This year’s class of 2020 in the St. Croix Valley has high aspirations and is fueled by their passions. They are busy planning their futures and preparing themselves for their final year of high school before facing the next steps. For them, the paths are numerous, and the options are infinite. Three students, from three different schools and pursuing different careers, have the same drive and dedication to present themselves as best as they can: Miriam Cooper, Charlie Neuenschwander
Maddie Whittington
Stillwater High School
Maintaining health, both physical and mental, is Maddie Whittington’s way of feeling her best, and it just so happens to be the field of study she intends to explore in the fall of 2020 at the University of Illinois.
Maddie, a senior at Stillwater High School, is an avid volleyball player who uses exercise to relieve the stress that comes from school and other activities in her life. Through this sport, she has developed a passion for being active and learning how to take care of her body and leadership. She has also formed some strong bonds, notably with her former coach Laura Bush.
“She is one of the most influential people in my life and every time I talk with her I learn so much not just about volleyball but about life,” Maddie says.
She is extremely interested in studying nutrition and exercise alongside mental health. Through her studies she hopes to explore these facets closer and maybe even learn how to help people live healthier lifestyles. If she could alter something about our world today, it would be that everyone is kinder and more patient with not only themselves, but others as well.
“I would change how we treat each other. Everyone is just trying to do their best and I wish people could be more understanding of that,” Maddie says.
Q+A:
What would your perfect day look like?
“My perfect day would be wake up for an early morning workout, eat a healthy breakfast then go to the beach all day with friends.”
What or who motivates you to succeed?
“My motivation started with my parents when I was younger, but now it has turned into the want to just be the best I can be in every aspect of my life.”
What inspires you?
“My mom is my biggest inspiration. She is an amazing woman and I strive to be like her in every aspect of my life.”
Awards/ Accomplishments:
All State 1st Team Volleyball
All-Tournament Volleyball
All Conference in Volleyball as a freshman
