2008-09 IHSA All-State Academic Team

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) is proud to announce the 26 students who have been selected to the 2008-09 All-State Academic Team sponsored by Caterpillar. The 13 male and 13 female honorees of the IHSA’s top academic honor were chosen from a group that included over 500 students throughout the state.

“This is a tremendous honor and I hope every student who was nominated takes a great deal of pride in all that they have accomplished,” said IHSA Executive Director Marty Hickman. “These students are the embodiment of what it means to take advantage of the entire high school experience. I am thankful to Caterpillar for providing the All-State Academic Team platform to honor and congratulate them.”

Every IHSA member school was invited to nominate one female student and one male student by the February deadline. Nominees needed to possess a minimum 3.50 grade point average on 4.0 scale after their 7th semester, have participated in at least two IHSA sponsored activities during each of the last two years and demonstrated outstanding citizenship.
The nominations were evaluated by a committee made up of IHSA principals, representatives of the Illinois Activities Directors Association and representatives of the Illinois Athletic Directors Association. One male winner and one female winner from each of the seven IHSA Board of Directors Divisions were selected initially, while the final 12 spots on the team were then rounded out with at-large candidates from anywhere in the state.
The All-State Academic Team members will be honored at a banquet at the DoubleTree Hotel in Bloomington on April 20, 2009.

The 2008-09 IHSA All-State Academic Team sponsored by Caterpillar:

2008-09 All-State Academic Team

2008-09 Honorable Mention Team

2008-09 All-State Academic Team Biographies

ALEX ALBANESE, Huntley

Extracurricular activities were not for Alex Albanese. After all, she possessed what she called an "asinine anxiety of interacting with people."

That was before the current Huntley senior attended speech camp as a freshman and went from "avoiding eye contact" on day one to "doing the funky chicken" in front of her peers by the third day of the retreat.

Alex recalls that the retreat "changed her like nothing else ever has." She has gone on to make the same type of impression on her teachers and peers during her four years on campus, becoming involved in nine different sports and activities.

Huntley Journalism Advisor Dennis Brown reflects on Alex. "I have known some outstanding students in my 15 years of teaching, but there are very few I would consider the best of the best. Without exaggerating, I would say Alex is one of the most impressive young people I have taught."

Alex spent three years as the Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper under Brown, is a four-year member of the yearbook staff, participated in three school plays and volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters. In addition to the numerous awards she has received for her speech and journalism work, Alex has been honored with the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award, been named an Illinois State Scholar and was commended as a National Merit Student.

Alex is also a member of Red Raider softball team, helping the team to the first Regional and Conference titles in school history during her four years as a varsity starter. In 2006, she qualified for the IHSA Individual Events Speech State Finals and went on to place fifth individually in Headline Writing at the 2008 IHSA Journalism State Finals.

Despite all of her accomplishments, Alex admits a new fear is brewing: "leaving these incredible friends next fall."

A two-year National Honor Society member with a 4.7 grade point average (4.0 scale) who ranks in the Top 5 in her class, Alex Albanese represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 2 and her principal is Dave Johnson.

THERESE BARRY, Elgin (St. Edward)

It was on a bus ride to Bloomington when Therese Barry realized that her greatest goal was about to be achieved. It was also on that trip to Redbird Arena to play in the IHSA Class 2A Volleyball State Finals when she grasped that the journey was just as rewarding as the destination.

"It took several disappointing upsets and a considerable amount of sweat and tears to reach the state tournament," wrote Therese in her application essay. "It was not until my senior year that I appreciated the importance of teamwork. Sports require more than athleticism and drive. It was through volleyball that I learned the significance of being able to trust others and work as a team to accomplish a common goal."

Therese has played a big role in the growth of the St. Edward trophy case during her career, as she has been a part of three Regional Champion soccer and volleyball teams, won a Sectional title in each sport and followed 2008's Super-Sectional volleyball victory with a third-place finish at the State Finals.

The attitude and desire that make Therese a feared player on the volleyball court and soccer field carry over into her work in the classroom, where she attacks her studies with the same prowess and finds similarly successful results. An Honor Roll student during her entire high school career, Therese was the recipient of the ZAP ACT Scholarship, achieved Illinois State Scholar status and was a three-time Academic All-Conference honoree.

Her leadership skills have also been on display inside the school, where she has served as a Senator and Executive Treasurer on the Student Council, is a retreat leader on the school's Kairos Retreat and volunteers to help the less fortunate at St. Vincent DePaul.

Therese summed up her team's volleyball success. "It took determination, confidence and faith in each other."

Therese Barry, a two-year National Honor Society member with a 4.5 grade point average (4.0 scale) and a Top 5 class ranking, represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 2 and her principal is Reverend Father Edward J. Seisser.

ERICA BRAMLET, Mt. Carmel

With the pressure of performance and the potential for politics, being the daughter of the head coach can be tough on any high school student-athlete. That was not the case for Erica Bramlet, who endeared herself to teammates and excelled on and off the court while playing for her mother on the Lady Aces tennis team. "I have never felt as if I was part of a team more than this year," wrote Erica in her application essay. "I have made friendships with people who otherwise would have never crossed my path. Tennis has both taught me to get along with everyone and to truly like them."

A four-year competitor in tennis, track & field and scholastic bowl, Erica qualified for the IHSA Girls Tennis State Finals three times in her career and was a part of a Sectional winning tennis team. Off the court she was a threetime recipient of the Southern Illinois Marian Wood Baird Cup, a Science Fair semifinalist and placed third in the W.Y.S.E. English competition. She is actively involved in Student Council, National Honor Society and the theater programs at Mt. Carmel, while also volunteering her time in the community to Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Kiwanis Club.

The myriad of people and experiences that high school has provided Erica have made her sure of one thing moving forward, "After this experience in forming these bonds, I learned I want to be around people, to help them, to learn from them throughout my life."

Patrice Young, the English Department Chair at Mt. Carmel, believes Erica will continue to succeed no matter what path she follows. "Having Erica in my senior English class this year, I have found her to be an exceptional student. Not only do her grades consistently place her in a top spot academically, but her hard work and self-disciplined approach assure Erica of continued success after high school."

A two-year National Honor Society honoree with a 5.2 grade point average (5.0 scale), Erica Bramlet will serve as the Valedictorian of her senior class. She represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 7 and her principal is Pat Cheesman.

MARY BUZZARD, Rockford (Lutheran)

"This is awful, I should quit," was the thought running through Mary Buzzard's head just two miles into her high school cross country career. The physical exertion and toll of the sport on her body, coupled with the mental strain she carried with being her team's pace runner as a freshman, had made the meet result insignificant and left her wondering why she was still competing.

Four years and many miles later, Mary has a new outlook, not to mention the answer to the question of why she decided to stick it out. "I was running for my team, my coach and my school," wrote Mary in her application essay. "No longer the victim of my self-inflicted anxiety, I approached races with a competitive spirit. I can only attribute my turnaround to my teammates and coach. My coach invested time in me as a runner and as a person, and my teammates were there for me, as I was there for them."

If the competitive fires inside Mary needed to be stoked by those around her, the ability to run came quite naturally. Three times she helped her team finish in the Top 5 in the state, including third-place team finishes at the 2006 and 2008 IHSA Girls Cross Country State Finals. Mary's success managed to transcend to the basketball court and soccer field as well, as she guided the Lady Crusaders to the 2007 IHSA Girls Soccer Class A State Title and played a part in five Regional Championships and three Sectional titles between the three sports.

The accolades have rolled in for Mary outside the athletic arena, as she has been honored as an Illinois State Scholar, was the Wendy's High School Heisman winner in Illinois, won an Illinois Art Education Association Award and was a National Merit Commended Scholar. Inside the halls of Rockford (Lutheran), she also immersed herself in extracurriculars such as Read for a Lifetime, Key Club, Student Council and Math Team.

Mary Buzzard owns a 4.6 grade point average (4.0 scale) and a Top 5 class ranking in addition to being named to the National Honor Society in each of the past two years. She represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 4 and her principal is Don Kortze.

JOHN CURRAN, Bloomington (Central Catholic)

Athletics are often credited with instilling valuable life lessons for the perspective they provide in victory and defeat. As a successful cross country and track & field runner at Bloomington (Central Catholic), John Curran found a new perspective through the time an injury took away from him and the hard work it took to return to excellence.

His sophomore track and junior cross country seasons were essentially lost, as he struggled to overcome an injury to the IT Band in his leg. The young man battled through the pain and adversity, ultimately earning All-State honors with an eighth-place finish and school record-breaking performance in the 1600-meter run at the 2008 IHSA Track & Field State Finals.

"My injury, even though I didn't realize it at the time, made me a better person," wrote John in his application essay. "I valued my teammates' success just as much, if not more, than my own. I learned that adversity and hardships are inevitable, but not impossible to overcome, and that you must work harder than you thought possible to achieve your highest goals."

Nothing has been able to slow John down in the classroom or community, as he is a four-time recipient of the Principal's 4.0 Award and the President's Education Award. The 2008 William J. Bennington Outstanding Science Student Award winner has earned a multitude of honors from the WYSE, while also being named an Advanced Placement Scholar and a National Honor Society Scholar. A Class Officer as a junior and senior, John participates on the WYSE Team, Math Team, Vita Christi, Mu Alpha Theta and Interact Club at his school.

John, who also participated in basketball during all four years, has been a part of four Regional champion teams in three sports, won a Sectional track & field title and helped the Saints' cross country team place in the Top 15 in the state twice.

John Curran owns a 4.1 grade point average (4.0), earning the two-year National Honor Society member the title of Salutatorian among his graduating class. He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 5 and his principal is Joy Allen.

SARAH DALY, Wheaton (Academy)

The miles Sarah Daly has covered while pursuing her passion for running cross country have taken her to many places, but as a freshman running for Wheaton (Academy) she suddenly found herself in uncharted territory. She was winning the race.

"As a freshman, I raced scared. I constantly peered over my shoulder, paranoid of being passed," wrote Sarah in her application essay. "I panicked and became utterly ignorant about what people do when they are winning a race."

Sarah went on to win that race and adjusted quite nicely to her status ahead of the pack when it came to her school work and role on the Warrior cross country and track & field teams.

Sarah explains how she overcame her panic. "I let my passion rule my mind and take over my body. That culmination of passion and hard work is unbeatable. I retained that enthusiasm throughout high school, and will continue to pursue the impossible in college, free and inspired by passion."

The uninhibited Sarah has been involved with student government, the school newspaper, French Club, and the Senior Leadership Team at Wheaton (Academy). She also volunteers at the PADS Homeless Shelter and has enjoyed playing the piano for over 10 years. Her cross country career included All-State honors in 2007 and 2008, while helping her team finish eighth or better in the state on three separate occasions. Her honors have not been reserved solely for cross country though, as she became a National French Honor Society honoree this year and has also received awards that include the John and Vera McNally Achievement Award, Wheaton Academy Citizenship Award, National Merit Finalist status and the John Austen-Leigh Young Writer's Award.

Wheaton (Academy) English teacher Aimee Daniels calls Sarah "one of the most promising students that I have ever had in my teaching career. Her work demonstrates careful craftsmanship, critical thinking and close analysis. Sarah is an astute learner who actively prompts her peers into thoughtful discourse and debate."

Sarah Daly has been a member of National Honor Society during the past two years and will graduate with a 4.6 grade point average (4.0 scale). She represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 3 and her principal is Steve Bult.

KURT FOWLER, Williamsville

Kurt Fowler is living proof of the age old adage that "practice makes perfect." The Williamsville senior admits that "academics typically have come easy for me," but his hard work and preparation in four extracurricular activities paid great dividends during his high school career.

A four-year member of the Bullets' golf and track teams, he recalled in his application essay that his frustrations on the golf course initially impeded his ability to improve at the game and that "when I first started running track, a typical day's workout would exhaust me." His hard work and determination would result in success running the 4x800-meter relay on a Sectional champion team, while his improvement on the course would see him voted team captain as a senior and the squad's best putter in his final two campaigns.

Kurt's dedication to improvement was just as evident in his roles on the Scholastic Bowl and Journalism teams. He recalled that hours spent studying Scholastic Bowl questions "dramatically increased the number of tossup questions I have been able to answer" and that his work for the school paper and memorization of several AP Style books aided his Journalism work. The results are clear, as Kurt was named to the All- Sectional Scholastic Bowl Team in 2008 and won the IHSA Journalism State Championship for Headline Writing.

Williamsville teacher Jay Martens recognizes the drive within Kurt during his time at the school. "Kurt has been a hardworking student who has been a pleasure to have in class. In my fourteen years of teaching, he ranks among the top students I have encountered. Kurt strives for perfection, learning from his mistakes in hopes of doing better in the future. He also loves to be challenged and rises to the occasion when he is."

Kurt serves as the Editor-In-Chief for his school newspaper and participates in Youth and Government, yearbook and the Drama Program. An Illinois State Scholar, he was also honored on the PSAE All-Exceeds Team.

Kurt Fowler, a three-year National Honor Society member, will graduate as the Valedictorian of his class after compiling a 5.2 grade point average (5.0 scale). He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 6 and his principal is Russell Galusha.

EMILEE HARGIS, Highland

Emilee Hargis is used to standing out in a crowd. Or make that standing tall in a crowd. The six-foot Highland senior has towered above her classmates throughout her life, but used to loathe the attention that accompanied her height.

"I despised my height because it drew attention to me when I wanted to blend in with my peers," wrote Emilee in her application essay. "Although I am proud of my stature now, I joined the cross country team because I assumed it was impossible to talk and run simultaneously."

It was while running cross country that Emilee realized how big of an asset her height can be. "My long legs allowed me to take larger strides, and for the first time in my young life, I enjoyed my height. I excelled at middle school cross country and track, and as I learned to love my length, my confidence grew as well."

Emilee did not shy away from getting involved when she started high school, as she participates in cross country, track & field, golf, Scholastic Bowl, Math Team, Student Council, Future Medical Careers Club and Science Olympiad.

In addition, the Illinois State Scholar and AP Scholar of Distinction has been the recipient of a bevy of awards, including the Lion's Club Gold Award for Service, the Jennifer Scholl Memorial Writing Award and Who's Who in Foreign Language.

Now that Emilee has found her stride, Highland Social Studies teacher and cross country coach Doug Bradley believes that slowing down this National Merit Semifinalist will be one tall order. "I've seen former student-athletes go on to become highly successful in a number of careers and pursuits all over the world. For the past six years I've worked with Emilee Hargis, who I'm positive will go on to accomplish great things. She is easily one of the brightest students to ever walk the halls at Highland High School." A two-year National Honor Society honoree with a 5.3 grade point average (5.0 scale), Emilee Hargis will serve as the Valedictorian of her senior class. She represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 7 and her principal is Josh Ebener.

BROCK KABAT, Waltonville

Brock Kabat was ready for his movie moment. As a senior going through his final summer football two-a-day practices, he was anticipating a supernatural force that would abruptly beseech him with a stirring speech to rally his teammates or as he put it, "cast a sudden spell that turned my words into inspirational quotes, making the impossible seem feasible."

That moment never came, but Brock would find out what it means to be a true leader as he fought through his own exhaustion and heavy lungs to offer his teammates encouragement and advice in the sweltering summer heat.

"That was my first experience with leadership," wrote Brock in his application essay. "I learned you have to go out and take it, not to wait for it to descend upon you. Leadership requires you to look out for everyone that follows you. These valuable lessons on leadership will continue to stay with me throughout life. "

Speech or no speech, Brock has been a leader in the hallways at Waltonville, where he is a four-year participant in football, basketball, baseball and Scholastic Bowl. He is also his Class President and has served in leadership capacities for Future Farmers of America, BETA, Future Business Leaders of America, Student Council and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

The Illinois State Scholar, who has received awards for Trigonometry, Anatomy, Physiology and Leadership during school, has been accepted to the United State Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Waltonville Director of Athletics Mike Denault reflected on Brock as a student and athlete. "Brock's abilities in the classroom are the best of any student I have had in my ten years of teaching and coaching. He has always been a special player who works harder and longer than anyone else. His abilities will with time far exceed any of us who have had the pleasure of teaching him."

Brock Kabat, the Valedictorian of his class with a 4.0 grade point average (4.0 scale), represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 7 and his principal is Jay Lewis.

BRITT MCMAHON, Rockton (Hononegah)

"Those who stay will become champions" is the motto painted above the doorway to the Rockton (Hononegah) wrestling room. Britt McMahon was finding that a little hard to believe as a freshman who had opened his career on the mat with 14 consecutive losses. Britt chose to stay and made good on the promise painted above the door.

Britt would go on to win three individual Regional wrestling titles in his career and also helped the Indians qualify for the IHSA Team Wrestling State Finals in 2007 and 2008, including a fourth-place finish in the former. He completed his senior season with a record of 36-4 and overcame a scratched cornea to win his weight class at the nationally renowned Al Dvorak Memorial Wrestling Invitational Tournament.

"I dedicated my heart and soul to developing myself into a talented wrestler, no matter the sacrifices it required," wrote Britt in his application essay. "My hard work, determination and willingness to put the extra time into the sport has brought me success that I only dreamt of as a freshman. I plan to continue to persevere with the same mental and physical drive that propelled me to my current success in wrestling."

Britt's success and involvement have not been limited to the wrestling mat, as he was also a member of the Rockton (Hononegah) soccer team, Student Council, Freshman Mentor Program and his community church group. His accolades off the mat include the Leadership in Mentoring Award, Scholar Athlete accolades, High Honor Roll and two National Spanish Exam honors.

Rockton (Hononegah) wrestling coach Justin Wieman has been just as impressed with his pupil outside the wrestling room. "Britt is the most honest, responsible and compassionate young man I have yet to come across in my years of coach and teaching. He is truly concerned with the well being of others and is already trying in his own way to make the world a better place. It is not very often that as adults we find ourselves inspired by youths to become better people, but Britt is that exception."

A National Honor Society member with a 4.8 grade point average (4.0 scale) who ranks in the Top 5 in his class, Britt McMahon represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 4 and his principal is Ehren Jarrett.

ALEJANDRO MONTOYA, Elmwood

Cross country was calling Alejandro Montoya.

After playing football during his freshman year at Elmwood, he was ready to answer the call as a sophomore and the result of that season was what he called one of his "greatest achievements." Besieged by a quad injury and a severe sinus infection entering the state finals, Alejandro placed 36th individually and was the third Trojan runner to cross the finish line, giving Elmwood the push it would need to edge Winnebago for the Class A State Championship.

"It was an honor to be a part of a team working so long and hard for the same common goal," wrote Alejandro in his application essay. "The road to a state championship is no easy task, however, the hard work would be well worth the effort."

Alejandro's cross country successes were not limited to the 2006 season, as he would help Elmwood place second as a team in 2007 and win another state title in 2008, the same season he would win the individual Regional crown and place second in the Sectional race.

Cross Country was not the only thing that called the Illinois State Scholar to action during his time at Elmwood, as Alejandro was actively involved in Student Council, Spanish Club, Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Student Athletes and served as the President of the Student Government.

A member of the Trojan basketball, Scholastic Bowl and track & field teams, Alejandro has also earned All-State track & field honors after he and his teammates placed eighth in the 4x800-meter relay at the 2006 IHSA Track & Field State Finals.

According to Elmwood History teacher Lynette Welch, Alejandro will continue to be successful in the future no matter the calling. "Alejandro is a focused individual. He sets high goals for himself and achieves them. I am certain he will be successful as an athlete and a scholar, in addition to being a valued professional in his future career."

Alejandro Montoya, a three-year National Honor Society member, will graduate as the Valedictorian of his class after compiling a 5.0 grade point average (5.0 scale). He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 4 and his principal is Stan Matheny.

DANIEL MOORE, Chicago (St. Rita)

When Daniel Moore first entered the halls of Chicago (St. Rita), he had planned to spend his four years there in utter anonymity. He recalled in his application essay that like so many other high school freshman, he was "nervous, insecure and unwilling to open myself up to new opportunities."

With the school's administration constantly preaching to "get involved," Daniel finally heeded their advice, beginning four-year stints on the swimming and Scholastic Bowl teams as a freshman, while also joining the theatre program. With free time still to spare, he would add the school newspaper and yearbook to his extracurricular activities as a sophomore, before ultimately participating on the Math Team and in National Honor Society as a junior and senior.

"Participating in activities ultimately entails working with others," wrote Daniel in his application essay. "One must know how to both communicate well and cooperate properly. I firmly believe that my high school activities have strengthened me in terms of communication, cooperation and friendship. Participating changed me from the shy, quiet loner that walked in on the first day of school to the confident young man I am today." Daniel not only participated, but excelled in the water, where he would place seventh or better individually in Sectional competition on four different occasions. His accolades have not been reserved for pool, as he has been named an Illinois State Scholar, scored Maxima Cum Laude on the National Latin Exam and will be honored by Who's Who Among American High School Students.

It's not surprising that Daniel has struggled to remain anonymous among his teachers as well. St. Rita History teacher Jerry Pazin reflected on his time with Daniel in class. "Dan is not only an excellent student, but also an active and mature leader who is extremely committed to the school and surrounding community. He is the hardest worker I have ever had the privilege to teach."

A two-year National Honor Society honoree with a 4.9 grade point average (4.0 scale), Daniel Moore will serve as the Valedictorian of his senior class. He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 1 and his principal is Sally Deenihan.

GRAHAM MORRIS, Lawrenceville

Graham Morris achieved All-State honors in cross country three times during his career at Lawrenceville, placing 18th in the state as a sophomore, 7th as a junior and 5th as a senior. At a glance this would appear to be a story of a talented athlete's upward progression throughout his career and not one of gut-wrenching determination.

That is until you hear the conditions that surrounded that fifthplace finish.

Graham's cross country season appeared to be over just weeks into his senior year, when Iliotibial Band Syndrome caused intense pain in his leg and prevented him from running more than a mile at a time. He spent close to a month training in a swimming pool while holding out hope he could return to make another trip to the state finals. Clearance came late in the season and Graham managed a second-place finish in his return race, only to find shortly thereafter that the pain in his lungs was the result of bronchitis and not the conditioning time he had lost due to the injury. Fighting his own lack of condition, an injury and bronchitis, Graham managed to win his Regional race before achieving All-State honors for the third time.

"After everything I had gone through to that point, that fifth place medal felt better than a first place one," wrote Graham in his application essay. "My team was counting on me and I didn't want all my hard work to be for nothing."

Graham's spirit has served him well as a member of the Indians' track & field and Scholastic Bowl teams, while he has also participated in Student Council, BETA, Engineering Club, Spanish Club, Environthon and marching band at Lawrenceville. The Illinois State Scholar and National Merit Scholar has collected five first-place awards in Engineering & Design contests during the past two years.

Graham earned All-State track & field honors in the 1600-meter run last season and it would be hard to imagine circumstances that will prevent him from repeating as a senior in 2009.

A two-year National Honor Society honoree with a 3.9 grade point average (4.0 scale), Graham Morris will graduate in the Top 5 of his senior class. He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 7 and his principal is Andy Julian.

HEATHER OLSON, Gurnee (Warren)

Running has taught Heather Olson a lot of lessons during her high school career. Perhaps the most important is that no step, no matter how small, is insignificant.

The Gurnee (Warren) cross country and track & field standout has certainly made her fair share of significant strides as a runner. She earned All-State honors in cross country by finishing 17th in 2006 and 7th in 2007 at the IHSA Cross Country State Finals. She is also a three-time All-State track & field honoree after placing sixth or better in the 1600-meter run in 2006, 2007 and 2008. Her efforts have resulted in numerous school records, as well as being named the Pioneer Press Athlete of the Year in 2007 and 2008.

Heather recalled in her application essay that she has found just as much value in the steps across the finish line at the state finals as she has in working her way back from painful knee and hip injuries during her sophomore and junior seasons.

"I have learned the most from the times when I have faced obstacles and setbacks," wrote Heather. "I learned to stay optimistic by focusing on each small success. Adopting an optimistic attitude made it easier to persevere, knowing that each day brings another successful step towards the ultimate goal."

Heather also participates on the Blue Devils Speech Team, in addition to being involved with the school newspaper and the organization Mother Earth's Concerned Students. Away from the track, she has been named an Illinois State Scholar and a National Merit Semifinalist.

Gurnee (Warren) Mathematics teacher Laura Oeffling believes that Heather's most significant steps are still ahead of her. "Heather is a highly motivated student. In my 19 years of teaching, I have rarely seen such a determined, diligent and conscientious individual. I expect Heather to be one of the most successful students in the future due to her numerous talents and considerable self-discipline."

A two-year National Honor Society member with a 4.6 grade point average (4.0 scale) who ranks in the Top 5 in her class, Heather Olson represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 2 and her principal is Douglas Domeracki.

CHELSEY PROBST, Newton

When Chelsey Probst tells you that "sports are 10 percent physical and 90 percent mental" you may want to listen to her. After all, she has won a USAA National Mathematics Award, in addition to three IHSA Regional titles and five IHSA Sectional championships thus far in her career.

A volleyball, track & field and basketball student-athlete at Newton, Chelsey has the mental part down pat, as she shared some of the life lessons she has learned through athletics in her application essay. "Sports are more than winning and losing. In sports I learned to work under the coaches, to cooperate with peers and to strengthen my own mental and physical capabilities. Without teammates working together for a common goal, there is no victory."

Chelsey can certainly speak to working together, as she has been involved in Yearbook, FCA, Student Council, BETA and the Letterwomen's Club at Newton. The Illinois State Scholar is an Honor Roll student who has received awards from the WYSE in Physics and English.

A gifted track & field athlete, Chelsey has achieved All-State status seven times in four events, including third- and second-place 100-meter high hurdle finishes at the 2007 and 2008 IHSA Track & Field State Finals, respectively. Her track & field teams would go on to finish 12th in the state in 2007 and 6th in 2008.

Katie Lurkins, a Social Studies teacher and basketball coach at Newton, talked about her time teaching and coaching Chelsey. "Chelsey strives to be the best student possible. Her work ethic, reasonability, and motivation are the reason for her success in the classroom. She is a well-rounded young woman who has the desire to lead a successful and impacting life."

A two-year National Honor Society member with a 5.0 grade point average (5.0 scale) who ranks in the Top 5 in her class, Chelsey Probst represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 5 and her principal is Ruth Kerner.

CAITLIN REYNOLDS, Springfield (Lutheran)

Caitlin Reynolds was ready to call it quits after her freshman basketball season. The varsity squad had managed just three wins that year and the practices were "long and difficult."

As she weighed her options, she recalled her coach's motto to "play every game like it is your last." Caitlin returned to the basketball team as a sophomore, a decision she says she "would not change for the world." The team finished the year with a school-record 23 victories and won a Regional title. Ironically, it was the last season for Springfield (Ursuline Academy), which closed its doors at the end of the school year.

Moving to a new school as a junior, Caitlin faced the decision of whether to go out for basketball again, but her overall experiences in athletics and activities made the decision much easier, as she would go on to continue her participation in volleyball, basketball, cross country and track & field upon arriving at Springfield (Lutheran).

"I believe the diversity of being involved in several activities has made me a more well-rounded individual," wrote Caitlin in her application essay. "Through sports and clubs, I have become a more determined, hardworking person who does not give up on anything. Getting involved made me a better person."

Caitlin's activities include Student Council, Student Ambassadors, Spanish National Honor Society, Spiritual Life Committee, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Science Olympiad. She has also been honored as an Illinois State Scholar and will leave Springfield (Lutheran) as the record-holder in several track & field events.

Athletic Director and basketball coach Robert Sperry says that Caitlin was a welcome addition to the Springfield (Lutheran) athletic programs and community. "I have found this young woman is highly motivated both on and off the floor. Caitlin is the type of person that her peers admire and respect. Underclassmen look up to her and emulate her actions."

Caitlin Reynolds, a two-year National Honor Society member, will graduate as the Valedictorian of her class after compiling a 4.3 grade point average (4.0 scale). She represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 6 and her principal is Don Duensing.

SAMANTHA RUBRIGHT, Bensenville (Fenton)

Samantha Rubright's schedule was packed tight during high school. She estimates that she spent six nights a week practicing or playing in games on the Bensenville (Fenton) volleyball, basketball and softball squads. The three-sport standout spent most of that time honing her skills in blocking, shooting and fielding, respectively, but she also knows the life lessons she learned during that time far outweigh any increases in her batting average or other statistics.

"In sports there is always the chance for an underdog to rise up, to achieve greatness and I've learned to apply this to life in general," wrote Samantha in her application essay. "Determination, handling adversity, communication skills, leadership and selflessness are all traits that will help me be more successful in other aspects of my life. Whether it's my career, academics, family, or relationship, athletics have given me the tools I need to thrive."

And thrived Samantha has. Whether it be leading the Bison softball and basketball teams to Regional titles in 2008, being named a National Merit Scholar or having her softball and basketball teammates vote her as the team MVP. Athletics have given Samantha a great deal of success, but have also helped her deal with life's disappointments.

"Athletics has taught me how to deal with hardships and turn them into positives," wrote Samantha. "For example, I may be double-teamed in a basketball game, but I can look at it as a challenge and a way to help my teammates look better."

Bensenville (Fenton) English teacher Nichole Paolella Petrovich reflected on Samantha as a student. "Samantha is truly an outstanding student and insightful person committed to academic excellence. Her diligence, internal motivation and high aptitude enable her to exceed teachers' expectations, excel beyond her peers and reach her own high standards."

Samantha Rubright is a three-year National Honor Society member who will be the Valedictorian of her graduating class after earning a 4.3 grade point average (4.0 scale). She represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 3 and her principal is Todd Leden.

SCOTT SCHMELING, Belvidere (North)

Baseball has the no-hitter. Bowling the 300 game. Scott Schmeling knows that perfection does not exist in running and that is what has drawn him to the sport.

"Each year of cross country releases me from past failures and brings me closer to new beginnings," wrote Scott in his application essay. "Running, similar to life, has its highs and lows. We seek perfection in a sport where perfection does not exist and sometimes we let ourselves down. I look at failure as a learning process that combines lessons with emotions just as well as success can."

In academia, however, perfection can be measured and Scott has been nearly that. He will graduate as the top-ranked student in his senior class of 304 students, has earned a 4.0 grade point average throughout his career at Belvidere (North) and fell one point shy of a perfect 36 score on his ACT exam.

The cross country and track & field standout is also involved in Scholastic Bowl, Student Council, Interact Club, AFS, the school leadership group Ambassadors, the mentoring program Pit Crew and the District 100 Strategic Planning Committee.

An Illinois State Scholar, Scott has been honored by the German Honors Society, received a Good Citizenship Award and been recognized as a Scholar Athlete by ACES and the Northern Illinois Conference. He earned All-State honors in the 3200-meter relay at the 2008 IHSA Track & Field State Finals and helped the Blue Thunder cross country teams place third and second in the state in 2007 and 2008, respectively.

As a part of Belvidere North's third graduating class in 2009, principal Richard Kirchner felt like Scott was a perfect fit for the new school. "This young man captured my attention and admiration early in the school year. Scott has played a number of key roles in the creation of the traditions that are being developed. He has been a leader and participant in countless organizations, athletics and volunteer work all connected to the community and school."

Scott Schmeling is a two-time National Honor Society member with a 4.0 grade point average (4.0 scale) who will graduate as the Valedictorian of his class. He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 2 and his principal is Richard Kirchner.

JENNIFER SCHNACK, Barrington

When Jennifer Schnack grabbed the baton for the anchor leg at the 2007 IHSA Track & Field State Finals, there were two teams running ahead of Barrington in a race where milliseconds can often be unforgiving. Roughly 55 seconds later, Schnack and her three teammates were State Champions in the 4x400 Relay and hours from hoisting the Team State Championship trophy.

Jennifer recalled the dramatic come-from-behind victory as one of her most rewarding athletic feats in her application essay She was also quick to note that the accomplishments were made all the more significant due the "devastating" circumstances she and her teammates had suffered at the state meet a year before, when a rule infraction disqualified the team when it looked poised to capture the state crown.

"After facing this adversity, I learned even more about the true value of teamwork," wrote Jennifer. "Being able to communicate clearly and work well with others is essential in athletics and life. I was inspired by the efforts of my teammates and I was determined and motivated once I received the baton because I knew they were counting on me."

Jennifer's athletic poise, which has also been on display on the Fillies basketball and tennis teams during the past four years, has naturally guided her to leadership positions as a Freshman Advisory Mentor and Snowflake Leader at school. Her status as a featured student-athlete in the Barrington Quintessential Magazine is no surprise, considering she has been a key contributor on three teams who have finished fourth or better in IHSA State Final competitions. Individually, she has earned four Top 4 state track finishes and finished in the Top 32 in the state in tennis as a senior.

Carrie Rose, who teaches Jennifer's Advanced Placement Micro/ Macroeconomics class, is confident her successes in the classroom and in the athletic arena will continue. "I have seen Jennifer stand out not only as a respected leader in class, but as a respected team leader. She exudes motivation, warmth and professionalism and will make a positive impact on many lives in the future."

A two-year National Honor Society honoree with a 4.4 grade point average (4.0 scale), Jennifer Schnack represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 2 and her principal is Stephen McWilliams.

SACORA SHERN, Chicago (Robeson)

The first reaction to hearing Sacora Shern's story would be to call her a survivor, but she prefers a different term. Conqueror. As Sacora prepared to graduate from elementary school in 2005 her life was suddenly turned upside down when she lost three of her closest family members during a nine-month span. Sacora's grandmother passed away in March of that year and her death was followed by the losses of her brothers Antom and De'milo in February and March, respectively.

The then fifteen-year-old recalled in her application essay that the losses were "unbearable" and that she was on the brink of "giving up" when De'milo spoke to her from beyond. Sacora came across a poem he had written at the time of Antom's death, detailing his determined fight to overcome his own grief to make his brother proud.

"That poem made the conqueror in me flare up inside," wrote Sacora. "I stopped stressing myself and began racing toward my goals again."

Sacora set her conquering sights on athletics when she entered Chicago (Robeson) and began a four-year career in cross country, volleyball, basketball, track & field and softball. A team captain in four varsity sports, she also found time to get involved in the yearbook staff, Senior Club and the Freshman Connection Club.

An aspiring lawyer, Sacora reflects on her high school experience. "High school has been the introduction to my goals and my gateway to the future. All of the things I have gone through have not only made me proud of my accomplishments, but made me want to achieve and succeed even more."

Chicago (Robeson) Mathematics teacher Kim Bowman sees continued success in Sacora's future. "Sacora is an incredibly hard working student whose maturity about academics is hard to come by. She represents herself as a woman of integrity and while she possesses great intellect, she is willing to work hard to make up for any weaknesses she may have." Sacora Shern is a three-year member of National Honor Society who owns a 3.9 grade point average (4.0 scale) and will graduate as the Salutatorian or Valedictorian of her class. She represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 1 and her principal is Gerald Morrow.

SIVAKUMAR SUNDARAM, Rockford (Auburn)

Sivakumar Sundaram's family loves to tell the story of a four-year old Sivakumar grabbing a regulation size basketball twice the size of his head and mustering every ounce of strength he had into a shot that fell good through the net of their ten-foot hoop.

The story was not a precursor to an epic high school hoops career, as Sivakumar would drop the sport in order to pursue his passion for Scholastic Bowl, but rather a story that has epitomized the "tenacity" that he has displayed in his approach toward all his endeavors since. In his application essay, Sivakumar wrote that "desire and resolve are the common ingredients to every arena of my life: academia, athletic and personal."

With his personal ingredients for success ready, Sivakumar needed extracurriculars to feed his hunger, starting with four-year careers in soccer, track & field and Scholastic Bowl. He would help the latter to third-place state final team finishes in 2006 and 2007 before winning the state championship at the IHSA Scholastic Bowl State Finals in 2008. He is also a member of the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra, Key Club, Worldwide Youth in Science & Engineering, Science Bowl and French Honor Society.

A National Merit Finalist, Sivakumar's academic accolades include AP Scholar with Distinction for Advance Placement tests, 2007 National Vocabulary Bee winner, 2007 National Essay Writing Finals runner-up and American Chemical Society Chemistry Olympiad winner.

Rockford (Auburn) soccer coach Craig Burt talked about the effect Sivakumar has had on the program and its coach. "His attitude was a buoy not only for his teammates, but also for the coaching staff. He was not the most skilled player on the team, but one of the highest compliments I believe I can say as a coach is that would take five more just like him…and I would. He is a friend to anybody, and his capacity for good is far more impressive to me than is fantastic cognitive abilities."

Sivakumar Sundaram is a three-year National Honor Society member who will be the Valedictorian of his graduating class after earning a 4.6 grade point average (4.0 scale) and perfect 36 ACT score. He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 4 and his principal is Richard Jancek.

CASSANDRA THOMSON, Naperville (Neuqua Valley)

Cassandra Thomson was always drawn to the sport of cross country, but as she puts it, "her physical being, made successful running seem improbable."

In her application essay, Cassandra said that despite her efforts to correct her running style, she would "inevitably end up shoulders hunched, eyes down and legs barely parting the ground."

Through hard work and "internal perseverance" Cassandra developed into a strong runner for Naperville (Neuqua Valley), helping the Wildcats place fifth in the state as a team in 2007 and twice finishing in the Top 70 in Illinois individually.

She reflected on the strides she has made as a runner. "It was not the awards and hardware that provided me the greatest sense of achievement. I had learned that the world does not favor those who extend their boundaries. My unconventional stride, my style, did not provide limitations to my success; my boundaries were pushed and defined mentally."

Cassandra has experienced few boundaries she is unable to overcome, as the Illinois State Scholar and Indiana Prairie Scholar was named a Kohl's Kids Who Care Community Level Winner. She is also a National Merit Scholar Finalist and National AP Scholar who has won a legal award for Best Argument from Youth & Government.

The Tall Grass volunteer also participates in National Spanish Honor Society, Science Olympiad and Junior Statesmen of America. She has helped the Naperville (Neuqua Valley) speech and track & field teams place fifth and sixth in IHSA State Finals, respectively, as well.

Naperville (Neuqua Valley) Social Studies Teacher Hugh Flanders has enjoyed his time teaching Cassandra. "Cassandra is genuinely caring and unselfish. For someone with her abilities and accomplishments she is virtually devoid of an ego. She is unassuming, but she takes charge and her peers value her leadership skills. She is a Renaissance woman."

Cassandra Thomson has compiled a 4.7 grade point average (4.0 scale) and will graduate in the Top 5 in her senior class. She represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 3 and her principal is Robert McBride.

KEVIN WOLZ, Palos Hills (Stagg)

Kevin Wolz had no idea what he had gotten himself into as he hesitantly walked across the field toward a group of runners at his first high school cross country practice. Wolz reminded himself that the only reason he was there was to get into shape for basketball and that the cross country season would be quick and painless. Despite his attempts to reassure himself, in his application essay Wolz recalled thinking "I immediately began to question my motives."

A funny thing happened to Kevin that season: he fell in love with the sport, even choosing to end his high school basketball career after one season to focus on his endeavors in cross country and track & field. "The camaraderie of my teammates and intensity of the sport instantly appealed to me," wrote Kevin. "I realized that cross country is not just about running as fast as you can. It is about the dedication and teamwork that it takes to set goals, create strategies and achieve success."

Achieving success appears to come naturally for Kevin, who placed eighth in the State Mathletes Oral Competition and has received awards from the SWSC Science Competition, the Chicago Wilderness Grassroots Conversation Project and the Leader of the Pack Leadership Company. Outside of running, he is involved in a number of activities at Palos Hills (Stagg), including Student Council, Mathletes, Jazz Band, Superintendent Advisory Board, the school newspaper and the Science Club.

Kevin thought he was making a huge mistake on that first day of practice, but now considers the decision to be one of the most important he has made in his young life.

"Cross country, among other activities, has not only transformed me from a shy freshman into a confident leader, but it has also revolutionized my approach to life and my future aspirations. While cross country is not directly related to my choice of college or career path, it has done more than anything to mold my interests, aspirations and character."

Kevin Wolz is a two-year National Honor Society member who will be the Valedictorian of his graduating class after earning a 5.0 grade point average (4.0 scale) and perfect 36 ACT score. He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 3 and his principal is Eric Olsen.

HENRY WOOD, Lincolnshire (Stevenson)

Several times during his senior season Henry Wood stepped onto the basketball court for Lincolnshire (Stevenson) only to see that the player he was matched up against had already signed a scholarship to play basketball in the Big Ten.

In these instances, Henry was neither intimidated or scared. Instead he drew upon the "maturity" and "work ethic" he says he has developed through high school athletic participation and plotted his course of action to overcome.

"I'm not as naturally gifted as those players," wrote Henry in his application essay. "So in order to be successful, I have to always work hard in practice, know the scouting report inside and out and make as many hustle plays as I can during games. Playing sports at a high level has taught me that I can overachieve if I work extremely hard."

Whether it is his work ethic or natural gifts, Henry has experienced enormous success in the classroom. An Illinois State Scholar, his accolades include being named an AP Scholar with Distinction, the Outstanding Junior Spanish Award, the Outstanding Junior Biology Award, Gold Honor Roll status and North Suburban Conference All-Academic Team honors.

A football and basketball player at Lincolnshire (Stevenson), Henry was a part of the Patriots 2007 hoops squad that advanced to IHSA Boys Basketball State Finals and placed fourth in the state. He was also involved in the Freshman Mentor Program, Project Dance and the North Suburban Conference Leadership Conference during high school.

Lincolnshire (Stevenson) English teacher Melissa Mack has seen the same calm demeanor Henry exhibited on the basketball court in the classroom. "Henry is a rarity at Stevenson. Although he balances a rigorous course load with a truly unheard of demanding extracurricular schedule, he is truly unflappable. He is a workhorse who I would place money on every time."

A National Honor Society member with a 4.7 grade point average (4.0 scale), Henry Wood represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 2 and his principal is Janet Gonzalez.

HENRY YAN, Lisle (Senior)

Henry Yan strived to follow in his father's footsteps during his high school career. Like his father, he will graduate as the Valedictorian of his senior class. His father studied at the top engineering college in Beijing, while Yan prepares to head off to the prestigious Engineering School at the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana this fall.

Henry recalled in his application essay that he is "by no means a natural athlete, nor did I come from a family with an athletic background," but he did add his own unique steps while following his father's path by participating in football, wrestling and track & field at Lisle (Senior).

He says that small divergence has made a big impact on his life. "Participation in sports and activities has opened up experiences that are usually not available to the average high school student. Participation let me meet many fun and interesting people that I normally would not approach in school and athletics have given me goals to work for outside of school. I believe they have made me more focused and open."

Henry's involvement in school was not limited to sports, as he served as a student mentor and was also a member of the Math Team, the school band, Humanities and the Gifted Independent Mentored Study program. He also experienced tremendous success in athletics, winning an individual Regional wrestling title, helping his football team reach the playoffs and competing on a team that placed fourth in the IHSA Team Wrestling State Finals on two separate occasions.

Lisle (Senior) Mathematics teacher and football coach Ronald Jaegle calls Henry "an intelligent student who listens intently and works well with others. He is kind to his peers and a motivated individual who exhibits all of the characteristics it takes to be successful."

Henry's senior quote was a direct response to anyone who questioned whether he was wasting time with athletics during high school, as he simply stated, "The time you enjoyed wasting was not wasted."

Henry Yan, a two-year National Honor Society member with a 5.3 grade point average (5.0 scale) will graduate as his classes Valedictorian. He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 3 and his principal is Ron Logeman.

JUSTIN YU, Barrington

When Justin Yu entered high school, he found the daily classroom grind made him feel like part of the status quo, leaving him in search of an outlet to distinguish himself. Yu found himself and his freedom in the pool at 5 a.m. and says his life has never been the same since.

"High school activities have changed my life and have a tremendous influence on who I am," wrote Justin in his application essay. "We all have choices to make on how we spend our time outside of class. I have found who I am, distinguished myself and created my own identity through high school activities. Swimming all four years has taught me discipline, combined with hard work, pays off."

Justin's hard work in the pool not only provided him with an identity, it also resulted in a nice trophy collection. Twice he was named an All-American in his signature event, the breast stroke, and the four-time IHSA State Final qualifier was a part of 12 Top 30 finishes in relay or individual events at the state finals. The two-time All-State swimmer also helped Barrington's cross country team to a 13th place team finish at the 2007 IHSA State Finals.

Justin has since added water polo to his activities list and participates in cross country, Math Team and the Science Olympiad outside of the water. He also performs with Barrington's Chamber Orchestra, serves as a Math and Spanish Peer Tutor and is a member of the Physics Club, where he won the Physics Regional Science Olympiad.

Barrington Mathematics teacher Michael Szewczykowski found Justin to be anything but the status quo as a student in his classes. "Justin does nothing less than his best. His reputation among faculty is flawless in terms of his work ethic, selflessness, integrity and intelligence. As a person and a student he is unquestionably an outstanding young man who represents the best of the next generation."

Justin Yu, who was selected into the National Honor Society this year, has earned a 4.5 grade point average (4.0 scale). He represents IHSA Board of Directors Division No. 2 and his principal is Stephen McWilliams.