Mallory Zilka

Freshman Mallory Zilka is the epitome of hard work. Everything Mallory does is done with her best foot forward and full effort. This spring, Zilka made the Girls Varsity Lacrosse team as a freshman. Her teammates and coaches can attest to her laser focus and extreme dedication to the team—even just a couple months into the season.

“Mallory has been such a great addition to the team this year,” said Varsity Lacrosse Captain Phoebe Silver. “You can tell she is such a hard worker and always plays for the team. Mallory always puts in 100% effort in everything she does and is never intimidated to step up,” added Silver.

Mallory’s teammates notice her growth at every game and practice, and her skills continue to progress. 

“I can tell she has so much potential and will only get better in her next three years on the team,” said Phoebe Silver.

Alongside lacrosse, Mallory attends a youth group every Sunday she can at the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest. Every meeting she attends, she gains “work trip points” so she can attend the annual Work Trip that the church offers for high schoolers. The dedication that Mallory possesses isn’t just seen by her peers, but specifically by her mentors, too.  

“I loved having Mallory as an 8th grader all year in our Confirmation class and was so happy to have her join us this year for the High School Youth Group,” said the youth director at LF First Presbyterian Church, Anne Winebrenner. “She’s a hard worker and a great friend, and she will be an excellent partner on any work site,” added Anne Winebrenner.

On the theme of Mallory’s commitment, her friendships are near and dear to her heart. Zilka shows up for her friends each and every day. She makes sure that all of her peers feel included, no matter the circumstances.

“Mallory was so inclusive on our confirmation retreat last year, and we have already gotten to bond so much through youth group, even though we’re only freshmen. She is so easy to talk to and super encouraging—especially when it comes to sports!” said freshman Eloise Mulliken.

Mallory is one of those people whose leadership qualities come naturally. She is someone you can depend on to get the job done. She’s always there if you need someone to make you smile and has her friends and teammates’ backs. If Mallory sets a goal, she will be sure to live up to it. All in all, everyone should strive for Mallory’s drive!

TC Weninger

TC Weninger? Even if you don’t know him personally, I guarantee that you’ve only heard good things. He’s one of those people everyone seems to have a great story about–and that alone tells you everything you need to know. 

TC’s friends describe him as the guy who you can always count on to greet you with a big smile. He has a natural ability to make those around him feel better just by being there. 

“TC is never without a smile on his face. Once he starts laughing, everyone else starts laughing too. Every time I get a message from TC, he says hello to me with ‘Yo, it’s me, TC (the legend),” said junior Shea Milliman.

He’s built a reputation for being dependable, thoughtful, and the kind of person who makes a long-lasting impression on others. He consistently shows up for the people he cares about, and he makes life fun.

“TC is a very energetic young man. He makes people laugh with his unusual sarcasm and raises everyone’s mood. TC is always caring and loves to help when someone is in need,” said junior James Altounian. 

As a student, TC has a way of bringing positive energy into any classroom he walks into. Some might call him a “class clown,” but that misses the point–his humour is quick, effortless, and often brings people together in laughter; his Law Honors teacher, Mr. Goldstein, can happily attest to that. 

“If Fred Armisen and Kristin Wiig had a child together, it would be TC. He is hilarious without even trying. I wish he were in all of my classes,” Mr. Goldstein said. 

One of TC’s favorite hobbies is to go fishing with his buddies. They often drive up to Wisconsin to camp and cook out at various lakes and rivers, sharing their love for the outdoors. 

At LFHS, TC has taken on a leadership role as one of the “Lead Instructors” in the Lake Forest Fly Fishing Club, which is a student-driven club focused on getting students out into nature and teaching the art of fly fishing through shared experiences on the water and in the classroom.

Co-Lead Instructor Teddy Atzeff has watched TC excel in his role. He’s watched him thrive as an instructor during meetings and while they’re out fishing together. 

“I’ve been fly fishing with TC a handful of times, and you can just tell he’s been fishing since the day he was born. He’s just a pure angler—he’ll catch a fish no matter the condition. Whether that’s a weighted treble or a net, he’s catching a fish,” said Atzeff. 

TC is the kind of guy that anyone would be lucky to call a friend. He doesn’t try to be the center of attention, but somehow, people are drawn to him anyway. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the water, or just among friends, TC has a way of turning ordinary moments into memorable ones. 

Haley Helfrich

Haley Helfrich represents everything it means to be a Lake Forest Scout. The passion, drive, and enthusiasm she brings every day are something that seems effortless.

Her hard work and dedication to the things she loves do not go unnoticed by her peers and coaches.

“Haley is one of the most determined athletes at Lake Forest. She has worked hard to become a member of both the varsity field hockey and girls lacrosse teams, but she did not stop there,” said varsity field hockey and lacrosse coach Cat. “She continues to work hard to become the best teammate she can be with her infectious attitude and relentless dedication.”

She goes above and beyond to brighten the days of those around her and is the kind of teammate who always celebrates others’ goals as much as her own.

Helfrich approaches every game and practice, whether it’s at 8 am on a Saturday or after a long day of school, with genuine enthusiasm and never fails to offer words of encouragement to her teammates.

“Haley is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met. In both lacrosse and field hockey, Haley puts her full effort into everything, especially in the off-season,” said Varsity Lacrosse Captain Claire Borega. “She has worked her way up to be a starter on the lacrosse team because of her dedication to the sport. She also achieved this because of her great attitude and teamwork.”

Off the field, she’s just as impactful. Her humor and fervor for everything she does make her the kind of person people are just naturally drawn to.

In every sense, she’s more than just a talented athlete. She’s the kind of person who makes a lasting impact on her teammates, friends, teachers, and anyone lucky enough to know her.

“She’s one of the most supportive friends I could ask for. I can always count on her to have my back in any and every situation,” said sophomore Emmalyn Nevin.

Being only a sophomore, Helfrich has a very bright future ahead of her, whether that’s on the field or off.

Mrs. Kelly Dexter

When thinking about a dual credit class, many people tend to think about the daunting responsibilities, the never-ending work, and the fact that they may not even understand the rigor. But right when you hear the words “Alright, guys, let’s go,” everything seems to make sense. 

Mrs. Kelly Dexter isn’t just an Accounting Honors teacher; she has also taught Personal Finance, Business Entrepreneurship, Accounting, Business Technology, and Management. 

Her curriculum not only prepares students for college but also for life beyond high school, using videos and real-world examples. She truly is the hub for all things money, business, and beyond. 

“Mrs. Dexter’s class is super interesting, and I’ve learned so many valuable skills. She makes class super fun and engaging, and I always look forward to 5th period,” Personal Finance student Evelyn Marshall said. 

Beyond Dexter’s teaching, Dexter also played Division 1 basketball at the University of Illinois. Through her competitive mindset and D1 energy, you’re sure to have a lively class. 

“When I’m in her class, I notice her energy is always positive and keeps the class engaged. She is very in touch with the students’ lives,” senior, accounting honors student John White said. “She is one of the chillest teachers I have!” 

Beyond the classroom, Dexter is a devoted mom of three. Whether she’s sharing stories about an upcoming volleyball tournament or her son’s competitive basketball game, she speaks about her children with pride and admiration. 

Besides her busy schedule balancing work and motherhood, Dexter makes time for herself by doing her favorite things like playing basketball, softball, volleyball, tennis, and reading. 

In a world where financial literacy is overlooked or deemed unimportant, Dexter’s class gives advice that many adults wish they had learned sooner. 

Ruth Dan

Hard-working, positive, genius. These are just some words that describe senior Ruth Dan. As a high-level AP student and a girl of many talents, Ruth is an overachieving Scout.

Ruth is currently in her final LFHS sports season, running sprints with the Girls Track Team. Her teammates have seen her kindness and positivity through and through over the years.

Fellow track team member and senior Laurie Arsenault shares what kind of teammate Ruth has been over the years.

“At practice and meets, she always strives to help you grow and always has a positive attitude,” said Laurie.

Outside of sports, she is a leader this year in the band and choir programs—directly involved with many extracurricular programs. Ruth has been a vital member for years in these programs, constantly improving her skills and uplifting her peers. 

Though Ruth is not just an athlete and performer, but a very helpful hand in the classroom. To get any notes you missed, have as a lab partner, or talk to after a difficult test, Ruth is a light for her classmates.

“She is so committed and cheerful every day. I know she’s always there to help people out,” said senior Audrey Marx. “She’s a queen.”

Ruth is an exemplary, well-rounded student at LFHS. Over the past four years, she has without a doubt made her mark and a lasting impact on the school.