May 2023: The Senior Issue

LeJOURNAL

OPINION: PAGE 10

TO GREEK OR NOT TO GREEK

FEATURE: PAGE 15

CHLOE REID & CHRYSTAL

BENITEZ: BOBA BESTIES

FEATURE: PAGE 13

FACULTY FAREWELLS

NOTRE DAME DE SION HIGH SCHOOL | VOLUME 45 | MAY 2023

ROCK ‘N’ REUSE

Spanish teacher Solange González poses fiercely with performer “Eco Elvis” at Eco Prom Friday, April 21. The event helped to recreate a traditional American school dance for the students visiting from international schools. The theme was eco-friendly dress, and students wore outfits that they already owned, made themselves or thrifted. “I think Eco Prom was an amazing idea because it was the best way to close the International Conference with the students,” Gonzalez said. “They really loved it.”

editors’ ink SENIOR SEND-OFF

Dear Seniors, For the last four years, we have worked hard, built connections, created memories, made sacrifices and learned important life lessons. Now, it is finally time for our Sion career to come to a close.

Graduation is right around the corner, and the coming days will be filled with bittersweet excitement as we prepare to turn the page onto the next chapter of our lives.

Our time together has been filled with ups and downs, gains and losses, significant teaching moments, immense growth, new and lasting friendships and moments that will never be forgotten.

This Senior Issue, it is our honor to highlight the 58 incredible and unique young women in the class of 2023. Each and every one of you is special, and we can’t wait to celebrate your beautiful gifts, amazing accomplishments and bright futures in our last issue of the school year.

On pages 10-11, read about the pros and cons of joining Greek life and find out some of the most interesting and unique subjects that members of the class of 2023 will be majoring in. Then, turn to pages 12-13 to see what seniors have on their bucket list this summer before heading off to college while bidding farewell to some of our most amazing faculty and staff members.

Next, on pages 14-15, find out who in the senior class has a celebrity lookalike,

and get all the tea on seniors Chloe Reid and Chrystal Benitez’s time working at Bingbox Dessert Cafe together.

On page 20, juniors can find helpful advice from seniors on how to effectively approach and enjoy their final year at Sion, and then on page 21, seniors can learn tips and life lessons from alumnae of the class of 2013 ten years post-graduation.

We are both excited and sentimental to share our last issue of Le Journal with you all. We hope you enjoy learning more about your fellow classmates and celebrating all of their amazing achievements!

We have worked immensely hard this year to produce a publication that is enjoyable, informative and connects the Sion community. We accomplished amazing things, such as winning the National Best of Show at the NSPA Fall Convention this year, and putting out great work even with such a small staff. We could not be prouder of our junior staff members, and the growth they have shown throughout the year. We know that they will be wonderful leaders next year, and continue the tradition of excellence in our publication.

In signing off, we want to thank you, seniors, for four extraordinary years of friendships, memories, love and support. Though we are so sad to say goodbye, we know that each and every one of you has a bright future ahead, and we can’t wait to see what it holds. We love you all dearly, and we will miss you so much.

One last time, cheers, Sophie and Zahra

contributed significant time, energy and skill into making the publication the best that it can be. We would like to dedicate this issue’s Student Section to our four amazing seniors, and thank them for all of their effort and hard work. They have brought leadership, experience, dedication, determination and creativity to the team each year. We are so thankful for our seniors and will miss them dearly next year!

consecutive years

Seniors Elle Simon, Lauren Smith, Sophie Gromowsky and Zahra Parsons (pictured left to right) have been on the Le Journal staff for two

and

LAUDATO SI : PRAISE BE

Sion celebrated its International Schools Conference with an environmentally-friendly “Eco Prom” Friday, April 21.

BY FEATURES EDITOR ARLETH GUEVARA AND COPY EDITOR ELLA ALEXANDER

T

The International Schools Conference is an opportunity for students worldwide to experience different cultures and make friends from across the globe. There are a total of 22 Sion schools worldwide, and 12 were in attendace at this year’s conference.

“My biggest takeaway [from the conference] was that I can step out of my shell and make lifelong friends in only a week,” junior Lily Sutherlin said.

Throughout the week, the international students explored the greater Kansas City area, stayed with host families, and attended eco-prom at the end of the conference.

“When we started planning this conference a year ago, we met with all the different schools by zoom and talked

he Sion International Schools Conference took place Saturday, April 15 to Saturday, April 22 for the first time following the COVID-19 pandemic. International students from Canada, Brazil, France and Australia attended the conference, which focused on environmental sustainability.about what they would like to do,” Mission Director Annie Riggs said. “We threw out the idea of a dance and they were like, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s what we want to do. We want to have an American prom.”

Eco prom was held in the gym Friday, April 21, and was open to all Sion students including the grade school, international students, and the highschool. The only requirement was to wear an eco-friendly outfit, whether that be borrowing, reusing, or thrifting.

“The theme of the conference is focused on Laudato Si, which is Pope Francis’s encyclical on climate justice,” Riggs said. “We thought ‘Oh, bring sustainable fashion to the eco prom.’”

The dance was put together by the Sion International Conference Committee, which began planning during the October 2021 deep dives.

“Our planning team included Lily Sutherlin, Amelia Bedell, Kate Wren, Xio de la Cruz and Eden Davis,” Riggs said. “Those students have been meeting into the spring and summer and before and after school. They’ve been putting in a ton

of time to help plan everything.”

The students of the committee also joined the international students the entire week attending the conference, and spent time together at a retreat center.

Unlike a regular prom, eco-prom did not have a prom queen or king like a usual prom, rather they had a photobooth with tiaras and crowns.

“We wanted everyone to enjoy being king and queen and not just one person,” senior Xio de la Cruz said. “We wanted everyone to feel included, especially the international students”

Students were joined by “Eco-Elvis” at the start of the evening, an Elvis impersonator who changed his popular songs to promote eco-friendly and sustainable practices. The DJ played songs in English, Portuguese and French in order to include all the nationalities present.

“My favorite part of eco prom was getting to dance with my new friends from Australia and Paris and getting to teach them classic American songs and dances,” Sutherlin said.

Seniors Chrystal Benitez and Makaila Traylor wave their light up pool noodles in the air as the eco prom officially begins. “Eco prom was an amazing night,” Benitez said. “I danced with my friends and the international students, and hearing their stories was nice. I was able to learn new things from them.”

THE KING OF CONSERVATION

Eco Elvis sings parodies of Elvis Presley songs to promote environmental sustainability. “I’m passionate about nature, music and humor. I spent my entire childhood outdoors, have been playing music since around age 11,” Eco Elvis stated in his website. Eco Elvis is the alter ego of Mission Director Annie Rigg’s husband, Matt Riggs

PHOTO | ARLETH GUEVARA

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE

AND DANCE

goddesses for a night

Juniors and seniors attended prom Saturday, April 22.

BY LILY WILKIN COPY EDITOR

The sun bounces off the colorful stained glass windows and causing a plethora of rainbows to shine down onto the tables.

The sound of heels click-clack against the floor, and the room is covered in white, gold and green vines. The music is so loud you can feel it in your chest. The attendees are anticipating a night to remember.

Sion’s upperclassmen attended prom Saturday, April 22 at the Museum at Prairiefire. Juniors and seniors danced the night away surrounded by friends.

This year’s prom committee consisted of juniors Arleth Guevara, Ella Alexander, Genesis Martinez Porras, Imani Cutler, Lily Dillon, Molly Millard, Penny Guezuraga,

Raegan Wesley and Tille DeVolder.

“It felt very easy to lead the girls because we all have very similar ideas,” Guevara said. “It felt relieving to see our ideas come to life, and I appreciate the hard work everyone put into the event.”

The prom committee dedicated a significant amount of time and effort to transforming the venue into the night’s theme, ‘Gala of the Goddesses.’ Decorations consisted of marble-like pedestals, light pink flowers, gold accents and vines that snaked throughout the room.

Earlier in the year, the senior class voted for prom royalty. There was a three-way tie for attendants between seniors Kori Franklin,

Chrissa Wilburn and Anna Golian. Their crowns were ancient Greece-inspired and made of golden leaves. Senior Eden Davis was crowned prom queen.

“I was wanting someone else to get the shine of prom queen and be celebrated,” Davis said. “But I am thankful that people cared and voted me prom queen.”

Following the crowning of prom royalty, the dancing began.

“They all had opinions about the vision for prom and were anxious to give their input and leave their mark. I think this unique combination of voices joined together to create something beautiful,” prom committee supervisor Karen Phillips said.

CAPTURING MEMORIES

“Sophia and I have a tradition where whenever there is a photo booth we have to take a picture,” Riffe said. “We’ve been doing it since second grade and it was so much fun to be able to add another one to our collection.”

ON THE DANCE FLOOR

PICTURE PERFECT

FRIENDS FOREVER

Juniors

loved

out outside of school.”

Juniors Piper Riffe and Sophia Grantham pose for the photo booth at prom.

PHOTO | CAROLINE WEBER

Seniors Caroline Dold, Georgia Kuntz, Lauren Millard and Bella Winters pose together for one last prom. “My favorite part of prom was either spending time with my friends and savoring one of our last moments together, or the dinosaurs,” Dold said. “It’s a tie.”

PHOTO | CAROLINE WEBER

Juniors Lucero Hernandez, Marli Brown and Kosi Okuagu laugh together with their friends. “My favorite memory was probably just getting to dance with not only my group but so many

Lucy Shively, Ellie Gromowsky Noelle Bertrand beam at the camera. “I

getting to dress up and eat dinner with my friends,” Bertrand said. “Everyone looked so beautiful and it was so fun to hang

PHOTO | HANNAH LANGE

spring sport recap

As the school year come to a close, the senior class enjoys their last season of spring sports, despite many challenges.

BY EDITORIALS EDITOR CLAIRE BOMA

As leaders on their teams, the seniors are working hard to leave a lasting impact on their underclassmen and teammates, and to overcome the challenges that come with high school athletics.

Despite winning only one game last season, the Sion lacrosse team has started off the new season with much more confidence and skill, according to senior Eden Davis.

The team switched divisions this year from the east division– which is meant for larger, more experienced teams–to the west division, which, according to Davis, puts them in a much more comfortable spot with their competition.

“Switching divisions has been better for our team,” Davis said. “We’re a small team so it’s better to play teams closer to our size than bigger and more established teams.”

Most Sion lacrosse players pick up the sport their freshman year, and with only 28 total players, many girls must play on varsity their first year.

Being thrown into varsity so quickly can be challenging and scary, according to senior Mary Grace Ng, but the girls are making it work.

“It’s a little slow in the beginning, teaching all the new players the rules and how to hold a stick,” Ng said. “But they get it eventually.”

Despite these added challenges, Davis says that the girls are a competitive team, with varsity ranked 4th in the league at the time of print.

“I’m proud that we have so many more people interested, the team is really starting to pick up traction,” Davis said. “We even have a manager this year.”

The soccer team also had a pretty bumpy start to their season, according to senior Anna Golian, but they too are working through the challenges.

“Six varsity players just got hurt, so now we suddenly have a really young team,” Golian said. “I thought we would be barely getting by, but we’re actually doing pretty well.”

Golian herself is out for her final season after having knee surgery this April. Along with multiple other injuries, there is now only one senior on the team who is able to play.

“It’s really sad that I can’t play with my classmates, and that they don’t get to play in their final season,” senior Makayla Hebert said. “It adds a little pressure [for me] because I’m not very vocal, so I have to really step up and lead. It also puts pressure on the juniors who also have to step up now.”

According to Golian, the underclassmen have worked hard to fill in the gaps on the varsity team, and they have maintained an 8-3-1 record so far.

“There’s some really passionate people on the team,” Golian said. “When you see them play you can tell they care about what they do. What we lack in skill we make up for in effort.”

Unlike soccer and lacrosse, track and field competitors are not only competing against other schools, but also against their own past records.

According to track and field coach runners, jumpers and throwers are all constantly working hard to set new personal records in their events, and many have been successful this year.

“I am proud of myself for setting a personal record in the 400 at the first meet of the season by two seconds, especially after not practicing my race at all,” senior Traylor said. “I have set a personal record in the 400 at every meet this season.”

Frank, is new to Sion this year, and ran track for Truman State. After graduation, she coached their track and cross country teams. She has since coached several of her sons’ teams before coming to Sion, and is currently the swim instructor at Sion Grade School.

“She has been very supportive of me during my injury,” senior Megan Kelley said. “And I like that she pushes each competitor mentally and physically to do their best for the team and themselves.”

Many of the seniors expressed sadness in finishing their last sports season, especially as they said goodbye to their coaches and teammates. But despite moving on, they will remember their time on their Sion team forever.

“I’ll miss the bond me and my teammates have the most,” Traylor said. “But I’ll remember all the funny memories we’ve made.”

dear seniors,

A message from spring sports coaches to their seniors.

I have had the honor and privilege to coach several senior athletes this season in track and field.

Right away, Makaila introduced herself and became the leader that every coach would love to have. Her energy and enthusiasm were evident to all.

Alea was new to track this year. Her grit and determination have always been evident and she never gives up.

Megan began her senior year of track working hard and pounding the pavement as usual, ready to dominate in her last season, but several injuries have her sidelined. She is still committed to the team and when she’s not at physical therapy, she is with us at practice or at a meet. I have loved seeing her positive

As you all graduate and this chapter comes to a close, remember all the fun times on the track, in the van, dancing on the infield at a meet, and guessing who

Remember the friendships that you’ve made and always remember which coach is the best

I wish you all the best as you go off to college to chase your dreams. Thank you for making these few months of track

Sophie, Eden, Mary Grace and Isabel, thank you so much for your leadership during your senior season.

Coach Elizabeth and I have enjoyed getting the opportunity to know you and coach you for the past two years!

You all have such a bright future ahead of you, and I can’t wait to see all you accomplish in the years ahead!

Keep in touch when you are back in KC, and don’t forget about us! I hope you stay involved in the lacrosse community wherever life takes you.

Coach Brittni & Elizabeth

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR SENIORS!!

What a tremendous group of Seniors! They have been a joy to coach for the past four years.

Unfortunately, two of them helped manage the team their senior year due to injury and only one got to play.

I am so sorry and I want you to know that it was a painful day when you had to tell me that you could not play your senior year because of injury!!

You do not know how much the team really missed you this year. Your leadership was sorely missed.

For Makayla

You are such a great leader, but an even better person. I hope you enjoyed your final year playing for the Storm!!

I know all three of you will be very successful in the future. My advice is to follow your dreams. You can achieve anything you want Enjoy college and most importantly, stay in touch.

Clags

PHOTO | HANNAH LANGE PHOTO | JOHN BOMA

PHOTO | CLAIRE BOMA

CLASS 2023 of

PHOTO | ZAHRA PARSONS

PHOTO | ZAHRA PARSONS

PHOTO | ZAHRA PARSONS

PHOTO | ZAHRA PARSONS

PHOTO | ZAHRA PARSONS

PHOTO SUBMISSION | ANNA GOLIAN

PHOTO SUBMISSION | MO BROWNE

PHOTO | ELLA ALEXANDER

PHOTO | ELLA ALEXANDER

ELLA ABIECUNAS

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY

Funniest pink slip?

Bray gave me a pick slip for “running and screaming in the halls” freshman year.

Favorite Sion memory?

Going to McDonald’s for ice cream after solo/ ensemble competition.

Advice to your freshman self

Don’t be afraid of trying something new, just enjoy it while it lasts.

FARRAH ALLEN

IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Dr. Moore becuase she is always willing to listen to my stories.

Funniest Zoom class-era memory. When Dr. Grover would use the filters.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past 4 years?

I’m proud of the lifelong friendships I’ve made.

CHRYSTAL BENITEZ

ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Dr. Grover because she would keep me sane.

Funniest Zoom classera memory.

Whenever people wouldn’t answer the teacher and it was dead quiet.

Advice to your freshman self.

Just believe in yourself because you made it towards the end.

SONJA BLEIER

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-KANSAS CITY

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Dr. Grover or Ms. Amy because their classes make me happy.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past 4 years?

Letting myself finally explore who I am and what I want in life.

Favorite English book you had to read?

“Home Is Not a Country”.

SENIOR CONFESSIONS

BY ZAHRA PARSONS PRINT CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

“I NEVER WORE A POLO UNDER MY SWEATER.”

“MID WOULD ALWAYS MAKE YOU LEAVE YOUR STARBUCKS AT THE DOOR DURING FIRST HOUR, SO I WOULD POUR MINE INTO MY WATER BOTTLE IN MY CAR EVERYDAY AND USUALLY SPILL IT ALL OVER SO I COULD BRING IT IN.”

“EVERY TIME I RING THE DOORBELL TO GET INSIDE, I QUIETLY WHISPER “DING DONG” AND I SUSPECT THE FRONT OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO HEAR ME.”

“I ONCE TOOK A WHOLE BOX OF PREWRAP FROM THE ATHLETIC TRAINER’S OFFICE AND THERE WERE LIKE 30 ROLLS IN THERE.”

“I USED TO JUST WALK OUT OF SCHOOL AND GO HOME.”

“FRESHMAN YEAR I STOLE A PAIR OF SWEATPANTS FROM THE SION SHOPPE ON ACCIDENT, AND NEVER GAVE THEM BACK BECAUSE I WAS SO SCARED.”

Joining Greek Life provides students with a multitude of opportunities that are hard elsewhere to find on campus.

to greek

BY ELLE SIMON WEB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

sport, rushing a sorority is a great way to meet new people. As scary as it seems to be put into a group with a bunch of other freshmen who you don’t know at all, it creates instant friendships. Even if you don’t end up in the same sorority, you’ll already know a familiar face on campus.

Not only will you continue to meet more people in your class, but you’ll also befriend students in other grades who can guide you through events and things on campus that are new to you.

Similarly to the environment here at Sion, sororities emphasize the idea of sisterhood. While graduating means leaving this sisterhood behind, rushing gives you the opportunity to join a new one. College is a big change, and this can provide you with a some familiarity.

Being a member of a sorority also gives you the chance to serve the community. Each sorority has a national philanthropy and each chapter has community philanthropies that they work with. Participating in community service is not only a way to become closer to your sisters, but to also give back to the community surrounding your campus.

Being involved in Greek Life gives you more opportunities to have a leadership role within your college community. You can serve on the sorority’s executive board in a position that directly affects your chapter, or you could serve on the executive board for the entire panhellenic community.

If you’re still on the fence about rushing, think about it this way: there’s no downside to going through the first round or so to determine if joining is right for you. If you decide you don’t like it, then you can drop out of recruitment. If you know that joining a sorority is something you want to do, but the thought of having to adjust to college and rushing at the same time terrifies you, look into rushing spring semester; some schools have their sorority recruitment in the spring for this exact reason.

Going Greek provides you with multiple opportunities that span from meeting new people to serving the community. While the process of finding your new sisterhood and your people can be stressful and scary, what you can gain from taking a chance and stepping out of your comfort zone is definitely worth it.

Funniest Sion memory?

Falling out of my car.

Finals horror story?

Being sick and trying not to cough during the whole test.

Favorite place at Sion?

The library.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years?

Stepping out of my comfort zone and becoming independent.

Favorite place at Sion?

The courtyard tent (rest easy).

Funniest Sion memory?

Challenging Schreiber to the obstacle course during spirit week and hyping myself up and then absolutely, devastatingly losing. What will you miss the most about Sion?

I’m going to miss how close everyone is, Sion has given me so many friends.

interesting majors

aerospace engineering

“I always liked doing STEAM activities when I was younger and I knew I wanted to have a job in the STEAM field. When I got to high school I learned about Aerospace Engineering and knew it was what I wanted to do.”

- senior eden davis

Favorite Sion memory?

Bray’s class freshman year. Why did you choose your college?

The environment of the school and because of my major.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years?

I’m most proud of actually finishing swim all four years.

Discover the subjects that some seniors will be majoring in.

BY ELLE SIMON WEB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

pharmacy

“I wanted to combine my passion for learning and helping others. This field has a wide array of careers and I found it so cool that a pharmacist can directly improve patients’ outcomes through their own research, knowledge and expertise.”

-

senior lauren stuckmeyer

or not to greek?

STORY BY A&E EDITOR GENESIS MARTINEZ PORRAS AND PRINT CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SOPHIE GROMOWSKY DESIGN BY WEB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ELLE SIMON

Being thrown into a new environment when you enter college can be an intimidating and sometimes lonely experience.

Experiencing these feelings, you may be tempted to jump into joining a sorority, where you can pay money to gain an instant community of friends. But before you rush out to rush, there are several important things to consider, including cost, time commitment and lifestyle preferences, to determine if Greek Life is the right fit for you.

Something that most people might not be aware of is just how expensive being part of a sorority can actually be. On average, the cost of membership dues, recruitment fees, application fees, social expenses and potentially housing adds up to between $1,000 to $4,750 per semester, according to Yahoo Finance. At notorious sorority school University of Alabama, some members pay up to $9,445 per semester, according to US News and World Report.

The price of college tuition, housing and meal plans already puts a strain on the financial resources of many students and families, and paying an additional $2,000 to $10,000 is something that not everyone can afford. Not to mention, there are countless clubs and organizations on any college

chambers

campus that can provide you with the chance to gain a new community of friends completely for free. Make sure sorority costs are an expense that you and your family will be able to manage.

Another investment to be mindful of when joining Greek Life is the time commitment. Sororities hold many activities for their members throughout the year, including meetings, events and philanthropy work. Some even have requirements for a certain amount of service hours that members are required to meet to remain eligible.

With all of these events cluttering up your calendar, you might not have adequate time to dedicate to studying and completing homework for challenging classes, participating in other activities outside of Greek life or maintaining relationships with non-sorority friends. Consider if this commitment will still allow you to manage your academics and explore other interests beyond your sorority.

A final factor to consider is whether or not Greek Life aligns with your own lifestyle choices. One of most well known aspects of Greek life on college campuses is the party scene, which involves alcohol and drug use. Not every sorority revolves around partying,

but if you don’t want to potentially be pressured to party or drink in college, it might be best to just steer clear.

For some, joining a sorority can be a fun and valuable opportunity, but the expenses, time commitment and lifestyle are certainly not for everyone. Consider whether these costs are right for you and explore other options for finding a community on campus before you rush into Greek Life.

eden davis

Favorite Sion memory?

Winning nationals with dance team. Funniest Sion memory?

Trying to be quiet in mass with my sister.

Advice to your freshman self?

Don’t worry when things don’t work out the way you wanted them to, it often turns into a greater opportunity. But you have to take that opportunity, don’t be scared to do it.

Funniest Zoom class memory?

When half of the class was asleep during Bray’s class in the morning. What teacher would you bring to college and why?

Dr. Williams, she tells you what you need to hear not what you want to hear.

Advice to your freshman self?

It’s okay to make changes.

textile & apparrel merchandising

“Fashion is something that I have always been super passionate about and I can see myself being genuinely happy working in that industry. There’s so many different parts of the fashion industry and way more job possibilities than one might think and I can’t wait to keep learning.”

- senior caroline mccombs

Funniest pink slip?

Being out of uniform after class mass.

Hardest class you took? Calculus.

Funniest Sion memory?

Pretty much any conversation with Kram. Finals horror story? Freshman year when finals were 20 percent of my grade and I was irresponsible (enough said).

international relations

“I chose International Relations because I have always been interested in global issues. This major meshes together my intellectual interests of foreign language, economics, culture and the environment to examine their societal impacts in a way that I plan to utilize in my future endeavors.”

- senior isabel dumsky

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS reese

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-KANSAS CITY

iyanna coleman

EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY

Joining a sorority comes with several costs and the Greek lifestyle is not for everyone.

SENIOR YEAR SUMMER BUCKET LIST

BY LAUREN SMITH MANAGING EDITOR

Bucket list items that the class of ‘23 says they hope to complete over the summer.

XIO DE LA CRUZ

ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY

Funniest Sion Memory?

When I got hit in the face with a volleyball and it was my very first volleyball practice ever at Sion…my freshman year.

Advice to your freshman self?

Be more confident and don’t let anyone judge you, and be your own funny self.

What will you miss the most about Sion?

The traditions and the faculty and staff!

EMILY DIERKS

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS

Funniest Zoom class-era?

When someone gave out our Zoom code and a bunch of guys joined our math class and Mrs. Moore didn’t noticed.

Favorite Sion memory?

Being put in the plank contest at the STA game as a freshmen and having to hold a 13 min plank to beat the STA senior.

Finals horror story?

I cried onto my math final and when I got it back I saw the tear stains next to the 62% at the top of the paper.

CAROLINE DOLD

OBERLIN COLLEGE

ISABEL DUMSKY

Funniest Zoom class-era?

I asked my dad for a soda while unknowingly unmuted and Shrock asked if he could have one too.

Funniest Sion Memory?

Multiple teachers dressing as me.

Advice to your freshman self?

Girl... the bangs. No.

UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO

Finals horror story

Mid’s finals with the million of matching questions that I would flop on :(

Funniest Sion memory?

Getting locked out in the courtyard for 20 minutes

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Dr. Williams because she is resourceful.

FACULTY FAREWELLS

As the year ends, we say goodbye to several of Sion’s long-time faculty members.

BY GENESIS MARTINEZ PORRAS NEWS & SPORTS AND A&E EDITOR

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES?

Thank you

mrs. wilcox

for 21 years for 15 years for 19 years

WHAT WILL YOU MISS MOST?

WHAT ARE YOU DOING AFTER SION?

The most beautiful moments I have had here is all of them because I have met lots of the amazing young girls here, who have come and gone in my 21 years here, and its a big memory for me.

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES?

I don’t think so much about moments. I think I just reflect back on students that I’ve known and different times with them, versus one moment.

Everything. This is like a second home to me. I feel much more alive everytime I see the students, which are like my granddaughters. And obviously the staff and faculty I will miss a lot.

WHATS THE MOST RANDOM PINK SLIP YOU HAVE GIVEN?

I think probably the most random one was a kid who had never gotten a pink slip specifically asked to get a pink slip because they wanted one before they graduated. So I probably just picked the most random thing out of the list.

ANY LAST WORDS?

I want to say I’ve loved every moment, and this place is a special place. I’m glad that I was here. But also I know it’s time for something new.

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES AT SIon?

It was my first day, and a student came in I didn’t know who she was, but she just engaged with me and she asked me, “Mrs. Wilcox, what is your favorite book?” and we just sat there and talked about literature for 30 minutes out of the blue.

WHAT WILL YOU MISS THE MOST?

Just working with the students. I think I’ll miss the students, they keep me young. And so I’ll miss working with teenagers for sure. So my own children, my biological children, are going to have a whole bunch of labs that they’re going to have to do on stuff because I will miss doing the PI-GLO lab.

WHATS THE MOST RANDOM PINK SLIP YOU HAVE GIVEN?

My daughter was here, and she was late to class. She was late all that week for some reason, and she had been in the art room and she colored her hair with chalk. So I told her, “Maggie you’re late, and I’m giving you a pink slip.” And she’s like, ‘okay.’ Then later she said, “Mom, I needed you to give me a pink slip so that it could even the playing field, and other students wouldn’t think that I had special privileges.”

My next project, you could say, is that I leave May 12 and get to Ecuador on May 16 and I plan to be there for four months. After I come back, I will see what happens, and maybe get a part time job just so I’m not inside all day. ms. amy Thank you for 22 years

WHATS THE MOST RANDOM PINK SLIP YOU HAVE GIVEN?

I’ve maybe given five pink slips in my 22 years. And that was probably just when administration was doing a uniform check and they saw and therefore I had to comply with the uniform requirements and give a pink slip. But otherwise, no, I don’t think I’ve given hardly any pink slips.

OVER THE YEARS

BY ELLA ALEXANDER COPY EDITOR

Why did you choose your college?

I flipped a coin.

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Mid because he could help me with my math homework and he has a great sense of humor.

Funniest zoom class-era memory?

When a random person, Zoe, joined our zoom PE class and Pil had to kick them out.

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY

Funniest Sion memory

I walked into the bathroom and there were girls in a circle in a stall singing songs.

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Ms. Lai & Mr. Rodriguez because they’re amazing and I love them.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past 4 years?

Finding my people.

GONZAGA UNIVERSITY

Funniest Sion memory?

Cutting my hair for pony up. It was 3 inches shorter in the front and 3 inches longer in the back.

What will you miss most about Sion?

The friends I have made. Funniest zoom class-era memory?

I was outside and a bee was chasing me during Haghirian’s class. I was running around and when I sat back down everybody was quiet and Haghirian said, “Miss Fowler...are you ok?”

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Kram because he is a great gossip and we always have the best conversations. Advice to your freshman self ?

Don’t be afraid to branch out. Finals horror story?

I had to take my finals in a cast where I couldn’t grip my pencil with my thumb.

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

Brynna Fitzgerald

Amé Fleur

Alea Fowler

Kori franklin

Six seniors were voted by their class as having the best glow-up over their four years of high school.

Mo Browne

Paige Castillo

ANNA GOLIAN

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME

Funniest Zoom class-era memory?

When a random girl named Zoe kept joining our PE Zoom.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past 4 years?

The confident and outgoing person I have become and how much I have changed and how much life has changed since freshman year.

Favorite place at Sion?

The new publab.

TEA GRIMES

UNDECIDED

Finals horror story?

Everything about finals is a nightmare.

What teacher would you take to college and why?

Grover to make me feel better and laugh with.

Advice to your freshman self?

Save your study hall for junior and senior year.

Favorite Sion memory? Junior ring.

SOPHIE GROMOWSKY

VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY

Finals horror story?

Something got in my contact and cut my eye the night before the precalc final so I just went to sleep and took the test in my glasses the next morning and got a 60.

Funniest Sion memory?

When Lauren Smith dropped her phone into the toilet in the stall next to me.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years?

Winning Best of Show for Le J in STL, being made varsity lacrosse captain, and making so many amazing friends.

MAKAYLA HEBERT

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS

Funniest Sion memory?

Falling down the bleachers in front of everyone during the Chiefs pep rally.

What teacher would you take to college?

Señora González because she’s so amazing and sweet!

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years?

Making good friends and keeping a good GPA.

BOBA BESTIES

Seniors and best friends Chrystal Benitez have grown closer through working together at Korean dessert shop, Bingbox.

BY SOPHIE GROMOWSKY PRINT CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

While many teens have jobs working as babysitters, waitresses or lifeguards, seniors Chloe Reid and Chrystal Benitez spend their after-school and weekend hours serving up Korean snow cream, bubble tea and specialty soft serve at Leawood dessert cafe, Bingbox.

Reid was the first to be hired at the cafe, where she was previously a frequent customer, two years ago.

“I used to go there like every single day,” Reid said. “Then one day they were like, ‘oh, when you’re 16 come in and get a job,’ and so I did.”

Before long, she was on a mission to persuade her friends to join her. Benitez was initially reluctant, as she didn’t want to take on a second job, but the shop’s proximity to Sion, as well as the perks of free boba and ice cream, eventually convinced her, and Reid began to assist in her training.

“I’m still fairly new since I only work there like every other weekend,” Benitez said. “When she tries to teach me drinks, she’s always like, ‘Chrystal hurry up!’ and I’m like, ‘Chill!’ It’s really funny how our friendship goes out to the workplace as well.”

Because the cafe is rarely extremely busy, Reid and Benitez have plenty of downtime to complete homework, experiment with new desserts and hang out.

“One time, it was a really slow day, so me, Chloe and our boss, Ananya, decided to watch ‘La Llorona,’” Benitez said. “We turned off all of the lights and forgot that we had customers, and there was a big jumpscare that made us all scream so loud.”

Benitez will attend Rockhurst University in the fall and plans to continue working at Bingbox in her spare time, but Reid will have to say goodbye to the job when she leaves for college out of state.

“I’m definitely going to miss it a lot,” Reid said. “We have a really good connection, me and Chrystal, so working with her has made my job ten times more fun.”

CHLOE’S FAV DRINK: Brown Sugar Bubble Tea

CHRYSTAL’S FAV DRINK: Honeydew Latte with

CELEBRITY LOOKALIKES

Members of the senior class next to some of their famous doppelgangers.

BY SOPHIE GROMOWSKY PRINT CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Favorite

Favorite Sion memory? Yearbook signing. Funniest Zoom class-era memory?

When I sneezed when my mic was on. Advice to your freshman self? You got this in the bag. Hardest class you took? Designing Real World Impacts.

Funniest pink slip?

On a Friday I wore Sion sweatpants and a cream colored sweatshirt and I got a pink slip for wearing “off-white” even though it was a purple and white day.

Funniest Sion memory?

I cut my sister’s hair for locks of love in front of the entire school and I ended up cutting half of her hair an inch shorter than the rest of it. What you will miss most about Sion?

Being able to stop and talk with teachers in the hall.

What teacher would you take with you and why?

Mrs. Holmes because she is my favorite person ever and the person I talk to the most about everything.

Funniest Sion Memory?

I broke my ankle sophomore year in gym class trying to catch a frisbee with my foot. Advice to your freshman self? Don’t

much

who said it?

Can you guess what teachers said these famous quotes?

Head to @lejournalsion on Instagram to find out.

BY LILY WILKIN COPY EDITOR

What will you miss the most about Sion?

The support from teachers. Advice to your freshman self?

It’s never that serious girl, just let go and be yourself. What are you most proud of accomplishing?

I am so proud of myself for surviving 4 years of Sion education! So many tears doing assignments I never thought I would make it! Look at me now!!

What will you miss the most about Sion? My friends.

Finals Horror Story?

Walking in and people had already started testing.

Favorite Sion memory? Junior Ring!

1 My canGrandma run faster than you!

“ ” 2 “ ” Bless. LOL.

GWYN JOHNSON

ADDIE HIESTAND

DAKOTA FANNING

ZOEY MARSHALL

BIANCA LAWSON

PHOTO SUBMITTED | ADDIE HIESTAND

PHOTO SUBMITTED | ZOEY MARSHALL

Zoey Marshall

Caroline McCombs

Favorite place at Sion?

Either the Commons or the library.

Advice to your freshman self?

Take a step back from academics and enjoy your athletics and friend group.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past 4 years?

Varsity on both cross country and track. I spent my whole high school career with cross country, so it was important to me to get on to varsity, which I did sophomore year.

CAMILA MENDES

Funniest Sion Memory?

When Bray was gone and we didn’t have a sub and we just watched Love Island on TV. Finals Horror Story?

The only time I’ve been severely sick in high school was during freshman year finals.

Advice to your Freshman self?

AMY ADAMS

PHOEBE TONKIN CHLOE WELCH

CAROLINA O’BYRNE

Finals horror story?

Being late to finals then being scared to walk in with my squeaky shoes. I sat in the bathroom and waited it out. Made a tiktok about it - it went viral, like 2 million views, and Carmody and King saw it on their FYP.

Funniest Zoom class-era memory?

Splitting up into groups then it being completely silent in the breakout rooms.

What will you miss the most about Sion?

Seeing my sister in the hallways.

Funniest Zoom class-era memory?

I was painting stars on my wall while standing on a chair during Mrs. Watts class and she called on me. I jumped off the chair, stepped in the bucket of paint and then proceeded to answer the question after turning my camera on.

What teacher would you take with you to college?

Mrs. Moore, she’s a burst of sunshine.

Favorite Sion memory? Racing on the inflatable obstacle course with my friends on field day.

Favorite place at Sion? My friend group’s lunch spot, right at the top of the NGS stairs.

Which teacher would you take to college?

Absolutely Madame Lopez. I just know she’d be an amazing support system - she’s so caring that she would absolutely coach me through a hard time. She’s also just such a fun time, and I know we’d have fun exploring the city together.

What will you miss the most about Sion?

The entire Theatre department.

Funniest Zoom-era memory?

Just attempting to have drama club on zoom.

Funniest Sion memory?

Two different teachers, on two different occasions have dressed up as Caroline Dold.

Does anyone have a computer charger? My iPad’s at 3%. 4 “ ”

The test wasn’t THAT hard ladies.

ISABEL DUMSKY

PHOTO SUBMITTED | ISABEL DUMSKY

PHOTO SUBMITTED | CAROLINA O’BYRNE

PHOTO SUBMITTED | CHLOE WELCH

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

Bridget McDaniel

SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY

Aleigh McKelvey

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI

Lauren Millard

SENIOR STATISTICS

WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

DO YOU KNOW ALL THE WORDS TO THE SCHOOL SONG?

DO YOU PREFER THE ACT OR SAT?

DO YOU PLAN ON JOINING A SORRORITY

SKIRT:YOURROLLYOUDO

STATISTICS

HOW WE LISTEN:

WORST FASHION TREND? LOW RISE JEANS

HOW WE CAFFEINATE:

WHAT SHOW WAS MOST POPULAR? OUTER BANKS

BY LAUREN SMITH MANAGING EDITOR

*Stats are from poll responses from all 58 seniors.

SENIOR YEAR TRENDS

FAVORITE PLACE TO CHECK OUT?

CHICK-FIL-A

FAVORITE SION LUNCH?

GRILLED CHEESE & TOMATO SOUP

HOW OFTEN WE CHECK OUT:

WHAT SONG WAS MOST POPULAR?

KILL BILL BY SZA

FAVORITE SION

TRADITION?

SENIOR POLOS

FAVORITE SCHOOL YEAR?

SENIOR YEAR

MARY GRACE NG

Advice to your freshman self. Don’t be afraid to talk to people and share your voice because it matters.

Funniest Sion memory?

My funniest Sion memory is trying to get Sophie in assassins and sitting under the deck with the lunch tables for 45 minutes waiting to get her and I still failed. What will you miss most about Sion?

I will miss teachers, freinds, and going to school with me sister every day.

Which teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Dr. Moore. She would live for the tea and give really good advice.

Funniest pink slip?

I asked Mr. Bray for a pen to write my name while after tests were handed out, and he pink slipped me because I was ‘talking while tests were out.’

What will you miss most about Sion?

The energy in the halls and the classrooms when everyone is there!

Favorite Sion memory?

Hispanic heritage celebration 2021.

Funniest Zoom classera memory

I feel asleep during Dr. Hersh’s class and she kept calling on me but I was asleep. What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Kram is very helpful with problem solving!

KATHERINE PORCH

UNDECIDED CHLOE REID

Advice to your freshman self. It’s okay to make decisions that are beneficial for yourself, stop worrying about making everyone else happy. Which teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Ms. Holmes because I can always talk to her/vent and keep it 100%.

Funniest Zoom class-era memory.

Falling asleep and waking up alone to Mrs. Hull.

...LOOKING BACK

Advice from the class of 2023 to the rising seniors.

BY PRINT CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ZAHRA PARSONS

PAIGE CASTILLO ‘23

Visit a bunch of different colleges with variety, so you can see what you like. It helps in narrowing down your list of colleges that you apply to so you aren’t spending more money on applications than you have to.

ANNA GOLIAN ‘23

Senior year goes by so fast, so it is important to grind out your college applications as soon as possible. After you finish those, try to enjoy yourself because the time goes by fast.

LAUREN SMITH ‘23

Narrow down your college search before senior year, and set a plan for applications and additional essays because it’s up to you to get this all done on time. Stay organized so you don’t get stressed out.

OF KANSAS

Favorite Sion memory?

Playing card games with friends during study hall. Favorite place at Sion? The library. Finals horror story. Forgetting my calculator for my math final.

Favorite English book you had to read? The Hate U Give.

Favorite English book you had to read?

Just Mercy.

Funniest Zoom class-era memory

Whenever the teachers froze on the screen midtalking.

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Ms. Lai because she takes individual time to help me and is always there when I need to talk.

PAST

Do your senior service project early on because there is so much to do. Senior year is already so busy, and you want to be able to have time to spend with your family and friends.

Senioritis is tough, but don’t wlet it take over your life, because then you will get behind on your schoolwork, and you won’t have time to do things you actually enjoy like hanging out with family and friends.

Don’t get too caught up in college and homework, and focus on making memories and cherishing your last moments with your friends. Remember to value the importand things.

BELMONT UNIVERSITY KAITLYN MILLER UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-KANSAS CITY SAMY MORA UNIVERSITY

ECOTRAINING SAFARI GUIDE COURSE

KATHERINE PINEDA LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO

GWYN JOHNSON ‘23

CAROLINA O’BYRNE ‘23

MO BROWNE ‘23

VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY

CAROLINA O’BYRNE UNDECIDED ZAHRA PARSONS

Favorite Sion memory?

Playing the guitar in Mulkey’s room between class and rehearsal.

What eacher would you take with you to college and why?

Kram so he could take up every class by talking about random things.

Funniest Zoom classera memory. My friends texting me while I was sharing my screen.

DORI SANDRITTER

Funniest pink slip?

Half wearing a non-uniform sweatshirt.

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Dr. Grover for writing assignments. Finals horror story. Getting COVID the day before finals. Advice to your freshman self.

Don’t take AP Calculus.

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

I would take Mme. Bono because she is always so sweet and encouraging, and never fails to brighten your day.

Funniest zoom class-era memory.

Dr. Regan introducing us to her cats in her living room.

Advice to your freshman self.

Don’t do things you don’t want to do just so you can put them on your college resume.

ELLINGTON PERSLEY

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES

Favorite English book you had to read?

The Secret Life of Bees.

Funniest Sion memory? When my cookie caught on fire in the microwave freshman year and almost set off the smoke detector.

Advice to your freshman self. Probably to try new things that are out of your comfort zone.

FUTURE

LAUREN MARTIN PRINS ‘13

MARYVILLE UNIVERSITY

Favorite Sion memory?

Playing card games with my friend group during study hall in the library.

Hardest class you took? APUSH or AP World. What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

I would take Dr. Grover because I could vent to her about anything and she wouldn’t take offense to any of it. Plus we can get into good gossip conversations.

CLAIRE SHANKLAND

ANGIE SCHIMMEL IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY

What teacher would you take with you to college and why?

Dr. Moore because she is so good at advice and is always there as a shoulder to lean on.

Funniest Zoom classera memory. Ms. Watts always shutting her computer and ending the meeting early. Advice to your freshman self.

Untuck your skirt

LOOKING AHEAD...

Advice from alumnae of the class of 2013 to the graduating seniors.

BY PRINT CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ZAHRA PARSONS

LAURA KLOVER ‘13

Get out of your comfort zone and try new things - find a group of friends that aren’t from your hometown, travel, befriend someone unlike you, etc. You just never know who will be that person you can’t live without. But most importantly, live in the moment. Don’t try to think four years from now; think about what will happen four hours from now. College flies by, so capture all the exciting & daring moments!

Never give up on your passions, even when things seem like they’re not working out. You will be where you need to be and will eventually get to where you think you want to be. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Take that job that has absolutely nothing to do with your degree. Pursue your hobbies. You’ll never know where it may take you until you try.

Sion has prepared you for the next chapter more than you realize! Sure, Sion has prepared you academically, but beyond just academics, Sion has also prepared you to make the world a better place. Sion taught me to be confident, authentic, and accepting of people from all different backgrounds. Continue to accept, learn, and serve others as Sion has taught you. You will continue to hold the Sion spirit in your heart long after graduation!

HANNAH COLBECK ‘13

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-KANSAS CITY

grad gifting

Here’s list of the best gifts to get your recent high school grad.

BY ELLE SIMON WEB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

a clear bag

A clear bag is a college essential and comes in handy for sporting events and other campus activities. If you want to make it a little more personal, think about purchasing a beaded strap customized to their college.

a scrapbook

Gift shopping for one of your best friends? Think about making them a scrapbook of all the memories you’ve shared together over the years. It’s a personal and fun way for them to look back at the good times before you’re miles apart.

framed photo

Consider giving your grad a photo of the two of you for them to put in their dorm. Not only will it serve as dorm decor, but it’ll also be a little reminder of you and your friendship.

gifts cards & cash

If there’s one thing every soon to be college student appreciates, it’s money. Gift cards to their favorite stores, coffee shops and restaurants are a great gift that allows them to save money right before they leave. If you don’t know where your grad likes to go, a few dollar bills inside a card are just as appreciated.

wristlet or phone wallet

These are perfect for carrying around your grad’s college ID and helping to ensure that they won’t lose it. It’s quick and easy to take out and put back in.

CLEMSON

kendall torres

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS

Funniest Sion memory?

The multiple practices for senior skit. Advice to your freshman self?

Don’t worry about being liked by everyone, you’ll find your people. Why did you choose your college?

I loved the people, the environment, the love and loyalty everyone has for Clemson and it just felt like home.

OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN

Favorite place at Sion?

The publab

Favorite Sion memory?

Often watching “New Girl” in Faith-Filled. Why did you choose your college?

I love Lincoln, but I wanted to live close to my sisters but not my parents! It has a customizable program for my major! Also, if you know me or my family, how could I not be husker!

annie stevens

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY

Favorite place at Sion? The publab

Finals horror story?

My pre-calc final this year. That’s all. Didn’t even finish. Funniest Zoom classera memory? I was in APUSH with Schreiber and his roommates were being loud so he was like, “I’ll be right back,” and told them to shut up.

lauren Stuckmeyer

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-KANSAS CITY

Hardest class you took? AP biology.

Favorite place at Sion?

The grande salle. Which teacher would you take to college and why?

Mrs. Holmes. She is so relatable, kind and cares so much for the person you are. She has so many funny life stories and made the class so entertaining. Love her.

Favorite English book you had to read?

“Magic Fish”

Favorite Sion memory?

ARod’s chemistry class junior year.

Why did you choose your college?

I wanted to go there since fourth grade.

Funniest Zoom class-era memory?

Not doing any of the assignments.

makaila traylor

MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Funniest Sion memory?

A bird pooped on my friend’s shoe at a track meet.

Favorite place at Sion?

The atrium

Finals horror story?

Not bringing a calculator to my math final.

What are you most proud of accomplishing these past four years?

Getting recruited to run at college and staying this long.

chloe welch

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY

Favorite place at Sion?

The music room

What teacher would you take to college and why?

Mrs. Holmes so we could watch “New Girl” together. Funniest Sion memory?

Either when we had a mouse in Faith-Filled or when Timson threw her iPad at us.

What will you miss the most about Sion?

CAROLINE WELSH

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY

Hardest class you took?

AP Calc.

Funniest Sion memory?

Megan explaining her distant relative’s crop dusting accident.

Favorite Zoom class-era memory?

Dr. Regan’s cats interrupting her zoom and her husband chiming in.

What will you miss the most about Sion?

The people.

friends forever

Several seniors have gone to school together all their lives and are now splitting up for college.

BY ELLE SIMON WEB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

chloe welch addie hiestand

& & caroline dold sophie gromowsky

annie stevens bella winters &

Chloe Welch and Addie Hiestand started going to school together in second grade at Leawood Elementary School. Their journey together continued to Leawood Middle School before going on to Sion. “It’s going to be really weird not seeing her everyday,” Welch said. “She’s been such a constant in my school life for so long.” Those who’ve experienced Welch and Hiestand’s friendship know that they’re each other’s doppelgangers, and the pair will greatly miss the constant presence the other has in their day to day life. “It’s going to be really hard not seeing Chloe every day,” Hiestand said. “Even if it’s the slightest smile or wave we give each other in the hall, I’ll miss it.”

Seniors Annie Stevens and Bella Winters both went to Ascension Catholic School. Though they became friends in kindergarten, Stevens and Winters weren’t really close until they did dance together in seventh grade. “It’s a little strange to think about,” Winters said. “There are certain people that become a constant in your life if you’re around them long enough, even if you don’t talk to them a lot.” After going to school together for 12 years, graduation will close that chapter of their lives. “It’s bittersweet, especially with Bella being my best friend,” Stevens said.

elle simon lauren smith

Elle Simon and Lauren Smith have gone to school together their entire lives. The pair first met at Red Bridge Early Childhood Center when they were two years old then both attended elementary and middle school at Nativity Parish School. “It’s been a great experience to be able to have someone I have known my whole life by my side at Sion,” Smith said. “It’s definitely going to be an adjustment going to college not with Elle and to not have her in my day to day life.” College will be the first time that either of them isn’t in the same building everyday or 10 minutes from one another. “We’ve been together through almost every stage of our lives,” Simon said. “It’s hard to believe that we aren’t going to be at the same school anymore, but I’m really grateful for all the memories and the 16 years we have spent together.”

&

Seniors Sophie Gromowsky and Caroline Dold have known each other since they were a year old; their moms brought them to the same play group and the rest was history. Both Gromowsky and Dold then attended Saint Elizabeth Catholic School from pre-k to 8th grade before coming to Sion. “I cried about not going to school with Caroline anymore before I cried about moving away from my family,” Gromowsky said. Though Sion graduation will mark the end of their school years together, they both know they’ll always be a phone call away. “I’m not sure what I’m going to do without her,” Dold said. “I’ve gone to school with Sophie since kindergarten, so not having her within arm’s reach whenever I want to say hi will be really hard.”

Gabel Whittaker

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS

Funniest pink slip?

Shrock gave me one for talking.

Finals horror story?

Mrs. Humphrey’s Final.

I wrote an apology note because I didn’t understand anything despite studying for days.

Advice to your freshman self

Please God, part your hair in the middle.

CHRISSA WILBURN

REGIS UNIVERSITY

who’s most likely?

Favorite Sion memory?

Running through the courtyard as Iyanna chased me.

Finals horror story?

I forgot my calculator, notes and water sophomore year.

What are you most proud of acomplishing these past four years?

I am proud to have made it this far while staying true to myself.

BELLA WINTERS

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS

What teacher would you take to college?

Dr. Grover. She’s a fantastic person and I’ll miss her passion for teaching and comforting aura.

Favorite place in Sion?

The top of the stairs in the Grande Salle

Favorite Sion memory?

The Guatemala deep dive was an all-around fantastic expirence.

JUWALI YA

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

Favorite place at Sion?

The Atrium

Funniest Zoom class-era memory? When Chloe and I were in zoom and I would scroll through Amazon with screen share

What are you most proud of? Getting through high school

SENIOR

LATIVES 2023 SUPER

BY THE LE JOURNAL STAFF

MOST LIKELY TO IGNORE THE RED FLAGS: CAROLINA O’BYRNE

MOST LIKELY TO GET MARRIED FIRST: LAUREN STUCKMEYER

MOST LIKE TO GET ID’D WHEN THEYRE 30: MARY GRACE NG

MOST LIKELY TO WRITE THE NEXT HARRY POTTER OR HUNGER GAMES: LAUREN MILLARD

MOST LIKELY TO ACCIDENTELLY JOIN A CULT: CHLOE WELCH

WORST DRIVER: PAIGE CASTILLO

BIGGEST PROCRASTINATOR: SOPHIE GROMOWSKY

MOST LIKELY TO STAR IN THEIR OWN REALITY TV SHOW: MO BROWNE

BEST NICKNAME:

BB FITZ

THE GOLDEN STATE

OH THE STATES THAT

ILLINOIS LAND OF LINCOLN

San

University of California-Los

Ellington

University of San Diego Isabel

University of Southern California

Carolina O’Byrne

COLORADO

University

COLORFUL

SUNSHINE STATE

FLORIDA

THE HOOSIER STATE

INDIANA

THE HAWKEYE STATE

IOWA

SUNFLOWER STATE

KANSAS

UNBRIDLED SPIRIT

NATURAL STATE KENTUCKY

University of Arizona Juwali Ya

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Eden Davis

Kentucky State University Kori Franklin

Colorado State University Ella Abiecunas

Regis University Chrissa Wilburn

of Colorado-Boulder Mo Browne

University of Arkansas Emily Dierks & Gabel Whittaker

Loyola Marymount University Caroline Welsh

Diego State University Aleigh McKelvey

Angeles

Persley

Dumsky

University of Kansas Reese Chambers, Makayla Hebert, Halle Hopson, Mary Grace Ng, Kendall Torres & Bella Winters

Loyola University Chicago Addie Hiestand & Katherine Porch

University of Notre Dame Anna Golian

Iowa State University Farrah Allen & Claire Shankland

THAT YOU’LL GO...

BY PRINT CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SOPHIE GROMOWSKY

SHOW ME STATE

MISSOURI

Maryville University Angie Schimmel

Missouri Western State University Makaila

Traylor

Rockhurst University Chrystal Benitez & Xio De La Cruz

University of Missouri Georgia Kuntz, Caroline McCombs & Lauren Millard

University of Missouri-Kansas City Sonja Bleier, Iyanna Coleman, Zoey Marshall, Samy Mora, Dori Sandritter & Lauren Stuckmeyer

THE GOOD LIFE

NEBRASKA

Creighton University Amé Fleur, Megan Kelley, Annie Stevens & Chloe Welch

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Sofia Boulware & Lauren Smith

THE BUCKEYE STATE

OHIO

Miami University Brynna Fitzgerald & Bridget McDaniel

Oberlin College Caroline Dold

SOONER STATE

OKLAHOMA

University of Oklahoma Paige Castillo & Amelia Maguire

THE PALMETTO STATE

VOLUNTEER STATE

TENNESSEE

THE EVERGREEN STATE

WASHINGTON

AMERICA’S DAIRYLAND

Gap Year for Kenya Eco Training Safari Guide Course Katherine Pineda

Undecided Tea Grimes, Audrey Kowalewich, Zahra Parsons & Chloe Reid

Villanova University Sophie Gromowsky

Belmont University Kaitlyn Miller

Clemson University Elle Simon

Gonzaga University Alea Fowler

Marquette University Gwyn Johnson

Class of 2023