Amelia Hansen
To The Forest Scout, Amelia Hansen is an editor. To her friends, classmates, and family she is an irreplaceable source of joy, support and laughter – or even just someone to go to Starbucks with.
Throughout her years at LFHS, Hansen has been nothing if not determined. With college application and decision season finally coming to an end, she is proud to be heading to the University of Wisconsin – Madison.
Her method of celebration: slapping Wisconsin stickers everywhere! (She has three on her computer alone.)
From taking photos in Badger gear as a little girl, to her brother Jake Hansen also going there, she was always a Badger. And that’s not the only impressive thing about her.
Over the past four years, she has taken multiple AP courses, and been actively involved in many extracurriculars such as student council, NHS, Student to Student, and the Lake Forest Varsity Dance Team. Did I mention she is a two-time state champ as well?
With her final season on the varsity dance team coming to an end, she has truly left her mark as a dedicated teammate.
“Amelia comes to practice every day ready to work. She is unflappable under pressure and is incredibly dedicated to the sport. She is such a beautiful dancer whose technique and power stand out, and Amelia is constantly pushing herself and teammates towards their goals!” junior Mia Konkol said.
Hansen’s impact goes far beyond her talent on the floor, what truly sets her apart is her love and support for her teammates.
“My first impression of Amelia was how welcoming, kind, and inclusive she is. Remembering my own experience making the team, and watching other teammates making the team, she’s always made sure everyone felt welcome and supported,” Konkol said.
And let not forget, she is an editor of the Forest Scout! (hence the theme of this Friday Five.)
“Amelia is usually the first editor I turn to whether I need help with editing, formatting, or any other logistical questions. Her feedback is thoughtful and genuine, and having her on the editing team this year has truly been a privilege,” senior Editor-in-Chief Lyla Carney said.
Writing your own stories on top of editing others stories can be hard enough as it is, Hansen does it while also winning two “Best of SNO” awards.
“One of the things I admire most about Amelia is her incredible ability to make everything she commits to feel like a top priority. This can apply to her schoolwork, extracurriculars, or even her job as an editor. Even when I send her one of my rough drafts that’s nothing short of a jumbled mess, I know I can count on her to give her full attention,” Carney said. “I’m so grateful to be friends with someone who consistently gives 110% to both people around her and the things she’s passionate about.”
But she isn’t only about academics and extracurriculars– she is a bubbly and outgoing person.
“Amelia has such a fun and vibrant personality that’s hard not to love. Her energy draws people to her, and I’m lucky to call her my best friend,” senior Grace Clark said.
In her free time, If you want to make her forever happy, just take her to Cava or mention the word “coffee”.
You might also catch Amelia walking with her dog around Lake Bluff. But just know, Brooklyn isn’t just her dog to her, she is a celebrity. Even if you’re meeting Amelia for the first time, chances are you will also meet her dog.
Michaela Barry
Senior Micheala Barry has clearly impacted the lives of many at LFHS, bringing her passion and enthusiasm into every day spent in these halls.
During her final year at LFHS, she was highly involved: captain of the Girls Varsity Tennis team, CSL Chair of CROYA, and a beloved editor for The Forest Scout.
As Varsity Tennis Captain, Barry brings the utmost energy and charisma into every practice and match. Her value is recognized by many of her teammates and co-captains, and she has proven that success on the court comes from hard work and dedication, though having a good laugh is just as important.
“It’s such a cliche to say, but Michaela is genuinely the funniest person I have ever met. During tennis season, I’m so excited to go to practice each day and debrief our days on the court,” said junior Carm Ventura, Barry’s teammate. “Even if we are going on a long run or doing a complex drill I can trust I will be laughing so hard with her!”
As CROYA Service and Leadership chair, Barry has formulated new ideas to create a greater sense of community for the organization.
“Michaela has been an integral part in making CROYA a special place these past four years. Her time on exec has inspired others to become leaders, just like her,” said Catherine Lawiniczak, CROYA’s high school director. “Not only has she attended nearly everything we have to offer, but she also encourages everyone to do the same. We will miss the warm, fun energy Michaela brings through the doors every week here at CROYA.”
Barry’s tight knit family has had a great impact on her high school experience. “Growing up with Michaela and getting to be in school with her, it’s evident that she will always be up for something and show up with a smile on her face,” said Barry’s cousin, LFHS alumna, Lulu Flavin. “One of my favorite things about her is how infectious her fun spirit is. She is most definitely a get along girl and up for any and all kinds of challenges that come her way.”
“I can’t imagine high school without Michaela. Her inclusivity and constant positivity and attitude have made it incredible,” said sophomore Bain Flavin.
Throughout her high school career, Barry’s charm and enthusiasm have had sensational impacts on many, and will continue to serve her well at Fairfield University and beyond.
Clara Collis
It’s 5:30 a.m., and you catch a glimpse into the window of the popular Toned Yoga. You will inevitably see weights swinging in the air, steam rising from the class’s sweat, and most notably, you’ll catch Clara Collis with her mat front and center, showing everyone how it’s done.
Clara brings that same go-getter energy to her everyday life while displaying her charisma, zest, and charm. Anyone who knows Clara personally is lucky to have her by their side. Her childhood best friend, Gianna Lagunas, can attest.
“She’s an amazing friend who is always down for a good time. She loves all things yoga, and she is very motivated,” said Lagunas.
Additionally, Clara is very involved at LFHS. She is a member of the student council and president of special events. All events, from school dances to senior breakfasts, are managed and planned in part by Clara. She brings her innovative ideas to the table in order to selflessly better the student body of LFHS.
Those who are close to Clara know that she loves to document her life through numerous photos, videos, and vlogs. Her eye for aesthetics is unmatched, which makes for her countless entertaining TikToks videos.
Clara doesn’t only have a great eye for media- those who are close to Clara know her best quality is her personality. Whether you have known her for 10 years or met her 10 minutes ago, you are guaranteed a connection with Clara. She has a bubbly personality and will undoubtedly greet you with a genuine smile on her face.
Clara is also an exceptional student who holds her academic career as a priority.
“Clara is a very conscientious student. She aims to do well and works hard to succeed. She always writes with a great voice and lets her personality shine through her writing, ” said English teacher Carolyn Konz.
Next year, Clara is furthering her education at Southern Methodist University, where she will pursue a major in communications. She is bound to thrive and continue her academic success in Texas.
Clara is such a joy to have in your life. She inspires everyone around her to push themselves as a student, friend, and person as a whole.
Sara Drowne
At every school, there are seniors who leave a mark that lasts long after they graduate. This year, Sara Drowne is most definitely one of them.
As an In-LFHS editor for The Forest Scout, Sara has excelled as a content producer and mentor. Many staff writers describe her as approachable and encouraging, always offering thoughtful feedback that makes their writing feel important.
“Sara has always offered to help me edit anything I’ve made for TFS, and she has the most positive approach to her editing process. I know that I can count on Sara; she offers meaningful advice on how to make my pieces the best they can be,” senior Maggie Gilleran said. “The stories she writes are amazing and she has continued to inspire me so much.”
Sara is not only a stellar editor, but she expands her strong leadership abilities to many other activities at LFHS. Sara was the captain of the JV dance team her sophomore year and she is currently a leader for Scout Nation. Senior Graydon Duncan, another Scout Nation leader, attests that Sara has been a vital part of the club in promoting school spirit this past year.
“Sara is a very hardworking person and it’s always evident that she cares about what she’s doing, whether it’s cheering at sports games or setting up events like the women in sports day, she is always helping to better the school community,” Graydon said.
Her work ethic is admired by many. Whether she’s studying, volunteering, babysitting or working as a lifeguard in the summer, she approaches every task with genuine effort. Her teachers especially applaud her enthusiastic energy and her willingness to collaborate.
“Sara is a rockstar. What is so awesome about her is that she brings her authentic personality to class each and every day. She is passionate about her schoolwork and compassionate towards her fellow classmates. My class wouldn’t be the same without her,” Mr. Del Fava said.
Across campus, many people know Sara for her friendly demeanor. Her big heart blossomed in a home full of girls, shaped by her younger and older sister. Sophomore Lyla Drowne, her younger sister, knows that she can always lean on Sara.
“Sara always knows how to cheer me up in any situation. Even after a bad day, after talking with her, she is the only person who can leave me with a smile on my face,” Lyla said.
Despite her busy schedule, Sara makes time for all of the things and people in her life that matter most to her. She has a remarkable way of making everyone around her feel seen, ensuring that they know their presence is valued. Sara’s cousin, junior Tess Uihlein, has grown up alongside her, and she cherishes their special bond of having both a best friend and family member in one.
“Anyone who knows Sara knows that she is such a good friend. Just the other day I saw her all the way down the hall and she ran over to me, gave me a hug, and then ran back,” Tess said. “When my parents go out of town I always get excited because I know I get to stay with Sara. It doesn’t matter if we’re painting each other’s nails, coloring, or at family dinners, Sara’s company is the best.”
Throughout her time at LFHS, Sara has built countless meaningful relationships. She will be dearly missed by her friends, teachers, teammates, and fellow student-journalists. The Forest Scout has been extremely lucky to have Sara as an editor, and so many people are excited to watch her thrive at the University of Tennessee next year. Go Vols!
Stella Henretta
Senior Stella Henretta is widely known for bringing positive energy into every room she enters. Her hardworking attitude and her friendly face are what make her the best Scout she can be.
Stella has been a part of The Forest Scout for two years, making her way to the top as an Opinion Editor. Although her opinions are strong, her heart is stronger, making her approachable to the entire Forest Scout staff.
“Stella has been a phenomenal editor this year. I joined the class in the second semester, and Stella was so quick to reach out and support me in any way she could. She has taught me so much about journalism and the Forest Scout as a whole, and I know everyone is so grateful for her,” said junior Eden Vishnuvbakt.
Stella is not only an incredible editor, but also a stellar athlete. Stella has been a part of the tennis program at LFHS for four years, playing on the varsity team for three. She played doubles this year with her partner, Michaela Barry.
“Stella was the absolute best person to spend my senior season with,” Barry said. “She was such an encouraging partner, and we had such an amazing balance of working hard while having fun on the court!”
In her free time, Stella tends to spend her days thrift shopping with friends or creating pieces of her own. She has a unique sense of style and stays true to it. Stella is able to express her creativity through her fashion and presents her originality within. Stella makes all different types of jewelry/accessories and is exceedingly talented.
Stella will attend the University of Maryland in the fall. She plans to major in Journalism and continue her career by writing for the school paper, The Diamondback. Stella has always had a passion for journalism, so it will be exciting to see her pursue her dream in college.
Whether she’s on the tennis court, in the journalism classroom, or with her friends, Stella has made lasting impacts on the students and staff at LFHS.
