDRA FRITSCH

Parents: Rob and Neda Fritsch

A 4.32 GPA student, Alexandra was named salutatorian and honored with summa cum laude. Alexandra served as student council president, played on the varsity tennis team and was a member of NHS, Women in Business Club and Mental Health Club.

RACHEL WARD

Parents: John and Cheryl Ward

A  4.36 GPA student, Rachel was honored with summa cum laude, and received a Scholastic All Catholic Award.  Rachel was awarded 1st place in Ford Women in STEM Competition, and received several St. Mary’s school awards. Rachel was a member of the varsity golf and varsity tennis teams, served as the NHS chapter secretary and Baking Club secretary. Rachel was a student representative for Mary’s Meals U.S.A., church drama group member and volunteer, volunteer for World Medical Relief and completed a neurosurgeon internship.

OLIVEA VALLIERES

Parents: Steve and Mary Vallieres

A 4.31 GPA student, Olivea achieved summa cum laude honors, All Academic Catholic League award, Prep Bowl Award, Ford Women in STEM award, and several St. Mary’s school awards. Olivea was a member of the debate team, the NHS, Mental Health Club, varsity rowing team, varsity powerlifting and varsity snowboarding, and was assistant coach for Unified Volleyball.

OUR LADY OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Jack romkema.

Parents: Mike and Karen Romkema.

With a 4.26 GPA, Jack was named valedictorian and was awarded the Good Citizens Award from the Daughters of the American Revolution. He has been involved in the NHS, and is a member of the football, baseball, bowling, and powerlifting teams. Jack  plans to attend the University of Notre Dame, majoring in Economics and Mathematics, and would like to become a financial advisor.

ALEXIS ALLAN

Parents: Michael and Christine Allan

Waterford Twp.

With a 4.14 GPA, Alexis was named salutatorian. She was the student council president, has been involved in the NHS, and has been a member of the volleyball, basketball, soccer, and track teams. She has been awarded a scholarship from the American Red Cross high school blood drive program. Alexis plans to attend the University of Michigan, majoring in Child Psychology.

OXFORD HIGH SCHOOL

Sean wilson.

Parents: Leslie and Joe Wilson

With a 4.296 GPA, Sean was named valedictorian and was a National Merit Scholar and OAA-Scholar Athlete. Sean was varsity football captain, NHS chapter president, and an actor in school musicals. Sean plans to study and play football at MIT.

EMILY HERRON

Parents: Melissa and Greg Herron

A 4.206 GPA student, Emily achieved academic highest honors every semester and a commended score for the PSAT/NMSQT. Emily was section leader and played clarinet in the marching band, played clarinet in the pit orchestra and was first chair in Wind Ensemble, and played saxophone in the jazz band. Emily participated in varsity tennis, speech, debate, and basketball, and was a member of the NHS. Emily has served as an archery instructor for the Oakland County Parks. Emily is going to Central Michigan University to study biology on the pre-med track in the honors program on a full ride, Centralis Scholar Award.

CASSIDY FEENEY

Parents: Kevin and Christine Feeney

With a 4.269 GPA, Cassidy was named salutatorian. Cassidy was a member of the varsity cross country and track teams throughout high school, and was a mentor in the 42 Strong program for two years. Cassidy plans to attend the University of Michigan to study Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biomedical Science.

ROYAL OAK HIGH SCHOOL

Natalie forsyth.

Parents: James and Rachel Forsyth

Natalie graduated summa cum laude with a 4.513 GPA. A dedicated athlete, she participated in track and field. Natalie was a semifinalist for a National Merit Scholarship, a member of NHS, an IB Diploma Programme Diploma Candidate, and was awarded Academic Excellence in ELA, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Natalie plans to major in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Michigan.

RAQUEL KRANIAK

Parents: Dennis Kraniak and Carolyn Jennings

Raquel graduated summa cum laude with a 4.489 GPA. An accomplished athlete, Raquel was involved in both golf and track and field. Last fall, the Girls Golf team dominated with a 6-2 record, clinching the OAA Blue League and Pre/Post-Season Championships, earning her OAA Blue All-League honors. Raquel was senior class treasurer, an IB Diploma Programme Diploma Candidate, NHS member and achieved Academic Excellence in ELA, Foreign Language, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Also, her art was featured in the Diploma Programme Art Exhibit. Raquel plans to major in Architecture at the University of Michigan.

BRANDON COMER

Parents: Craig and Laurel Comer

Brandon Comer graduated summa cum laude with a 4.468 GPA. Brandon was a 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program student, a member of NHS and achieved Academic Excellence in ELA, Mathematics and Science. Brandon plans to attend the University of Michigan.

ANNA SCHROEDER

Parents: Matt and Colleen Schroeder

Anna graduated summa cum laude with a 4.442 GPA. Anna was involved in Cross Country and Track and Field, and also played on the Unified Basketball Team. Anna was a member of NHS, IB Diploma Programme Diploma Candidate, and awarded Academic Excellence in ELA, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Anna plans to study Math/Environmental Science at the University of Michigan.

SARAH BARNETT

Parents: David and Leah Barnett

Sarah graduated summa cum laude with a 4.413 GPA. Sarah served as student council president, was a member of NHS, awarded an IB Diploma Programme Diploma Candidate, and Academic Excellence in ELA and Science. Sarah was awarded 2nd place in the high school central region for her documentary on “Rank Choice Voting” in the C-SPAN StudentCam contest. Sarah was a member of the soccer and the cross country team and participates in Unified Sports. Sarah plans to attend the University of Michigan to study Film, Television and Media.

LILLIANA HELINE

Parent: Laurie Heline

Lilliana graduated summa cum laude with a 4.381 GPA. Lilliana was a member of NHS, IB Diploma Programme Diploma Candidate, and awarded Academic Excellence in ELA, Foreign Language, Mathematics; Outstanding Leadership, service, and contributions to school magazine. Lilliana is a dedicated softball player and received Royal Oak Coaches award. Lilliana plans to attend Tulane University to study Public Health on Pre-Med Track Honors Program.

REBECCA CZARNIK

Parent: Elizabeth Czarnik

Rebecca graduated summa cum laude with a 4.367 GPA. Rebecca was a member of NHS, IB Diploma Programme Diploma Candidate, and awarded Academic Excellence in ELA, Foreign Language, Mathematics, and Social Studies. Rebecca plans to major in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan.

ANTONIO SERRAIOCCO

Parents: Steven Serraiocco and Maria D. Pons-Hervas

Antonio graduated summa cum laude with a 4.364 GPA. Antonio has been actively involved in both soccer and the golf team, was a member of NHS, IB Diploma Programme Diploma Candidate, and awarded Academic Excellence in Foreign Language, Mathematics and Science.

EMILY CHAFETZ

Parents: Mark and Jill Chafetz

Emily graduated summa cum laude with a 4.349 GPA. Emily played on the Girls Golf team, which dominated this fall with a stellar 6-2 record, clinching the OAA Blue League and Pre/Post-Season Championships. Her outstanding performance earned her OAA Blue All-League honors. Emily was a member of NHS and achieved Academic Excellence in ELA, Mathematics and Social Studies. Emily plans to major in Mathematical Science at the University of Michigan.

CONNOR ELLIOTT

Parents: Kevin Elliott and Kristen Collins

Connor graduated summa cum laude with a 4.344 GPA. Connor was an IB Diploma Programme Diploma Candidate, Academic Excellence in Foreign Language, and received Wayne State University Honors Dean’s Award.

ST. CATHERINE OF SIENA ACADEMY

Elizabeth harris.

Parents: Brian and Michelle Harris

With an unweighted 4.0 GPA, Elizabeth received department awards in Honors Algebra II, Honors American Literature, Women in Literature, AP Chemistry, and Economics. Elizabeth was All-State and All-Catholic for tennis three years in a row and a Scholastic All-Catholic Team Inductee. Elizabeth was a member of the tennis team throughout high school, played field hockey, freshman year, and participated in drama throughout high school and also was a member of the International Thespian Society. Elizabeth plans to attend the University of Michigan to study psychology.

GRACE LANCASTER

Parents: Todd and Julie Lancaster

With an unweighted 4.0 GPA, Grace was named valedictorian and received numerous awards, including Flag Award-Space Camp Mach III Aviation Challenge, Presidential Fitness Award, George Washington Patriot Award, Katherine Johnson Award, Wright Brothers Award, St. Michael College Book Award, NHS Inductee, Brig. Gen. Billy Mitchell Award, Vietnam Veterans of America Detroit Ch. 9 Scholarship recipient, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Presidential Scholarship Award and U.S. Army ROTC National 4-year Scholarship Award. Grace was a member of: freshman volleyball team, SCA club swimming, (SLA) western equestrian at Rach Riding Academy Civil Air Patrol, (current Cadet Commander of the Squadron), and was a Team World Vision student pilot at Crosswinds Aviation. Grace plans to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at Daytona Beach majoring in Spaceflight Operations and minoring in Military Science through Army ROTC.

ANTONIA LEONARDO

Parents: James and Angela Leonardo

With an unweighted 4.0 GPA, Antonia was an AP Scholar and was a Scholastic All-Catholic Team Inductee for the past three years. Antonia was awarded the George Eastman Young Leaders Award by the University of Rochester for outstanding academic achievement and leadership. Antonia participated in Competitive Irish Dance and ranked 11th in the region and 49th in the nation. Antonia volunteered as a student teacher for dance classes, and taught three private lessons a week, and also taught a mobility and exercise class at a studio. Antonia was a volunteer for the drama productions and served as the head officer of the Humanities Club. Antonia  plans to attend the University of Michigan to major in Creative Writing and Literature and English. Her long-term goal is to receive a doctorate and teach as a university professor.

HANNAH LISCH

Parents: Ronald and Kimberly Lisch

Hannah had an unweighted 4.0 GPA and was School Ambassador all four years of high school. Hannah played basketball and field hockey throughout high school, on the varsity teams for three years. She was named Catholic High School League All-Scholastic team (3x); CHSL All-Academic team, CHSL All-Catholic team (4x), CHSL All-League team and received All-State Academic Award. She participated in National Honors Society, Brightmoor Youth Group and was a member of the Michigan Lady Playmaker AAU Basketball Team. Hannah plans to attend Adrian College where she will play women’s basketball and major in Exercise Science and minoring in Biology.

THERESE PRINCE

Parents: David and Jennifer Prince

With an unweighted 4.0 GPA, Therese received numerous awards including Honors Pre-Calculus award, Young Women of Courage and Faith Award, George Washington Patriot Award, Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award, The Live it, Show it, Share it Alliance Catholic Scholarship Award and the Shining Star Award. Therese was a member of the varsity soccer all four years of high school, and was awarded Team All-Academic, Coaches Award, All-District Team and Varsity Athletic Award. Therese was a Student Council member, junior year, a member of Gianna Molla Pro-Life Society for four years and treasurer for two years, and founder and president of SCA Business Club. Therese was a volunteer at a local church and Forgotten Harvest, and volunteered at school events. Therese plans to attend Michigan State University to study Supply Chain Management.

Parents: Scott and Nicole Worth

With an unweighted 4.0 GPA, Rose received numerous awards including: the Queen Isabella Award for Honors World History, Saint Scholastica Award for Church History; Sr. Libby Osgood Award for Honors Physics, Socrates Award for Philosophy, AP Language and Composition award, Harvard Book Award and an AP Scholar Award. Rose participated in the American Heritage Girls & Catholic Faith Award program, Our Lady of Good Counsels Life Teen program, was secretary for the Gianna Molla Pro-Life Society at SCA, editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, vice president of the Needles and Hooks Club, leadership for the Chant Club, member of NHS and a cast member of 2023 fall play production. Rose volunteered for three years with MSU Extension’s Tollgate Farm Steward program. Rose plans to attend the University of Notre Dame in the fall to begin her joint major in Philosophy & Theology. In the future, she hopes to work in the field of education.

SEAHOLM HIGH SCHOOL

Dylan babitch.

Parents: Leland Babitch and Cheryl Carpenter

With a 3.93 unweighted GPA and 4.66 weighted GPA, Dylan earned top grades in all core subjects of honors and AP classes including English, Math, Science, World Language, and Social Studies. Dylan was a member of Seaholm’s Debate team and served as captain of the team while earning the titles of National Tournament Qualifier and State Finalist. He also worked at Debate Camp where he coached middle schoolers. Dylan is also an active member of the Forensics team where he achieved State Semi-Finalist status, and was a member and treasurer of the Model United Nations team, Dylan raised significant funds to finance the numerous tournaments. Dylan has a two-stripe white belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Dylan plans to study computer science and mathematics in college, and hopes to work towards a doctorate and research in machine learning.

XAVIER CHOUSSAT

Parents: Pierre Choussat and Mary Margaret O’Donnell

With a 3.99 unweighted GPA and 4.69 weighted GPA, Xavier earned top grades in AP and Honors courses, dual enrollment courses at a local college, and online courses. Xavier received the Harvard Book Award (FLEX) 2022-23, served as student representative for the school’s English Department Board, and was a member of Club SOS. Xavier served as the managing editor for the school newspaper, senior year, and served as opinion editor and news editor previous years. As captain of the Forensic Team, Xavier competed in the Regional and State competitions. Xavier was awarded the MVP Soccer award as a freshman. Xavier has volunteered at Oakland Family Services, YMCA Camp Ohiyesa, NEXT (age 50+ community center), and as a judge for middle school competitions and the Birmingham Covington School’s Debate/Forensics summer camp. Xavier has participated in Seaholm’s One Act Plays, and is an avid harpist.

VIRAJ NAUTIYAL

Parents: Shashank and Shweta Nautiyal

With a 4.709 GPA, Viraj was awarded AP Scholar with Distinction and National Merit Semifinalist. Viraj was president of Model UN, and participated in the debate team with national awards in debate; and held leadership positions in Science National Honor Society and the high school band. Viraj was a member of Science Olympiad and the National Honor Society, and participated in the Fall 2024 high school musical. Viraj started a fundraiser for children’s education services, and volunteered at hospitals.

Parents: Olesya Plazyo and Ashok Pahuja

A 4.757 student, Ian has taken the most rigorous courses offered including honors, math and science all four years. Ian made the 2017-2023 Qualified for MathCon finals and received honorable mention awards every year. Ian achieved 2021 Microsoft certification of Python fluency, scored 36 on ACT (sophomore year) and was awarded 2022 AP Scholar with Distinction Award (sophomore year) and 2022 Qualified for AIME. Ian has taken several dual enrollment courses since 2022, including courses at Lawrence Technological University with a 4.0 GPA and Oakland University, with a 4.0 GPA.

KATHERINE SLAZINSKI

Parents: Stacey and Stephen Slazinski

With a 4.684 GPA, Katherine has taken honors and AP classes, and Calculus 3 as a dual enrollment class. Katherine is a student leader and is actively involved with school events, interacting with students and adults. She has extensive hours of community service both in and outside of school, and is also a leader in her church. Katherine is also active in DECA, NHS and the Spanish Honor Society, and is a member of the golf and tennis teams (first team All-State).

Parents: Jennifer Taylor-Haughey and William Haughey

A 4.649 student, Ava was president and founder of UMatter Club, Science National Honor Society, EBoard, Model UN treasurer. Club SOS officer, Spanish Honors Society, tutoring committee and member of the National Honors Society. Ava participated in softball, forensics and debate, and was a member of Bet on Better. Ava served as a Red Cross donor ambassador, Friendship Circle counselor/volunteer, and Yad Ezra Teen Board and food pantry and garden volunteer. Ava participated in Explo Pre-College Medical Rotations Program at Wellesley College, (Summer 2022) and works as a gymnastics coach and party organizer/hoster at Troy Gymnastics.

INGRID RHIND

Parent: Erin Rodenhouse

A 4.696 student, Ingrid was active in Green Club, STEM Club and Spanish Honor Society. Ingrid received undergraduate awards in 2023 including a Dartmouth award and was named Math Student of the Month for November 2022. Ingrid served as president of Green Club, senior year, and was vice president, and secretary/treasurer previous years. Ingrid organized several trash cleanup events, organized a phone recycling drive with the Detroit Zoo, and placed recycling bins around the school. Ingrid volunteered for general community service including toy drives, Taco Truck fundraisers, and breakfasts for teacher appreciation week.

SOPHIE HANAWALT

Parents: Edward and Jen Hanawalt

A 4.689 student, Sophie was editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, co-founder and co-president of Seaholm March For Our Lives, co-president of the French Club, and served on the English Department Student Advisory Board. Throughout high school, Sophie was a violinist in the Seaholm Symphony Orchestra, co-captain of Seaholm Varsity Cross Country, and participated in Seaholm Varsity Track and Field. Sophie participated in the NHS, National Science Honor Society, Chemistry Club, Club SOS, Feminism Club, Seaholm Students for Change, Gender Straight Alliance and Asian Student Association. Sophie was a Make Me a Maple Freshman Mentor in 11th-12th grade and received the FLEX (Future Leaders Exchange) Cornerstone Award. Sophie volunteered with the Traveling Quartet for Senior Citizens and was a City of Birmingham Multi Modal Transportation Board student ambassador. Sophie volunteered with the Birmingham Youth Assistance and received the President’s Service Award for 100 volunteer hours and was a BYA Youth in Service Recipient, 2022.

MAYA WALTERS

Parents: Irit and Tom Walters

With a 4.63 GPA, Maya participated in theater at the school and various community theaters including St. Dunstans and Village Players. Maya was assistant producer at St. Dunstans Youth Theater and was a writer and director of several one-act plays.

Parents: Zena and James Yee

A 4.67 student, Erika was a national finalist (Top 5) – 2021 Genes in Space Competition; a semifinalist – 2021 Harvard International Public Forum Debate Competition; a state champion – 2020 Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association Debate State Tournament; a three-time, State Top 3 – 2021, 2022, 2023 Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association Speech State Finals; Best Delegate – Model United Nations of the University of Michigan Conference XXXI; and received a Gold Medal – 2021, 2022, 2023 President’s Volunteer Service Award for 450 plus hours of community service. Erika served as Model United Nations chapter president, was founder and president of Bet on Better Club, and served as the NHS chapter secretary. Erika was Debate Team captain, Forensic Team captain, and was a Birmingham School District Forensic and Debate Summer Camp assistant coach. Erika also served as a US Department of Defense High School Research Intern.

SOUTHFIELD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Julie webber.

Parents: Peter and Nicole Webber

With a 3.99 GPA, Julie was named valedictorian and was recognized as the top student in English, AP US History, AP Calculus and AP Biology. Julie served in student government for two years as vice president. As a senior, she was selected to be on the student leadership team. Julie was a four-year varsity athlete on the soccer and basketball teams. She has earned the community service award each year of high school. She was also a member of the NHS. Julie plans to attend the University of Michigan and study pharmaceutical science.

JAMES DARAWI

Parents: Makarios and Jennifer Darawi

A 3.97 student, James was named a salutatorian and received a National Merit Scholarship letter of commendation. James was recognized as the top student in Probability and Statistics, and AP Physics. He was a varsity athlete in track and field and was a leader in the business club for two years. James plans to attend Oakland University and study Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.

JOSIAH HELISEK

Parents: Joseph and Julia Helisek

A 4.0 student, Josiah was named a salutatorian. Josiah was recognized as the top student in English, Biology, and AP Physics, and for having the top GPA each year of high school. Josiah was the senior class vice president. Josiah was a varsity athlete in basketball and track and field and was recognized as an All-Conference Academic Team by the Michigan Independent Athletic Conference. He has participated in business, robotics, NHS and community service clubs. Josiah plans to attend Michigan State University to study Civil Engineering.

SOUTH LYON HIGH SCHOOL

Keely abbott.

Parent: Kierstin Abbott

With a 4.17 GPA, Keely has been on the Principal’s List and Honor Roll throughout high school. She is a member of the NHS, Key Club, Student Council and the cross country and track and field teams. Keely is an active member of her church youth group, a volunteer coach for cross country track at Cornerstone School and she works as a waitress. Keely  plans to attend Southeastern University in Florida to major in nursing, and hopes to work in a neonatal intensive care unit.

KYRA ABBOTT

A 4.17 student, Kyra has been on the Principal’s List and Honor Roll throughout high school. She is a Key Club volunteer and a member of the 4:12 Club. She has been a Link Crew Leader and high school theatre cast member and is also a member of the Chinese National Honor Society. She is a member of the youth group at her church. Kyra plans to attend Spring Arbor University to study Nursing with the goal of working as a pediatric oncology registered nurse.

MEGAN MCCOLLUM

Parents: Shannon and Tim McCollum

A 4.14 student, Megan was a state champion and international qualifier for DECA. She was a member of the NHS and a United Nations Global Goals Impact Award recipient. She’s a member of  Link Crew, Key Club, the Environmentalists Club, and plays varsity tennis. She also writes letters to nursing homes with Letters for Rose. Megan plans to attend the University of Michigan to major in Political Science in pursuit of a career in law.

ANNA ROTTINGHAUS

Parents: Brian and Jennifer Rottinghaus

A 4.17 student, Anna was an AP Scholar, member of the Principal’s List and received South Lyon Youth Assistance Volunteer Recognition. Anna has completed many different community service opportunities including Active Faith, Focus Hope, Foster Care Closet of Michigan and Kite Fest. Anna was awarded the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish, a United Nations Global Goals Impact Award and is a DECA State Champion. Anna participates in cross country and track and field, Key Club, PEERS, Environmental Club and Link Crew. Anna is a Microsoft Office Specialist. Anna plans to attend the University of Michigan, majoring in Biomedical Engineering, with plans to become a neural engineer.

JESSICA SARRACH

Parents: Jennifer and Justin Sarrach

A 4.18 student, Jessica was an AP Scholar with Honors and was on the Principal’s List throughout high school. She has held leadership positions in the NHS chapter, was Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper, and was the founder and president of the Environmentalists Club at the school. Jessica was a member of the tennis team, participated in Key Club, Link Crew, Baking Club, and the Chinese National Honor Society and the Chinese Club. She is a two-time DECA State Champion and has won numerous DECA medals, and is a United Nations Global Goals Impact Award recipient. Jessica plans to attend the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, majoring in Business Management with plans to go to law school to become a corporate lawyer.

NATHAN SCHANG

Parents: Brian and Jennifer Schang

A 4.11 student, Nathan was a member of the marching band, jazz band, pep band and pit orchestra. He has also participated in the University of Michigan Youth Trombone Ensemble and the Detroit Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra. Nathan earned the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish and was a member of the NHS. Nathan plans to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, majoring in Mechanical Engineering.

GREGORY SKAKUN

Parents: Julia and Andrew Skakun

A 4.16 student, Gregory was a National Merit Commended Scholar, an AP Scholar, and earned the Principal’s List award, all four years of high school. Gregory won Honorable Mention for Michigan Social Studies Olympiad and was active in Link Crew, Social Studies Olympiad, Student Council and the Multicultural Club. Gregory was involved in the school’s theater program and the Michigan Youth Symphony Orchestra. He has been a volunteer at Ascension Hospital. Gregory plans to attend the University of Michigan, majoring in biochemistry. Gregory plans to be a cardiologist.

LUKE SWAGGERTY

Parent: Katie Swaggerty

A 4.18 student, Luke is a member of the Student Council, Weightlifting Club, Disc Golf Club and co-founder of the Fishing Club. Luke is a member of the tennis team and plays baseball in the summer. He has volunteered at his church and the Maybury State Park. He plans to attend the University of Michigan, majoring in Business/Finance with hopes of pursuing a career in corporate law.

LOGANN TERPACK

Parents: Marianne and Stefan Terpack

With a 4.14 GPA, Logann is a member of Key Club and Link Crew. Logan is an active member of the school’s theater program and is the Thespian Board president. She volunteers as a Camp Invention Counselor and is a podcast host for South Lyon High School Stage Struck Podcast. Logann plans to attend the University of Michigan, majoring in Drama.

MONICA VAUGHN

Parents: Doug and Kristin Vaughn

With a 4.12 GPA, Monica has been on the Principal’s List and honor roll all four years of high school, and awarded AP Scholar and eight Gold Scholar Athlete Awards. She has been a member of both the Cross Country and Tennis teams throughout high school, and has served as captain in both sports. Monica has been a member of Key Club and NHS, and is the co-founder and president of a 4:12 Club chapter. She is active with her church, and has participated in summer mission trips. Monica plans to attend Calvin University, majoring in Supply Chain Management.

SOUTH LYON EAST HIGH SCHOOL

Sneha patel.

Parents: Rashmi and Hemang Patel

A 4.285 student, Sneha was awarded AP Scholar with Honor, Gold Scholar Athlete and was named to the Principal’s List. Sneha was Student Council co-president, NHS chapter vice president, a member of Link Leader and co-captain of the varsity tennis team. Sneha plans to study Biomedical Science at the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor.

CARTER CARINO

Parents: Laura and Chris Carino

A 4.264 GPA student, Carter was named to the Principal’s List and honor roll all four years of high school and was awarded AP Scholar with Honor Award, Commended National Merit Scholar, and received an Academic Letter and Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish. Carter was president of the Debate team, two-time state qualifier and captain of the Mock Trial team and was a NHS member. Carter was drum major in the marching band, trombone and bass trombone player in small ensembles and pit orchestra, and participated in the University of Michigan’s Youth Trombone Ensemble. Carter plans to study psychology and political science at the University of Michigan, with plans to attend law school in the future.

SOLOMON STRONG

Parents: Tobin and Kara Strong

A 4.2 student, Solomon was awarded AP Scholar with Honor Award and was named to the Principal’s List and Honor Roll all four years of high school. Solomon was a member of the varsity track and varsity cross country teams throughout high school, and was awarded the Gold Scholar-Athlete Medal all four years, and the LVC Scholar Athlete, three years. Solomon plans to attend Michigan State University to study Computer Science.

RACHEL BISHOP

Parents: Jennifer and Ryan Bishop

A 4.190 GPA student, Rachel was named to the Principal’s List and Honor Roll and received an AP Scholar Award, National Rural and Small Town Recognition and the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish. Rachel was student council class president, Key Club treasurer, and a member of the NHS and Link Crew. Rachel plans to attend the University of Michigan to study chemical engineering.

ANNA LASSAN

Parents: Julie and Gregg Lassan

A 4.19 student, Anna was a member of the varsity basketball team, varsity softball team and varsity golf, and was captain of the basketball and softball teams. Anna was a MHSAA Scholar Athlete finalist, president of the school’s NHS chapter, student council LVC leadership representative, and a member of Link Crew. Anna plans to attend the University of Detroit Mercy to play Division One Basketball on a full ride scholarship and study pre-med.

VINCENT ANTONIO

Parents: Mark and Lisa Antonio

A 4.183 student, Vincent was named to the Principal’s List and Honor Roll, and awarded AP Scholar with Honor, Gold Academic Medal for Athletics and Academic Letter. Vincent was a member of the NHS and Link Crew, and played baseball. Vincent plans to attend the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor to study finance at the Ross School of Business

JAMES WITKOWSKI

Parents: Todd and Karen Witkowski

With a 4.0 unweighted and a 4.18 weighted GPA, James graduated summa cum laude and was named to the Principal’s List and Honor Roll, and awarded 11 Academic Gold Medals. James participated in varsity tennis as co-captain for two years, varsity track and field (long jump captain), varsity basketball, NHS, and varsity debate. James was awarded Contagious Positivity Basketball Award (two times), Varsity  Tennis All-State Academic Team, Tennis State-Quarterfinalist, Varsity Tennis LVC All-Conference First Team, Varsity Tennis LVC All-Conference Second Team, Varsity Track & Field All-Conference Long Jumper (three times).

LYNDSEY QUINN

Parents: Kristi and Michael Quinn

A 4.160 GPA student, Lyndsey was named to the Principal’s List and honor roll, and awarded Gold Scholar Athlete Medal for pom (eight times), LVC Scholar Athlete, Mid American Pom Pon All Star (three years), and varsity award for pom throughout high school. Lyndsey was also a pom coach, Positivity Committee commissioner, assistant teacher at IXL Learning Center, and a member of the NHS and Link Crew. Lyndsey plans to attend Michigan State University and study Supply Chain Management.

ROBERT BOOTH

Parents: Katie Booth and Robert Booth III

A 4.151 GPA student at South Lyon East High School, Robert was also enrolled at Oakland Community College with a 4.0 GPA and was a Phi Theta Kappa member. Robert was a member of the baseball team throughout high school and the varsity team for three years. Robert was awarded Scholar Athlete, gold all four years and LVC All Conference honorable mention for pitching. Robert plans to pursue higher education at a university (University of Michigan or Michigan Tech for mechanical engineering) after completing the ACE program (early education program).

JAMES MARCHWINSKI

Parents: Cynthia and Michael Marchwinski

A 4.19 student, James was a National Merit Scholar Finalist and a NHS volunteer. He received multiple honors, such as the Red Tassel, the AP Scholars with Honor title, the True Blue Merit Scholarship, and four consecutive years on the Principal’s List. James plans to attend the University of Michigan and study to become an Actuary.

WALLED LAKE CENTRAL

Jaden bachrach.

Parents: Liz and Brad Simon

West Bloomfield

A 4.31 student, Jaden was a Robotics Team Member and was awarded an OCCRA second place and Strategic Design Award and PTA Reflections Photography-State Level Honors. Jaden was BBYO chapter secretary, member of the NHS, American Ninja Warrior coach and competitor, guitar player, and summer camp counselor.

JOANNA UGOLNIK

Parents: Dariusz and Renata Ugolnik

A 4.31 student, Joanna was an AP Scholar with Honor and LVC Scholar Athlete. Joanna was a member of the varsity soccer team through high school, serving as captain one year and received a Team All Academic award for soccer. Joanna was also a member of the varsity track team and varsity snowboard cross team and played club soccer. Joanna was a member of the student council for two years, (one year as secretary), yoga club president for two years, a member of the French Club, and a member of the NHS with 80 hours of volunteering. Joanna also earned the Seal of Biliteracy for Polish.

NICKELSON LUCA

Parents: Pashko and Arta Luca

A 4.31 student, Nickelson was awarded the AP Scholar Award and was a CTE Presidential Scholar Candidate. Nickelson was a member of the varsity soccer team throughout high school with two years as captain, a member of the varsity track team all four years, serving as captain one year, and played varsity football for two years. Nickelson was awarded All-Conference, Academic All-State and LVC Scholar Athlete. Nickelson was a member of the Finance Club, Spanish Club, and the NHS, earning the exemplary service award for 75+ hours of volunteering both junior and senior years. Nickelson played club soccer throughout high school, and guided and encouraged neurodivergent children to participate in friendly group sports.

SINDHU KONERU

Parents: Sunil Koneru and Sravana Muthavarapu

A 4.366 student, Sindhu was awarded a National Merit Commendation and was a HOSA Regionals Finalist. Sindhu participated in IASA, MirCore(gene research), tennis, Bharatanatyam (dance), Red Cross Club, NHS and was an IT intern.

LEAH RICHARDS

Parents: Scott and Jennifer Richards

A 4.286 student, Leah was awarded an AP Scholar with Honor award for AP exam scores and awarded an Exemplary Service Award for NHS for more than 100 volunteer hours. Leah participated in varsity track and field, and varsity golf, and was awarded  Scholar Athlete Award in golf and track. Leah was a member of the Giving Tree Club and Spanish Club and was a tech worker for the school play and coordinator of student pantry.

ANTHONY ARAFAT

Parents: Zaher and Zina Arafat

A 4.262 student, Anthony was vice president of the Chess Club and a state qualifier for tennis. Anthony was a NHS member, and participated in wrestling, and kickboxing.

Parents: Zahraa Ezat and Hasanain Jafar

A 4.333 student, Zane was awarded an AP Scholar with Honor award and a Scholar Athlete award. Zane participated in varsity tennis and snowboard boardercross, and was co-founder of Finance Club.

MATTHEW BERKOVICH

Parents: Roman and Julia Berkovich

A 4.429 student, Matthew was awarded an AP Scholar with Distinction award. Matthew was a member of the varsity hockey team and received an Academic Leader award for hockey, Academic All-State and All Conference Honorable Mention-Hockey. Matthew also participated in track, served as a lifeguard and was a member of the NHS.

Parents: Pramod and Rekha Das

A 4.381 student, Vishnu participated in basketball throughout high school, was a member of the varsity team for three years, and served as a team captain. Vishnu earned All Conference  and was a Scholar Athlete. Vishnu was the founder and president of Investment Club, and participated in varsity tennis for three years and varsity golf for two years. Vishnu was also a referee and coach for youth basketball.

Parents: Goro and Chiharu Ikeda

A 4.328 student, Ryo was awarded AP Scholar with Distinction. Ryo was president of Model United Nations chapter and achieved highest honors in Mid-American International Affairs Conference and Honors in Mid-American Model United Nations. Ryo was president of the NHS chapter; and a member of the Principal’s Advisory Committee, Spanish Club and Buddy Up Club. Ryo served as executive director of nonprofit Ringo Connect and was a senior at Japanese School of Detroit, a supplementary educational school. Ryo played viola in the school’s symphony strings orchestra, and earned a Seal of Biliteracy. Ryo plans to attend the University of Michigan Honors to study Economics and Computer Science.

WALLED LAKE NORTHERN

Parents: Erin and Larry Hunt

White Lake Twp.

A 4.476 student, Ryann was named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist, and received the AP Scholar With Distinction Award. Ryann made the honor roll in 9th grade and received an academic letter in 10th and 11th grade. Ryann skipped a grade and earned a 1570 SAT score. Ryann is also an AP Capstone candidate. Ryann was a member of the NHS, Strategy Games Club, and the Science National Honor Society. Ryann was in the ensemble for the high school musical, sophomore year and was a member of the crochet club, senior year.

KAYLA BUDZIAK

Parents: Cari and Kevin Budziak

A 4.399 student, Kayla achieved High Academic Honors each semester and received the President’s Award for Academic Excellence. Kayla is an AP Capstone candidate and was awarded Scholar-Athlete, sophomore through senior year, and Individual Academic All-State, senior year. Kayla was a member of the NHS and served as historian, senior year. Kayla was a member of the varsity volleyball team for four years, was captain for one year, and received an All-Conference award. Kayla also played on the varsity soccer team for four years, was captain for two years, and received two All-Conference awards and three All-District Awards. Kayla also played club soccer for the Michigan Jaguars since elementary school.

MICHAEL KREPS

Parents: Tia and Michael Kreps

With a 4.378 GPA, Michael maintained an unweighted 4.0 GPA. He demonstrated leadership skills as a section leader of the marching band and tutoring in math and physics. Michael’s dedication to the trombone led to merited positions in the Wind Ensemble and Musical Pit. He competed in the Michigan Industrial and Technology Education Society engineering competition, earning 1st place in Regionals and 3rd place at the state level. Michael was a varsity athlete in both Track and Cross Country, and served as Class Council representative and was a church leader. Michael has received acceptance letters from several universities.

MASON SPENCER

Parents: Tara and David Spencer

With a 4.357 GPA, Mason was named to the Academic Honor Roll. Other awards include AP Capstone Award Candidate, AP Scholar with Honor, LVC Scholar Athlete, MIHSSCA Individual All Academic Award, and MHSAA Scholar/Athlete Award. Mason served as Spanish Honor Society president, National Honor Society Parliamentarian and Chair of the Mentor Program and Class Council representative. Mason participated in varsity soccer, varsity ski racing (Individual All Conference, All Division, All Region), Golf (9th-10th) and Track (11th-12th). Mason has served as a Hospitality House volunteer.

NATALIE PAZDAN

Parents: Jennifer McGregor and Robert Pazdan

A 4.339 student, Natalie achieved the AP Scholar with Honors award and the Conference Scholar Athlete award. Natalie participated in the German exchange program, theater, tennis, AP Psychology Club, German Club, National Honor Society, German National Honor Society, and Students for Females in STEM.

HOLLY CORTEVILLE

Parents: Wendi and Scott Corteville

With a GPA of 4.333, Holly graduated with the highest academic honors. She received the AP Scholar with Distinction award, a Walled Lake Legacy Scholarship, an academic all-state in Cross Country, the scholar athlete award (3 years), and an academic letter (3 years). Holly has participated in Varsity Track and Cross Country (4 years), solo and ensemble (3 years), NHS (2 years), and Marching Band (4 years) becoming a section leader her senior year. Holly plans to study Electrical Engineering at the University of Michigan and intends to pursue a master’s degree.

LUCAS KARBEL

Parents: Brenna and Jamie Karbel

A 4.333 student, Lucas was awarded the AP scholar designation, and was an AP Capstone Diploma candidate. In cross country, Lucas achieved the 6th fastest 5K time in school history, four-time All-Conference honors, three-time All-County honors, was awarded Rookie of the Year, competed at Garmin Nationals twice, and was Academic All-State twice. In track, Lucas was the freshman school record holder in 3200m, three-time All-Conference honors, three-time All-County honors, competed at New Balance Indoor Nationals twice, competed at Nike Nationals, and competed at State. Lucas was a captain in track and cross country, junior and senior years. Lucas was also the treasurer of Students Leading Students and a member of the NHS.

CAILEIGH HILIGAN

Parents: Heather and Ryan Hiligan

A 4.326 student, Caileigh graduated with highest academic honors, was a part of the AP Capstone program, and was a member of the National Honor Society and the German National Honor Society. Caileigh received the AP Scholar with Distinction Award, the Scholar Athlete Award, and placed 1st in State in the MITES architectural drawing competition. Caileigh served as the president of the German Club, vice president of AP psychology club, was a member of Students Leading Students, and was a member of the girls tennis team for four years. Caileigh plans to study psychology at the University of Michigan.

MADISON FRESHOUR

Parents: Thomas Freshour and Sharon Beetham

A 4.310 student, Madison was awarded AP Scholar with Distinction (2023), AP Capstone Candidate (2024), and High Academic Honors (2021-2024). Madison was a Class Council representative from 2021-2024. Madison was chair of Project D Committee, serving the community of Detroit, 2023-2024, and was a member of the National Honors Society and the French Honor Society from 2022-2024. Also, Madison served on the Blood Drive Committee (2022-2024), Community Outreach Committee (2023-2024), Mentor Committee (2022- 2023), and Mental Health Committee (2022-2023), and was a mentor for the high school’s program, Students Who Are There (S.W.A.T.). Madison played national club volleyball at Team Detroit, 2020-2023, and was an athlete at Functional Athletic Sequence Training from 2018-2022.

ALLISON JONES

Parents: Melanie and Brandon Jones

With a 4.306 GPA, Allison was awarded the AP Scholar with Honors award and received an Academic Letter. Allison has been a member of the track and cross country team since freshman year. She has also been class council secretary throughout high school, and is currently a committee chair for the NHS chapter. Allison has been a member of the Walled Lake Northern Marching Band since freshman year, and became a section leader, senior year.

WALLED LAKE WESTERN HIGH SCHOOL

Alyssa paolicchi.

Parents: Joseph and Marianna Paolicchi

A 4.535 student, Alyssa has taken dual enrollment courses offered at the University of Michigan. Alyssa served as captain of the forensics team, and has been captain of the varsity swim team, junior and senior year. Alyssa was vice president of the NHS chapter, junior and senior year, and organized a local blood drive and a book drive. Alyssa has been a three-time state qualifier for Swimming and a Division 1 State Finalist in 2022. Additionally, she set the Walled Lake Western school 2021 record in the 100-yard freestyle as well as the 2022 school record in the 200 and 400-yard freestyle relays. She plans to attend Princeton University to major in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

MANJARI BHAT

Parents: Sangeetha and Srinivas Bhat

With a 4.0 unweighted and a 4.42 weighted GPA, Manjari participated in Bharatanatyam (Indian Classical Dance), Forensics, Indian American Student Association (IASA), NHS, and was founder/co-president of Organized Charity Association and vice president of Model UN chapter. Manjari plans to attend the University of Michigan and major in Information Science.

WATERFORD KETTERING HIGH SCHOOL

Hailee milmine.

Parents: Chris and Dawn Milmine

A 4.17 GPA student, Hailee is a board member for Waterford Kettering’s NHS chapter, president of Tri-M Music Honor Society, a Girl Scout for 12 years, and drum major for the Captains’ Marching Band for the 2023/2024 season. She was a member of Kettering’s Chamber Choir and Wind Ensemble, and the Kettering Diversity Union. Hailee was awarded the Academic Excellence award all 4 years of high school, and also won an AP Scholar Award. She received the Maroon and Gold Scholarship which she plans to use at Central Michigan University in the fall to study Music Education.

WADE HARNACK

Parents: Danny and Rebekah Harnack

A 4.16 GPA student, Wade won the Academic Excellence Award the past 3 years for having a 4.0 GPA or higher, and was honored as an Academic All-State and Scholar Athlete. Wade was in multiple AP classes in all core subjects. Wade is a three-year varsity football player at Kettering, and was named Captain of the team, senior year. He won the “WK Captains Award” for Varsity Football. Wade will attend Oakland University to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also hopes to study wind power and/or electric vehicles.

SYDNEY GASS

Parents: Tiana and Tim Gass

A 4.14 GPA student, Sydney has participated in every level of choir, different mediums of art, took multiple AP and Honors classes, and was awarded the Academic Achievement Award each year of high school. She is a part of the National Art Honor Society, Student Court, and vice president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Sydney volunteers to assist programs in the Kettering Performing Arts Center by serving as backstage crew for theater productions and fundraising for the choir program at the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Sydney plans to complete her prerequisite classes at Oakland Community College before transferring to another school to study architecture.

DAVID LAMPHERE

Parents: Donna and Scott Lamphere

A 4.12 GPA student, David was a three-year varsity football player and was named a captain of the varsity football team his senior year. He received the Most Improved Award in 2022, the Captain’s Award in 2023, and the Defensive MVP Award in 2024 for football. David earned the Academic Award for having a 4.0 GPA or higher, was selected for the 2023 graduation honor guard, and won DECA’s (marketing students association) regional round and attended the DECA state competition in Detroit. David was named a DECA District 6 2023 Top 3 Test Overall Finalist in Business Law. David plans to attend Lawrence Tech to pursue a major in Business with a minor in Engineering.

BAILEY CARLEY

Parents: Andrew and Melanie Carley

A 4.1 GPA student, Bailey was a part of Kettering’s Varsity Dance Team and was the Lacrosse Team Captain. She served as Kettering’s Student Council President and a Lakes Valley Conference Student Council Representative. She served on the Student Six Committee, and was a member of the NHS and Link Crew. Bailey is an MHSAA Scholar Athlete and earned the Outstanding Student Council Member Award, the Athletic Leadership Award, Academic Athlete Award, and Academic Excellence Award. Bailey was named one of Waterford’s Select 50, (seniors who have exhibited leadership and citizenship throughout high school), and was a presenter at Michigan Association of Student Councils and Honor Societies’ State Conference. She plans to study Economics at The University of Michigan on a Pre-Law Track in the Fall.

ANDREW MERCIER

Parents: Stephanie Mercier and Dennis Mercier

A 4.14 GPA student, Andrew was the captain of the varsity track team, captain of the varsity cross country team, and a member of the chamber choir. He was named one of Waterford Select 50 and 2023 Graduation Honor Guard. He earned the Underclassmen Athletic Leadership Award, Academic Achievement Award, and the Academic Athletic Excellence Award. Andrew took a rigorous and advanced course load all four years while maintaining a high GPA. Andrew plans to attend Indiana Technical University to study Mechanical Engineering, while competing on their cross country and track teams.

MERCEDES BRACEY

Parents: Kimberly and Darnell Bracey

A 4.09 GPA student, Mercedes won the College Board’s African American National Recognition Award, and was a nationally awarded competition dancer with Juliana’s Academy of Dance. She was also a NHS member. Mercedes was a part of a pre-professional dance program, MVA+, with national convention/competition, Velocity Dance convention. She was a faculty assistant for Pro Reveler, with the national competition/convention Revel Dance Convention. Mercedes plans to attend a university with a double major in Criminology and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance.

ALLANA KIMMERER

Parents: Aaron and Jamie Kimmerer

A 4.09 GPA student, Allana was DECA (marketing students association) chapter president, Student Council secretary and part of the Student Leadership team, which plans events for Kettering High School in addition to fundraisers for charity. Allana was District 6 2023 Top 3 finalist in professional selling and qualified for state. Allana participated in LINK Crew, NHS, was the varsity dance team captain, and was named one of Waterford’s Select 50. She earned the Michigan Association of Student Councils and Honor Societies’ Unsung Hero Award, the Academic Excellence Award and the Athletic Achievement Award. Allana plans to study Marketing through the Eli Broad College of Business and attend the Honors College at Michigan State University.

NICHOLAS TRUONG

Parents: Jennifer and Truc Truong

A 3.95 GPA student, Nicholas was a member of the varsity cross country, varsity golf, and varsity track teams. Nicholas was named one of Waterford’s Select 50 and earned the Scholastic Art & Writing Silver Key Award, Outstanding Junior Business Management Administration Student Award, and Outstanding Freshman Computers for College & Career Student Award. Nicholas was also a member of the NHS. Nicholas plans to attend Michigan State University to pursue a chemistry degree and then attend dental school to become a dentist.

ELIZABETH STEWART

Parents: Leslie and Michael Stewart

A 4.07 GPA student, Elizabeth earned the Academic Excellence Award, Outstanding Accounting Student Award, Outstanding Marketing Student Award, and Outstanding Art Student Award at Kettering High School. She was a DECA (marketing students association) 2024 State Finalist, a recipient of National Merit Special Scholarship, and was captain of the competitive dance team at The Dance Place Ltd. Elizabeth plans to attend Michigan State University to study Psychology or Child Development.

WATERFORD MOTT HIGH SCHOOL

MEGAN RILEY

Parents: Heather and Kevin Riley

A 4.2 student, Megan was named valedictorian, and honored as a National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test Commended Student and AP Scholar with Honor. Megan also received a U.S. Marine Corps. Scholastic Excellence Award. Megan participated in Mathematics Society, Link Crew, LINKS special needs peer support program, NHS, honor guard, Positive Peer Influence, Anti-Defamation League, Mu Alpha Theta National, and was a CUMC youth group member, Donelson Hills Elementary school volunteer, and a private tutor for local 4th grader. Megan plans to attend Michigan State University majoring in psychology.

JORDAN FRAIFOGL

Parents: Toby and Amanda Fraifogl

A 4.15 student, Jordan participated in the Academic Incentive Program for GPA 3.75+ and was named an Outstanding Student for numerous courses including AP Government and AP World Studies. Jordan was awarded the Waterford Foundation for Public Education Select Fifty Award. A member of the Cross Country and Track and Field teams, Jordan was a Lakes Valley Conference Scholar Athlete for Cross Country and Track and Field. Jordan was a member of a Competition Dance Team and Advanced Tap at The Dance Place LTD. Jordan held the position of yearbook editor and participated in NHS, Mu Alpha Theta and Link Crew.

Jordan plans to attend University of Michigan, Ann Arbor to study biology and pre-med.

SOPHIA SANTIA

Parents: Brooke Manuel and Rocco Santia

A 4.1357 student, Sophia participated in the Academic Incentive Program for GPA 3.75+ and was named an Outstanding Student for numerous courses including AP English Language and Composition, Honors Physics, Pre-Calculus, AP World Studies and AP Psychology. Sophia was awarded a Waterford Foundation for Public Education Select Fifty Award. Sophia was vice president of the NHS chapter, president and founder of Mu Alpha Theta chapter, and a member of Student Leadership and Link Crew. Sophia was a Pre-Professional Dance Team member and dance instructor for younger dancers at The Dance Shoppe. Sophia plans to attend the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

BRADY CRAKE

Parents: Tara and Larry Crake

A 4.1 student, Brady was awarded a Waterford Foundation for Public Education Select Fifty Award, Lakes Valley Conference Scholar Athlete and U.S. Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award. Brady participated in Track and Field, Cross Country, Link Crew, Positive Peer Influence and played violin in the orchestra. Brady plans to attend Alma College as a member of their track and field team and major in either Environmental Studies or Biology.

JOANNA ROWE

Parents: Ana and Lance Rowe

A 4.02 student, Joanna was named to the Dean’s List and graduated summa cum laude. Joanna participated in the Accelerated College Experience (ACE) program and earned an Associates in Arts and an Associates in Science. Joanna was Student Marshal, Commencement Ambassador and received the Waterford Advanced Achievement Endorsement. Joanna was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society, National Honors Society and Spanish Reconnect. Joanna plans to attend the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor to pursue an Aerospace Engineering Degree

QUENTIN ROGERS

Parents: Nichole Burton and Carl Rogers

A 4.0128 student, Quentin was awarded the Waterford Foundation for Public Education Select Fifty Award, the College Board National African American Recognition Award and Honor Guard. Quentin participated in track, Student Leadership and Link Crew.

Quentin plans to attend Michigan State University majoring in Computer Science

JOSHUA WILCOX

Parents: Kim and Steve Wilcox

With a 3.99 GPA, Joshua was on the Dean’s List and was named Outstanding AP Computer Science Principles student. Joshua was a HOSA-Future Health Professionals state medalist and was president of the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) chapter at Waterford Mott and a member of NTHS at Oakland Schools Technical Campus-NW. Joshua participated in marching band, varsity track and field, and varsity bowling, and was a bowling state qualifier. Joshua is an Eagle Scout, and plans to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing.

RICARDO SANCHEZ

Parents: Olga and Ricardo Sanchez

A 3.94 student, Ricardo was awarded the Seal of Biliteracy and received Recognition for Excellence in Career and Technical Education. Ricardo participated in varsity soccer.

Ricardo plans to attend Michigan State University to study Mechanical Engineering

ERICK GUILLEN

Parents: Claudia Gutierrez and Rafael Guillen

With a 4.107 GPA, Erick received an AP Scholar Award and the Semper Fidelis Marine Music Award. Erick participated in Waterford Mott Marching Band as a drum major; was a member of New Horizons Band and Musical Pit Musician. Erick was president of the NHS chapter; co-founder and vice president of Mu Alpha Theta chapter and participated in varsity boys tennis, Link Crew, Student Leadership and Waterford United. Erick plans to attend Central Michigan University to earn a degree in Music Education.

AMBER WRIGHT

Parents: Brian and Julia Wright

A 3.94 student, Amber was awarded the Waterford Foundation for Public Education Select Fifty Award. Amber was a member of Competitive Dance Troupe, NHS, National Art Honor Society, Link Crew, and Positive Peer Influence. Amber plans to attend Grand Valley State University to study Biomedical Science.

WIXOM CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Madison taylor.

Parents: Jeremy and Kathleen Taylor

A 3.93 GPA student, Madison was named valedictorian of the senior class. Madison participated in varsity volleyball, varsity basketball, and choir, and acted in high school theatre productions, as Miss Dinsmore/Roz in “Singing in the Rain”, Dorothy in the “Wizard of Oz” and as Mary Poppins in “Mary Poppins.” Madison plans to attend Pensacola University.

Parents: Jason and Christine Gear

A 3.78 GPA student, Luke was named salutatorian of the senior class. Luke participated in band and stage crew for several theatre productions. Luke plans to attend Pensacola University.

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HIS MAJESTY THE KING ANNOUNCED AS PATRON

We are deeply honoured to announce His Majesty The King as Patron of the Royal Commonwealth Society. With his long record of support for the Commonwealth and as a champion of the environment, he embodies the values to which the Royal Commonwealth Society aspires, and which inspires our work to make a practical difference in the lives of the 2.6 billion people who make up the Commonwealth family. Read the release in full. 

The  Royal Commonwealth Society is a network of individuals and organisations committed to improving the lives and prospects of Commonwealth citizens across the world. Find out more about our vision and how we aim to achieve this. 

OUR VISION AND MISSION

OUR HISTORY 

Founded on 26 June 1868 as a ‘literary and scientific body’ the Society was granted a Royal Charter by Queen Victoria a year later. Since our establishment the Society has welcomed speakers including Nelson Mandela and evolved to meet the changing nature of the Commonwealth. 

COMMONWEALTH VOICES

'Commonwealth Voices' is the Society's magazine containing observations on Commonwealth-wide news, developments and concerns, and includes high-profile guest contributions, research pieces and contemporary news. Read the latest edition.

Caribbean Youth Leading the Charge for Sustainable Development: Setting The Stage for the 2024 ECOSOC Youth Forum

His Majesty The King announced as Patron of the Royal Commonwealth Society

Commonwealth Day Service of Celebration 2024, 11 March 2024

NEWS AND BLOGS

QCEC 2024 ENTRY DEADLINE

15 MAY 2024 

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC) is the world’s oldest international writing competition for schools and has been delivered by the Royal Commonwealth Society since 1883. In the past decade alone, the competition has engaged over 140,000 young people, 5,000 schools and 1,000 volunteer judges. The theme for 2024 is 'Our Common Wealth'. Enter by 15 May to share your thoughts on global issues. 

QCEC WINNERS WEEK 

11-15 NOVEMBER 2024 

One Winner and one Runner-up from the Senior and Junior categories of The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition 2024 will win a trip to London to take part in Winners Week - a week of educational and cultural activities. This week will culminate in a special Awards Ceremony, normally held at Buckingham Palace and kindly hosted by Her Majesty The Queen. 

HIGH COMMISSIONERS' BANQUET

17 NOVEMBER 2024

The Society has been the custodian of this annual event, a highlight in the Commonwealth calendar, since it held its first ‘conversazione’ in 1874. The High Commissioners' Banquet provides an opportunity to bring together the Commonwealth’s London-based diplomatic representatives and UK and Commonwealth business and community leaders.