Voices Ringing
Carroll High School Blog
Class of 2025 Artist Gallery
Introducing our Class of 2025 AP Artists
The AP Artists in the Carroll Class of 2025 invite you to view this special creators' gallery and learn about the inspiration behind their art!
Allison Arias-Rodriguez
I've always liked art since I was very young, but I never really thought much of it. I doodled here and there, hoping something would look good. My aunt was my inspiration because she is a very good artist, and I wanted to be just like her. Once I reached 8th grade, I applied for an art scholarship here at Carroll. I wasn't specifically good at it then, but I thought I’d give it a chance. Somehow, I earned it.
During my first year, I didn't do much, but I learned some new techniques and refined my sketching skills at most. Going into sophomore year, I began taking art more seriously, and I learned a lot. I tried different mediums and decided which ones I liked and didn't. I had lots of fun. You won’t find any pieces from those years on my display, but you will find the product of all that learning and hard work.
My junior and senior years, I have been in AP Art and had the freedom to choose what to draw and in which mediums. Putting all that learning from the previous year with motivation to paint things I like helped me break through. I don’t consider myself to be the kind of artist who has been good at it since birth. I was taught and self-made with hard work and a hint of perfectionism. My journey has not been the most exciting, but it has shown me that it's possible to accomplish things you never thought you could. Here you’ll see all that progress coming from a regular girl who sketches.
Allison Walls
I am so grateful that you have taken time out of your day to view my artwork! To many of those reading this — you have been my biggest supporters, and neither I nor my art would be where it is today without your never-ending support, guidance, and confidence in my abilities. You have inspired me to keep pursuing art and my dreams in more ways than one.
The true beginning of my journey in art began when I was about ten years old at an art studio in Fairborn, the Terri Lynn Art Studio and Gallery. My passion for art grew while spending many hours on Fridays after school painting. Through Miss Terri’s instruction at the studio, I developed my painting skills from the ground up. I credit Miss Terri for giving me my eye for art. She knows more than anyone about my common dissatisfaction with my artwork, but luckily for me, her patience never ceases to run out. She has worked with me for many years, ensuring I am happy with the outcome of the pieces I create.
In my school education, I have also been blessed with the best art teachers: most notably, Ms. Joanne Von Sossan, who was my art educator from 1st through 8th grade at St. Peter Catholic School, and Mrs. Renee Merland, who I have had the privilege of being instructed by in Studio Art and AP Art courses for the past three years. From a young age, Ms. Von Sossan introduced me to many of the foundational art elements, specifically color theory and perspective. I vividly recall learning about the color wheel and creating one-point perspective drawings in her art class. The basis of art that she provided me with still proves useful in my artwork today, and I look back at the constructive criticism she gave me on projects fondly as it always kept me growing as a young artist. On the other hand, Mrs. Merland has been instrumental in taking me through the process of forming my art portfolio throughout high school. Under her expertise, I have learned to develop deeper meaning in my art and have grasped the ability to infuse pieces of my inner being within my work. I’ve grown to a place now where I like to believe that my art is an extension of myself and my take on the world.
That being said, my art is often sporadic. I don’t plan my paintings far in advance, but rather I paint whatever resonates with me at the time. This is why the subject matter of my art involves an assortment of all kinds of places, people, and objects. I use moments of inspiration as my guiding compass. While my subject matter often fluctuates, my style does not. I tend to stick to painting realistically, and I find that my favorite compliment to receive is when people say my work looks like a photograph. This is the beauty of realism. Realism allows me to recreate a moment in time and capture its stillness. Nothing else can quite convey the true sentiment and emotion of a moment in time like art can.
As time evolves, so does perception. In the phase of your life that you are currently navigating, I hope that you are able to connect with my art and find your own meaning within the brushstrokes I’ve laid out on these canvases. Although art tells a story on its own, my wish is that from this written statement you have gathered a little more about me, my creative process, and my journey in becoming an artist. I am excited to turn the page and see what the next chapter of my life holds!
Andersyn Heaton
Art has always been a big part of my life. My mother is an art teacher at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic School, and my sister has always been very good at art and grew up to be an architect. I have always been given artistic freedom in my own home and been supported by everyone to fulfill my love for art. That was why I decided to go to Archbishop Carroll High School – because of the art program. Art, to me, has always been a place of relaxation and peace. It has been something that I can do if I am bored, as a hobby, or as a place to show my emotions and how I am feeling. I believe that art is a way to express your emotions in a way that not everyone can understand. That is why not everyone can understand art. Because art is such a big part of my life, it has been very important to me. I am so grateful for the opportunity that the Carroll art program has given me.
I think what most inspires me in art is colors and looking at other pieces of art. My art is always exactly what I am thinking when it comes to showing emotion and being a representation of myself. Whether you understand art or not, I think all art deserves to be seen and cared about. It is important for everyone to understand that you don’t have to like the way someone's art looks in order to care about it. Always be kind when it comes to art and all things. Thank you for viewing my artwork.
Aubrey Volkerding
Art has always meant so much to me ever since I was a little girl. I've always had a desire to be an artist and had the dream that I would become an art teacher so I could spread my love of art to other people. Now, as a graduating senior, I am hoping to be able to do just that by studying art in college. No matter what career path, my goal is to share the impact of art on other people just as it has for me. In my art, I have started to realize a pattern of creating pieces that bring me peace and joy of very important aspects of my life so I can capture them and never let them fade away. Art has helped me express myself and find who I truly am by discovering my own style, motives, and inspiration while recreating memories that are very significant to me. Thank you for viewing my artwork.
Christopher Reid
Art has always been a part of my life. Ever since childhood, I have always found inspiration in expressing my thoughts through lines and colors on paper. Color has been an easy way to express my emotions, as well as my desires. It seems to me, all my life, I have been drawing. Watching cartoons is what really sparked my interest in drawing. Seeing a drawing move on a screen or doing dynamic poses and actions really interested me. At some point in my life, I picked up a skill for recreating cartoons on paper. Because of compliments and people being intrigued by my drawings, I wanted to play on it and get better. This is when I started enrolling into art classes at K12 Gallery in Dayton. I did this for a few summers and had an enjoyable time. In the end, art, to me is a very therapeutic hobby that I enjoy doing when I have the time.
Collete Merland
Thank you for taking the time to look at my artwork! Creating art has always been very important to me and is something I’ve always held close to my heart. It has always been a way for me to express myself, whether that would be painting or drawing or sculpting. It was a way to show people who I am and what I find valuable in life. It is a way for me to express how I am feeling at a given moment. Creating art that meant something deeply to me was challenging and required a lot of patience and determination. Through my art I want to show people the world through my eyes.
I have always liked creating art, but the moment I realized I was born to be an artist was in 6th grade. I joined the Art Club, and it was the only club I was a part of. I was extremely proud to be a part of this group and really enjoyed it. I liked spending time after school with my friends creating art. I learned that life is about sitting around with people you love and doing something that feeds your soul. I learned there that love is important in creating art. I wanted to love creating art and create art that makes the viewer feel loved. I also wanted the viewers to feel understood, happy, and united together. I wanted to create art that made people feel calm and relaxed. I want the viewer to notice the colors in each piece and the subject matter. These two components are very important to me. Each piece tells a story about me and my life. The colors and subjects take that story further and add to the story of each piece.
I want to show people the beauty of life through the strength and struggle of life’s precious moments. I want to show the viewer how beautiful even the most mundane moments can be. There is beauty in struggle, and there is also beauty in strength. I want to show the viewer that life is about finding beauty in the good and the bad moments and understanding your strength through struggle. I hope you enjoyed my art, thank you for coming by!
Gabrielle Kilby
Thank you for viewing my art. Art is something very near and dear to my heart. When I create, I create for no one other than myself, and I make sure to leave something special in each piece that I make. My collection of works is like one great big self-portrait; each canvas holds a part of me, whether it be my actual likeness or an emotion that I felt. My art is very personal, but I try to make messages that others can relate to, as art is a very social thing. Many of my pieces are inspired by others and the way that they have impacted my life, usually for the better. People are typically the subjects of my art. I love trying to capture the expressiveness of humans and push myself to create unique, intriguing characters to depict in my pieces.
In addition to being inspired by people, I also take heavy inspiration from music. I play both bass guitar and drums, and I used to play piano, so music is a big part of my life. I love going to concerts and am always finding new music to listen to and play. This passion can be seen throughout my art. As I have gotten older, I have learned to refine my art style and fine tune the ways that I express myself in my pieces. Through my drawings and paintings, I try to convey the emotions I am feeling at that moment. I do this by carefully curating the color palettes that I use as well as the mediums and textures present in my pieces.
Despite all this, not every one of my art pieces has a huge story behind it. Most of them don’t -- they’re just a spur of the moment thing. I don’t even like all of my art. Sometimes, I sit in class and dread picking up a paintbrush, and other times, it comes naturally. I am insanely nervous to show all of these pieces in a big show, but I’m working on accepting it, and hopefully, by the time you are reading this, I have. If you’ve made it this far, I want to honestly say thank you. Art means so much to me, and it warms my heart to think that my art means something to other people. I hope that you enjoy at least one of my pieces and that it inspires you to go out and appreciate art everywhere.
Again, I really meant it, thank you for viewing my art!
Laura Kabban
I can remember having a special appreciation for art ever since I was a kid. When I was young, I used to color in a coloring book with my mother before bed every night, and I believe this is where my love for art began. Art is a way to bring people together and express your emotions. It shows your creativity and makes the world a brighter and more fascinating place. Art is my calm in a storm, it's my therapy. I feel inspired to create art when I see something or someone I love, have emotions I do not know how to express, or if I have a lot on my mind. I find that when you put emotions behind your artwork it can create a stronger connection with the viewers.
My art does not typically have a primary focus, but this year, the topic of my pieces answers the question: how many emotions can one portray with a singular focal point in the piece? It has been extremely fun experimenting with this topic, and I have learned so much about how human emotions are connected to objects/images. I love to experiment with all the different mediums and styles so you can see the variety in my artwork. Overall, I want people to view my art and find a connection, maybe through sadness or peace, anger, or ambition, or just some emotion it brings out in you. Art is my therapy, and I hope you have as wonderful a time viewing it as I did creating it!
Tessa Zimmerman
I have come a long way in the last four years, and I am happy to have such a wonderful portfolio to share with others. It took some effort to pick the best pieces to share, but it all came together in the end. I have always had an interest in colors and drawing. My passion was supported by my mom who was also an art student at Carroll, as well as other family and friends.
I was known as one of the art kids in grade school, which wasn’t a bad thing. Being someone who people perceived as an artist had its own perks: getting picked for group projects, making birthday cards, and occasional praise from teachers. It was alright, but I really found the freedom I needed when I made it to the studio art classes as well as working on sets for the drama program. High school opened some doors for me, and I was able to submit my AP portfolio last year as a junior. Working under the pressure of those deadlines was difficult but rewarding. I chose to explore how my relationships with people and places affected my choice of medium, and I have maintained that thesis with some of my senior year pieces. I love mixed media and expressive pieces, and I am trying to branch out and develop my skills in different ways. Even though I have been slightly less motivated this year, I have still been able to make work that I am proud of, or had a lot of fun making.
The arts are their own thing, and there is a fantastic beauty in all of them. Outside of traditional art, I love digital art, photography, as well as theater art, and I have an appreciation for dance and music, even though they are not my strong suit. Additionally, I believe that art cannot be rushed or pressured, unless it's due tomorrow. Speaking of tomorrow, I can’t wait to see where life takes me. I plan on majoring in business, but I am also interested in cosmetology and tattoos. It would be a blessing to have a touch of art in my career, even if it is just a little hobby or side hustle. Maybe I’ll just keep doing it for myself, even then I will be happy. Thank you so much for supporting me by viewing my work!
Community Connections and Identity Protection: Meet David (Teddy) Hubbard-Thompkins ‘25
With his first steps onto Carroll’s campus, David (Teddy) Hubbard-Thompkins found a welcoming environment where he could develop into the person he is today. In his four years on campus, he has challenged himself, been part of developing a new student organization, and found his career pathway -- all while making lasting memories and friendships.
“I feel like I’ve grown significantly while I’ve been here at Carroll,” David said. A St. Helen Catholic School graduate, David knew coming into Carroll that he enjoyed STEM and wanted to explore that field. It wasn’t until he took computer science courses with Mrs. Diane (McNelly) Keller '80 that he took a deeper interest in computer science. That, in addition to a camp for those interested in learning more about cybersecurity, propelled him to pursue a degree in cybersecurity at Miami University of Ohio. For David, he did not want to be in a stagnant field, but rather one that is dynamic and centered around helping and protecting other people.
His call to help others was fostered during his time at Carroll. Hubbard-Thompkins spoke highly of the mentorship he was given by several of his coaches and teachers that sparked his passion to serve others in a deeper way. As a student athlete, he learned the value of working on team-building and navigating through challenges during his time playing football and track. He credits his coaches for mentoring and supporting him along his journey, and David soon began to be a role model and mentor for his peers in return.
During his junior year, David was asked by Carroll’s Director of Community Engagement & Inclusion and Spanish Teacher, Ms. Tara Knopp, if he wanted to be a founding member of the Student Community Engagement Committee (SCEC). David was especially excited to be a part of a group that would focus on ways to welcome students of all backgrounds feel like Carroll is a home away from home. “Maybe people are going through different things,” said David, “We should always treat everyone with respect and appreciate each other’s differences because we are all made in God’s image.”
After graduation, David looks forward to using the academic and extracurricular experiences he’s had at Carroll to build strong connections with his new classmates and colleagues at Miami University. He has an enhanced awareness and appreciation for his peers coming from different backgrounds and sees his studies in cybersecurity as a way to physically protect one’s identity as well.
One subject David kept returning to was how grateful he is -- for his teachers, coaches, and peers -- and how much he appreciates the lifelong lessons they have shared at Carroll. “All four years here, I have felt at home. I made a lot of good friends,” David shared. “The teachers, faculty, staff, and Mr. Sableski all care and want to take you to that next step in life. I feel like you wouldn’t find that at any other high school.”
David Hubbard-Thompkins '25: Student of the Week, March 21, 2025
David Hubbard-Thompkins '25, Mercy House member and St. Helen School alumnus, with Ms. Tiffany Hunsinger
David is always a kind presence and has a positive attitude. He helps his classmates and encourages them in whatever way they need. He is the first to clean up a mess or fix something, even if it is not his responsibility and does so without wanting any credit. He asks engaging questions and genuinely wants to learn about the subject matter.
-Ms. Tiffany Hunsinger
Favorite Restaurant:
Roosters
Favorite Movie:
Good Burger
Place I'd love to travel:
Tokyo, Japan
What activities are you involved in at Carroll?
I have played football and run on the track team for three years. I'm currently in the National Honor Society and a member of the Student Engagement Committee, and I did Model UN for two years.
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student of Carroll is having faculty that truly are mentors for students and show genuine concern. I also love the close-knit, family feel that both the student body and faculty have fostered.
How should school help you succeed?
School should help students excel in all areas of life. Education is important, and you should always grow in your education. Additionally, when you finish school, a person should have learned life lessons that they can apply in their further education and life.
What's your biggest dream in life?
My dream is to lead a successful life, help solve problems, and inspire others.
What's a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
I have learned that you will struggle at times in school, whether it is social or education-related. However, you should learn to grow from that experience and continue to persevere in your pursuits.
How do you enjoy spending your free time?
I enjoy listening to music, reading manga, and hanging out with friends.
Michael Copeland '25: Student of the Week, March 1, 2025
Michael Copeland ‘25, Gonzaga House member, with Ms. Emma Barlow ’15
Michael is friendly, kind, and helpful to everyone he meets. His quick wit and optimism make him a joy to have in class, both from his peers’ and teachers’ perspectives. He is eager to lend a helping hand in Latin class, Academic Team, and Latin club, and always knows how to cheer you up. Michael is a shining example of a Carroll Patriot!
Favorite Restaurant:
Jersey Mike's
Favorite Movie:
Fred: The Movie
Place you'd love to travel:
Switzerland
Which actor would play you in a movie?
Willem Dafoe
What activities are you involved in at Carroll?
I participate in Academic Team and Latin Club.
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
The students and the whole community are great, and there are so many opportunities offered at Carroll.
How should school help you succeed?
It should help you prepare for the various skills that will be needed in real-world jobs and careers, but also help you become a knowledgeable person.
What's your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream is to go around Europe someday to look at cool castles and stuff.
What's a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
Sometimes, the answer to your problems has been in front of you the whole time.
How do you enjoy spending your free time?
I dabble in playing video games from time to time, but I also enjoy listening to music and watching movies.
Nicolas Young '25: Student of the Week, February 21, 2025
Nicolas Young '25, Charity House member, with Mr. Jim Murray
Nick has exhibited what it means to intentionally grow into the profile of a Carroll Patriot. He has made the choice to set goals and act on them, improving in academics, growing spiritually, and seeking out leadership roles. Various faculty and staff have seen his noticeable growth. He expresses a sincere desire to model this to the underclassmen as was evidenced with his leadership role on the sophomore boys retreat.
-Mr. Jim Murray
Favorite Restaurant:
Texas Roadhouse
Favorite Movie:
Grown Ups
Place you'd love to travel:
Paris, Hawaii, and Rio de Janeiro to see Christ the Redeemer
Which actor would play you in a movie?
Timothée Chalamet
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part about being a student at Carroll is the faith and love that is spread throughout the school.
How should school help you succeed?
School helps me succeed by allowing me to learn not only the core subjects like math, English, and others, but also some of the life lessons that the teachers help me with.
What's your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to be someone that others can look up to and be an example that shows the goodness of God.
What's a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
One of the best lessons I learned when dealing with obstacles is to take that burden and leave it in God's hands.
How do you enjoy spending your free time?
I love to spend my free time by chasing a relationship with God, going to the Gym, and playing basketball with my buddies.
Ella Westgerdes '25: Student of the Week, February 12, 2025
Ella Westgerdes ‘25, Baltimore House member and Ascension School Alumna, with Mrs. Marcy (Hemmert) Hughes ’83
Ella is such a sweet, caring young lady; she also serves as Communication Captain for my House. Not only does she serve our house as a captain in her family room, but her creativity inspires the Carroll community. Her creativity in making her posts for Baltimore is awesome!
-Mrs. Marcy (Hemmert) Hughes '83
Favorite Restaurant:
Cedarland
Favorite Movie:
Megamind
Place you'd love to travel:
Carthage
Which actress would play you in a movie?
Hope Danis (she's kind of underground)
What activities do you participate in?
I participate in Volleyball, Academic Team, Latin Club, Revolution, TSA-Teams, and am the Baltimore Communications Captain.
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll is the community of teachers and classmates who make me look forward to coming to school.
How should school help you succeed?
Carroll helps me succeed by educating in ways beyond the classroom. I will leave Carroll being confident in my leadership skills which I have been able to put into practice with the various organizations I am a part of at Carroll.
What's your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to build and plan cities and work as a civil engineer.
What's a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
Use obstacles as opportunities. It is easy to pity ourselves when faced with something difficult but it is much more beneficial to take our mistakes and hardships and use them as learning opportunities.
How do you enjoy spending your free time?
I like to spend my free time getting coffee with friends, painting, and beating my brother in Jeopardy.
Claire McEachen '25: Student of the Week, November 12, 2024
Claire McEachen ‘25, St. Mary’s House member and St. Luke School alumna, with Mrs. Julia Gomez
Claire is kind to all, super respectful and helpful in class and has been a true rockstar as Spanish Club President!
-Mrs. Julia Gomez
Favorite Restaurant:
My mom's kitchen
Favorite Movie:
Pride and Prejudice
Place you'd love to travel:
Santorini, Greece
Who would play you in a movie?
Kiera Knightley
What activities do you participate in?
I am a member of the Marching Band, Spanish Club, Swim Team, Military Kids’ Club, NHS, SHS, The Torch Student Newspaper, and an Eagle Scout.
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
The strong community of Carroll, the wonderful teachers, and the school’s willingness to allow faith and reason to flourish makes it a beautiful place to learn.
How should school help you succeed?
School should provide you with a firm moral, spiritual, and academic foundation on which you can become the best version of yourself and the person God is calling you to be.
What's your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to use my writing, debating, and critical thinking skills to serve those around me and defend the most vulnerable members of society.
What's a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
I have learned that true joy, peace, and understanding comes from trusting in God completely.
How do you like spending your free time?
I like to travel with my family, visit my grandma, spend time with friends, shop, and participate in any aquatic activities like swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.
Leader of the Band: Sarah Nemeth ‘25 Continues Tradition of Leadership for the Marching Patriots
Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in the Fall 2024 issue of Reflections. Click here to read the entire magazine.
Sarah Nemeth ‘25 remembers the uneasy feeling of walking into her first marching band practice before the start of her freshman year. Coming to Archbishop Carroll High School from a middle school with just two other classmates was intimidating, but she knew she made the right decision immediately. “All the seniors and leadership were at the door with really big smiles to welcome me to the program,” Nemeth said. “I loved how welcoming and inclusive they were. That was a really big fear of mine coming into the school – not being included or knowing anybody. They made it so easy. I wanted to stay as part of that community because of the seniors.”
Now, Nemeth has her opportunity to make an impact on the next group of nervous freshmen in the marching band and throughout the school. As the Drum Major for the Marching Patriots, Nemeth embraces multiple leadership roles for the program. Everyone who watches the group perform instantly spots her as she leads the band and guard on field as the conductor from her prominent spot on an elevated platform, but her responsibilities outside of the spotlight are just as crucial to the band’s success. “You’re there to uplift your band and represent them at performances. You’re the face of the band and put forth what your band is.”
Showing up on time, staying organized, and having a positive attitude throughout the duration of the season are some of the baseline expectations for every member of the program. Learning the basics of how to march and play under the hot July sun and refining every detail of the show with precision during November’s cold are taxing endeavors. Nemeth and the rest of the student leadership team create an environment and culture that enables the group to stay focused through difficult times and win big on the field. The Marching Patriots finish near the top of their division in their performance circuit annually. During the 2023 season, the group won a regional championship in the most prestigious national circuit, Bands of America, for their competition show, Open Mic.
“They push us to be our very best selves, and that’s why we’ve done so great the previous years,” Nemeth said. “Their support, expectations, encouragement, and kindness make for a very good environment.”
Leading a group of dozens of performers is a task that requires more than one student to step up, and the faculty directors of the program ensure that all the responsibility does not fall on just one person. Carl Soucek has been the Director of Bands since 2002 and has made student leadership a foundational pillar of the program. “The value of our leadership structure is equal to, if not greater than, the music pedagogy itself,” Soucek said. “By establishing a leadership team, students are empowered to help others in a variety of ways. The leadership team is heavily involved in the instruction of fundamental music and marching skills, character development with a strong focus on integrity, and social justice. They also plan activities for team building and faith formation.”
The impact that Soucek, Assistant Director Brooke Butler ‘17, and Guard Directors Lindsey Rhule ‘20 and Taylor Fenten ‘20 make on the students inspires them to give their best effort in every rehearsal and performance of the show.
Khaeem Nickerson '25: Student of the Week, September 26, 2024
Khaeem Nickerson ‘25, Trinity House Member and St. Luke School alumnus, with Mrs. Ann (Calderone) Bertke ’88
Khaeem has been helping a fellow student who is mobility impaired get to her classes from the third to second floor after lunch. He does this with a smile every time.
-Mrs. Ann (Calderone) Bertke '88
Favorite Restaurant:
Chipotle
Favorite Movie:
Avengers: Endgame
Place you'd love to travel:
Hawaii
What activities do you participate in?
I'm a member of the swim team, and I participate in a lot of service opportunities through Campus Ministry.
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a Carroll student is how helpful the teachers are to me.
How should school help you succeed?
School should prepare me for college, and Carroll does that for me.
What's your biggest dream in life?
I want to become a marine biologist.
What's a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
I learned that you have to put in the work needed to succeed.
How do you like spending your free time?
I like to study sea creatures and watch comedies.
Calvin Lachey '25: Student of the Week, September 17, 2024
Calvin Lachey ‘25, Trinity House member, with Ms. Jamie Aubin ’06
In my Digital Photography class, Calvin has been the picture of a Carroll Patriot. He is funny and charismatic but also knows how to be professional. He has seen some classmates have trouble with various aspects of my class, and he is always willing to lend a hand and his time to help others succeed.
-Ms. Jamie Aubin '06
Favorite Restaurant:
Cracker Barrel
Favorite Movie:
No Country for Old Men
Place you'd love to travel:
Europe and Russia
What activities do you participate in?
During school, I tend to focus on my academics and don't have any extracurriculars currently, but I did greatly enjoy robotics club last year and might even consider joining badminton club this year.
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a Carroll student is the safety I feel inside the building from harm and the friendliness from other students and staff.
What's your biggest dream in life?
I want to have a family and children who I can love and develop into individuals who have the potential to brighten a darkening world. I don't care for endless wealth or the memory of every world wonder, I simply want to give all of myself to bring those dear to me contentment.
What's a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
Giving up on trial and error is the main cause of stagnation, and consistency is key to this life.
How do you like spending your free time?
In my free time, I love to experience stories, whether writing my own or reading other people's. My imagination and the escape of immersing myself in other realities is something I adore.
Conner Walsh '25: Student of the Week, September 4, 2024
Conner Walsh '25, Baltimore House, with Ms. Emily Fogus
Connor has stepped out of his shell and stepped up to the role of Family Room Captain this year. His Family Room teachers have been nothing but impressed with his ability to create and deliver engaging activities for the Family Room. He is organized, caring, and welcoming to all in our room, and he does it all with a great sense of humor. We are so proud of the growth he has shown in our room over the last four years!
-Ms. Emily Fogus
Favorite Restaurant:
Five Guys
Favorite Movie:
The Lighthouse
Place you'd love to travel:
Vienna, Austria
Activities you participate in:
I'm part of Chess Club and plan to join Youth in Government
Favorite part of being a student at Carroll:
The best part of being a Patriot is the ability to be in connection with all other Carroll Patriots. There are so many different types of students here, not purely surface level differences, but the innate differences in the personalities of all my peers. Those who are outgoing, keep to themselves, have a passion for the arts, passion on the field, the thinkers, and the doers. There is not a single person who can't find someone or something that doesn't share their interests. It's beautiful how everyone can be true to themselves and find comfort with others who may be from completely different backgrounds and yet are so perfectly able to relate to each other.
What should school "do" for you?
What school does for me and should do for everyone else is pave the way for self-realization. School should pose challenges and questions that all students answer differently. Not as simple as asking them "What do you want to be when you grow up", but actually challenging them to achieve those aspirations.
What's your biggest dream in life?
The biggest dream in my life is to live in the Swiss Alps, in a remote cabin in which I'm completely self-sufficient.
What's a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
I learned an important lesson in my eighth grade year when I was failing all my classes. I worked my way into passing all my classes, even excelling in many. From that, I learned that nothing was impossible, even when I'd fallen to the literal bottom. I will always still be able to see it through, to the greatest heights.
How do you like spending your free time:
My free time is spent on hobbies. I enjoy modeling , no matter how bad I am at it, studying history and philosophy, gardening and all manners of outdoors work.
Caydence Lloyd '25: Student of the Week August 27, 2024
Caydence Lloyd ‘25, Charity House Member and St. Helen School Alumna, with Mrs. Heather (Taylor) Terbay ’98
Caydence Lloyd ws such a great leader at the freshman welcome party. She stepped up for two sweet girls who were struggling and made them feel welcome. She has truly grown into a great leader over the past four years.
-Mrs. Heather (Taylor) Terbay '98
Favorite Restaurant:
BJ's Brewhouse
Favorite Movie:
10 Things I Hate About You
Who would you play in a movie:
Spencer from Pretty Little Liars (people say I look like her)
Place you'd love to travel:
Literally anywhere. I want to travel the world. That's part of the reason why I'm enlisting in the military.
Activities you participate in:
I am a member of Flag Patrol.
Favorite part of being a student at Carroll:
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll would have to be the positive environment that I'm in and the school spirit.
What should school "do" for you?
I think that school should make you want to learn and want to come to school because it's so much more smooth sailing when you actually enjoy your day at school.
What is a lesson you learned when overcoming a difficult obstacle?
One of the most important lessons I learned while overcoming obstacles was that everything happens for a reason. It benefits nothing if you sulk over the issue and why it happened to you rather than accepting the obstacle, working around it, overcoming it, and moving on.
What's your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to be the best mom to my future kids.
How do you like spending your free time:
I like to spend my free time watching Criminal Minds.
Simiya Dunson '25: Student of the Week April 14, 2024
Simiya Dunson '25, Charity House member and Holy Angels School alumna, with Ms. Samantha Bauer
Simiya participates in and outside the Carroll classroom as an active member of her community. This student shows the true essence of being a Carroll Patriot from her maturity, effort in the classroom, and her respect toward others. We as a community are very proud to call Simiya a Patriot.
-Ms. Samantha Bauer
Favorite Restaurant:
Ruth's Chris
Favorite Movie:
Moana
Who would you play in a movie?
Disgust from Inside Out
Place you'd love to travel:
I'd love to travel to Germany and Barbados.
Activities you participate in:
I participate in Revolution (Carroll's Campus Ministry group), and I'm a Wrestling Stat.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll is being a part of a very respectful, inclusive, and welcoming community.
What Should school “do” for you?
School should give me a positive and healthy environment to learn in while providing me with multiple resources that can help me accomplish my academic goals.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
A lesson I learned when overcoming difficult obstacles is that everything will not always come easy. You may have to work harder to find solutions, but no matter what happens, you should never give up on what you are trying to accomplish.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream is to become an inspiration and role model for people who may not have someone to look up to.
How do you like spending your free time?
I spend most of my free time shopping and going on road trips with my friends.
Grace Brown '25: Student of the Week March 28, 2024
Grace Brown '25, St. Anthony School Alumna and Gonzaga House Member, with Mrs. Melissa Leaman
At St. Pat's Fest, Grace really went above and beyond. She stepped into a role that normally was for an adult on Saturday and was here for almost all day cleaning up on Sunday. She was willing to jump in and do whatever was asked of her without complaint, and I am very thankful for her.
-Mrs. Melissa Leaman
Favorite Restaurant
Cheddars
Favorite Movie
Billy Madison
Who would play you in a movie?
Reese Witherspoon
Place you'd love to travel:
Paris
What activities do you participate in?
I am a football manager and a wrestling stat
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
Seeing the teacher's happy faces and seeing my friends and making new friends.
What should school “do” for you?
Help educate me and help me pass school and pass and get into a good college.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
To keep my head and do not let people tear me down.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
To become a lawyer and buy my mom a good house to live in.
How do you like spending your free time?
I like to play with my uncle's dog and help my grandma cook and bake. I also love to sleep.
Sky Londergan '25: Student of the Week March 17, 2024
Sky Londergan ‘25, Gonzaga House and St. Luke School alum, with Ms. Gretchen Obergefell ’19
Sky shows exemplary character both in the classroom and behind the stage. Sky gets right to work sweeping the bleachers, moving chairs, cleaning up trash, putting supplies away, and looks around and finds what needs to be completed and does it without having to ask an adult leader what needs to be done. Most people would note that all of this help is way above and beyond the job description of “stage manager,” extending responsibilities outside the stage itself by cleaning up the gym and cafeteria after performances.
Favorite Restaurant:
All the Best Deli
Favorite Movie:
Coraline
Who would play you in a movie?:
Mr. Bobinsky
Place you'd love to travel:
Utah
What activities do you participate in?
I participate in Drama Club, Muse Machine, and Latin Club
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part about being a student at Carroll are the after school opportunities, Drama Club, and the willingness of the teachers to share stories and life advice with students.
What Should school “do” for you?
School should teach students how to problem solve and create strong educational foundations that students can use to make intelligent choices in their day to day lives. Along with that, school should offer well-rounded opportunities that encourage students to do something that fits their needs and interests.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
A lesson I’ve learned after overcoming a difficult obstacle is that as long as you take away something and learn how you can improve it next time, every obstacle is a great opportunity. After every difficult obstacle, you have to go back and pick out something you can improve on, and then execute that into the next thing you do.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to be dedicated and enjoy what I pursue after high school.
How do you like spending your free time?
I like spending my free time at stage crew, hanging out with friends, and listening to music.
Zach Tipps '25: Student of the Week March 7, 2024
Zach Tipps '25, Trinity House member and St. Helen School Alumnus, with Mrs. Nicole Druck
Zach is always making sure others around him feel included. He always has a smile and is friendly to everyone. Zach always invites one of our lunchroom workers with special needs to sit with his friends at lunch and includes her in their conversations.
-Mrs. Nicole Druck
Favorite Restaurant:
Chipotle
Favorite Movie:
Field of Dreams
Who would play you in a movie?
The Rock
Place you'd love to travel:
Alaska
What activities do you participate in?
I participate in golf, basketball, and baseball.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll is the community around the school and the opportunities the school provides for us students.
What should school “do” for you?
School should help support my needs and challenge me to do my best.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
To keep persevering when things get tough.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
To live a great life and to be happy no matter what.
How do you like spending your free time?
Golfing with friends and meeting new people.
Addison Linard '25: Student of the Week February 22, 2024
Student of the Week Addison Linard '25, Baltimore House and St. Helen School Alumna, with Mrs. Acacia Morrell
Addison swam last year, but while participating in Color Guard, she was worried about taking on too much. She helps me as a team manager, and has been a godsend as I do not have an assistant coach. Addison recently told me she is now the Assistant Stage Manager for the musical this spring, too. Addison has done all this with grace even while she has faced some adversity in her life.
-Mrs. Acacia Morrell
Favorite Restaurant:
Olive Garden
Favorite Movie:
Lilo and Stitch
Who would play you in a movie?
Debbie Harry from Blondie
Place you'd love to travel:
Paris
What activities do you participate in?
I am a part of the Color Guard, the Prop Manager and Assistant Stage Manager for the musical, and I the student helper for Mrs. Morrell on the Swim Team.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
The welcoming community and all the friends that I’ve made through my years here. I also love the inclusivity and leadership roles available to the students.
What should school “do” for you?
I think that school should teach us how to form life-long skills and friendships. We learn all the basic courses like math and science, but we also learn how to cook and manage our finances. I’ve learned how to form friendships that will last, and the friends that I’ve made have made the biggest impact on my life.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
Don’t keep doing something that you don’t absolutely love. I was on a swim team from a young age until last year, and leaving it was so amazing for my mental health. I am so excited to continue as part of the swim team as a leader while also being able to have a leadership role in the musical and be in the color guard.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
I want to have a future where I’m a famous fashion designer whose designs are shown and admired all around the world.
How do you like spending your free time?
I spend my free time making origami swans and paper flowers. I also love making sketches of all of my fashion designs.
Carroll Artists Earn 14 Scholastic Art Awards
Four members of the Class of 2025 combined to earn 14 Scholastic Awards for the 2024 academic year. Allison Arias-Rodriguez ‘25, Collette Merland ’25, Allison Walls ‘25, and Tessa Zimmerman ’25 won seven honorable mentions, six Silver Key Awards, and one Gold Key Award. Zimmerman's Gold Key Award piece Not Everything is Black and White will go on to be judged at the final, national level of the Scholastic Art Awards for a chance to be displayed in New York City this summer.
The regional Scholastic Art Award winners will be displayed at the K12 Art Gallery (341 S. Jefferson St, Dayton, Ohio) from February 3 - 24 with a special ceremony for the regional Scholastic Art Award winners on February 24 beginning at 6 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards were founded in 1923 and, for more than a century, have inspired bold ideas in creative teens throughout the country. Award recipients through the years have included greats like Andy Warhol and Ezra Jack Keats, among many others.
Ally Arias-Rodriguez '25
Honorable Mention
Peacock (Acrylic)
Collette Merland '25
Honorable Mention
Unlimited Dreams (Oil)
Ally Walls '25
Silver Key
Leisure (Oil)
Drifting Away (Oil)
Christmas Glow (Acrylic)
Clinging to Summer (Oil)
Carefree (Oil)
Honorable Mention
Twenty (Oil)
Carousel of Time (Acrylic)
Summers Past (Oil and Pastel)
Tessa Zimmerman '25
Gold Key
Not Everything is Black and White (Oil)
Silver Key
Love at First Sight (Colored Pencil)
Honorable Mention
In the Garden (Oil)
Daisies in the Living Room (Acrylic)
Student of the Week Laura Kabban '25: Student of the Week December 8, 2022
Laura Kabban '25, Baltimore House, with Mrs. Marilou Rulli
Laura is deserving of recognition for many reasons. She's an enthusiastic participant in Family Room and she always interacts with Family members in a positive way. Laura has a talent unique to Carroll - she is a competitive ice skater. She maintains a high GPA while balancing long hours of practices and competitions.
-Mrs. Marilou Rulli
What activities do you participate in?
I compete in ice skating as a member of the United States Figure Skating Association outside of school. I compete both in individual freestyle and on a qualifying Intermediate level synchronized skating team with the Miami Skating Academy out of Oxford, OH. I am a Senior level Girl Scout, and I also volunteer as a certified Learn to Skate Instructor at South Metro Ice Arena and as an usher for Dayton Live; if you attend an event at the Schuster Center, you may see me as a smiling face ready to help you find your seat!
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll is that it has a great community. Whenever you need something there is usually at least one person who is willing to help, and they are also very understanding.
What should school “do” for you?
I believe school should help us to further our education and grow our curiosity and love for subjects we enjoy.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
I learned that decisions can be life-changing and that speaking up is never a question, but an answer.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
I would like to be part of Team USA for the figure skating Olympics and be the first person to land a Quin jump (five rotations in the air).
How do you like spending your free time?
I enjoy watching movies with my family, drawing, and figure skating.
Student of the Week Gunnar Shiverdecker '25, November 11, 2022
Gunnar Shiverdecker '25, Mercy House, with Mrs. Nicole Druck
Gunnar is an all around great kid. His school spirit stands out as he went especially all in for Homecoming Spirit Week bringing a smile to everyone’s face. He is very kind to everyone as well.
What activities do you participate in?
I'm a member of Chess Club and considering trying out for the Bowling Team.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll is probably the sense of community, because despite me not being the most outgoing person, it took me almost no time to open up to others and make friends.
What should school “do” for you?
School should give me a place to not only prepare for the future that lies ahead of me and help me build friendships with people that will be there for me years after I've graduated.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
I've come to learn from my obstacles that what comes after an obstacle is always worth pushing for, even if it's just a sense of accomplishment.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to give back to the BMX scene. With how much it has given me, I'd love to give back in any way possible, whether it be starting my own brand, opening a bike shop, or just helping the next generation of BMX riders by giving them extra parts or advice on a trick they can't seem to figure out.
How do you like spending your free time?
I spend the majority of my free time outside of school riding BMX, laying down some nasty riffage on my 5 string bass, trying to figure out what to make for breakfast as a vegan, or playing video games with friends.
Hope Danis '25: Student of the Week May 17, 2022
Hope Danis, Baltimore House, with Mrs. Liz Emser
Hope is sweet, kind, and cares so deeply about everyone around her. She reaches out a helping hand before she is ever asked to do so. She is curious and inquisitive in her studies and works extremely hard to achieve success. Hope is a model Carroll Patriot, and I have no doubt that she will continue to lead with integrity and sincerity throughout her years at Carroll.
-Mrs. Liz Emser
What activities do you participate in?
I am a member of the Cross Country and Track & Field teams, Drama Club, and Mass Choir
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of Carroll is the teachers. They have made me feel completely welcome and at home in Carroll High School in addition to teaching me some of the most vital information of my life: how to deal with other students.
What should school “do” for you?
I think that school should provide for you a foundation to join the world, and an atmosphere that encourages you to choose good and right rather than easy.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
I have learned throughout this year that everything does not have to work and fit perfectly. You simply need to be striving for the best outcome because that is all you can control.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
I don’t really know what I want to do with my life yet. In second grade, we had to make a book, and I said I wanted to be a mother of 11 kids. My teacher in all her wisdom said try one first. I’m still not really sure what I want to do, but I hope to learn what God wants for me in my time here at Carroll.
How do you like spending your free time?
I know that this is cheesy and overused but my favorite way to spend my time is with my family. I really can’t imagine a better day than doing anything with my family.
Student of the Week: Madeline Kramer '25
Madeline has stepped up to volunteer for many campus ministry events and her thoughtfulness and kindness has gone above and beyond expectations.
-Mrs. Martha Saurine
Madeline Kramer '25, St. Mary's House, with Mrs. Martha Saurine
What activities do you participate in?
I participate in Harry Potter Club, Revolution, Girl Scouts, and Youth Ministry.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite thing about being a student at Carroll is the welcoming community and caring atmosphere.
What should school “do” for you?
School should help inspire a love of learning and teach you how to be a better citizen.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
I learned that things will always get better no matter what happens. I learned to trust in God’s plan because there is always a purpose behind it, even if we don’t see it at the time.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to make a difference in the world for the better and to have a job that doesn’t feel like work.
How do you like spending your free time?
I love reading, spending time with my family and friends, and baking. I like doing different service projects the most. I enjoy making rosaries, spreading positivity, and passing out food to people in need. It feels amazing to make a difference in the community.
Student of the Week: Adriana Ahrens '25
Adriana Ahrens '25, St. Mary's House, with Mrs. Allie (Walsh) Spurling '08
Adriana is incredibly kind, helpful, and hardworking - an awesome freshman doing great things!
-Mrs. Allie (Walsh) Spurling '08
What activities do you participate in?
I enjoy participating in multiple activities including basketball, softball, cross-country, and band.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
The overall morale of Carroll is positive, inviting, and energetic -- which makes participating in school events, such as Spirit Week my favorite part of being a student at Carroll.
What should school “do” for you?
For me, school should be a place to learn how to interact with the world in the years to come.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
Throughout the past month, I have come to understand that trust is a huge component of relationships with people. Trust is the foundation of all relationships. Coming into high school, I was a bit worried that I wouldn’t be able to make friends, but here, I am hanging out with some other freshmen almost every weekend.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to live my life to the fullest with absolutely no regrets.
How do you like spending your free time?
I enjoy spending my free time hanging out with friends, playing the piano, and practicing basketball in my driveway.