Laura Quan

“Do you know the answer to this problem?” No, but there’s a good chance that junior Laura Quan does. 

As a math team member, tutor, and pianist, Quan’s brain is constantly whirling. If her activities list isn’t impressive enough, her intelligence certainly is. Not only is Quan enrolled in all honors and AP classes—such as AP Calc BC, Biology, and Chinese Language—but she’s earning an A+ in all of them.

“Laura was without a doubt my hardest working and highest achieving student in AP Chemistry last year. The most amazing thing is that she never showed a bit of stress: cool as a cucumber!” said her former teacher Mr. Nitin Patel.

You would never know about Quan’s successes, however, because of how humble and selfless she is. Instead of lifting herself up, Quan devotes most of her time to helping others. It’s not unusual to find her managing the summer reading table at Lake Forest Library; she’s accumulated over 150 volunteer hours working there the past two years. She’s also a math tutor for Math Analysis Honors and tutors other students outside of class. 

“She is always helping me understand concepts as my TA and helps me with any questions we have in Mandarin class,” said junior and long-time friend Elizabeth Fahlbusch.

With all her STEM expertise, it’s no surprise that Quan is an essential part of the LFHS math team. Recently, she earned 9th place on the written Algebra II event at the math team’s regional event and is heading to state for the team in April.

“Laura is the most conscientious person I know and has been a role model of mine all throughout high school. In all pursuits—from chemistry to math team—she tries her hardest, making her invaluable to every activity she participates in,” said junior and friend Matthew Kim. 

Additionally, Quan is a member of the Stitch Club, Tennis Team, and Varsity Badminton Team. Her unique set of skills—such as crocheting a blanket from scratch or slamming a birdie across the net—proves that she can conquer anything she puts her mind to.  

Although she stands out for her academic drive and helpful nature, her kind and hilarious personality are what her friends value the most. Quan’s nickname—an iquan (instead of icon)—highlights how appreciated and respected she is among her peers.

“She has so many great qualities that make her iquanic,” said Fahlbusch. 

Sandy Lacasse

Surviving freshman year can be hard.  A classmate like Sandy Lacasse,  who is known for his infectious personality and for being a great friend, can make it a lot easier. 

Sandy makes including olook easy with his impressive ability to make friends. All his friends can talk about is how kind Sandy is.

Most people will know Sandy from being a great athlete. Specifically, Sandy excels at lacrosse.

“I met Sandy playing lacrosse when we were young. We really bonded in the 7th grade, mostly due to his kindness towards me and others. He’s always been a stud on the lax field as well, always dishing the ball to his teammates. Overall Sandy’s very selfless; that’s what makes him such a good friend,” freshman Colin McMahon said.

Even though lacrosse is his main sport, golf comes naturally to him.

“Sandy is a great friend. He is nice and good at golf. He is also great to be around and because he is kind and respectful to others,” freshman Callan Wereley said.

Although Sandy is committed to being a great friend and teammate, he is also very committed to being a great younger brother. Sandy takes it upon himself to be the best version of himself everyday, whether that be at home, in school, or on the field.

“He doesn’t stop talking. Give him anything to talk about and he will go on for hours, “ his junior brother Teddy Lacasse said.  

Mrs. Janene Kessler

Band Director Janene Kessler, who has been the director since 2002, has been a pivotal member of LFHS. You can count on her music being played at every football game, basketball game, and the State walkout.

Senior Jonathan Hough, who has played Saxophone in Wind Ensemble (the advanced Band class) for all four years, says Kessler is one of the hardest workers in the school.

“If you follow Mrs. Kessler for a day, you will notice that she barely has a minute to herself. Whether arranging music, talking to the athletic directors regarding various events, or helping manage the European Music trips, she is on her feet constantly,” Hough said. 

Despite Kessler’s consistent workload, she makes an effort to connect with students personally. 

“When applying to colleges, recommendations are one of the strongest parts of your application. I knew I had to ask Mrs. Kessler to write mine as she strives to make the strongest connection possible with her students, regardless of their musical talent,” senior trombone player Sohil Purohit said.

Hough could only agree with Purohit’s comments.

“I also asked her to write my letter of recommendation, as she is one of the only people in the school who has seen me grow, not only as a musician but as a person,” Hough remarked. 

Kessler’s dedication to music and her students has left a strong impression. Whether leading the Marching Band at the football games, ensuring every sport or extracurricular is properly represented on their walkouts, or offering support to her students beyond music, her influence reaches far beyond the notes on a page. As the concerts, football games, and pep rallies fly by, Kessler remains a powerful foundation of LFHS’ community.                         

Raunak Wadhera

One of the upcoming golfing stars, sophomore Raunak Wadhera  has quickly become a mainstay of the Scouts’ Boys Golf Team, hitting the ground running in his sophomore season. His outstanding skill set has noticeably heightened the competitiveness of the team.

“Raunak’s drive and focus on the course are amazing,” said teammate Powell Brickman.

FAt the Sectional Tournament at Randall Oaks Golf Club, Raunak shot an impressive 78, playing a key role in securing the Sectional Championship for LFHS and advancing the team to the State Tournament.

“When we needed a big performance, Raunak delivered,” said senior Jack Walsh. “He has the maturity and composure of someone who has played for a while.”

At the state finals at The Den at Fox Creek in Bloomington, Raunak maintained his excellent play, shooting 77 on the first day and closing with a two-day total of 158, demonstrating his consistency and dependability.

“Watching Raunak play is crazy to see,” shared teammate Michael Hahn. “He pushes everyone to work harder.” 

Beyond the Green of the course, Raunak is known for his friendly personality and supportive attitude, making him liked among his friends.

“Raunak is not just good at golf but a good friend and person,” said classmate Ammen Yosuf. “He always cheers people up with his funny jokes.”

With two more years ahead at LFHS, Raunak Wadhera is a name to remember.

Hannah Conley

Senior Hannah Conley is a real life cheerleader. 

She possesses a natural ability to  make people feel special about themselves, with or without her LFHS uniform on. 

In moments where most people would overlook the opportunity to congratulate someone, Conley easily recognizes when others deserve acknowledgement, and she is consistently the first to extend her praise.

“She hypes me up when no one else does,” senior Michaela Barry said. 

Conley does this at times when those around her may not even be aware of the fact that their efforts are worthy of being appreciated. 

Whether it be a momentous milestone or a minor achievement, she seamlessly generates an environment where others can feel proud of themselves and their progress, no matter the size of the accomplishment.

“Even if it is something as small as saying something properly in Spanish class, Hannah will find a way to make me feel good about myself,” Barry said. 

Her uplifting demeanor is also part of what makes her such a valuable asset to the Varsity Cheer Team. As she roots for the players on the field, she rallies behind her teammates to ensure that they too feel supported. 

“Hannah is truly one of the sweetest people you will ever meet and will always know how to brighten your day. I know that I can turn to Hannah if I’m having a good or bad day and she will make me laugh,” senior teammate Helena Florjancic said.

Conley will always find the time to ensure that the people around her feel valued and appreciated— a quality that is hard to come by in many people.

So, if you are ever in need of a mental pick-me-up… find Conley.