The Dreamers and the Difference-Makers CONGRATULATIONS TO PRAIRIE’S CLASS OF 2018
By Rachel Morello, Communication Manager
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For Prairie’s Class of 2018, a diploma is more than just a framed piece of paper.
That paper represents a great number of accomplishments — academic, athletic, artistic. It signifies growth and persistence. It marks the beginning of a new adventure. The Class of 2018 is poised to tackle that adventure. This year’s graduates received offers for merit-based scholarships totaling nearly $8 million. They were admitted to 114 of the country’s finest colleges and universities, including some of the most selective and highly-ranked in the country. They have enrolled at the likes of Yale University, the University of Wisconsin - Madison, the University of California - San Diego, Northwestern University, the University of Chicago, and Cornell — just to name a few. As the saying goes, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” Dr. Coffman reiterated that sentiment in his message to graduates at their Commencement ceremony in June. 14 | prairieschool.com
“As you begin the next stage of your life, I’m absolutely, positively sure that wherever you go, and whatever you do, there will be other people who need your help,” he said. “Make your dorm, your team, your college, your community a better place because you showed up, you helped others, you built relationships, and you made a difference.” For some members of the Class of 2018, their diploma represents fifteen memorable years as a Prairie student. Of the 66 students graduating with the Class of 2018, 22 of them have attended Prairie since first grade or earlier. These “lifers” have experienced every lesson, dining room selection, and tradition Prairie has to offer. Lifer Quinn Shannon will spend the next four years at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, where she’ll play for the Women’s Soccer team. Shannon is aware her experience has been unique — she’s spent the majority of her young life at Prairie. But she’s excited for what the future has in store, and and says she’ll be proud to share her experiences when future roommates or teammates ask, ‘Where did you go to school?’