St. Mary’s Springs Academy (SMSA) is pleased to announce the graduating Class of 2024’s Co-Valedictorians, John Coon V. and Weston Huempfner, and the Salutatorian, Klaudia Sullivan. As Co-Valedictorians, John and Weston both obtained a cumulative GPA of 4.308. They expressed that they are equally excited to receive this honor, and believe it is made even more special being able to share it with their best friend! Naming each other as their biggest motivator, their friendly competition in the classroom and through athletics is what has kept them pushing for this achievement throughout their high school years. When asked what life lessons they take with them from their time at SMSA, John stated, “to persevere, and offer it up to the Lord,” and attributes his success in school to asking questions. “Asking questions is the only way to fully understand what you are learning. I am a perfectionist and I ask many questions in order to get things right. Many teachers joke with me about the amount of questions I ask, but without them I would not have been successful.” Having learned countless lessons throughout his last four years at SMSA, Weston stated, “the one that has stuck out most to me has been delayed gratification. When faced with difficult and overwhelming tasks, it can be difficult to see the end goal, but overcoming these obstacles makes success even more fulfilling.” His advice to students on maintaining good grades, “keep your nose to the grindstone.” As the Class of 2024’s Salutatorian,with a cumulative GPA of 4.182, Klaudia expressed that her
mom has been her biggest motivation, showing her the immense power education has, especially as a young woman. Klaudia shared, “becoming a first generation college student has also been my motivation to open up even more opportunities that were not possible for those before me.” She offered, “being motivated and disciplined, changed my mindset.” Klaudia saw, “each assignment as a learning opportunity and each exam as a challenge to conquer instead of something I just had to do.” Her biggest life lesson learned during her time at SMSA, “that you get back exactly what you give.” Klaudia’s tireless dedication to the pursuit of academic excellence has also earned her the 2024 Herb Kohl Student Excellence Scholarship. As a recipient of this scholarship, and due to her exceptional academic career, leadership, citizenship, school and community involvement, Klaudia will receive a $10,000 award. The Herb Kohl scholarship is awarded annually to graduating high school seniors who exemplify hard work, achievements, and service. As John, Weston and Klaudia prepare to embark on their next journey, they describe the entirety of their high school experience each in one word, “fulfilling,” “exhausting,” and “valuable.” They feel blessed with the support of their family, friends and their Ledger community. Congratulations to John, Weston and Klaudia, along with the entire Class of 2024! As you cross
the stage on June 2nd, you will conclude your time as a student on The Ledge, but remain important members of the St. Mary’s Springs Academy community as Ledgers for Life!
