Mieke Moll – for your unconditional friendship

You possess a heart filled with unconditional love. Through months of not seeing each other, I know you are always there, no matter what. Distance and time do not determine friendship. I am thrilled that after being parted and reunited, it is like nothing has changed – because it hasn’t. I am so thankful that you are there for it all with no judgment and open arms.

Hope Whitford – for being the best, best friend to grow up with

We have gone through a lot, from our terrible twos to middle school. That is a long time to be friends. We were always opposites, but that balanced us out perfectly. I seriously can’t think of a better person to grow up with. I went through the most monumental phases and revelations, and we did some of the stupidest and embarrassing things togethera�� and I just can’t picture anyone else as my partner in crime. So, thank you for being there through it all. I really am so grateful that you’ve been a part of my life for the better. I’m also very thankful that we got to reconnect during our senior year. And to end the debate of the century, ‘Hope and Sophie’ sounds perfectly fine (but not as good as ‘Sophie and Hope’).

Mrs. Mary Luther-Eggleston – for being my second mother

You are always introduced as my second momma – never as my horse trainer or my mom’s best friend. I am so grateful that you have been a part of my family since before I was even born. I have so many early memories of you coming to my house after returning from horse shows to pick up Patches and RC. I was always so happy to see you and so sad to see the puppies go. Thank you for being my second mom. I know you are always open for a phone call, advice, and some fun adventures.

Mrs. Libby Ferin – for being a strong role model

Whether you know it or not, you are a freaking powerful woman. I am so glad that I became friends with both of your kids and have gotten to know you. You are such a mother bear to all who enter your home, and that is greatly appreciated and valued. You have taught me to speak up about what I think is right and whenever something needs a change, to advocate for that change, no matter who you’re up against. So, thanks for being a powerful woman.

Kati Mansfield– For giving so much to everyone

I am beyond grateful that we are in TCT together. You, being an open book in one of the most emotionally-bearing classes, have become a true teacher inside and outside the class. You are so stinkin’ selfless; you give and you give and you give. A warm hug and a smile is medicine to most all people, and you might as well be a professional healer. Thank you for being a radiant light in a dreary world.

Parker David– For handling the hot mess

I am so so so glad to know that anytime I enter the band hall, the choir room, or the theater that I have a familiar face to sit by and to always to share a cup of tea with. Thank you so much for dealing with the hot mess that I can occasionally be and not being bothered by the various crumbs and trash strewn about my car. Some of my best memories from high school include you and me barreling down highways and backroads to get only the best meals (ahem, Marie Catribs. Ahem, Ju Sushi). I value our friendship so much and always look forward to seeing you whenever I can, and I’m so excited that musical season and more adventures are just around the corner.

Donald Alm– For being so inclusive

As a senior, you have so many opportunities to do what is right and be a leader. Every moment, you take advantage of that opportunity but not just to look good; you do it out of the kindness of your heart. I am so thankful that I have such an authentic friend. I smile just thinking about all the people you invite in, say hello to in the hall, and genuinely invest in positive conversations with just about anyone. You make everyone you encounter feel valued, and I am grateful that there are such great people in the world.