This week, Kallie and I are featuring two more seniors. These girls participated in many things over the course of their high school careers. They have made friends and memories that they will never forget.
Aly Milling excels both in and out of the classroom. Over her years at UPSD, Aly participated in bowling, softball, FCA, Beta, and student council. Aly has also played the trumpet in The Pride of Union Marching Band for eight years. She shares that one of her favorite memories of high school actually comes from when the band won back-to-back 2a state championships. Aly adds that the band director Mr. DeVenney has made a huge impact on her life: “I have been a member of The Pride of Union Marching Band for eight years. During that time, Mr. DeVenney has not only taught me how to play the trumpet, but he always makes time to share the gospel. Mr. D has played a significant role in my growth and development; he feels like a second father to me. I am truly grateful for everything that the Devenneys have done for me.” While Aly Milling will never forget the memories, people, and skills that UHS exposed her to, she looks forward to the next part of her life. She says, “I am ready to embrace the new opportunities that await me in this next chapter of my life. Saying goodbye is difficult, but I am grateful for everything this high school has taught me.” Aly plans to attend East Central Community College in the fall to earn a business degree. She then wants to become a real estate agent. Wherever Aly Milling’s future endeavors take her, she will excel.
Zoey Leach has also had a successful and fun time at UHS. Zoey participated in color guard, basket guard, FFA, tennis, and archery. Zoey was also a member of the welding team and livestock judging team for FFA. Zoey reflects on her time at UHS by saying that highschool has taught her to “focus” on herself rather than “the people around her.” She adds that Mrs. Reynolds and Mrs. Marilyn Smith have had the greatest impact on her life: “They have pushed me to do what I love and to be a better person.” Additionally, Zoey states, “I’ve changed by becoming a better person and not letting my anger get the best of me.” Zoey Leach holds many memories from her time at Union High School. She explains that leaving gives her mixed emotions: “I will not miss the work, but I will miss the people. I will miss hanging out with friends at break and goofing off at practice. I love my band family.” Many of her most cherished memories from UHS come from band like winning state championships. Furthermore, Zoey advises younger students to not “worry about what other people think or say. Ignore them and push yourself to be better. Focus on yourself, education, and sports.” In the future, Zoey will attend East Central Community College for welding. She then plans to work at Allied Lock here in Union. Whatever Zoey decides to do in life, she will always remember her time at UHS.