5.10 Senior Issue

2024,

Soon, you will be walking out the doors of Carmel High School for the final time as a student. I am hopeful as you look back on your years at CHS you will have a sense of accomplishment and fond memories. Your accomplishments over the last four years are impressive, but the most important skills you will take with you will serve you well. You have learned to be collaborative, problem solvers and to persevere when challenges arise. Your next opportunities will allow you to use these skills to be successful. We encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities and to make positive contributions in our society.

I am amazed on a daily basis by your accomplishments, your desire to learn and grow and your ability to seize the moment. It truly is an honor to be your principal, and I

of you. I know your greatest accomplishments are yet to be reached, but I know you are set up for future success. Be curious to solve problems, be curious about future leadership positions, and be curious about what it takes to make a difference within our community, our state, our nation and our world. When you are curious in life, you will find ways to learn and lead by naturally leaving your legacy far beyond the time you spent in that moment.

As you leave Carmel High School, please know we are so proud of each and every one of you for making it to the finish line. Each of your journeys are different, but you have left your legacy as a group to be admired by future graduating seniors. Go forth, be true to yourself, and make a difference knowing you will always be a Greyhound to us.

Once a Greyhound, always a Greyhound!

PRINCIPAL TIM PHARES

24K MAGIC WORLD TOUR 2024 CARMEL HIGH SCHOOL 10 MAY 2024 FRIDAY 9:05 a.m. A-1 ROW - SEAT 1 SECTION

CHS CLASS OF 2024

WELCOME SENIORS! FROM THE FIRST DAY OF HYBRID YEAR IN 2020 TO OUR GRADUATION ON MAY 23, THE CLASS OF 2024 HAS SHOWN WE KNOW HOW TO STAY GOLDEN. KEEP READING FOR PROOF. .

JULY 21, 2023

MAY 23, 2024

The CHS class of 2024 commencement ceremony will occur at the Indiana Farmers Coliseum. Rehearsal will be at 10 a.m. after the Senior Sunrise.

APRIL 8, 2024

Movies “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” release on the same day, leading people to coin the phrase “Barbenheimer.” Both movies became box office and award show successes.

The total solar eclipse was visible in Carmel from 3:06 to 3:09 p.m. Sixteen states experienced totality. The next solar eclipse in the contiguous United States will not be until 2044.

DEC. 18, 2022

The FIFA World Cup Finals end with Argentina’s victory. Lionel Messi led the team to the win.

NOV. 7, 2023

The Carmel mayoral election, the first election in nearly 30 years that incumbent Jim Brainard did not run, was held. Sue Finkam won the race and became the third female mayor in Carmel history.

FEB. 11, 2024

Super Bowl LVIII was be played at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Kansas City Chiefs won against the San Francisco 49ers, securing a backto-back victory after their 2023 win against the Philadelphia Eagles.

GRAPHIC: MEGAN XIA

PHOTO FINESSE

“DON’T WE LOOK GOOD TOGETHER?”

Senior Katy Smith is crowned Homecoming Queen on Sept. 22, 2023. (Maggie Meyer)

CHECK OUT THE 2023-24 SCHOOL YEAR IN PHOTOS

Senior Ryan Clevenger shoots a free throw on Feb. 20, 2024. (Maggie Meyer)

Seniors Anna Wagner (left) and Sophia Malerbi (right) perform in a “Little Women” dress rehearsal on Jan. 31, 2024.

(Grace Guo)

Senior Ava Beckman sets up for WHJE radio. (Ethan Blastick)

Seniors Deedee Nwafo (left) and Peter Shehata (right) perform for “An Evening of Show Choir” on March 13, 2024. (Grace Guo)

The total solar eclipse is visible on April 8. Students were able to view it the last day of spring break. (Grace Guo)

Seniors Emily Boyer (left) and Maya Mason (right) cheer at the Homecoming game on Sept. 22, 2023. (Maggie Meyer)

Dear Ava,

Hi Ella!!!

Throughout these last four years, I’ve had the absolute pleasure of watching you grow into the amazing person you are today. The number of times I’ve been mistaken for you by kids in choir or your teachers has been worth it because, at the end of the day, I’m thrilled to know you and your personality have left a positive impact on those around you. I’m honored to be your twin and to have gone through this journey with you.

The many great memories the two of us have made during this time could be an essay on its own. But that’s a good thing. Making some of the best friends imaginable, endless car karaokes, skipping school to see our favorite band, and making each other cry laughing would have never been the same without you. I’ve loved getting to do radio with you throughout high school. From dominating music trivia, to starting our own live show, to becoming managers together all while making fun of Mr. James’ accent has been my biggest highlight.

I love the bond that the two of us have and that we’re able to do things together. A lot of siblings try to stray away from each other, but we’ve always happily taken life side by side. I’m glad that the two of us have the other to fall back on whenever needed, and I know that we’ll continue to have each other no matter where we are.

I still think that you going to IU and me going to Purdue is the funniest outcome in our college journey. Our time left together is getting shorter by the minute, and I can tell we’re both preparing for when the day comes. I won’t lie and say that I’m not nervous about being apart (we have shared the same room LITERALLY our entire lives), but I know that in the end, there’s never been a problem we couldn’t solve. I’m immensely proud of all you’ve accomplished, and know you will continue to shine. Thank you for being my best friend for all these years and forever after that. I love you!

Your Wombmate, Ella

I can’t even begin to tell you how proud I am of you and what you’ve done for me. Whenever people ask me, “What’s it like being a twin?” I always tell them the same thing, which is that it’s like having a forever best friend who looks exactly like me. That statement still feels true to me. No matter where we go in life, you will always be my best friend. I think it’s really funny that we’re gonna be “rivals” next year. Sometimes I think about how the little versions of us would throw a fit if they found out we were going to separate schools, much less you going to PURDUE. But honestly? I wouldn’t want it any different. I’m so excited for what you’re going to do there. You were literally born to be a veterinarian.

Thank you for always giving me the strength and support to continue music. From every choir concert, competition or even rehearsal, you’ve always been there, and been my loudest supporter. I’m so excited to see what I do next with it in college because I know you’ll be there every step of the way. I also love every opportunity that I get to perform with you. You’re truly the most talented guitar player I know. Please never stop playing music. I have so many good memories with you. Seeing Ghost last year was one of the greatest moments of my life and I’m so glad we got to see our favorite band for the first time together. Nearly every good moment I look back on, you were always there. From summers at the Monon, to concerts and hangouts with friends, we’ve always had each other. Also, thank you for always driving us because I’m too scared to; I promise I’ll get there someday.

I won’t make this any much longer for everyone’s sake, but I do want to give another “thank you” just for being you. I literally could not ask for a better twin and friend because no one will ever come close to you. I love you so much and I will always be here for you, no matter what. Whatever happens next, we’ve got each other. And we’ll be okay. Always.

AVA AND ELLA MCELROY

Dear

Connor,

Throughout our lives, you’ve been more than just a sibling; you’ve been my partner in growth, my built-in best friend and a source of strength. Since the first day of freshman year to the now bittersweet moments of our approaching graduation, you have helped me navigate the highs and lows of high school. You’ve not only been there to celebrate my victories but you have been there to lift me up in moments of setback. Your laid-back persona (when suitable) has constantly reminded me not to take things so seriously, which was something I definitely needed. In the midst of chaos, time and time again you administer humor into the most mundane situations. Your constant jokes and laughter has served me daily, reminding me that life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured.

Looking back on these four years, your perseverance through academics and overall accomplishments have made me so proud. From getting your first “A” in a computer science class to now working for the CCS IT Team has not gone unnoticed. Your constant hard work has set you apart and earned you the respect from not only me, but your peers.

Beyond your accomplishments, I am so proud of the person you have become today. You have grown into someone that brings so much joy into the world, saying that I am honored to be alongside you in this journey is an understatement.

As we go our separate ways after high school, I will always look back on our constant laughs in the hallways, the classes we had together, and how much our friendship as a whole means to me.

Connor Sun, please continue to bring joy to the people around you, but also remember to hold your head high and stay true to who you are.You have already accomplished so much, and there is not a doubt in my mind that the best is yet to come.

Dear Leanne,

As I sit down to write this letter, reminiscing about our high school journey together, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. Our time at Carmel High School, amidst a sea of over 5,000 students, was undoubtedly a whirlwind of experiences, challenges and growth. Yet, through it all, there was one constant: each other.

From our first day navigating the bustling hallways to our eventual, and probably tearful, celebration on graduation day, you’ve been my rock, my confidante, and my closest friend. In a school as vast as Carmel, where it’s easy to feel lost in the crowd, having you by my side made all the difference. Together, we forged our path, supporting and uplifting one another every step of the way.

Our journey through school wasn’t without its hurdles. The numerous moves we endured, hopping from one school to another, could have easily left us feeling disconnected and adrift. Yet, no matter where life took us, we remained steadfast in our bond. Whether we were starting afresh in a new city or readjusting to a different school environment, the familiarity of your presence gave me comfort and strength.

With admiration, Leanne Moon Daniels

Leanne Moon, your resilience and determination have always inspired me. Despite the challenges we faced, you tackled each obstacle with grace and unwavering determination. Your commitment to your friends and family, your sometimes annoying but almost always necessary lectures and your kindness toward others have left an indelible mark on me and all those around you.

As we embark on the next chapter of our lives, I want you to know how immensely proud I am of the person you’ve become. Your strength, compassion and unwavering spirit continue to amaze me. Though our paths may diverge in the years to come, know that my love and support for you will never waver. Here’s to the countless memories we’ve shared, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the bright future that awaits us. No matter where life takes us, remember that we’ll always have each other, through thick and thin.

To our next chapter,

CONCERT FANATICS

“STYLIN’, WILIN’, LIVIN’ IT UP IN THE CITY”

READ ABOUT SOME SENIORS’ FAVORITE CONCERT EXPERIENCES

5 SECONDS OF SUMMER ELLEN SHORE

“My favorite memory was when 5 Seconds of Summer played a few of their songs from their newest album which wasn’t released at the time yet, so it was cool being able to hear them in advance.”

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

CODY FRY ANNABELLE CARPENTER

“My favorite concert memory was pretty recent. I got to go to my favorite artist, Cody Fry’s concert with my friends. That was definitely my favorite concert because his music was so beautiful and I got to experience it with my friends, which made it a thousand times better.”

YOKE L0RE WHITNEY FUNG

“My friend and I were going downtown for the Yoke Lore concert back in October, and there were no spots besides one small spot right in front of the door. I just knew that was a sign for a good night. It ended up being one of the best concerts I’ve experienced, and the songs really brought everyone together.”

PENTATONIX BEN BOYCE

“Last year, I went to a Pentatonix concert at Ruoff Music Center with the CHS acapella group, Select Sound. It was super cool to see such a famous acapella group live, and we came away from the concert with tons of song ideas for the upcoming year.”

Co-Editor in Chief GRACE GUO

DESIGN/ GRAPHICS

Grace will attend Indiana University

GOLDEN LEGACY

STUDENT LEADERS, SUPERINTENDENT REFLECT ON SENIOR CLASS’S LEGACY ON THE SCHOOL

When beginning her term, Student Body President (SBP) Allison Heath said she made it a goal to improve Senate’s events.

“Senate does a lot for the school, but sometimes in years past, I’ve noticed that things have been a little underdeveloped,” she said. “For this year, I really wanted to get every person in Senate involved in every one of our events. I’ve kind of worked on that by making sure that everyone is engaged in different committees all the time and no one is left out of any planning.”

Heath said the seniors in Senate have decided to change the structure of Senate elections. Instead of electing six Senators, the student body will elect four Senators and the Senior Class will approve two. She said seniors play an important role as models for younger students and catalysts for change.

Heath said, “This is going to be a long-standing tradition going forward, and we did this because we feel like there are a lot of really hard-working people who do really well in Senate who may not get popularly elected by the students just because they’re not as well-known.”

DISCO

DJ

Speaker of the House Josh Placzek plays music during Dance Marathon on Feb. 24. Placzek said, “As speaker of the House, I hope to be remembered as someone who was encouraging, but also someone who tried to get the best out of everyone, someone who’s a good leader.”

(SUBMITTED PHOTO)

Likewise, speaker of the House Josh Placzek said the Cabinet has made changes to Carmel Dance Marathon to better accommodate student interests.

“One of the things that our (Senior) Class really tried to emphasize when doing our dance marathon was coming out at new angles and finding new ways to get people to come,” he said. “We had a lot of feedback that not a lot of people really liked learning a 15-minute dance. So not this year but last year’s Dance Marathon, it was the first dance marathon where it was not required that you learn the entire dance. We actually won a (Most Innovative Idea) award (for) it.”

Placzek said he encourages future students in Cabinet and participants in Dance Marathon to give their 110%.

“Once you realize truly the impact that Riley has on these families and how they’re making their lives better, you should just want to give 110%,” he said “If you give 110%, you’ll get 110% out. When you work really hard (and see) the outcome when they raise that total, you have such a better feeling knowing that you gave it 100%.”

For Jonathan Yang, varsity tennis player and senior, he said he hopes to leave his impact on the tennis team as a positive teammate and leader. Yang received the IHSAA’s Mental Health Attitude Award for Boys Tennis.

Yang said, “When we lost in the regional competition last year, (I tried) to bounce back and give a positive outlook on the future and help my teammates improve and get better for the next year. (It) ended up working out since we won the State Championship (this year).”

STATE CHAMPS

WINFO POSE

Student body president Allison Heath (left) and senator and sophomore Riley Alderman (right) pose for a photo at Winter Formal on Feb. 10. Heath said, “If I could have had any impact on (anyone’s high school) experiences with the events that I helped to plan, not just me, but with Senate, then I consider that to be a win.”

(SUBMITTED PHOTO)

Placzek said he agreed with Yang and hopes to be remembered as a strong leader.

“As speaker of the House, I hope to be remembered as someone who was encouraging but also someone who tried to get the best out of everyone,” Placzek said. “If (someone did) something good, I’m going to tell them, ‘Good job,’ but if (someone has) something they need to work on, I’m going to tell them that (as well).”

Jonathan Yang (left), varsity tennis player and senior, poses with his team after winning the State Championship on Oct. 14. Yang said, “My biggest advice is, ‘Don’t be worried about the spot on the team. Just keep working hard and everything will work out in the end.’” (SUBMITTED PHOTO)

Heath said she is thankful for everyone who voted her for SBP. She said she has enjoyed serving the student body.

“I hope that everyone in not just our class, but the student body finds great success going forward in their lives and that they can look back on their high school experience fondly. If I could have had any impact on their experiences with the events that I helped to plan, not just me, but with the Senate, then I consider that to be a win.”

Ultimately, Superintendent Michael Beresford said he would describe the Class of 2024 as the embodiment of the district’s vision, “Together We Achieve.”

“The Senior Class has just been awesome,” Beresford said. “It’s been really a fun run for four years with you guys because you just have a positive vibe about you and you work together so well—you set a lot of records just for being together. That’s right in line with our theme, ‘Together We Achieve,’ and you guys certainly have.”

Co-Editor in Chief GRACE GUO

DESIGN Grace will attend Indiana University

VALUABLE PLACES

“IN

THE EAST WING AND THE WEST WING”

CHECK OUT SOME PLACES VALUED BY SENIORS AT CHS

1. STATS DOORWAY CAILA TRAN

“We started meeting inside (Matthew Wernke’s) room at the beginning of the year. It wasn’t until after fall break that we met up in the hall. Our group was too big and blocked the doorway of the room which caused Mr. Wernke to kick us out. We normally just talk and catch up on funny things that happened in the friend group instead of going straight to class. I guess it’s just special because we get to see people we don’t have classes with and don’t normally talk to outside of school.”

2. ALLISON HARGROVE’S COUCH RICHARD GAO

“The couch in Hargrove’s room is a place of comfort. I’ve made lots of good memories sitting there in G4 release after a long day relaxing, while I listen to the juniors in Hargrove’s class yell at each other and talk about U.S. history. It’s a beautiful sleep-inducing couch with a Reginald the Corgi squish mellow. . .Overall, one of my favorite places in school. (It) ages like fine wine, just like Harry Truman and my high school experience.”

4. THE CARMEL CAFÉ

ALEX BERGSMA

“Basically, whenever I have release I can either go to my car or to the Carmel Café and hang out, and I’ve also gotten a lot of work done for my classes like IB SEHS and Calculus. The best thing they have to offer is the cookies; although a bit overpriced, they are good. It’s just a nice place to sit when you have downtime.”

3. THE BAND BATHROOM KRISHAY ARORA

“The most valuable place at CHS is definitely the family bathroom in the band hallway. For me, that place is super special because if you look at the other bathrooms at school, they’re all dirty and the toilet paper is all over the ground. Sometimes, the ground is wet and sticky. I can always rely on the family bathroom because it’s pretty much guaranteed that it’s clean and it’s a safe place for me.”

will attend the University of Cincinnati

Moody will attend Indiana University

Co-Editor in Chief ROYCE BROWN

Royce will attend Dartmouth College

“VIENNA”

•

BILLY JOEL CANA DUCKWORTH

“It reflects the late nights and early mornings studying and doing homework, but it’s the reminder that sometimes it’s just better to sleep because better things are ahead of us.”

“PINK + WHITE” • FRANK OCEAN JAKE JOHNSON

“I’ve played this song almost every late drive home coming from a competition or hanging out with friends. It will always give me a sense of nostalgia for those unforgettable late nights, and reflecting on just what makes high school special.” 1 a.m.

2 a.m.

“NO FEAR” • DEJ LOAF ELISE SHORTS

“It captures all of the nostalgia that senior year has along with the fun and freeing vibe that graduating has.”

3 a.m.

4 p.m.

5 p.m.

“CIRCLES” • POST MALONE ALAN HUANG

“I feel like for many students, life during high school feels like running in circles. For the majority of students, their life consists of sleeping, waking up, going to school, eating, studying and sleeping again. Also the song is a banger.”

“UN COCO • BAD BUNNY CAMILA ANDREA GARCÍA MATA

“This song totally vibes with my senior year. It’s all about facing challenges, staying true to yourself and overcoming obstacles, which is exactly what I’ve been dealing with as I get ready to graduate and move on to the next chapter.”

“BORDERLINE” • TAME IMPALA ROYCE BROWN

“It has become a tradition to listen to ‘Borderline’ on the bus after school. For me, there is something mystical about the moment I get on the bus to the moment I get home. It feels like a transitional phase in time. I guess my bus is my ‘Borderline’ between school and home.”

“FOREVER” • NOAH KAHAN MAGGIE MEYER

“I loved scream singing this song with my friends driving home from track practice.”

“TWENTY

IN THE AIR UH, LOOK OUT!” HEAD TO TOE SO PLAYER KARAT MAGIC

FOUR -BRUNO MARS

STAFF

Editors in Chief

Royce Brown

Grace Guo

Managing Editors

Siri Byrisetty

Lorna Ding

Kent Fujita

Addison Joyce

Kate Loper

Maggie Meyer

Eddie Sun

Ryan Zhang

ACUMEN

Matthew Du

Claire He

Yichen Liu

Social Media

Avery Carlisle

Hibba Mahmood

Marketing

Saahas Kandru

Safin Khatri

Perspectives

Ali Persinger

Siri Surapaneni

Just-A-Minute

Jane Martens

Feature

Zoe Tu

Entertainment

Isaac Hsu

Student Life

Mahmoud

Homsi

Arjun Purohit

LiteBox

Ethan Blastick

Graphics

Alan Huang

Caroline Just