AFSA, Vadnais Heights
Madeline Randall
Parents: William and Nancy Randall
College, major: Hamline University, English and digital media arts
Quote: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” — Frederick Douglass
Paige Stuber
Parent: Sharyl Stuber
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, agricultural education
Quote: “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.”
Jacob Petronack
Parents: Michael and Deb Petronack
College, major: University of Wisconsin-River Falls, horticulture
Quote: “Plan for what is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small.” — Sun Tzu
Benjamin Vollhaber
Parents: Andrew and Angella Vollhaber
College, major: University of Northwestern-St. Paul, electrical engineering
Quote: “Common sense is like deodorant. The people who need it the most don’t use it.”
Griffin Westerman
Parents: Marcus and Tanya Westerman
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, computer science
Abigail Moe
Parents: Sheldon and Michelle Moe
College, major: Gustavus Adolphus College, communication studies and environmental science
Quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt.
Ethan Chase
Parents: Gwen and Edward Chase
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biochemistry
Quote: “It’s not about how much you do, but how much love you put into what you do that counts.” — Mother Teresa
Mitchell Carey
Parents: Patti Carey and Troy Carey
College, major: University of Iowa; English, creative writing, screenwriting
Quote: “To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other, and to feel. That is the purpose of life.” – “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” James Thurber
Olivia Ellis
Parent: Amy Ellis
College, major: University of Maine, chemistry
Quote: “Well-behaved women seldom make history.” — Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
Samuel Koland
Parents: Brad and Lisa Koland
College, major: University of Maine, engineering
Quote: “It is possible to commit no mistakes and still lose. That is not a weakness; that is life.” — Captain Jean-Luc Picard, “Star Trek: The Next Generation”
AGAPE, St. Paul
Lor Lee, Outstanding Student Award; Aye Myint, Integrity Award; D’Ari Moore, Perseverance Award and 2020 Class Speaker; Mai Lee Her, Perseverance Award; Katherene Yang, Turnaround Award; Hayla Mullins, Distance Learning Award Apostolic Bible Institute Christian Academy
Apple Valley
Helena Abeln, Colton Bauer, Nora Bengtson, Talia Bergerson, Logan Bradley, Alexander Chabla, Whitney Chung, Maquanet Collins, Jessica Connors, Jonah Dean, Sydni Erickson, Karen Escobar, Colby Flake, Laila Gilbert, Stephanie Gomez Olmedo, Emily Green, Samantha Hoyt, Samuel Hubley, Laurel Huspeni, Brooke Kierzek, Nicole Klaus, Julia Lee, Lily Leong, Hope Losby, Christina Monsen, Thor Oase, Esperanza Pearson, Kyrylo Pernatiy, Lily Pershica, Stephanie Phillips, Idalys Raposo Cardona, Logan Schindler, Racquel Scott, Nicole Stevens, Elianna Van Hulzen, Sydney Wilson, Karisa Wilson, Lilliana Wunderlich
Top Grads: A few words from our top graduates’ commencement speeches
Baldwin-Woodville, Baldwin, Wis.
Valedictorian: Elizabeth Berndt
Parents: Troy and Autumn Berndt
College, major: College of St. Scholastica, nursing
Salutatorian: Brianna Mikla
Parents: Mark and Sue Mikla
College, major: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, elementary education or exercise science
Thomas Albrightson
Parents: Craig and Kelly Albrightson
College, major: Iowa State University, construction engineering
Ashley Burr
Parents: Bryan Burr, Jessica VanDamme
College, major: University of Wisconsin-River Falls, Spanish
Hunter Clausen
Parents: Stephen and Sarah Clausen
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Stout, packaging engineering
Grace Dietzman
Parents: Carlene and Daniel Dietzman
College, major: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, chemistry
Riley Gough
Parents: Anna and Jason Gough
College major: kinesiology and exercise science
Megan Hietala
Parents: Amy and Robert Hietala
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, English literature
Jessica Jarvis
Parents: Pam and John Jarvis
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, actuarial sciences
Jacob Lindquist
Parents: Dave and Kim Lindquist
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, pre-chiropractic
Laura Luckwaldt
Parents: Dan and Mary Luckwaldt
College, major: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, biology
Jacob Maurer
Parents: Josh Maurer, Hillary Maurer
After graduation: U.S. Army as a medic
Ali Mueller
Parents: Wendy Gerdmann and Bobby Mueller
College, major: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, biology
Zachary Nilssen
Parents: Jason and Teresa Nilssen
College, major: Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Green Bay; electrical power distribution
Madison Peterson
Parents: Jeff and Jodi Peterson
College, major: University of Wisconsin-River Falls, agribusiness management
Ross Roemhild
Parents: Mark and Amy Roemhild
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, mathematics/computer science
Alexander Schaller
Parents: Arthur and Elizabeth Schaller
College, major: University of Minnesota-Duluth, mathematics and physics
Josie Schoeller
Parents: Douglas Schoeller, Kelly Schoeller
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Platteville, mechanical engineering
Hannah Stitt
Parents: Katie and Anthony Stitt
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, nursing
Mercedes Wallace
Parents: Christine and Darrel Wallace
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, architectural studies
Barron, Wis.
Summa cum laude: Elizabeth Erb, Tara Glaser, Brooke Hammann, Kohl Keilholtz, Mitchell Klatt, Taylor Lytle, Edward Mettner, Michael Nichols, Jonathon Scheps, Julia Wirth
Magna cum laude: Wyatt Boe, Kali Bohn, Taylor Braden, Najma Dahir, Amie Kurtz, Cecelia Prentiss
Cum laude: Mikayla Baldwin, Zachary Beckendorf, Tyler Buss, Ryan Dahlberg, Ratanak Dara, Sage Eichman, Isabelle Eriksen, Faith Hanson, Kiley Huffman, Logan Janney, Kaylee Johnson, Lauren Maas, Chloe Miller, Jonathan Nelson, Tomas Travassos
Blaine
Highest honors: Jacob Ackerman, Furkan Addow, Blake Almberg, Tyler Anderson, Fatima Anwar, Kaitlyn Asplund, Yasmeen Balayah, Abranette Barry, Elizabeth Beckstrom, Laina Behrenbrinker, Anne Beyer, Cassandra Boock, Greta Bosley, Elizabeth Bouma, Emma Bouwman, Dylan Bruesehoff, Drake Bryant, Julia Buck, Samuel Burnes, Dallas Carey, Kaleb Carson, Alan Casas, Lauren Christenson, Blake Ciesynski, Nathan Cook, Amelia Curie, Annika Daley, Peter DeVries, Jeffrey Do, Jay Erdman, Sameen Faisal, Samantha Friedrich, Jonathan Gwinn, Sami Hammami, Hunter Hanson, Emma Hanson, Lena Haque, Asmaa Hassan, Charlotte Hemmila, Savannah Hofman, Gabrielle Justen, Madison Kalbow, Tyler Kedrowski, Kaylee Klein, Neha Krishnan, Madison Krueger, Victoria Lawrence, Faye Lewis, Kunga Lhamo, Sophia Liang, Samantha Lim, Laima Liulevicius, Molly Loftus, Johnathan Maki, Shreeya Maruri, Matthew McCormick, Ryan McGregor, Alex Mecicar, Michael Mehl, Emma Melin, Benjamin Meyers, Iszavier Moe, Kyra Moen, Huda Mohamed, Kaitlin Nathe, Christine Nguyen, Isabella Nielsen, Dakota Nitti, Matthew Novak, Andrew Novak, Taylor Opatrny, Christopher Paffel, Andreas Pearson, Jon Peterson, Alaina Peterson, Ashley Piche, Elizabeth Picht, Jarod Pivovar, Sophia Pletcher, Claudia Podesta, Adnan Qutob, Brenna Rabe, Anthony Raeker, Taha Rao, Riley Robideau, Nathan Rode, Makayla Schmidt, Madison Schmidt, Callen Schultz, Sean Schweiger, Mary Shogren, Parker Shufelt, Nathan D. Smith, Gavin Spartz, Lauren Stadler, Brianna Talusan, Elise Thoreen, Alexander Totev, Bach Tran, Camille Trempe, Elijah Truchon, Alexandria Vang, Jesanna Vang, Melissa Vang, Naudia Vang-Nguyen, Isaac Vanzomeren, Anna Viegut, Kim Vo, Olivia Weigand, Abby Welter, McKenzie Williams, Joelle Wolf, Kashia Xiong, Joshua Yang, Grace Yemma-Tschumper, Tony Zhang, Erik Ziegler, Sarah Zins
Bridge View, St. Paul
Tylar Kelly
Parents: Tim and Tammy Kelly
After graduation: Focus Beyond Transition Services
Quote: “Work hard and graduate. You can do it! You don’t have to cry, but you do have to try. I miss you guys and love ya.”
Nathaniel Ayde
Parent: Rosemary Ayde
After graduation: Focus Beyond Transition Services
Quote: “Work Hard Play”
Elijah Ali
Parents: Sonia and Adbullah Ali
After graduation: Focus Beyond Transition Services
Quote: “It is not whether your words or actions are tough or gentle; it is the spirit behind your actions and words that announces your inner state.” — Chi Ning Chu
Burnsville
Ayan Abdullahi, Caden Allen, Joseph Anderson, Austin Aune, Annalise Austin, Ushmil Azad, Zamzam Badri, Abigail Bauleke, Mitchel Beckett-Groth, Katherine Berge, Hannah Bonneville, Dalton Burns, Randii Callan, Zoe Chadwick, Savannah Christenson, Kiah Christopherson, Sebastian Cocco, Alison Coughlin, Carly Dahl, Arthur Dao, Skyla Dao, Aaron Davis, Marcus Delius, Hanna Dessu, Megan Diggan, Rory Donohue, Mayte Draper, Audrey Erickson, Siri Erickson-Green, Sean Floersch, Abigail Fors, Connor Funk, Francesca Garreffa, Christopher Garritty, Fatima Garza Ramon, Nadira Gelle, Meagan Haase, Makayla Haddorff, Audra Hakanson, Simone Hall, Walla Hamza, Briana Hanegraaf, Rebecca Harder, Ogleh Hassan, Cole Hawkins, Emma Heerey, Carissa Henry, Megan Hjermstad, Andriy Hladun, Brianna Hoevet, Marwah Ismail, Grace Kauffman, Brianna Kieffer, Ray-J Kim, Max Kortenhof, Meghan Kuether, Rebecca Larson, Maia Latvala, Kent Le-Vu, Lyla Lichliter, Anh Lien, Ruoxin Liu, Kalissa Lorensen, Lucas Love, Isabella Lu, Nathan Lund, Christine Maina, Ryan McCormick, Charlie Mejia, Emma Meyer, Madeline Moher, Jarett Mosoti, Lillianna Murphy, Casey Myers, Greta Nelson, Dat Nguyen, Matthew Nguyen, Ryan Nguyen, Steven Nguyen, Brianna O’Brien, Carter Odegard, Marwa Osman, Oriana Penaloza Ortega, Christina Persinger, Chance Persons, Yodahit Philipos, Austin Phyle, Tian Pomonis, Allison Portwood, Shavonnye Rath, Samuel Rhode, Rachel Ryan, Amal Saeed, Avery Sawchuk, Kerrie Schaefers, Jessica Schmid, Livia Selby, Paige Servais, Dillon Settergren, Samuel Skonseng, Zachary Smith, Samuel Stanek, Laura Stauffer, Kailey Stratton, Katie Struzyk, Joshua Swanson, Namthip Taypanyavong, Reed Thoma, Anna Thompson, Natalie Thoresen, Alexa Tinder, Sara Tozier, Karen Tu, Madison Turner, Stephnie Umez, Timothy Urlaub, Amy Utter, Sierra Walker, Tanner Westrum, Emma White, Molly Willmert, Ryan Wollmuth, Zachary Wright
Centennial, Circle Pines
Zachary Beilby, Hunter Berger, Annika Beuning, Kaitlyn Bolkcom, Joseph Cassidy, Parker Claseman, Lauren Couillard, Blake Dewberry, Samantha Ensign, Ryan Gramse, Kennedy Grant, Jennifer Green, Kevin Hanson, Mark Hanson, Kaiza Haque, Kimberly Hareland, Margaret Henninger, Abigail Herbrechtsmeyer, August Johnson, Samuel Johnson, Reanna Knutson, Bryanna Lackner, Ellie Lange, Sydney Latterell, Tevis Linser, Evan Lutz, Christopher Meng, Riley Miller, Madison Monson, Megan Northey, Isaac Nowacki, Azhar Osman, Justin Pederson, Maximilian Percy, Amelia Phommady, Sophia Rajendran, Katelyn Ramacher, Andrew Ratz, Christina Ries, Alexander Roemen, Anna Sauter, Jack Schneider, Brenden Schuffenhauer, Cassandra Sherman, Grant Sterling, Abigail Stoesz, Nolan Summerfield, Noah Swanson, Alyssa Vue, Tyler Walker, Erin Wiese, Cameron Wolf, Benjamin Zandstra
Central, St. Paul
Commencement speaker: Cassandra DeVries
Parents: Allan and Sarah DeVries
College, major: Gustavus Adolphus College, business
Quote: “Don’t count the days, make the days count.” — Muhammad Ali
Summa cum laude: Ilhan Abdullahi, Maya Amel, Oliver Baer-Benson, Aaron Beckman, Tess Benrud, William Blackwell Kinney, Seth Buesing, Mikaela Bunker, James Carlson, Sylvie Chaput, Aidan Clark, Amber Clift, Carmen Crutchfield, Leandra Dahlke, Jackson Daleiden, Vivian Davies, Gabrielle Dietz, Benjamin Dobbins, Aidan Dosch, Ila Dovre Wudali, Peter Drivas, Carl Droessler, Abigail Duffy, Zhanna Dunagan, Saskia Eberman, Lillian Ehresmann, Melissa Elmer, Kathryn Farber, Brinna Faughnan, Aidan Finnegan, Sophia Flaminio, Lillian Franzen, Isabella Frost, Spencer Gee, Noah Glasser, Brigid Golden, Billisse Haji, Max Hand, Anders Hanhan, Nayomi Her, Sue Her, Aurora Hinze, Kenny Hoang, Megan Hunt, Alexander Hurla, Laura Jentz, Charles Johnson, Mackenzie Johnson, Colin Karp, Riaz Kelly, Liam Kennedy, Natalie Ketelsen, Leila Khalid, John Kiehne, Marybelle Kim, Cecilia Kintopf, Philip Lee, Xai Lee, Eleanor Lin, Anders Lind, Pa Yong Lor, Magdalena March, Hailey Martin, Lucienne McCallum, Garrett McDermott, Erin McElroy, Hope McKnight, Marita Meekin, Lily Mitzel, Abdinajib Mohamed, Marwa Mohammed, Margaret Mosbeck-Morrison, Ciera Nedoroski, Caroline Norman, Olaitan Olanrewaju, Carl Olson-Skog, Caelan Oxenham, Htoo Paw, Eh Per, Kai Miok Peterson, Lucy Peterson, Tonny Pham, Ella Prast, Sophia Rabins, Anatalia Radoc, Edward Reinhardt, Cali Rivera, Madison Roloff, Violet Roy-Nyline, Hanna Saveraid, Elijah Soss, Isadora Swann, Grace Teeters, Yewpeng Thao, Helen Tieder, Henry Tieder, Clarice Timm, Caleb Tracy, Elise Trail-Johnson, Annika Tuma, Ava Van Hofwegen, July Fourth Vang, Max Walker, Mara Westgaard, Eleanor Weston, Sebastian Williamson, Bao Yang, Martha Young, Jade Bing Zalaznik, Frances Zigmund, Ulysses Zigmund
Chisago Lakes
Allyson Buermann
Parents: Richard and Tamara Buermann
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities; biochemistry, neuroscience
Claire DeVries
Parents: Jason and Nicole DeVries
College, major: Williams College, Williamstown, Mass.; English, biology
Cecelia Dircks
Parents: Dustin and Carrie Dircks
College, major: University of St. Thomas, engineering
Kaia Douglas
Parents: Eric and K.C. Douglas
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, neuroscience
Owen Dresel
Parents: Josh and Jenny Dresel
College, major: South Dakota State University, agricultural science
Lars Heinecke
Parents: Neil Heinecke and Rana Tharaldson
College, major: Luther College, Decorah, Iowa; nursing
Zachary Hennen
Parents: Curt and Kari Hennen
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, electrical engineering
Ilse Johnson
Parents: Heather and Frank Johnson
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, film and Spanish
Morgan Kieffer
Parents: Todd and Amy Kieffer
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, chemical engineering
David Kimlinger
Parents: Ronald and Katie Kimlinger
College, major: University of Notre Dame, engineering
Anna Kittleson
Parents: Jon and Amanda Kittleson
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, biology
Grant Koehler
Parents: Tim and LInda Koehler
College, major: University of Minnesota-Duluth, business
Elsa Leopold
Parents: Steve and Lyn Leopold
College, major: Northern Michigan University, biology
Jamie Mower
Parents: Scott and Lori Mower
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, finance
Ruby Norlander
Parent: Nicole Norlander
College, major: Northern Michigan University, forensic biochemistry
Katherine Peterson
Parents: Jon Peterson and Julie Nelson
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, physics
William Saueressig
Parents: Jeff and Jina Saueressig
College, major: Syracuse University, Syracuse, N.Y.; aerospace engineering, business administration
Grace Thyen
Parents: Brandon and Kelly Thyen
College, major: University of Minnesota-Rochester, health sciences, pre-med
Kyla Vugteveen
Parents: Dan and Laurie Vugteveen
After graduation: Study abroad
Jordan Wojtowicz
Parents: Adam and Jackie Wojtowicz
College, major: University of Minnesota, Duluth; business
Como Park, St. Paul
Amera Abou-Shanab
Parent: Reda Aboushanab
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Quote: “What you want is not always the right option to choose.”
Sunniva Berg
Parents: Sheldon Berg and Erin Hanafin Berg
College: Occidental College, Los Angeles
Quote: “I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading!” “Pride and Prejudice,” Jane Austen
Carter Brown
Parents: Richard Brown and Dori Henderson
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Quote: “People always say to be yourself. Something I’ve learned in high school is that no matter who you are, there will be people who don’t like you — and that’s OK. But if you don’t like you, that’s not OK. So don’t just be yourself, be someone you can be proud of.”
Chiamaka Chijioke
Parents: Uju Onyia and Chijioke Onyia
College: College of St. Benedict
Quote: “By any means necessary.” — Malcom X
Ku Mo
Parents: Pray Rey and Hsaw Meh
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Quote: “To be a woman and a refugee is not a sin. It is the strength, endurance and power that define my identity. I’m a proud Karenni.”
Alistair Pattison
Parents: Kermit Pattison and Maja Beckstrom
College: Carleton College
Quote: “The bus is staying.”
Eloise Rein
Parents: Mark and Angela Rein
College: Boston College
Quote: “Sometimes you never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” — Dr. Seuss
Dinnea Riley
Parent: Katie Delougherty
College: Tennessee State University
Quote: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” — Proverbs 16:3
Lila Seeba
Parents: Paul and Louise Seeba
College: Trinity College, Dublin
Quote: “The particularity of our problems can be made bearable only through the recognition of our universal humanity. We suffer uniquely, but we survive the same way.” — Cheryl Strayed
Isaac Vu
Parents: Jackson Vu and Joy Yang
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Quote: “Not all paths are straight lines. There will be obstacles, but you just keep moving forward and learn from your mistakes.”
Ridwan Yussuf
Parents: Farhan Abdi and Run Hassan
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Quote: “Dream, Dare, Do.”
Summa cum laude: Amera Abou-Shanab, Fardus Ahmed, Hawi Ali, Sunniva Berg, Amira Boler, Carter Brown, Chiamaka Chijioke, Katelyn Eichhorst, Elijah Frese, Kiersten Howatt, Bailey Huepenbecker, Stella LaCroix-Dalluhn, Ku Mo, Isaac Mohammed Nur, Madison Neal, Emilie Pagel, Alistair Pattison, Jessica Payne, Ngoc Pham, Eloise Rein, Dinnea Riley, Diana Rodriguez Saldana, Mason Salverda, Aspen Schucker, Jack Schumacher, Lila Seeba, Dinara Thoresen, Shar Too, Isaac Vu, Emma Wolters, Chittra Xiong, Ly Xiong, Pang Dao Xiong, Adrian Yang, Roselyn Yeboah
Concordia Academy, Roseville
Maia Adams
Parents: Dawn Adams and Kevin Adams
College, major: Gustavus Adolphus College, biology and health sciences
Quote: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13
Nate Griffin
Parents: Ben and Katie Griffin
College, major: Texas A&M University, aerospace engineering
Quote: “Try not to become a man of success, but rather a man of value.” — Albert Einstein
Alexander Johnston
Parents: John and Linda Johnston
College: Concordia University, Nebraska
Quote: “Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.” — Dylan Thomas
Mary Juelich
Parents: Barb Juelich and Jim Juelich
College, major: Gustavus Adolphus College, exercise physiology on the pre-physical therapy track
Quote: “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.” — Helen Keller
Ryan Kroonblawd
Parents: James Kroonblawd and Lynn Kroonblawd
College, major: Concordia University Wisconsin, Mequon, Wis.; Christian thought
Quote: “This world is a great sculptor’s shop. We are the statues and there is a rumor going around the shop that some of us are some day going to come to life.” — C.S. Lewis, “Mere Christianity”
Kathryn Ousdigian
Parents: Kevin and Sara Ousdigian
College, major: Concordia University Wisconsin, Mequon, Wis.; rehabilitation science/occupational therapy
Quote: “Those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” — Bernard Baruch
Benjamin Reinhard
Parents: Scott and Jennifer Reinhard
College, major: St. Olaf College, economics and chemistry
Quote: “For me, money is not my definition of success. Inspiring people is my definition of success.” — Kanye West
Aaron TerHaar
Parents: Keith and Lisa TerHaar
College, major: University of Northwestern-St Paul, environmental biology
Quote: “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present.” — Oogway, “Kung Fu Panda”
Laney Will
Parents: Joseph and Gail Will
College, major: College of Saint Benedict, nursing
Quote: “A life without risk, is a life unlived my friend.” — Big Time Rush
Ethan Winterfeldt
Parents: Paul and Kristi Winterfeldt
College, major: University of North Dakota, commercial aviation
Quote: “Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” — Albert Schweitzer
Coon Rapids
Dolayinka Ademola-Greene
Parents: Emmanuel and Florence Ademola-Green
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, human physiology
Allison Alshouse
Parents: Charles and Melissa Alshouse
College, major: Minnesota State University, Mankato; biochemistry
Amena Atia
Parents: Hameed and Hameedah Atia
College, major: Carleton College, sociology and anthropology
Damaris Avila
Parents: Enrique Avila and Maria Tellez
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, mathematics
Julia Beck
Parents: Jeff and Annette Beck
College, major: Winona State University, movement science
Kaitlin Golmen
Parents: Scott and Kristin Golmen
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, exercise science
Emma Hoffmann
Parents: Jordan and Sarah Hoffmann
College, major: Winona State University; movement science, pre-occupational therapy
Kaliya Jones
Parent: Kari Jones
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, genetics and cell biology development
Brynn Nguyen
Parents: An Nguyen and Gina Nguyen
College: University of Minnesota- Rochester
Kathryn Noe
Parents: David and Joyce Noe
College, major: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, biology on a pre-physician assistant track
Masooma Sayeda
Parent: Narjis Fatima
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Reed Smith
Parents: Thomas Smith and Brenda Schiemo-Smith
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, aerospace engineering
William Volk
Parents: Thomas and Paula Volk
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, finance
Rebekah Weimholt
Parents: Mark and Joan Weimholt
College, major: St. Louis University, electrical engineering
Creative Arts, St. Paul
Cheng Vang
Parents: Youa Yang and Nhia Chou Vang
College, major: St. Olaf College, creative writing and engineering
Quote: “Wither flowers bloom.”
Avery Heeringa
Parents: Lisa and Todd Heeringa
College, major: Columbia College Chicago, communications and information technology
Quote: “People can take everything away from you, but they can never take away your truth.”
Elizabeth Cannon
Parents: Carina and Murphy Cannon
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Emilee Ellis
Parents: Jamie and Bobby Ellis
College, major: Eric Fisher Academy, Wichita, Kan.; cosmetology
Sophie Kampmeyer
Parents: LeAnna and Daniel Kampmeyer
College, major: Gustavus Adolphus College, dance and studio art
Quote: “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Nancy Kong
Parents: Mai Ngia and Gao Kong
College: Concordia College, St. Paul
Carla Herrera
Parents: Julie and Russ Wall
College: Minneapolis College of Art and Design
Yeng Xiong
Parents: Chue Thao and Chai Xiong
College: St. Olaf College
Quote: “Even the dimmest light may shine in the darkest night.”
Lillian Kronholm-Quick
Parents: Leah and Andrew Quick
College: University of Wisconsin-Stout
Quote: “Protection and power are overrated. I think you are very wise to choose love and happiness.” — Uncle Iroh, “Avatar: The Last Airbender”
Summa cum laude: Elizabeth Cannon, Avery Heeringa, Elliott Jarvi, Cheng Vang
Cretin-Derham Hall, St. Paul
Benjamin Craighead
Parents: Daniel and Cynthia Craighead
College: Marquette University, Milwaukee
Matthew Sticha
Parents: James and Marcy Sticha
College: University of Michigan
Elizabeth Paterson
Parents: Alastair Paterson and Diane McMonigal-Paterson
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Olivia Kalla
Parents: Mark and Christine Kalla
College: University of Notre Dame
Cecelia Ziegler
Parents: Evan and Tracy Ziegler
College: Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vt.
Anamaria Cullen
Parents: Joseph and Doreen Cullen
College: Creighton University, Omaha, Neb.
Isabella McDonnell
Parents: Jim and Catherine McDonnell
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Hannah Conroy
Parents: Edward and Virginia Conroy
College: Clemson University, Clemson, S.C.
Elijah Awada
Parents: Greg Awada and Lynda Crotty
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Anneke van Oosterom
Parents: Alexander and Shannon van Oosterom
College: St. Catherine University
Ian Machado
Parents: Eduardo and Lisa Machado
College: Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y.
Olivia Esch
Parents: John Esch and Leah Hawke
College: Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.
DeLaSalle, Minneapolis
Maya Adelgren
Parents: Mary and Kevin Adelgren
College: Marquette University, Milwaukee
Jacoby Andrews
Parent: Portlynn Henderson
College: Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Megan Benson
Parents: Pam and Jim Benson
College: St. John’s University, Queens, N.Y.
Rayo Daniel
Parents: Fatimo and Nathaniel Daniel
College: Harvard University, Boston
Stella Dennehy
Parents: Susy Hegelmeyer Dennehy and Chris Dennehy
College: Carleton College
Nick Ericksen
Parents: Amy and Peter Ericksen
College: University of Minnesota
Eden Feleke
Parents: Meaza Gizaw and Kelemework Habte
College: University of Minnesota
JunFen Freihammer
Parents: Karin and Jerome Freihammer
College: Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.
Abby Hames
Parents: Susan and Brent Hames
College: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.
Molly Laumakis
Parents: Mary Thomas and Steve Laumakis
College: University of Chicago
Lucy Lyngen
Parents: Tricia and C.J. Lyngen
College: College of St. Benedict
Calvin Mattson
Parents: Greg Mattson and Ann Mattson
College: University of Southern California
David McComas
Parents: Jennifer and Mike McComas
College: Arizona State University
Hannah Omodt
Parents: Jean Omodt
College: St. Olaf College
Sydney Riley
Parents: Lori and Drew Riley
College: Harvey Mudd College; Claremont, Calif.
Kennedi Roberts
Parents: Veronica and Robin Roberts
College: Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Lucy Suek
Parents: Franny and Mike Suek
College: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Jalen Travis
Parents: Jackie and Nate Travis
College: Princeton University; Princeton, N.J.
Diana Truong
Parents: Daniel Truong
College: Pomona College; Claremont, Calif.
Jamie Wheeler
Parents: Pam and Jim Wheeler
College: University of Minnesota-Duluth
Eagan
Summa cum laude: Luke Anderson, Dhruv Balasubramanian, Julia Barger, Lily Bensen, Jacob Berran, Evan Blom, Annika Bowen, Sarah Braginsky, Wyatt Bucki, Luke Casanova, Jonathan Chambers, Kayla Daniel, Christine DeMarchis, Olivia Dykes, Christian Foreman, Melanie Foster, Maria Frome, Lauren Gamme, Siena Grounds, Katryn Heine, Kaia Hilgendorf-Roost, Katie Huisman, Samuel Jacob, Shireen Jafferi, Olivia Johnson, Aiya Jorde, Christine Jurgens, Noah Kipp, Madeline Lee, Lia Lemieux, Samuel Libaire, Claire Lindemann, Nathan LoPresto, Caitlin Martin, Ashley McCann, Emily McMonagle, Maxwell Meekin, Natalie Merrill, Lauryn Miller, Claudia Moses, Devynn Pavek, Joseph Rollie, Emily Schmitt, Rani Shah, Ella Steen, Sophie Stein, Isaac Swenson, Jacob Thompson, Chayla Velander, Chi Vo, Anna Wagner, Elizabeth Wrightman
East Ridge, Woodbury
Summa cum laude with distinction:
Dipali Arora
Parents: Jasvir and Sanjeev Arora
College, major: Duke University, Durham, N.C.; neuroscience, international comparative studies
Stephanie Bai
Parents: Jiongwen Wu and Feng Bai
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biological and biomedical sciences
William Cho
Parents: Hyun Joo Lee and Hangtae Cho
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, physics or engineering
Archit Das
Parents: Soma and Arnab Das
College, major: University of California Berkeley, electrical engineering and computer science
Marisa Duran
Parents: Kelli and Dennis Duran
College, major: University of California Los Angeles, computer science
Brennan Featherstone
Parents: Kathleen and Kevin Featherstone
College, major: U.S. Air Force Academy, engineering
Sujay Garlapati
Parents: Rajyalkshmi and Srinivasa Garlapati
College major: neurobiology
Eastan Giebler
Parents: Jin and Mark Giebler
College, major: Yale University, computer science
Luke Lehmann
Parents: Lisa and Gary Lehmann
College, major: St. Olaf College, mathematics
Michael May
Parents: Margaret and George May
College, major: University of Iowa, mathematics
Athena Roscoe
Parents: Yee Hong Chee and Stephen Roscoe
College, major: University of Chicago, mathematics or economics
Minerva Roscoe
Parents: Yee Hong Chee and Stephen Roscoe
College, major: University of Chicago, physics and pre-med
Miles Sitcawich
Parents: Sumiko and Lawrence Sitcawich
College, major: Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tenn.; chemical engineering
Elisabeth Storm
Parents: Michelle and Troy Storm
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Spanish and Portuguese
Jisoo Yeom
Parents: Heeyoung Woo and Bong Yeom
College, major: Carleton College, chemistry
Isabel Zhu
Parents: Xin Yu and Wenjie Zhu
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, computer science
Eastview, Apple Valley
Cienna Becker, Michaela Bryan, Brianna Cairns, Peter Dehnert, Harita Duggirala, Anish Dulla, Grant Griffitts, Gillian Hitchcock, Sanat Iyer, Maya Johnson, Ian Kenney, Gabrielle Kraemer, Mi Le, William Leach, Eva Lundgreen, Zachary Miller, Kyra O’Malley, Jyotsna Rathinam, Sophia Sahota, Zane Siddiqui, Jiayang Tang, Anushri Tiwari, Rohan Vij, Aleah Vincent, Brendan Wilhelm, Yasuki Wu
Ellsworth, Wis.
Valedictorian: Gillian Davis
Parents: Julie and Kevin Davis
College: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Salutatorian: Nicholas Erickson
Parents: Julie and Michael Erickson
College: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
McKenna Girdeen
Parents: Connie and Todd Girdeen
College: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Rachel Kaufer
Parents: Cheryl and Steve Kaufer
College: Inver Hills Community College
Kaitlyn Nugent
Parents: Jackie and Keith Nugent
College: Minnesota State University, Mankato
Marissa Maurer
Parents: Jessica and Brey Maurer
College: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Hallie Claflin
Parents: Claudine and Trevor Claflin
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Peyton Catron
Parents: Kim and Darren Catron
College: Otterbein University, Westerville, Ohio
Max Mitchell
Parents: Susan and Chad Mitchell
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Emily Paperilli
Parents: Sarah and Benjamin Curtis
College: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Allison Jennings
Parents: Kari and Michael Jennings
College: University of Wisconsin-River Falls
Elmwood, Wis.
Valedictorian: Taylin Rose DeLong
Parents: Alan and Tanya DeLong
College: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Salutatorian: Katherine Rebekah Feuker
Parents: Craig and Andrea Feuker
College: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Thomas James Asher
Parents: Janell Weber and Greg Asher
College, major: St. Norbert College, De Pere, Wis.; physical therapy
Matthew John Basil Baker
Parents: Mike and Nicole Baker
College, major: Chippewa Valley Technical College then University of Wisconsin-Platteville, forensic science
Allie Jo Bauer
Parents: Mike and Kelly Tiffany, Rob and Tanya Bauer
College major: business management
Jack Vincent Brown
Parents: Scott Brown and Kathleen Brown
College major: secondary education
Araya Renee Danielle Carson
Parents: Tovah and Adam Carson
College, major: University of Wisconsin-River Falls, physical therapy
Logan Michael Christman
Parents: Mike Christman and Katie Christman
College: Chippewa Valley Technical College
Bo William Crownhart
Parents: John Crownhart and Kari Durand
After graduation: Study music production in Tennessee
Jaedon Daniel DeLong
Parents: Dan and Becky DeLong, Kathryn Smith
College, major: Chippewa Valley Technical College, network technology
Quentin Joe Donato
Parents: Meg Ivey and Joe Donato
College: Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, N.Y.
Dallas Louise Driscoll
Parents: Scott Driscoll and Tami Holton
After graduation: child care teaching
Cody James Erickson
Parents: Brian and Christa Erickson
College: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Mikena Marie Geraets
Parents: John and Stacey Geraets
After graduation: take over the family farm
Bailey Jo Ginsbach
Parents: Josh and Natalie Ginsbach
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Platteville, chemistry
Jackson Alexander Glampe
Parents: Jason and Jolee Glampe
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Stout, pre-law
Kendra Lara Kern
Parents: Joshua and Stephanie Kern
College, major: Chippewa Valley Technical College, nursing
Madisen Marie Klink
Parents: Kathi and Brian Klink
College, major: Viterbo University, La Crosse, Wis.; pre-med
Mason Jon Peters
Parent: Jill Peters
After graduation: work
Brennah Lynn Schutts
Parents: Chad and Christina Schutts, Jennifer and Don Konsela
After graduation: health care work
Shanda Rae Trainor
Parents: Chad and Becky Trainor
College, major: Chippewa Valley Technical College, nursing
Kylie Lynn Tschumperlin
Parents: Dave and Stacey Tschumperlin
College, major: Viterbo University, La Crosse, Wis.; nursing and Spanish
Trevor William Tuenge
Parents: Gary and Chris Tuenge
After graduation: HVAC technology
Austin Michael Yoder
Parents: Cody and Larisa Yoder
After graduation: farming
Farmington
Distinguished scholars: Kathryn Bartell, Abigail Beck, Callie Beck, Rachel Blood, Jacob Duncan, Morgan Ebel, Jonathan Emmick, Kailey Felch, Kamryn Finstad, Thomas Gallagher, Seth Goodreau, Michael Groves, Ashley Hanson, Hunter Hedlund, Brandon Herrera, Jack Hetland, Sydney Hubbard, Grant Hubbell, Caelan Hubred, Ashley Jahraus, Emma Jansen, Cassandra Johnson, Mallory Johnson, Seth Krause, Aaron Kruse, Emma McLees, Katelyn Mohr, Charlotte Nelson, Claire Nelson, Meghan Nguyen, Emily Novotny, Maya O’Reilly, Reilly Owen, Tyler Rosenberg, Ryan Rouleau, Michelle Sanchez, Zoey Schentzel, Sophia Stokes, Christine Storelee, Adrianne Thompson, Phuong Tong, Halley Weinberger, Alexis Wolt, Isabelle Zwart
Focus Beyond Transition, St. Paul
Nakia Bellaphant
Parent: Jerome Rutherford
After graduation: Working at St. Paul Public Schools Food Service
Quote: “Stay positive, stay focused, and never give up.”
Scott Owens
Parents: Marshall E. and Sylvia A. Owens
After graduation: Guitar, singing and acting lessons
Quote: “My time at Focus Beyond was a rock and roll learning adventure!”
Moo Htoo Yu
Parents: Kaw Hei Teh and Tah Eh Moo
After graduation: Working at CPI Card Group
Quote: “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you’ve imagined. Follow your passion, stay true to yourself, and always be honest to others.”
Forest Lake Area
Samantha Feidt
Parents: Robert and Tanya Feidt
College, major: University of Wisconsin-River Falls, criminology and psychology
Steven Winnick
Parents: Rimma and Ben Winnick
College, major: Columbia University, New York, N.Y.; economics
Joseph McMahon
Parents: Dawn and Daniel McMahon
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, English literature
Adam Strupp
Parents: John and Kathy Strupp
College, major: Carleton College, physics
Saige Anderson
Parents: Cameron and Heather Anderson
College, major: South Dakota State University, biochemistry
Harrison Taylor
Parents: Bob and Jennifer Taylor
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, chemical engineering
Hannah Helinsky
Parents: Kari Helinsky and Terry Helinsky
College, major: Wheaton College, Wheaton, Ill.; psychology
Kaitlyn Blackburn
Parents: Rick and Kris Blackburn
College, major: Luther College, Decorah, Iowa; music education
Tyler Thomas
Parents: Bryce and Tracey Thomas
College, major: Dakota State University, cyber operations
Kaitlyn Atkin
Parents: Geoff Atkin and Lisa Minogue
College, major: Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa; mathematics
Kade Wilson
Parents: Jina and Steve Wilson
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, engineering
Fridley
Highest honors: Asanti Ahmed, Connor McCoy, Isabelle Olivera, Anna Yang, Joshua Brandt, Alayna Norgren, Yangchen Namgyal, Simone Almberg, Hannah Etheridge, Anee Thao, Kane Hoff, Alexis Thao, Hannah Bosak, Baobai Xiong, Adam Johnson, Simane Robleh, Ashina Jayan, Elijah Paton, Zakaria Hussein, Entesar Adem, Tenzin Seldom, Zoha Hassan, Pa Chee Yang, Isabella Faas
Gateway to College, St. Paul
Ikran Ahmed
Parent: Gellay Mohamed
College: St. Paul College
Anna Bassett
Parents: Beth and Jason Bassett
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Ribka Damiyo
Parents: Bogalech Gabore and Ayele Hatta
College: Winona State University
Fernando Hernandez
Parents: Fernando and Dori Hernandez
College: St. Paul College
Su Myat Htoo
Parent: Eddie Aung
College: St. Paul College
Roa Tha Lay
Parents: Lay Lay and Shwe Oo
College: St. Paul College and Bethel University
Lam Nguyen
Parents: Quang Nguyen and Hai Pham
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
July Paw
Parents: Naw Mu and Li Lae
College: St. Paul College
Lah Po Saw
Parents: Sher Gay Say and Nah Wah
College: St. Paul College
Kidist Tenaye
Parent: Zewda Gebeyehu
College: St. Paul College
Summa cum laude: Ikran Ahmed, Su Myat Htoo, Lam Huy Nguyen, Justin Nsabiganje
Grantsburg, Wis.
Valedictorian: Faith Fiedler
Salutatorian: Lauren Hermann
Distinction: Abby Alderman, Grace Covey, Shilo Covey, Ellie Duncan, Amy Gilhoi, Dane Jensen, Garrett Johnson, Thor Johnson, Olivia Ohnstad, Brooke Quimby, Emma Quimby, Isabelle Quimby, Caley Reichstadt, Rhiannan Schafer, Jillian Seeger, Hannah Smestad, Savanna Trittelwitz, Alexis Troff, Austin Wedin, Kate Weiss
Honors: Reed Arnold, Michael Bistram, Allyson Bram, Evie Carter, Michael Chenal, Connor DeTienne, Devin Halvarson, Mikayla Jensen, Raisa Jensen, Amanda Johnson, Austin Louis, Jacob Phillips, Braden Siebenthal, Autumn Tendrup
Great River, St. Paul
Elias Rojas Collins
Parents: Molly Rojas Collins and Gabriel Rojas Castanon
College: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Quote: “When you see your target, your aim is perfect.” — Woodie Flowers
Lauren Clare Funke
Parents: Melanie Driscoll and Todd Funke
College: College of St. Benedict
Quote: “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” — Christopher Robin, “Pooh’s Grand Adventure”
Clara Sorensen
Parents: Chris Collin and Brian Sorensen
College: Smith College, Northampton, Mass.
Quote: “Be strong enough to stand alone, smart enough to know when you need help, and brave enough to ask for it.” — Ziad K. Abdelnour, “Economic Warfare: Secrets of Wealth Creation in the Age of Welfare Politics”
Helena Grilliot
Parents: Jennifer and Allen Grilliot
College: Smith College, Northampton, Mass.
Quote: “Jobs fill your pocket but adventures fill your soul.” — Jaime Lyn Beatty
Eva Fischer
Parents: Jennifer Fischer and Christopher Fischer
College: Carleton College
Quote: “The purpose of life is to obey the hidden command which ensures harmony among all and creates an ever better world. We are not created only to enjoy the world, we are created in order to evolve the cosmos.” — Maria Montessori
Gloria DeBerg
Parents: Claire and Darren DeBerg
College: Columbia University, New York, N.Y.
Quote: “Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.” — Marian Wright Edelman
Theadora Aitchison
Kristin Aitchison and Peter Aitchison
College: Occidental College, Los Angeles
Quote: “Just try new things. Don’t be afraid. Step out of your comfort zone and soar, all right?” — Michelle Obama
Gunnar Mikko
Parents: Sara and Chris Mikko
College: Pitzer College, Claremont, Calif.
Quote: “Our lives begin to end the day we stay silent about things that matter.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Tiwonge Kafera
Parents: Roberta Downing and Bill Harper
College: St. Mary’s University
Quote: “Clapping with the right hand only will not make a noise.” — Proverb
Frank Steinhauer
Parents: Suzanne and Ed Steinhauer
College: Northland College, Ashland, Wis.
Quote: “Wait, what? I thought I was failing Spanish?” — Frank Steinhauer
Harding, St. Paul
Valedictorian and commencement speaker:
John Nguyen
Parents: Diemlan Ton and Nhon Nguyen
College: Yale University, New Haven, Conn.
Quote: “Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.” — Suzy Kassem
Summa cum laude: Ayomide Adesanya, Bah Blu, Morgan Brandt, Geng Chang, Alexis Danielson, Reyna Davila-Day, Nebeyou Elias, Natalie Gasterland, Kristina Hang, Salina Her, Souana Her, Ifrah Khalif, Khanshi Khang, Pa Nthia Khang, Elizabeth Kue, Justin Lee, Lilly Lopez, Kheng Lor, Maryan Mohamed, John Nguyen, Julie Nichiyamashijutakumaturi, Tania Perez Barrios, Amanye Reynolds, Mitzi Itzel Rodriguez, Yesica Salgado Palma, Ma Shwe, Athena Thao, Chee Thao, Eugene Thao, Gao Sheng Thao, Jewels Thao, Kailyn Thao, Michelle Thao, Moua Thao, Dylan Vang, Emily Vang, Jackie Vang, Pa Nhia Vang, Tiffiney Vang, Melanie Viniegra Mendoza, Justice Vue, Nari Vue, Gwendolyn Weis, Cheemeng Xiong, Nouchi Xiong, Sabrina Xiong, See Xiong, Angelia Yang, Calvin Yang, Ceann Yang, Cindy Yang, Connor Yang, David Yang, Ethan Yang, Houshee Yang, Ywjpheej Yang, Baunya Young
Hastings
Highest honors: BriAnna Amundson, Benjamin Ascheman, Cali Bernard, Kathryn Gjelhaug, Ariana Green, Shannon Kustrich, Keean LaFerriere, Taylor Larson, Isabella Makowske, Shannon McCullough, Andrew O’Brien, Hannah Pearl
High honors: Cassandra Bauer, Emily Biscoe, Daniel Brown, Rylan Clark, Aimee Fagnant, Elizabeth Gullicks, Janell Hammer, Isabella Heisler, Liana Illa, Reilly Johnson, Claire Ketcham, Anna Klimek, Hannah C Mann, Meghan McNamara, Leo Otto, Grace Reilly, Thomas Ritt, Lauren Rohr, Sofia VanZee
Honors: Emilia Amundson, Magdalene Corum, Dalton DeBuono, Alexander Foster, Jaylynn Frandrup, Sarah Gathje, Emily Hoffman, Rachel Hughes, Abigail Kampa, Daniel Krey, McKenzie Langenfeld, Brooke Lidberg, Bethle Radiate, Jacob Rotty, Zachary Spinks, Olivia VanVossen, Noelle Zwart
Highland Park, St. Paul
Commencement speakers:
Ruwayda Egal
Parents: Ali and Fardous Egal
College, major: Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa; pre-law
Quote: “When they go low, we go high.” — Michelle Obama
Piper Gallivan
Parent: Tena May Gallivan
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities; environmental science, policy and management
Quote: “In a world where you can choose to be anything, choose to be kind.” — Jennifer Dukes Lee
Mya Bishop
Parent: Jeanett Garcia
College, major: Augsburg University, secondary education
Quote: “She believed she could, so she did.” — R.S Grey
Amelia Stensrud
Parents: Cara Sjodin and Scott Stensrud
College, major: Westminster College SLC, something in education
Quote: “We do not need magic to transform our world. We carry all of the power we need inside ourselves already.” — J.K Rowling
Cailin Johnson
Parents: Ann and Stuart Johnson
College, major: Arizona State University, finance
Quote: “Trust the timing of your life.” — Brittany Burgunder
Wilfredo Ortiz
Parents: Linda Ortiz and Wilfredo Ortiz Sr.
Summa cum laude: Rezan Ahmed, Tawfeeq Akindele, Aidan Alme, Alivia Arredondo, Frances Atmore, Abenezer Bekele, Gabrielle Bell, Samuel Bell, Elias Bier, Calvin Boone, Phoebe Brown, Alexander Busch, Catherine Carlson, William Coleman, Mariana Cournoyer, Claire Dwyer, Miguel Ebner Pradas, Ruwayda Egal, Mason Eischens, Margaret Feng, Piper Gallivan, Zachary Glaser, Anna Grundhoefer, Maetzin Gutierrez, Caroline Harding, Sebastian Hermann, Reegan Hughes, Sebastian Isett, Abigail Johnson, Cailin Johnson, Cole Johnson, Olivia Johnson, Adrienne Kanihan, Josephine Khan, Kaylee Kipfmueller, Sabine Krall, Madison Kuba, Josephine Li Lacy, Emma Larson, Huche Lee, Mai Lee, Yuval Lerman, Lucy Lipscomb, Delaney Lumpkin, Joshua Mason, Jack Molter, Jaime Morales Hernandez, Natalie Norquist, Aedon Oberdorfer, Alexander Page, Oliver Paleen, Samantha Peterson, Aleksander Prasolov, Lorenzo Reyes, Jaden Rodriguez, Samuel Rodriguez-Foster, Amalia Rosenthal, Alma Sanchez, Greta Shore, Ellie Shuros, Elsa Snowbeck, Sydney Suchy, Gabrielle Tselos, Che Ther Vang, Michael Vang, Samuel Vanspriell, Isabella Vazquez, Alicia Velasquez Eberhart, Lillyan Wallace
Hill-Murray, Maplewood
Abigail Sloot
Parents: Libby and Marc Sloot
College, major: Boston University, marine science
Alyson Steichen
Parents: Sandra and Daniel Steichen
College, major: Boston University, finance and business analytics
Matthew Harrington
Parents: Michelle and Mark Harrington
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, biology
Timothy Johnson
Parents: Mary Jo and Robert Johnson
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, mechanical engineering
Peter Hommes
Parents: Susan and Joseph Hommes
College: St. John’s University
Maria Bloemendal
Parents: Elda and Brian Bloemendal
College, major: University of St. Thomas, marketing
Alexandra Belde
Parents: Kim and Stan Belde
College, major: Bethel University, nursing
Cayla Schreier
Parents: Jean and Steve Schreier
College, major: St. Olaf College, biology
Jessica Jennings
Parents: Pam and Matt Jennings
College, major: Elon University, Elon, N.C.; communication design and media analytics
Isabella Hanggi
Parents: Maria and Brad Hanggi
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, nursing
Sydney Stone
Parents: Kirsten and Jeffrey Stone
College, major: Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; aerospace and mechanical engineering
Andrew Lundin
Parents: Laura and Kevin Lundin
College, major: Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind.; aeronautical and astronautical engineering
Benjamin Warian
Parents: Mary and John Warian
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, finance
Sophia Schroepfer
Parents: Carrie and Matthew Schroepfer
College, major: University of Minnesota-Duluth, biology
Amelia Jutz
Parents: Theresa Pelton-Jutz and Michael Jutz
College, major: St. Olaf College, chemistry
Olivia Herzog
Parents: Angela and Mark Herzog
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, biology
Matthew Ray
Parents: Christine and Joel Ray
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, civil engineering
Seamus Regan
Parents: Sean and Mary Regan
College, major: University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind.; mechanical engineering
Daniella Baldwin
Parents: Mira and Matthew Baldwin
College, major: U.S. Naval Academy, operations research
Allison Bratland
Parents: Katie and Tim Bratland
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, kinesiology
Hmong College Prep Academy, St. Paul
Mai Ya Cha
Parent: Chia Yang
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biochemistry
Quote: “If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.” — Dolly Parton
Emily Moua
Parent: Samantha Moua
College, major: Concordia University, St. Paul; elementary education
Quote: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” — Ephesians 4:2
Maximus K Moua
Parents: Vua Vue and Fong K. Moua
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, computer science
Quote: “No matter how hard things get, just keep moving. It’s better than standing still and doing nothing.” — Fong K. Moua
Touxai Moua
Parent: Lia Thao
College: St. John’s University
Lee Thao
Parents: Shoua Moua and Yang Thao
College, major: University of Minnesota- Rochester, nursing
Quote: “It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.” — Babe Ruth
Elyas Vang
Parent: Tongai Vang
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, psychology
Quote: “No matter what you do, people will say good and bad things about you. So, just do you. Do what’s good and best for you.”
Ginseng B. Vang
Parent: Suphamas and David Vang
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, biology
Quote: “Work hard, play even harder.” — Dad
Krystal Xiong
Parent: Sua Xiong
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, psychology
Quote: “Move on. It’s just a chapter from the past. But don’t close the book, just turn the page.”
Pa Zong Xiong
Parent: Helena Vue
College, major: Concordia University, St. Paul; nursing
Quote: “Never, never, never give up.” — Winston Churchill
Ywj Pheej Yang
Parent: Bee Yang
College, major: Concordia University, computer science
Quote: “Ask more questions.”
Hudson, Wis.
Rachel Ball, Kayla Belany,Grace Bonesteel, Elizabeth Collinson, Britney Conway, Alyssa Ferreira, Keelin Gustafson, Isabel Halama, Sophia Hawk, Bryce Hunsberger, Amanda Ichel, Emily Juza, Mackenzie Korent, Laura Lane, Emily Larsen, Henry McMenimen, Anna Nelson, Charlie Neuenschwander, Maya Neuenschwander, Evan Schmitz, Ella Stein, Lauren Stolzman, Jonathan Vigen, Alexander Weaver, Ella Young
Humboldt, St. Paul
Featured graduate:
Dee Thao
Parents: Soua Lue Thao and Xee Xiong
College, major: Hamline University, psychology and education
Quote: “Maybe I made a mistake yesterday, but yesterday’s me is still me. I am who I am today, with all my faults. Tomorrow I might be a tiny bit wiser, and that’s me, too. These faults and mistakes are what I am, making up the brightest stars in the constellation of my life. I have come to love myself for who I was, who I am, and who I hope to become.” ― Kim Namjoon, South Korean musician speaking to the U.N. General Assembly
Summa cum laude: Judith Alcala-Martinez, Kalkidan Animut, Kar Senaing Chaw, Jeriah Cruz-Yingst, Hanna Debele, Khadra Hassan, Ger Her, Nhia Her, Ashley Hinojosa-Huertero, Lay Htoo, Naw Free Lar Htoo, Myint Myint Khing, Amarea Lampkin, Pa Lee, Meh Mo, Chri Moo, Claudia Rivas Rodriguez, Isela Serrano, Paw Shell, Kalhywet Sisay, Beh Spaw, Dee Thao, Mu Thoo, Yue Pheng Xiong
Irondale, New Brighton
Highest honors: Nura Agami, Isadora Androff, Haitam Baladi, Isabelle Bierbach, Ethan Bockenhauer, Elizabeth Bourassa, William Bryans, Amaya Camacho, Samantha Chock, Kaija Dahlberg, Moyata Ebisso, Urbas Ekka, Louise Fehrman, Amalia Galvan, Kathryn Gunderman, Iva Hammitt-Kess, Cole Helland, Amanda Hertzel, Sarah Heuss, Matthew Hustings, Jenna Jarmoluk, Melissa Jarmoluk, Juliet Jaszewski, Brayden Kirk, Annabella Lau, Jacob Lawrence, Kathleen McGuire, Isabela Mogosanu, Leah Morris, Sydney Mulvehill, Kaylea Nelson, Ann Nguyen, Sydney Nguyen, Eric Pearson, Ayah Phuly, Lindsey Preston, Amanda Rodgers, Charles Schumer, Alexei Seplak, Collin Shull, Keith Sorenson, Adrianne Sun, Rebecca Tabet, Alyssa Taylor, Victoria Tholkes, Ricco Venterea, Michael Villota-Ospina, Jaclyn Wild, Olivia Wolf, Daniel Yoo, Shihang Zhang
Johnson, St. Paul
Commencement speakers:
Brianna Vang
Parents: Leeann Thao and Tong Vang
College, major: Bethel University, nursing
Quote: “Dreams don’t work unless you do.” — John C. Maxwell
Lue Yang
Parents: Chee Yang and Mai Neng Xiong
College, major: U.S. Naval Academy, mathematics
Quote: “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.” — William Ernest Henley, “Invictus”
Summa cum laude: Charles Fraser, Angelina Her, Kanyanee Her, Skye Her, Somphong Her, Sylvester Her, Toukong Her, Mai Xiong Khang, Tabitha Lee, Linda Lor, Nathan Lor, Spencer Marchetti, Samuel Osborne, Gisela Perez, John Stolzberg-Schray, Drake Teal, Kevin Thao, Mary Thao, Pheng Thao, Anabelle Vang, Brianna Vang, Drake Vang, Megan Xiong, Lue Yang
Lakeville North
Summa cum laude: Emily Afdahl, Joshua Anderson, Tatiana Anderson, Kiera Balding, Ryan Bergstein, Alexander Beumer, Hannah Bohlman, Paige Bonjean, Ryan Bordo, Holly Brand, Jennifer Brand, Kali Breeden, Eva Brucciani, Camille Buckley, Abigail Burk, Ellie Burkle, Cole Bye, Sophia Camilli, Paula Chanthakhoun, Jason Chen, Juliana Cooney, Mara Davis, Alexandra Dorr, Benjamin Drangstveit, Meghan Dunn, Benjamin Earles, Samuel Elstad, Ebenezer Eshetu, Benjamin Forbes, Sydney Gebhard, Sydney Gelhorn, Anthony Haider, Hattie Hendrickson, Jordan Hoover, Annika Hurd, Lauren G. Jensen, Lauren M. Jensen, Hannah Kaiser, Eilee Keske, Teagan Klinkner, Austin Kolander, Nelson Koshiol, Benjamin Krause, Kathryn McDonald, Brandt Mencke, Louis Nguyen, Hannah Nietfeld, Cassandra Norton, Claire O’Connor, Kaden Ofstad, Catherine Orgeman, Dante Piscitiello, Emily Plotnik, Brooke Power, Molly Rapp, Aiden Regan, Daniel Ren, Zachary Reynolds, Mia Rouse, Gianna Roy, Nia Rucki, Krystal Sayer, Anna Sekerak, Joanna Selig, Leo Shen, Emma Shimek, Regan Smith, Lauren Smits, Audrey Stark, Rachel Steiner, Anna Stevenson, Ashley Swenson, Douglas Swenson, Joseph Thomas, Kathryn, Thull, Shashwot Tripathy, Ivana Truong, Vivian Truong, Samuel Vue, Katarina Vandenbos, Geoffrey Veasy, Jackson Wambolt, Vivian Woo, Steven Zidarich
Lakeville South
Summa cum laude: Ashley Aljets, Abby Anderson, Nina Baker, Lauren Baklund, Zachary Barnes, Keiko Bedford, William Blacklock, Jake Bornholdt, Olivia Boyd, George Brekke, Brianna Carroll, Winter Craig, Gavin Cronkhite, Mason Dahlager, Paige Davis, Lauren Diede, Jaden Dukes, Taylor Ferrazzo, Colton Fields, Austin Friesenhahn, Colton Goodman, Tarah Gudmundson, Wyatt Hall, Nicole Jacobson, Makena Johnson, Makenna Johnson, Sam Just, Caroline Kelley, Hannah Kennedy, Maci Kiecker, Morgan Knutson, Erik Kosier, Grace Kosieradzki, Megan Kot, Emily Krogstad, Abigail Larson, Jack Leland, Lindsay Maloney, Charles Marble, Emily Matiak, Logan-Samuel Maurer, Shawn McKay, Alexandra Meyer, Ariel Meyer, Mark Mosser, Morgan Myers, Abigail Nachreiner, Zachary Oelrich, John Olson, Steven Olson, Elias Pickit, Samantha Ponsonby, William Preston, Devin Prow, Dakota Rawley, Jack Rieder, Clayton Roberts, Solveig Rodlund, Hannah Rost, Caden Rubischko, Grace Ruhl, Olivia Ruhland, Madelyn Rumy, Miranda Siedelmann, Christian Steiner, Allysa Steinhaus, Payton Stier, William Stone, Kaitlyn Swaney, Anson Tiong, Madeline Toombs, Elizabeth Tornell, Connor Truelson, Taylor Tupy, Benjamin Unke, Tovey Velin, Ross Weber, Lander Wells, Mia Zagorski, Julie Zeidler
LEAP, St. Paul
Commencement speaker:
Roberto Vargas-Zavala
Parents: Gilberto and Rosario Vargas
College, major: Augsburg University, chemistry
Quote: “Never stop believing in magic.” — Roberto Vargas-Zavala
Ywa Moo
Parents: Htoo Yeh and Eh Wah
After graduation: Hubbs Center for Lifelong Learning for advanced English study, then college
Quote: “The root of education is bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” — Karen language expression
Daniel Shibeshi
Parents: Yelfign Yirsaw and Eshetu Shibeshi
College: Century College
Quote: “Dreams without goals remain dreams.” — Denzel Washington
Liberty Classical Academy, White Bear Lake
Valedictorian: Landon Smith
Parents: Scott and Cynthia Smith
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, chemical engineering; Air National Guard, enlisted airman
Quote: “There’s two things you need to know about women. Nobody knows them.” — Bob Merritt
Salutatorian: Jacob Fansler
Parents: Donald Fansler and Mary Goldsmith
College: St. Thomas University, pre-med
Quote: “You can never be overdressed or overeducated.” — Oscar Wilde
Levi Button
Parents: Joel and Martha Button
College, major: Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, Ariz.; marketing and entrepreneur studies
Quote: “If an offense come out of the truth, better it is that the offense comes, than the truth be concealed.” — St. Jerome
Benjamin Horn
Parent: Susanne Horn
College, major: University of Minnesota, finance
Karsten Anderson
Parents: Scott and Jennifer Anderson
College, major: Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, Ariz.; computer science
Quote: “They don’t think it be like it is, but it do.” — Oscar Gamble
Graham Pelton
Parents: Michael Pelton and Tracie Hanson
College, major: North Dakota State University, sports management
Quote: “If you can communicate this product then you can make money off the product. ‘Cause look at Gaga, she’s the creative director of Polaroid. I like some of Gaga’s songs. What does she know about cameras?” — Kanye West
Gabe Koska
Parents: Nathan and Amy Koska
College, major: Colorado Christian University, Lakewood, Colo.; biochemistry
Quote: “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl, but by all means, keep going.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
Jack Dobrotka
Parents: David and Shelley Dobrotka
College, major: Colorado Christian University, Lakewood, Colo.; outdoor leadership and ROTC
Quote: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” — Frederick Douglass
Mahtomedi
Ruby Ales, Joseph Becker, William Buttermore, Evan Christensen, Megan Eberle, Aidan Golish, Mia Gornik, Halley Granec, Colin Hagstrom, Lauren Heinsch, Abbigail Hemenway, Kate Hoffmann, Megan Johnson, Sarah Koeneman, Karla Kroschel, Max Lakso, Megan Mader, Rachael McCleery, Ella McCormick, Aaron Moriarity, Matthew Muetzel, Emmeline Nelson, Megan Neubeck, Lucas Olsen, Natalie Ostrand, Gianna Pietri, Jillian Slater, Sarah Stellmach, Olivia Stevens, Alyne Torenvliet, Lucy Ward, Jenna Whitehead, Emma Wilke
Math and Science Academy, Woodbury
Breanne Pundsack
Parents: Joell and Jay Pundsack
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, computer science and data science
Quote: “Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead. Don’t walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.”
Shannon Koperski
Parents: Tom Koperski and Qiu-Mei Shan
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Quote: “If you fell yesterday, stand up today.” — H.G. Wells
Gabriella Townsend
Parents: Mark and Kara Townsend
College, major: Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa; 3+3 track for masters in health science and doctorate in occupational therapy
Quote: “The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway. Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway. In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.” — Mother Teresa
Kiragu Waititu
Parents: Andrew Waititu Kiragu and Murugi Mutiga-Waititu
College: University of Chicago
Quote: “Work hard in silence, let your success be your noise.”
Lauren Paulson
Parents: Bruce and Kathy Paulson
College, major: University of Northwestern-St. Paul, early childhood education
Quote: “The real things haven’t changed. It is still best to be honest and truthful; to make the most of what we have; to be happy with simple pleasures; and have courage when things go wrong.” — Laura Ingalls Wilder
Darin Phlork
Parents: Sophy Niev and Anthony Phlork
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, engineering
Quote: “If you set your goals ridiculously high and it’s a failure, you will fail above everyone else’s success.” — James Cameron
Jacob Heinrich
Parents: Virginia Moran and Jeffrey Heinrich
College, major: Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa; mathematics
Quote: “What’s the difference between a duck?” — Jerry Shelton
Jessica Macha
Parents: Pius and Jacqueline Macha
College, major: Georgia State University, Atlanta, Ga.; actuarial science
Quote: “We can make our plans, but the Lord establishes our steps.” — Proverbs 16:9
Noah Connors
Parents: Kevin and Kristi Connors
College: Colorado School of Mines
Quote: “Sometimes when you’re feeling helpless, the secret is to help someone else.” — Michael, “The Good Place”
Keagan Eng
Parents: Jeffrey and Eileen Eng
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Quote: “Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” — Christopher Robin, “Pooh’s Grand Adventure”
Minnehaha Academy, Minneapolis
Allison Callstrom
Parents: Tamara and Dan Callstrom
College, major: University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, Wash.; biology
Quote: “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”
Annika Johnson
Parents: Eric and Kari Johnson
College, major: Stanford University, Stanford, Calif.; East Asian studies
Quote: “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” — Winston Churchill
Brynne Whitman
Parents: Scott and Karen Whitman
College, major: University of Michigan, economics
Quote: “It isn’t what we say or think that defines us, but what we do.” — “Sense and Sensibility:
Mounds Park Academy, Maplewood
Jordan Akers, Mari Bohacek, Elli Carlson, Skylar Cernohous, Meera Dear, Cecilia Driano, Henry Feng, Emma Finch, Shane Fruchterman, Charles Galicich, Isabel George, Katelyn Goodno, Charles Grimes, Nathan Harvanko, Cecilia Hawley, Isabela Hockert, Grace Holloway, Qi (Cindy) Hong, Zoe Hutton, Ella Jones, Roman Jones, Galen Juliusson, Aaliyah Kellogg, Misk Khalif, Amanda Khouw, William Kim, Benjamin Lash, Austin Lee, Quincy Lewis, Delong (Graham) Li, Ruilin (Lyndon) Lyu, Nasri Maktal, Priya Manda, Sehar Mapara, Chloe McCluskey, Catherine Moore, Alec Nicoski, Eleanor Norton, James Ogden, Carly Peacock, Annelisa Portoghese, Lillian Ramalingam, Tyler Schell, Ahmed Shahkhan, Henry Snider, Jaeger Svennevig-Brosi, Solveig Svennevig-Brosi, Jerusalem Thao, Dillon Vue, Emily Wu,Ruishen (Chris) Yang, Txuj Ci Yang, Ziling (Anna) Zeng
Mounds View, Arden Hills
Highest honors: Hufsa Ahmed, Maryam Awad, Laura Bakeman, Priyam Bhalla, Leah Brandt, Jack Bresina, Anton Burton, Morgan Dahl, Levi Dohman, Mason Ekblad, Grace Farmer, Emily Feng, Thomas Gebhardt, Michael Gennaro, Samuel Gillespie, Owen Gin, Mackenzie Groth, Eleanor Henson, Ryan Hill, Zachary Hoglund, Collin Hoyhtya, Marion Janes, Deepta Jasthi, Rebecca Jiang, Benjamin Kettelhut, Brenner Klein, Daniel Knapp, Claire Knopf, Lauren Koehler, Ryan Lawrence, Karen Li, Zhuotong Li, Berke Lunstad, Lily Manrodt, Emily Marx, Lauren Melcher, Annie Moen, Keegan Murray, Hanna Nelson, Matthew T. Nelson, Arthur Nghiem, Ethan Osgood, Isaac Pan, Hannah Peschel, Jenna Peschel, Elena Pierson, Shiva Prasad, Sahil Raina, Maiah Robert, Sophia Roesler, Gretchen Rosenquist, Aryan Sehgal, Kimberly Shen, Lily Shen, Alexander Smith, Neha Sriram, Jenna Stellmack, Maya Strike, Peter Tran, Robert Trapnell, Elana Vinyon, Leon Wang, Meryl Wang, Megan West, Gina Yi, Yanjun Yu, Sandy Zhang, Aunika Zheng
New Life Academy, Woodbury
Valedictorian: Isabel Butler
Parents: Craig and Anna Butler
College, major: University of Virginia, business/marketing
Quote: “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
Salutatorian: Abbie Swenson
Parents: Allan and Krista Swenson
College, major: University of Minnesota-Duluth, biochemistry
Quote: “Success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”
New Richmond, Wis.
Valedictorian: Teresa Tenner
Parents: Clifford and Arlene Tenner
Salutatorian: Abby Groth
Parents: Doug and Amy Groth
Top 10 percent: Ruth Domingo, Austin Bau, Zoe Davis, Merrick Scholz, Katey Eickhoff, Sofia Gigure, Cooper Eckardt, Jade Berget, Emily Fuchs, Colette Harrold, Zoe Christensen, Eliana Fall, Matthew Harle, Maggie Scanlan, Kaylee Birch, Sophie Fuchs, Mia Bakke, Grace McLean
North, North St. Paul
Aishat Adedayo, Shelby Anderson, Samantha Bonn, Rose Border, Clair Cardinal, Molly Conway, Anna Conway, Jemima Cooke, Lamine Diaby-Gassama, Mmanuel Dumenya, Nicole Empting, Jesus Garcia-Badillo, Soliana Ghidewon, Candy Hernandez Romero, Erica Horwath, Abigail Lebens, Bao-Phong Nguyen, Madeline Nielsen, Soe Oo, Kathryn Orme, Olivia Rolland, Macy Shaul, Marri Smith, Laura Star, Miah Vanga
North Lakes Academy, Forest Lake
Bailey Borowick, Wyatt Broom, Dean Ciaciura, Jocelyn Dale, Isabella Dimuzio, Jacquelyn Fay, Laurisa Gaier, Tyler Gaskill, Andrew Gmyrek, Dylan Good, Noah Hampton, Ryan Hommes, Robert Howard, Madison Ihrke-Shold, Hannah Jensen, Annika Johnson, Ella Johnson, Hannah Johnson, Tallen Johnson, Rachel Jones, Bailey Kohnen, Hannah Kuusisto, Angielena LaPlante, Joshua Matthews, Alena Miller, Amelia Millerbernd, Logan Nelson, Jordan Norwood, Hailey Nosser, Hannah Olson, Joshua Orcutt, Nathaniel Peter, Abigail Peterson, Jueventude Radatz, Ryan Rancour, Michael Rice, Michael Schaeppi, Emma Schaible, Megan Schneider, Madelyn Schoenberger, Lauren Schwartz, Kayla Sjoblom, Daniel Springer, Mackenzie Stanton, Alexaner TenNapel, Jaedyn Thoma, Ethan Tye, Sophia Wakeham
Nova Classical Academy, St. Paul
Highest honors:
Trey Adelsman
Parents: Kimberly and Randy Adelsman
College: Bethel University
Stephanie Amann
Parents: Renate and Eric Amann
College: St Olaf College
Elisia Ball
Parents: Abigail and Jason Ball
College: University of Alabama
Eva Beeman Trelstad
Parents: Sarah Beeman and Geoffrey Trelstad
College: Columbia University, New York, N.Y.
Rivkah Chaouat-Kelley
Parents: Monica Kelley and Bruno Chaouat
College: Emerson College, Boston, Mass.
Ulla Collins Axelson
Parents: Laurel Collins and Wayne Axelson
College: Smith College, Northampton, Mass.
Ian Crawshaw
Parents: Julie Chu and Eugene Crawshaw
College: Northeastern University, Boston, Mass.
Sara Garcia
Parents: Mary Noble Garcia and John Garcia
College: Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa
Aseem Gidwani
Parents: Divya Karan and Vinay Gidwani
College: University of Chicago
Adelaide Granse
Parents: Amanda and Erik Granse
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Alayna Hess
Parents: Charlene and Brian Hess
College: University of Northwestern-St. Paul
Callista Hohenhaus
Parents: Linda and Andrew Hohenhaus
College: Augustana University, Sioux Falls, S.D.
Richard Lin
Parents: Qiao Jiang and Chuan Lin
College: University of California Berkeley
Lucas Magistad
Parents: Beth and Stephen Magistad
College: Colorado College
Colin Mason
Parents: Char and Paul Mason
College: DePaul University, Chicago
Julia Nichols
Parent: Elizabeth Nichols
College: Colorado College
Emma Revenaugh
Parents: Kelly MacGregor and Justin Revenaugh
College: Colorado College
Samuel Sheridan
Parents: Jessica and Steven Sheridan
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Vlad Vutov
Parents: Olga and Dimiter Vutov
College: University of California, Los Angeles
Tavin Zeise
Parents: Carie and Jason Zeise
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Open World Learning Community, St. Paul
Lucas Plaman
Parents: Jeff and Tammy Plaman
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities; pre-med, psychology, music therapy
Quote: “Wheresoever you go, go with all of your heart.” – Confucius
Chutima Xiong
Parents: Chang Xiong and Youa Yang
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, nursing
Quote: “There are no limits to what you can accomplish, except the limits you place on your own thinking.”
Malachi Raymond
Parent: Quendy Raymond
College, major : Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vt.; political science
Quote: “Once you comprehend the threat an educated black man poses to the global system of white supremacy, you can understand why the educational system as an institution is designed to suppress and even annihilate the mental elevation of the African American child.” — “The Boondocks” comic strip
Micah Gundale
Parents: David Gundale and Amanda Herrera-Gundale
College, major: Gustavus Adolphus College, business
Quote: “Talent without working hard is nothing.” — Cristiano Ronaldo, Portuguese soccer player
Eponine Diatta
Parent: Dawn Diatta
College, major: Pace University, New York, N.Y.; acting
Quote: “I tried to pay attention, but attention paid me.” — Lil Wayne
Nickalas Osweiler
Parent: Mark Osweiler
Quote: “It is possible to commit no errors and still lose. That is not a weakness, that is life.” — Jean-Luc Picard, “Star Trek: The Next Generation”
Stephanie Orellana
Parents: Flor Mejia, Yimi Orellana
College: Century College
Quote: “Someone can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.”
Grace Bellamy
Parents: John and Robin Bellamy
College, major: University of Chicago, molecular engineering
Quote: “The wilderness holds answers to questions man has not yet learned to ask.” — Nancy Newhall
Henry Bowring-McDonough
Parents: Tim McDonough and Jenni Bowring-McDonough
College, major: Minnesota State University, Mankato; anthropology
Quote: “Such a heavy burden now to be the one / born to bear and bring to all the details of our ending / To write it down for all the world to see / But I forgot my pen.” — Tool, “Rosetta Stoned”
Summa cum laude: Emi Alperin, Grace Bellamy, Shayla Brooks, Thomas Hobday, Amarius Lesure, Lauren Mitchell, Atquetzali Quiroz, Malachi Raymond, Jacob Rohde, Chutima Xiong
Osceola, Wis.
Summa cum laude: Sydney Bents, Addison Bradway, Jedidiah Durand, Kirsten Dusick, Paige Dvorak, Emily Fox, Caroline Gearin, Makena Hollman, Hahns Huebsch, Logan Johnson, Riley Koosman, Nicholas Kremer, Ezekiel Lowney, Abigail Michel, Joshua Mork, David Olson, Sean Rogers, Kayla Rondeau, Ella Salewski, Nina Savoy, Michaela Schultz, Blake Slater, Halee Uzpen, Eric Vater
Park, Cottage Grove
Joshua Caldwell
Parents: Gregg and Freda Caldwell
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biomedical engineering
Quote: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
Clare Gallahue
Parents: Brian and Tricia Gallahue
College, major: University of St. Thomas, education
Marshall Janicek
Parents: Bob and Bobbi Jo Janicek
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biochemistry
Quote: “I believe that men are here to grow themselves into the best good that they can be at least, this is what I want to do.” — John Coltrane
Louis Janicek
Parents: Bob and Bobbi Jo Janicek
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biochemistry
Quote: “It’s very important in life to know when to shut up. You should not be afraid of silence.” — Alex Trebek
Taylor Knickel
Parents: Jason and Lisa Knickel
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, psychology
Quote: “Maybe I made a mistake yesterday, but yesterday’s me is still me. I am who I am today, with all my faults. Tomorrow I might be a tiny bit wiser, and that’s me, too. These faults and mistakes are what I am, making up the brightest stars in the constellation of my life. I have come to love myself for who I am, and who I hope to become.” — Kim Namjoon, South Korean musician speaking to the U.N. General Assembly
Hunter Lo
Parents: Dorfha Vang, Shane Lo
College, major: St. John’s University, medical field
Quote: “There are more things in heaven and earth than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” — Hamlet,” Shakespeare
Adison Steinke
Parents: Jon and Amy Steinke
College, major: University of Notre Dame, biomedical engineering
Quote: “People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day.”
Peyton Tessman
Parents: Jodelle and Thomas Tessman
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, psychology and French
Quote: “Now I could talk to friends, or ask an interior decorator, but that is social interaction and I don’t support it.” — Michael Reeves, YouTube personality, via Twitter
Adeline Walton
Parents: Tim and Amy Walton
College, major: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, exercise science
Quote: “I never look back darling. It distracts from the now.” — Edna Mode, “The Incredibles”
Gordon Parks, St. Paul
Lailanie Funchie, Turnaround Award; Jaquarious Brown, Integrity Award; Auria Sells, Perseverance Award; Drake Xiong, Outstanding Award; Shaniah Williams, Gordon Parks Scholar and Rotary Scholarship Award
Prescott, Wis.
Valedictorian: Zachary Knee
Parents: Scott and Joni Knee
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, biomedical engineering
Salutatorian: Anna Mercord
Parents: Ron and Jennifer Mercord
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, biomedical engineering
Riley Anfinson
Parents: Jon and Laurel Anfinson
College: University of Wisconsin-River Falls
Alexis Fredericks
Parents: Jason Fredericks and Wendy Niesl
College, major: University of Kansas, architectural engineering
Megan Gilles
Parents: Joel Gilles and Jayne Henderlite
College: University of Minnesota-Duluth
Mckenna Johnson
Parents: Brian and Rae Johnson
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Stout, graphic design
Lauran Korfhage
Parents: Scott and Joan Korfhage
College, major: Iowa State University, microbiology
Emily Magee
Parents: Christopher and ReAnna Magee
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, choral music education
Faith Stiles
Parents: Jerry and Lisa Stiles
College, major: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, exercise sports science
Molly Thomley
Parents: Michael and Allison Thomley
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, pre-pharmacy
Randolph
Valedictorian: Samantha Sundby
Parents: Scott and Suzanne Sundby
College, major: Marquette University, Milwaukee; exercise physiology/physical therapy
Quote: “Be strong when you are weak, brave when you are scared, and humble when you are victorious.” — Michelle Moschetti
Salutatorian: Lauryn Lockhart
Parents: Jamey and Kelly Lockhart
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, human physiology
Quote: “Everything negative — pressure, challenges — is all an opportunity for me to rise.” — Kobe Bryant
River Falls, Wis.
Valedictorians:
Cecelia Bruce
Parents: Martha Donnelly and Nathan Bruce
College, major: University of Minnesota, astrophysics
Jana Elsesser
Parents: Scott and Jen Elsesser
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, business finance
Logan Farner
Parents: Justin Farner, Michelle Farner and Tracy Bush
College, major: University of St. Thomas, electrical engineering
Aiden Howie
Parents: Megan and Colin Howie
College, major: University of Tampa, elementary education and Spanish
Jada Irgens
Parents: Dana Cudd, Jake Irgens and Jeremy Cudd
College, major: Minnesota State University, Mankato; business
Hayley Lindaman
Parents: Scott and Jo Anne Lindaman
College, major: South Dakota State University, nursing
Heidi Marg
Parents: Andrew and Amanda Marg
College, major: Purdue University, actuarial science
Lindsey Myhre
Parents: Karl Myhre and Paula Myhre
After graduation: World Race Gap Year
Casey Schlatter
Parents: Randy and Lisa Schlatter
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, marketing
Sophia Schmidt
Parents: Matthew and Julia Schmidt
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Kelsey Schneider
Parents: Mark and Michelle Schneider
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, mathematics and biochemistry
Luke Stang
Parents: Michael Stang and Lisa Burns
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, chemical engineering
Quin Steinmetz
Parents: Jane and Tim Steinmetz
College, major: Wesleyan University, Middletown, Conn.; music
Taylor Weick
Parents: Tony and Monica Weick
College, major: University of St. Thomas, biology
Rosemount
Summa cum laude: Rachel Barela, Riley Bawek, Kate Beckwith, Olivia Betters, Maxwell Bleick, Shelby Blenis, Brenna Buck, Rose Byersdorfer, Emma Dewitt, Katelyn Dwyer, Charley Eatchel, Cecilia Ellis, Gianna Freking, Olivia Gernandt, Josephine Greener, George Grunklee, Regan Hansen, Alex Hatoum, Patricia Marie Hernandez, Charles Huang, Katherine Jacobson, Annika Janssen, Taylor Janssen, Jackson Jedlicka, Lindsey Knutson, Olivia Kraemer, Talitha Kuehn, Griffin Laihinen, Sean Loesch, Kaitlin McKenzie, Landon Merigold, John Miller, Tanner Morrison, Riley Nelson, Darby O’Leary, Jeffrey Oliver, Alex Paneinh, Alexandra Poehler, John Richards, Alexander Robinson, Olivia Russell, Akash Shiri, Delaney Smith, Kelsey Steller, Megan Tardoni, David Thoennes, Robert Turner, Marvin Urbina, Lauren Walrath, Annelise Wier, Sarah Williams, Jonathan Wise
Roseville Area
Nathan Behrens
Parents: Jill and Phil Behrens
College: Luther College
Terra Berriodi
Parents: Janet Berryhill and Michael Chiodi
College: Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Tait Haugen
Parents: Simone and Dane Haugen
College: Ohio State University
Trisha Haugen
Parents: Linda and Dennis Haugen
College: University of Wisconsin-Stout
Aran Koob
Parents: Sarah Lucken and Michael Koob
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Gracelyn McClure
Parents: Rebecca and Jeff McClure
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Nicholas Rogness
Parents: Tara and Jonathan Rogness
College: Luther College, Decorah, Iowa
Nhulan Tran
Parent: MyLinh Hong
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Quinn Walker
Parents: Corinne and Daniel Walker
College: North Dakota State University
Allison Wehrman
Parents: Johanna and Jeffrey Wehrman
College: Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa
Rush City
Valedictorian: Anna Bush
Parents: James and Laura Bush
Salutatorian: Abigail Novick
Parents: Dr. Timothy and Pam Novick
Honor students:
Sara Gilbert
Parents: Ty and Julie Gilbert
Angel Martinez-Johnson
Parents: Mark and Carol Johnson
Sarah Schmidt
Parents: William and Wendy Schmidt
Samson Hageman
Parents: Mike and Connie Hageman
Sandon Stepp
Parents: Scott and Kathleen Stepp
Matthew Papke
Parents: Mike and Kristin Papke
Clayton Sparrow
Parents: Daniel and Kim Sparrow
Leah Berg
Parents: Scott and Terri Berg
Taylor Voight
Parents: Jesse and Alicia Voight
Teegan Engel
Parents: Michael and Lori Engel
Ryker Busch
Parents: Mark and Paula Busch
Jennifer Hillier
Parents: Jeff and Julie Hillier
Hunter Sykes
Parents: Kyle and Molly Sykes
Madeline Handt
Parent: Faith Handt
Brandon Cardinal
Parents: Nathan and Deanna Cardinal
Alexander Dahl
Parents: Daniel and Jennifer Dahl
Eliana Ebner
Parents: Patrick and Kathryn Ebner
St. Agnes, St. Paul
Andrew Brownell
Parents: Kyle and Maria Brownell
College, major: University of St. Thomas, biochemistry
Quote: “It is a poverty to decide that a child must die so that you may live as you wish.” — Mother Teresa
Elizabeth Dickerson
Parents: Don and Sonia Dickerson
After graduation: Damascus Catholic Mission Campus, Centerburg, Ohio
Quote: “Beneath the Cross one learns to love.” — St. Padre Pio
Sara Foote
Parents: David and Gail Foote
College, major: University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind.; biochemistry
Quote: ”Fare forward travelers! Not escaping from the past / Into different lives, or into any future; / You are not the same people who left the station /… Not fare well, / But fare forward, voyagers.” – “Four Quartets,” T.S. Eliot
Timothy Rosno
Parents: Jim and Patty Rosno
College, major: Benedictine College, Atchison, Kan.; physics and computer science
Quote: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” — Dr. Seuss
Clare Shrake
Parents: Patrick and Karen Shrake
College: University of Dallas
Quote: “It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” – “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” J.K. Rowling
Shelagh Steffes
Parents: Kathleen and David Steffes
College: Miami University, Oxford, Ohio
Quote: “Better that I find you, God, and leave the questions unanswered, than to find the answers without finding you.” — St. Augustine
Margaret Thibault
Parents: Dan and Gretchen Thibault
College, major: University of Mary, Bismarck, N.D.; nursing
Quote: ”Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought.” — Pope John Paul II
Thomas Stokman
Parent’s Names: Dan and Christina Stokman
College, major: Benedictine College, Atchison, Kan.; mechanical engineering
Quote: “A dead thing can go with the stream, but only a living thing can go against it.” — G.K. Chesterton
Emma Taggart
Parents: Jared and Teresa Taggart
College, major: Mannes School of Music, New York, N.Y.; piano performance
Quote: “One life is all we have, and we live it as we believe in living it. But to sacrifice who you are and to live without belief, that is a fate more terrible than dying.” — Joan of Arc
John Welter
Parents: Theodore and Sarah Welter
College, major: Iowa State University, software engineering
Quote: “Let the unseen days be. Today is more than enough.” – “The Children of Hurin,” J.R.R. Tolkien
St. Anthony Village
Celeste Andreasen
Parents: Craig and Lisa Andreasen
College, major: University of Minnesota, biomedical engineering
Ryan Ballot
Parents: Rick and Jacqueline Ballot
College, major: University of Minnesota, mechanical engineering
Josh Cary
Parents: Dan and Charla Cary
College: Hamline University
Flannery Dahlberg
Parents: Carmen and Thad Dahlberg
College, major: Macalester College, biology
Dhondup Dolma
Parents: Jangchup Dhondup
College, major: University of Minnesota; genetics, cell biology, development
Jasper Goldstein
Parents: Robert and Susan Goldstein
College, major: University of Minnesota, science and engineering
Jacob Hanson
Parents: Rebecca Schmitz and Matthew Hanson
College, major: University of Minnesota, biology
Katherine Haugan
Parents: Janet and David Haugan
College, major: University of Minnesota, theater arts
James Hinks
Parents: Jeanne and Jerry Hinks
College, major: North Dakota State University, computer science
Katya Jarmulowicz
Parents: Nancy and Paul Jarmulowicz
College, major: St. Olaf College, horn performance
Owen Keyes
Parents: Mike Keyes and Erin Jansa
College, major: University of Minnesota, mathematics
Brian Quimby
Parents: Mary Ward and John Quimby
College, major: University of Nebraska, entomology
Elena Schenkenberg
Parents: Phil and Susan Schenkenberg
College, major: Whitman College, Walla Walla, Wash.; environmental studies
Reena Shenoy
Parents: Andrea Hickle and Dineah Shenoy
College: DePaul University, Chicago
Julia Temple
Parents: Randal and Heidi Temple
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Stout, entertainment design
Tashi Tsering
Parents: Jangchup Dhondup
College, major: University of Minnesota, nursing
St. Croix Central, Hammond, Wis.
Valedictorians: Zachary Holme, Lauren Leen
Austin Albright, Zachary Anderson, Cai Annunziata, Keisha Berg, Thorin Berg, Braeden Bloom, Cody Bond, Elizabeth Brandvold, Autumn Brown, Joshua Burgess, Scott Campbell, Dylan Childs, Parker Chladek, Morgan Clark, Erik Collins, Bailey Davis, Alexandra Deno, Desire Dillon, Naomi Dillon, Avary Dux, Evan Fermanich, Marion Fischer, Gabrielle Fraser, Ashlyn Fry, Liberty Grant, Anthony Gresafe, Garret Hafele, Indi Hamlin, Grace Hanson, Dominic Harker, Richard Heller, Lucas Holme, Hunter Hoolihan, Alyssa Iverson, Sammie Janssen, Taylor Jernell, Ayrica Jewell, Logan Johnson, Isabella Johnston, Kolbi Juen, Corben Klatt, Logan Knapton, Timothy Knops, Emma Knospe, Hannah Koerper, Trevor Kopacz, Jena Kost, Cody Liermann, Scout Lindquist, Scott Lyon III, Luke Mahedy, Khloe Martinez, Jessica Marx, Noble McHenry, John Miles III, Lucas Miller, Trevor Miller, Brooklyn Mishler, Jacob Monicken-Selb, Breven Moore, Scott Mousel, Grace Myer, Oliver Olsen, Angelica Olson, Tanner Parrott, Anselmo Perez, Kyle Peters, Bethany Phillips, Lance Queen, Matthew Radunz, Abigail Rohl, Jacob Roussopoulos, Danielle Rustand, Zavier Sentinella, Logan Shackleton, Morgan Siler, Griffin Soderberg, Samuel Spaeth, Wyatt Sundby, Dylan Sweet, Peyton Timmerman, Jared Tritz, Neena Varela, Hannah Walker, Ashlyn Walsh, Justin West, Buckley Wiegand, Sebastian Wieser, Javin Witthoft, Joshua Woodington, Jordan Woyda, Stephanie Yarrington
St. Croix Falls, Wis.
Riley Henk
Parents: Gabe and Shanda Henk
College: University of Wisconsin-Stout
Riley Holsclaw
Parents: Jeffrey and Kimberley Holsclaw
College: University of Wisconsin-Stout
Andrew Opel
Parent: Jeanne Opel
College: Northwestern University
Hope Anderson
Parents: Todd and Becky Anderson
College: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Claire Wallace
Parents: Jim and April Wallace
College: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Sequoia Sirek
Parents: Scott and Christina Sirek
College: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Aryn Lara Rode
Parent: Heather Rode
College: Edgewood College, Madison, Wis.
Jenna Driscoll
Parents: John and Kris Driscoll
College: University of Wisconsin-Stout
Jessica C. Peterson
Parent: Lynelle Peterson
College: Century College
Carly Herrick
Parents: Ted and Julie Herrick
College: Gustavus Adolphus College
Nick Sedok
Parents: Justin and Becky Bulman
College: University of Wisconsin-Stout and Wisconsin Army National Guard
Alyssa Tran
Parents: Larry Tran and Sandra Dolphin
College: University of Minnesota
Clayton VanBuskirk
Parents: Doug and Sue VanBuskirk
College: St. Thomas University
Azalea Edwards
Parent: Amy Pennington
College: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Madison Stensven
Parents: Brian and Arica Stensven
College: Bethel University
Luke Thaemert
Parents: David and Julia Thaemert
College: Bethel University
Noah Kazmierski
Parents: Robert and Angela Kazmierski
College: University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Jordan Braund
Parents: Michael and Tammi Braund
College: Midland University, Fremont, Neb.
Trevor LaMirande
Parents: Gary and Cindy LaMirande
College: North Central College, Naperville, Ill.
Hannah Cross
Parents: Michael and Heidi Cross
College: University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Derek Fisk
Parents: Doug and Diane Fisk
College: Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
St. Croix Lutheran Academy, West St. Paul
Valedictorians:
Siyu (Cecilia) Han
Parents: Zhengliang Han and Xiaolin Xuan
College: Emory University, Atlanta, Ga.
Quote: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” — Philippians 4:13
Katherine Weigand
Parents: Marty and Debbie Weigand
College: Wisconsin Lutheran College, Milwaukee
Quote: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” — John 14:27
Jingyan (Brenda) Zhang
Parents: Lei Zhang and Yuanyuan Wei
College: University of California San Diego
Quote: “I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” — Psalms 91:2
Salutatorian:
Maren Steffen
Parents: Jeanne and Thomas Steffen
College: University of Arizona
Quote: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” — Romans 8:38-39
St. Croix Preparatory Academy, Baytown Township
Oliver Yocum
Parents: Jonathan and Kirsten Yocum
College, major: Northwestern University, mechanical engineering
Natalie Visich
Parents: Gregory and Kristy Visich
College, major: North Dakota State University; biotechnology, microbiology
Sadie Gilmeister
Parents: Kerry and Tracy Gilmeister
College, major: Northwestern College, Orange City, Iowa; cellular and molecular biology
Clara Broecker
Parents: James and Stacey Broecker
College: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Britta Hornback
Parents: Russ and Wendy Hornback
College, major: University of Minnesota, biology
Calder Erickson
Parents: John and Janice Erickson
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison; finance, statistics
Anthony Pribnow
Parents: Scott and Anita Pribnow
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, biomedical engineering
Emma Wolf
Parents: Bob and Lori Wolf
College, major: Iowa State University, engineering
Emily Neuman
Parents: Jeremy and Heather Neuman
College, major: Macalester College, political science
Jackson Moffitt
Parents: Chris and Patricia Moffitt
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison; mechanical engineering, applied mathematics
St. Paul Academy and Summit School
Tommy Allen, Amelia Batson, Sameer Bijwadia, Kathleen Bishop, Maddy Breton, Richard Chang, Quinn Christensen, Zachary Dyar, Sam Hanson, Abby Hedberg, Brennan Keogh, Abdelrahman Mokbel, Ananya Narayan, Melissa Nie, Asher Sobotka, Nathan Sobotka, Anjali Tadavarthy, Henry Vlietstra, Liam Will
St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists
Casey Johnson
Parents: Tom and Trish Flock-Johnson
College, major: Northwestern University, theater and social policy
Rhiannon Weston
Parents: Kristin Weston and Dan Weston
College, major: St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, 3+2 physician’s assistant program
Eva Barnes
Parents: Margaret and Gary Barnes
College: St. Olaf College
Kied Fugaban
Parents: Lee Ann and Johnny Fugaban
College, major: Minnesota State University Moorhead, music industries and technology
Aneva Dubeaux
Parents: Philippe and Dina Dubeaux
College, major: State University of New York at Purchase, dance
Ellie Haugen
Parents: Anna and Mark Haugen
College: Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, Mass.
Lucy Durben
Parents: Jessica Nin and Joe Durben
College, major: Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles; screenwriting and theater arts
Frances Miller
Parents: Kevin and Christine Miller
College, major: College of the Atlantic, Bar Harbor, Maine; regenerative and sustainable agriculture
Sophia Balabanova-Gebreab
Parents: Snejana Balabanova and Biniam Gebreab
College: University of Chicago
Quinn Morrissey
Parents: Katie Sterns and Mike Morrissey
College, major: Lewis & Clark College, Portland, Ore.; computer science and mathematics
Emme Martini
Parents: Janie and Todd Martini
After graduation: Gap Year training with Circus Juventas, St. Paul
Carl Hallberg
Parents: Marianne Reis and Tom Hallberg
College, major: The Juilliard School, New York, N.Y.; acting
Avital Keeley
Parent: Chris Polston
College, major: Eastern Michigan University, physics research
Isabelle Lundqvist
Parents: Joan and Bertil Lundqvist
College, major: Suffolk University, Boston, Mass.; psychology
Greta Erickson
Parents: Leslie Erickson and the late Randy Erickson
College, major: University of Virginia; drama and gender, women, and sexuality studies
Katherine Costanzo
Parents: Debra and David Costanzo
College, major: Lawrence University, Appleton, Wis.; biology and global studies
Rhapsody Stiggers
Parents: Kelly and David Stiggers
College, major: Boston Conservatory at Berklee, contemporary dance
Claude Mazullo
Parents: Jill and Mark Mazullo
College, major: Lawrence University, Appleton, Wis.; biology
Grace Borell
Parents: Bridget and Jamie Borell
After graduation: Great Lakes Academy of Fine Art, Duluth
Lillian Mills
Parents: Corey and Betsy Mills
College, major: Institute of the Arts Barcelona, Sitges, Spain; musical theater
St. Thomas Academy, Mendota Heights
Jacob Miller
Parents: James and Susan Miller
College, major: University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind.; business
Nicholas Tucci
Parents: Tom and Megan Tucci
College, major: University of Notre Dame, pre-med
Hayden Ousley
Parents: Jim and Jodi Ousley
College, major: University of Notre Dame, biochemistry
Jack Kelly
Parents: Edward and Amy Kelly
College, major: University of Notre Dame, pre-med
Abraham Yosef
Parents: Yosieph Tekie and Almaz Bahre
College: Stanford University, Stanford, Calif.
Jurgis Daugela
Parents: Antanas and Lina Daugela
College, major: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md.; biomedical engineering
Andres Ridley
Parents: David Ridley and Elvia Moreta
College, major: Tulane University, New Orleans, La.; cell and molecular biology and economics
Cason Willman
Andrew Schreier
Parents: John and Ellen Schreier
College, major: University of Notre Dame, business and finance
Yong Jae Lee
Parents: Dae Hee Lee and Seunghee Kim
College, major: Johns Hopkins University, mathematics
Garrett Rivers
Parents: John and Andrea Rivers
College, major: Maryville University, St. Louis, Mo.; data science
Mitchell MacDonald
Parents: James and Erica MacDonald
College, major: University of Notre Dame, finance
Stephen Betts
Parents: Jeffrey and Annie Betts
College, major: University of Notre Dame, finance and pre-law
Michael Wright
Parents: The late Michael Wright and Lisa Wright
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, engineering
Alexander Casale
Parents: Carl and Kim Casale
College, major: Washington University, St. Louis; finance
Devin Klein
Parents: Tom and the late Holly Klein
College, major: Boston College, pre-med
Sullivan Bluhm
Parents: Ryan and Clare Bluhm
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, engineering
Benjamin Reppenhagen
Parents: Paul and Molly Reppenhagen
College, major: Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas; business
Blake Prall
Parents: Michael and Heather Prall
College, major: Boston College, biology and microbiology
Nicholas Kettler
Parents: Timothy and Nancy Kettler
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, business
Henry Sibley, Mendota Heights
Claire Allen
Parents: Michelle and Blair Allen
College, major: University of Wisconsin Madison, business
Bennett Challifour
Parents: Katherine and Trevor Challifour
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, environmental engineering
Quote: “From that day on, if I was ever going somewhere, I was running!” — Forrest Gump, “Forrest Gump”
Derek Dean
Parents: Valerie and Daymond Dean
College, major: Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio; English
Quote: “I see now that the circumstances of one’s birth are irrelevant. It is what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are.” — Mewtwo, “Pokemon: The First Movie”
Baird Doud
Parents: Marcy and Terry Doud
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biochemistry
Quote: “There is no script. Live your life. Soak it all in!” — Dick Costolo
Taylor Gonsalez
Parents: Lisa and Ray Gonsalez
College, major: Columbia University, New York, N.Y.; financial economics
Quote: “People who see life as anything more than pure entertainment are missing the point.” — George Carlin
Matthew Lao
Parents: Jane and Benjamin Lao
College, major: University of St. Thomas, computer science
Quote: “There is more to life than increasing its speed.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Collin McEllistrem
Parents: Heidi and Paul McEllistrem
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, finance and management
Quote: “I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately … and not, when I came to die, discover I had not begun to live.” – Henry David Thoreau
Veronica Morse
Parents: Deborah and Larry Morse
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, engineering
Quote: “We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right.” — Nelson Mandela.
Jaelyn Orth
Parents: Domonique Kanavati-Orth and Tom Orth
College, major: St. Olaf College, English
Quote: “Whatever you want to do, just do it. Making a fool of yourself is absolutely essential.” — Gloria Steinem
Marina Shenouda
Parents: Teresa and Melad Shenouda
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities; biology, society and environment
Quote: “It’s hard to walk away from the best of days, but if it has to end, I’m glad you have been my friend in the time of our lives.” — “Time of Our Lives,” Tyrone Wells
Simley, Inver Grove Heights
Jenna Bezek
Parents: John and LeeAnn Bezek
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, nutritional sciences
Quote: “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” — Maya Angelou
Grant Dilla
Parents: Robert and Mary Dilla
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, economics and environmental science
Quote: “We all have dreams. In order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline and effort.” — Jesse Owens
Joshua Franson
Parents: Natalie and David Franson
College, major: Iowa State University , meteorology
Quote: “There’s no such thing as good weather, or bad weather. There’s just weather and your attitude towards it.” — Louise Hay
Sophia Fredeen
Parents: Jon and Ingrid Fredeen
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biomedical engineering
Quote: “Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional.” — Walt Disney
Sadie Haugo
Parents: Patricia and Bruce Haugo
College, major: University of Minnesota, finance
Quote: “Live the life you have imagined.” — Henry David Thoreau
Hannah Heiss
Parents: Beth and Matt Heiss
College, major: Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa; international relations
Quote: “People will forget what you said … what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
Maya Merritt
Parents: Anne and Dan Merritt
College, major: Augsburg University, urban studies
Quote: “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” — Christopher Robin, “Pooh’s Grand Adventure”
Catie Thoemke
Parents: Rita and Brian Thoemke
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, nursing
Quote: “At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can.”– Frida Kahlo
Daniel Williams
Parent: Margaret Polly
College, major: Gustavus Adolphus College, biomedical engineering
Quote: “I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” — Albert Einstein
Philip Workman
Parents: Marsha Workman, Dave Workman
College, major: Bethel University, engineering
Quote: “Life is a lot like jazz; it’s best when you improvise.” — George Gershwin
South St. Paul
John Deneen
Parents: Jacqueline Klein and Patrick Deneen
College: Harvard University
Amanda Kelly
Parents: Dawn Kelly and Kenneth Kelly
College: Augsburg University
Lilliana Kirchner
Parents: Kristine Kirchner and Daniel Kirchner
College: Concordia College, Moorhead
Nicholas Klaustermeier
Parents: Jennifer Klaustermeier and David Klaustermeier
College: University of Minnesota
Jacob Heimsoth
Parent: Wendy Denardo
College: University of Northwestern-St. Paul
Robert Smith
Parents: Kari Smith and Christopher Smith
College: St. John’s University
Emma Smith
Parents: Kari Smith and Christopher Smith
College: College of St. Benedict
Victoria Vanpelt
Parents: Shannon Vanpelt and Kyle Vanpelt
College: University of Minnesota
Leannette Perez
Parent: Adriana Perez
College: Montana State University
Anika Weiberg
Parents: Lisa Weiberg and Jeffrey Weiberg
College: University of St. Thomas
Spring Valley, Wis.
Stella Bellin, Aaron Borgerding, Jackson Brink, Sandra Bune, Savannah Carlberg, Jonathan Corriea, Katherine Dieckman, Emma Esanbock, Taylor Falde, Clara Gland, Kari Hybben, Alyxis Johansen, Lauren Johnson, Katherine Keehr, Colton Kotval, John Larson, Kristine Miller, Kaleb Olson, Isabelle Peterson, Morgan Rustad, Lili Schutz, Katarina Thorsen, Hope Webb, Karyn Wood
Stillwater Area
Top 5 percent: Josephine Ramirez, Rachel Schulz, Sydney Peterson, Abigail Weaver, Eleanor Sand, Meghana Acharya, Grace Mcdonough, Madeline Heinz, Sophie Browning, Clayton Batterton, Elizabeth Tuttle, Trey Kruse, Anna Lindeberg, Elsa Huckels, Jordan Schwingler, Adelyn Oberg, Sarah Symalla, Courtney Schroeder, Nicholas Purdie, Christian Howlett,Olivia Velte, Juliana Lussio-litschauer, Dustin Knighton, Michael Finch Jr, Julia Snyder, Avery Wright, Madeline Haase, Ava Chaves, Zachary Benson, Caeden Windschitl, Claire Dicks, Peter Grace, Daniel Russell
Tartan, Oakdale
Lydia Ato
Parents: Theophilus and Millicent Ato
College, major: Harvard University, environmental Sciences and engineering
Quote: “Live in such a way that if someone spoke badly of you, no one would believe it.”
Rece Brockopp
Parents: Janel Brockopp and John Brockopp
College: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Quote: “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” — President Barack Obama
Jacob Anderson
Parents: Trent and Sharolyn Anderson
Tristan Pawlenty
Parents: Eugene and Jennifer Pawlenty
College, major: University of Iowa, computer science and engineering
Quote: “When great changes occur in history, when great principles are involved, as a rule the majority are wrong.” — Eugene V. Debs
Anne Dao
Parents: Teresa Duong and Quynh Dao
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biochemistry
Quote: “Be the reason someone smiles.”
Angela Lenling
Parents: Steve Lenling, Tina Lenling
After graduation: Air Force National Guard, Weather Operations
Quote: “What we think, we become.” — Buddha
Ryan Willett
Parents: Eric Willett, Maureen Willett
College: University of St. Thomas or University of Wisconsin – River Falls
Quote: “Would I rather be feared or loved? Easy, both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me.” — Michael Scott, “The Office”
Munita Thol
Parents: Sothol Saiysour and Rann Saiysour
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, biology
Quote: “There’s no person in the world like you, and I like you just the way you are.” — Fred Rogers
Alec Pfalz
Parents: Kelly and Peter Pfalz
College, major: University of Minnesota, architecture
Quote: “That some achieve great success, is proof to all that others can achieve it as well.” — Abraham Lincoln
McKenna Campbell
Parents: Jim and Lisa Campbell
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, health care administration
Quote: “While you’re young, cherish your life as it comes to you. It’s the only way it comes after all.” — Thomas Rhett
Trinity School at River Ridge, Eagan
Cum laude:
Luke Bormann, graduate award
Parents: Kevin and Carissa Bormann
College: University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind.
Nita Qiu, graduate award
Parents: Lin Qiu and Dongmei Zhang
College: Yale University, New Haven, Conn.
Treva Bellomo
Parents: Jim and Melanie Bellomo
College: University of St. Thomas
Peter Bittner
Parents: Norbert and Barbara Bittner
After graduation: Mission work, then University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Jerram Carr
Parents: William and Karen Carr
After graduation: Gap year
Cassandra Demlow
Parents: Steve and Barbara Demlow
After graduation: Gap year, then Calvin University, Grand Rapids, Mich.
Mary Therese Druffner
Parents: Mark Druffner and Molly Delaney Druffner
College: Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.
Claire Hrbacek
Parents: David Hrbacek and Julie Hrbacek
College: University of St. Thomas
Erik Iverson
Parents: David and Kelly Iverson
College: University of Alabama
Catherine Kieffer
Parents: Lewis and Sue Kieffer
College: University of St. Thomas
Michael Kisch
Parents: Chris and Cathy Kisch
College: Undecided
Hyeong Jae Kwon
Parents: Tae Hyung Kwon and Sun Mee Lim
After graduation: Military service
Maria Lotti
Parents: Michael and Tricia Lotti
After graduation: U.S. Navy
Kathleen Mealey
Parents: Patrick and Sarah Mealey
College: University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind.
Charles Nykamp
Parents: Duane and Sarah Nykamp
After graduation: AmeriCorps
Carolyn Rausch
Parents: Tim and Allison Rausch
College: Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Abigail Walter
Parents: Bernie and Mary Walter
College: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Aiden Willard
Parents: Steve and Sarah Willard
College: University of St. Thomas
TRIO Wolf Creek, Chisago City
Violet Anderson, Asya Arends, Clara Ball, Rylie Baxley, Kyle Berdahl, Jessica Bies, Nathaniel Bohnen, Tryniti Bollin, Nicole Borden, Alexis Bostic, Damian Bronson, Alyssa Dickinson, Gary Dixon, Gavin Donahue, Blake Erickson, Tanner Faltisek, Tony Ford, Jarid Schaar Glynn, Brandon Good, Jacob Grundhofer, Jake Guzik, Alyshia Hanser, Gideon Harrington, Bren Hertaus, Alexandra Hervig, Ryan Hoffman, Samuel Hunt, Brooklinn Huss, Nicole Jensen, MacKenzie Karas, Collin Kepner, Alyssa LaCroix, Kaylee Linda, Alleshia Makarenko, Keegan Miller, Kayla Misenor, Isabelle Mitchell, Drew Moody, Anna Nelson, Austin Noha, Jared Nuebel, Alexis Peterson, Emily Pogue, Owen Quinn, Dustin Rakowiecki, Nathan Reiter, Hailey Riggs, Jennifer Romanowicz, Amber Romleski, Dennis Schlemmer Jr., Brittney Scott, Brandon Simon, Maria Sperry, Rianna Stromberg, Haleigh Taylor, Nathan Vanderslice, Edwin Vazquez, Trevor Vobr, Amanda Wallin, Alexia Watson, Hailey Wilbur, Jaden Williams, Peter Wilson, Jakob Wrobel
Unity, Balsam Lake, Wis.
Valedictorians:
Devon Mares
Parents: Tim and Diane Mares
College, major: University of Wisconsin-River Falls, biology education
Quote: “Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.” — Zig Ziglar
Sophie Reed
Parents: Jeff and Nichole Reed
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, kinesiology or business
Quote: “Set your goals high, and don’t stop ‘til you get there.” — Bo Jackson
Maggie Conlan
Parents: Roxanne Osborn and Joseph Conlan
College, major: Marquette University, biomedical sciences
Quote: “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page.” — Saint Augustine
Salutatorian:
Cullen Feist
Parents: Brenda Weierke and Michael Feist
College, major: Concordia University, mathematics education
Quote: “You can’t just read about push-ups. You gotta do them!” — Gary Vaynerchuck
Visitation, Mendota Heights
Wini Bettenburg
Parents: Ellen and Dan Bettenburg
College, major: Undecided
Lea Chamoun
Parents: Sylvana and Fady Chamoun
College, major: University of California Los Angeles, pre-med
Elizabeth Dudley
Parents: Vickey and Matthew Dudley
College: Northwestern University
Faith Geis
Parents: Kathy and Steven Geis
College, major: Creighton University, Omaha, Neb.; business and theology
Meredith Killian
Parents: Julie and Tony Killian
College: Union College, Schenectady, N.Y.
Grace Michel
Parents: Sara and Matthew Michel
College, major: College of St. Benedict, elementary education and theater
Annabelle Midden
Parents: Alison and Patrick Midden
College: College of William & Mary, Williamsburg, Va.
Adrienne Miller
Parents: Meredith and Stephen Miller
College, major: University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind.; engineering
Clare Pryor
Parents: Patty and Tim Pryor
College, major: University of Notre Dame, neuroscience and film
Elizabeth Weber
Parents: Kathy and Ray Weber
College, major: University of Nebraska-Lincoln, engineering
Margaret Wussow
Parent: Kathryn Wussow
College, major: University of Colorado Boulder, aerospace engineering
Washington Technology Magnet, St. Paul
Commencement speakers:
Qeng Xiong
Parents: Cha Xiong, Dara Her
College, major: St. Catherine University, economics
Quote: “If there is a solution to a problem, there is no need to worry. And if there is no solution, there is no need to worry.” — Dalai Lama XIV
Bao Vang
Parents: Colin Vang and Bao Chang
College: Augsburg University, business administration and minoring in finance
Quote: “Those who matter don’t mind, and those who mind don’t matter.”
Summa cum laude: Tania Acevedo Garcia, Gissel Calles Rios, Paw Hser, Poe Shi Hsi, David Tou Fue Lee, Kia Lee, Pao Lee, Samantha Lee, Shoua Lee, Alan Moua, Song Moua, Thin Thin Mying, Mai Trang Nguyen, Kler Taw, Mai Nhia Thao, Vang Thao, Yong Yee Thao, Snow White, Choua Xiong, Gozong Xiong, Kia Xiong, Qeng Xiong, Solomon Xiong, Kao Yang, Xeng Yang
White Bear Lake Area
Top 5 percent: Sydney Beck, Matthew Chouinard, Monte Collins, Madison Carroll, Lydia Deutsch, Ava Driscoll, Natalie Dumas, Ella Janicki, Kathryn Jarnagin, Isaac Maruyama, Kirby Masso, Tyler Mattson, Paul Moris, Helen Nelson, Amy Nguyen, Abbie Nistler, Ryan Pederson, Anna Perron, Isabelle Perron, Anna Racine, Julia Thomalla, Abigail Zavadil, Tatiana Zech
Woodbury
Zahra Chan-Khan
Parents: Hannah Chan and Ali Khan
College, major: University of British Columbia-Vancouver, natural resource conservation
Brianne Christenson
Parents: Diane Wicker and Greg Christenson
College, major: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.; foreign service
Michael Duthie
Parents: Graham and Cathleen Duthie
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, mechanical engineering
Joe Frommelt
Parents: Bill and Jennifer Frommelt
College: Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa
Aman Koul
Parent: Kuldeep Koul
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, computer engineering
Clarice LeBow
Parents: Leslie and Scott LeBow
College, major: George Washington University, Washington, D.C.; international affairs
Maya Mehra
Parents: Nand Mehra and Sarah Mehra-Callinan
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, political science
Mohammed Musa
Parents: Ali Musa Elhassan and Hanadi Osman
College, major: Princeton University, Princeton, N.J.; environmental engineering
Rika Nakato
Parents: Eriko and Hiroshi Nakato
College, major: Williams College, Williamstown, Mass.; political economy
Amber Schneider
Parents: Byron and Lori Schneider
College, major: University of Wisconsin-Madison, industrial engineering
Marta Struve
Parents: Mark and Chum Struve
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, environmental engineering
Anthony Wong
Parents: Grace and Joshua Wong
College, major: Georgia Institute of Technology, computer science
Sophie Wu
Parents: Grace Lei and Greg Wu
College, major: Stanford University, Stanford, Calif.; economics
Jasmine Yee
Parents: Rachel and Jonathan Yee
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, architecture
Emily Zhi
Parents: Dennis Zhu and Zoe Zhi
College, major: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, human physiology
Leah Zhu
Parents: Dennis Zhu and Zoe Zhi
College, major: University of Minnesota–Twin Cities human physiology
Correction: Meredith Killlian, a graduate of Visitation in Mendota Heights, will attend Union College in Schenectady, N.Y. Her college choice was listed incorrectly in the Top Graduates story in Sunday Life.
