Featured Alumna - March 2024

While at CCHS, I was involved in extracurriculars through which I developed fond memories. I enjoyed being a part of the basketball team all four years of high school. My senior year was my favorite season because we made it to super sectionals and had a lot of fun. I learned that working hard pays off, but it’s important to have some fun along the way. I also enjoyed being a part of DECA, a club that prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. I developed networking skills through DECA, and I have fond memories of the state competition which helped me learn to think on my feet. The PLTW Biomed classes were foundational in developing a desire to pursue a career in healthcare. 

After graduating from Chicago Christian in 2019, I attended Grand Valley State University and studied Recreational Therapy. Throughout college, I worked with adults with intellectual and cognitive disabilities, supporting and encouraging their independence. I also worked as a resident aide in a memory care unit, which led to a passion for working with individuals with memory loss and dementia. 

My internship at Grand Valley led to my current position as a Recreational Therapist at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. I work in the activity department to provide programming that supports the psychosocial needs of veterans in a long-term care setting. I have one of the coolest jobs ever, and I love hearing the stories these veterans share about their life and their time in the service. Serving those who served us and sacrificed so much is a privilege.

My time at Chicago Christian helped develop a foundation of treating others with love.  I was often reminded that all people have been made in God’s image and that we are called to show others love and respect. It is where I developed life-long relationships, and my time there underscored the importance of living in community. I still enjoy hearing stories about the people of Chicago Christian from my mom who teaches there and my brother who is a junior, and I love the chance to stop in to say hello to former teachers, coaches, and staff. Chicago Christian was influential in teaching me that I have a responsibility to make a difference in God’s world, and it gave me the confidence to know that I have the tools needed to do just that.