Students of the Month

Warren Goik (12th Grade)

Parents: Pat Goik & Jennifer Barrett

Warren’s activities include baseball, Marching Band, Jazz Band, and National Honor Society. In his free time, he enjoys drumming, golfing, caddying, and tutoring. Warren credits his parents as having the biggest impact on his life for always encouraging him to pursue his goals academically, athletically, and musically.

Next year, Warren plans to attend Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (Terre Haute, Ind.) and study mechanical engineering while also playing baseball. Warren’s best experience at Ottawa Hills was beating Anthony Wayne his junior year, which was a huge win.

“Warren ranks as one of the best student musicians we've had at OH. His great performance ability is on display at every performance, including the Drum Line, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, and volunteering at choir concerts when extra percussion is needed. His talent on the drum set and mallets is also quite remarkable. In the classroom setting, Warren shows wonderful composition skills in Music Theory. I count us lucky he shares his gift of music with our school and community.” – Michael Leeds, instrumental music director (faculty nominator)

Thomas Lathrop (7th Grade)

Parents: George & Kathy Lathrop

Thomas’ activities include swim, cross country, track, robotics, and Power of the Pen. In his free time, he enjoys writing, reading, running, and hanging out with his family. His favorite class at Ottawa Hills right now is math with Dan Feuerstein because he enjoys problem solving. In the future, he dreams of being an author of fictional stories.

People would be surprised to know that he has already written several novels with the hopes of someday publishing. Thomas’ best experience so far has been Power of the Pen because it has pushed him to continue writing and has created an environment that encourages his creative process.

“Thomas is a great artist, but also a team player. He is kind to everyone and dedicated to his work. He is the first one to offer help to a classmate and is such a help to me this semester. He is one the kindest students I have ever taught.” - Hannah Lehmann, art teacher (faculty nominator)

Timothy Lim (9th Grade)

Parents: Hyonjoon & Youngsun Lim

Tim’s activities include swimming and tennis. In his free time, he enjoys playing games, studying, and biking. Tim credits English teacher Sara Eisenbaum for having the biggest impact on him throughout the year; he appreciates her teaching style and support in the classroom. Tim is new to Ottawa Hills and we are lucky to have him here. 

“Tim is a new student to OH this year. He has demonstrated grit and perseverance with every single assignment he has been given. He asks for feedback even after he revises because he genuinely wants to grow in his speaking, reading, writing, and researching skills. He is kind to his classmates, he is respectful to his teachers, and he maintains a positive attitude even when he struggles with a specific concept. He is the very definition of a leader.” - Sara Eisenbaum, English teacher (faculty nominator)

Keelie Wimmers (11th Grade)

Parents: Dan & Lora Wimmers

Keelie’s activities include volleyball, basketball, softball, Choraliers, Challenge Crew, and Mesasa. In her free time, she enjoys playing sports, hanging out with friends and family, listening to music, andWar baking. Keelie is very grateful that Ottawa Hills now offers American Sign Language with Ashley Gorsuch, because she loves the language.

People would be surprised to know that due to the fact that Keelie has grown up with foster siblings, she is now an aunt to 34 nieces and nephews. The best memories for Keelie have been her athletic experiences and bonding with her teammates. The coaches and players have been Keelie’s support system through the ups and downs of high school. 

“Keelie has always excelled in American Sign Language. She has been a leader from the start by her actions and words. Keelie does not let her age limit her abilities. Keelie helped establish the ASL Club this year and has played a vital role in the overall program, whether she receives recognition or not. Her attitude is one of inclusion and great care for others despite any differences. She strives to help others and spreads that attitude among her peers.” – Ashley Gorsuch, American Sign Language instructor (faculty nominator)

Graydon Begeman (Grade 10)

Parents: Garett & Johanna Begeman

Graydon’s activities include track, cross country, e-sports, and GSA. In his free time, he enjoys Dungeons and Dragons, writing, hanging out with friends, and biking. Gradyon credits his parents and friends as having the biggest positive influence on his life so far. While in school, Graydon enjoys his public speaking class with Ms. (Sara) Eisenbaum and band with Mr. (Michael) Leeds because they are both classes where he is actively engaged the whole time. This year’s Homecoming Dance was his best memory at Ottawa Hills so far, but he knows that there are so many great experiences yet to come. 

“Graydon has a positive attitude with a capital P! His passion for music (and the other musicians in the band) is downright contagious. In our ensemble, I see daily his positive work ethic, grit, support of others, and humor come through in all of his interactions. He embodies the Green Bear Nation spirit and we're proud to have him in our band!” -- Michael Leeds, instrumental music director

Will Berschback (Grade 12)

Parents: Jay & Jenny Berschback

Will’s activities include soccer, basketball, baseball, Volunteer Focus, and Student Council President. In his free time, he enjoys playing guitar and playing more soccer. Will’s best memories from Ottawa Hills have been the soccer team’s state tournament runs. Coach Brian Hanudel has had the biggest impact on Will, teaching him character both on and off the field. He is very thankful for Coach Hanudel and knows that it will be a lifelong friendship. In the future, Will plans to go to college to study aerospace engineering with the hopes of working for NASA or SpaceX. 

"Will is a class leader. He participates with ease and doesn't allow fear of an unknown or 'wrong' answer hold him back from taking risks. He solicits feedback throughout his process and integrates that into creating high quality work. When working with his peers, he is a model of how to use time productively to initiate and complete tasks." -- Sara Eisenbaum, English teacher

Avery Dale (Grade 12)

Parents: Andy & Bethany Dale

Avery’s activities include tennis, lacrosse, OHbreathe, Teen PEP, NHS, Volunteer Focus, and the Challenge Crew. In her free time, she enjoys fashion, trying new foods, and hanging out with family and friends. Avery’s best experience at OH has been being a part of the OHbreathe team, specifically creating the vision behind the program and watching the vision come to life during the OHbreathe days. In the future, Avery plans to study business and fashion with the hopes of moving to New York City. 

"I cannot write enough positive words about Avery. She always shows tremendous compassion and empathy for others. As a leadership team member of the Ottawa Hills Teen PEP program, she is instrumental with helping the group develop compelling and engaging classroom presentations that help guide and mentor our younger students. She is a trustworthy student in our building and enriches our community through her contributions." -- Lisa Nagy, high school guidance counselor

Jasmine Hajjar (Grade 7)

Parents: Elias & Joy Hajjar

Jasmine’s activities include field hockey, theater, Power of the Pen, and robotics. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing poetry, singing, listening to music, and playing the piano. Jasmine credits the theater department, specifically Randall Johnson and Grace Wipfli, for having the greatest impact on her at Ottawa Hills.

Theater has been one of her favorite activities so far and those adults have elevated her experience. Field hockey has also been an incredible experience for Jasmine and she is very much looking forward to next season. People would be surprised to know that Jasmine is a huge hockey fan and never misses a Montreal Canadiens hockey game. GO, HABS, GO!


“Jasmine Hajjar is such a wonderful example of leadership for her 7th Grade peers. Jasmine smiles and speaks to classmates and adults as she passes them in the hall and is respectful at all times. Jasmine has made a smooth transition from elementary to Junior High and is involved in several extracurricular activities, Junior Chorale, and Youth 2 Youth to name a few. Jasmine is passionate about spreading the message of awareness and has been a wonderful attribute to Youth 2 Youth. Jasmine also has been able to stay on top of her school work and continue to get good grades this entire semester.” -- Nikki Tolliver, guidance counselor (grades 7-9)

Ren Berryman (Grade 10)

Parents: Andrea & Eric Berryman

Ren’s activities include theater productions and Avalon Foundations. Ren is also a math tutor and leader of the GSA.  In his free time, Ren enjoys weightlifting, reading, and running his crochet business. 

Ren’s best experience so far at Ottawa Hills High School was the first-ever National Coming Out Day in 2020 and he is very excited about the future of that event. He credits Madame (Noreen) Hanlon for having the most influence on his life throughout high school, supporting and guiding Ren since Junior High. In the future, Ren would like to practice law and work to defend LGBTQ rights.

“Ren is extremely involved in school and after-school programs. He is passionate about the things important to him and always willing to help and volunteer. He is very engaged in class and brings so much to the discussions we have in class. He is a true leader who leads by example, kindness, and passion.”  -- Tracy Richards, health and physical education teacher (and faculty nominator)

Josef Duley (Grade 8)

Parent: Marie & Matthew Duley

Josef's activities include Bear Pause, Science Olympiad, Power of the Pen, and Youth 2 Youth. In his free time, he enjoys video games, basketball, watching The Office, reading, and playing music, including the alto sax and violin. His best experience so far at Ottawa Hills Junior High has been playing in the Fall Collage concert. Josef is new to OH this year and has adapted very well, enjoying all of his classes, particularly honors geometry with Mr. Feuerstein.

“Josef has done a wonderful job academically and making sure that he's apart of multiple extracurricular activities. Josef is part of our newly formed Youth 2 Youth group and on the school newspaper. Josef is respectful, always has a smile on his face and eager and willing to help when needed. He is a wonderful example of leadership.” -- Nikki Tolliver, guidance counselor (and faculty nominator)

Dylan Fall (Grade 12)

Parents: Tracy & Craig Fall

Dylan’s activities include band and Esports, where he is captain of the Super Smash Brothers Ultimate Team. Band has been Dylan’s favorite class; having started with very little music experience, he now is a leader in the percussion section and has found a community and teacher that he appreciates. Dylan’s best experience at Ottawa Hills High School was the band trip to Toronto. In the future, Dylan plans to attend college and major in business and graphic design.

“Dylan has been a pillar in our music program. His transformation from section player into leader has been nothing short of remarkable. His passion for making things the BEST they can be is infectious! In the classroom, Dylan goes above and beyond in working to understand music theory. I'm glad to have him in our music classes, and our music program is better off for having Dylan.”  -- Michael Leeds, instrumental music director (and faculty nominator)

Faith Seo (Grade 12)

Parents: Yongwoo & Mary Seo

Faith's activities include volleyball, OHbreathe, Model UN, and Diversity Board. In her free time, Faith enjoys spending time with friends, listening to music, drawing, and playing guitar. She credits her parents as having the biggest impact on her throughout high school. They have supported her passions and provided her with opportunities to grow. In the future, Faith plans to attend college and study computer science and design.  

“As a newcomer to the Mesasa staff this year, Faith has stepped up to design the yearbook cover - never an easy task. Faith has taken on the challenge with grace and skill and has worked with senior staff members to help integrate an amazing color scheme for the Mesasa 2022!”  -- Dr. Lauren Hurst, English teacher (and faculty nominator)

Leila Clausen (Grade 12)

Parent: Kori Clausen

Leila’s activities include tennis and track. In her free time, she enjoys walks, hanging out with friends, and working at Sip Coffee. The person who has most influenced her life is her mother who has always encouraged her to try new things outside of her comfort zone.

Leila’s favorite class is English because she enjoys writing. In the future, Leila plans to go to college and also backpack around Europe. 

“Leila is a positive force in class and outside of it. She happily works with any of her peers and regularly makes people feel at ease. When others are absent she fills them in on what they missed, helps them to develop their writing through giving feedback, and takes feedback to strengthen her own narrative writing.” – Sara Eisenbaum, faculty nominator
 

Olga Isailović (Grade 10)

Parents: Dragan & Slavica Isailović

Olga’s activities include Quiz Bowl, Student Council, Volunteer Focus, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, and French Club. In her free time, she enjoys writing, reading, studying foreign languages, listening to music, fashion design, drawing, and watching old movies. Olga’s favorite classes are French and Spanish because she appreciates the language and communication skills she has adopted. 

In the future, Olga would like to attend a small university where she can pursue her goals of learning six languages and preparing for a career as a writer. Olga’s best experience so far at Ottawa Hills High School was after a tough loss for the varsity volleyball team, the team came together and encouraged one another.

People would be surprised to know that Olga has a strong love for Pellegrino and white Tic Tacs. 

“Olga is constantly engaged in class and actively participating. Public speaking can be daunting for many students, but if it is for her, she never shows that. Her confidence and enthusiasm are infectious and she continually goes above and beyond in the quality of her work.” – Sara Eisenbaum, faculty nominator

Blaise Malczewski (Grade 12)

Parents: Jason and Beth Malczewski

Blaise’s activities include Model UN and Mesasa. He also is on the OH News with his own segments, Bears in the Box Office and A Day in History. In his free time, he enjoys working at Blaze Pizza, researching historical events, biking, and skateboarding.

Blaise credits teachers Jessica Kozy and James Kinkaid as having the most impact on him. Ms. Kozy’s enthusiastic support has cultivated his love for history. Mr. Kinkaid has encouraged Blaise to reach his potential both in the classroom and in his own personal journey through high school.

Outside of the classroom, Blaise’s best experience so far at Ottawa Hills was the exciting first day of senior year. In the future, Blaise would like to go to college and study history and political science. 

“Blaise has shown since day one an enthusiasm for reading and discussion that has been wonderful to see. He engages at a very deep level and what he shares is highly intellectual. He is a positive peer and is able to maintain focus on the task at hand. He leads by example!” – Sara Eisenbaum, faculty nominator

Caitlin McCarthy (Grade 8)

Parents: Joe & Barb McCarthy

Caitlin’s activities include cross country, track, swim, GSA, Science Olympiad, and Bear Pause. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing the piano, art, and downhill skiing. Caitlin has greatly enjoyed Ottawa Hills since moving here, including the teachers, the football games, and new friends.

Her favorite class in junior high is science. In the future, she plans to go to college and study medicine. 

“In a year that has begun with so many distractions and challenges, Caitlin remains positive and focused. Regardless of what is going on around her, she takes advantage of what each day brings with enthusiasm, curiosity, and hard work.” –Paul Genzman, faculty nominator