Montini Catholic High School in Lombard is proud to announce senior Sara Severin as their May Student of the Month. Sara, class Valedictorian and President of Montini's Student Government, was nominated by Student Government Moderator and teacher, Ms. Alexxis Johnson. 

“Sara is one of kindest and most intelligent students that I have had the pleasure of working with," said Ms. Johnson. "She is a true leader, not only in Student Government, but in our Montini community. Sara works hard to make sure that everyone's voice is heard and all opinions are shared. She leads our Executive Board meetings each week, attends all of the Student Government sponsored events, and is conscious to collaborate with our underclassmen to get them involved in Student Government."

"Being chosen for Student of the Month is such an honor," said Sara. "In a sense, this award feels like a full circle. During my freshman year, I was nominated as Student of the Month, and my hard work and dedication in the classroom were highlighted. Being the recipient of this award as a senior symbolizes that even though I have physically and mentally grown up and matured, my work ethic and drive has stayed the same!"

As Student Government president, Sara was tasked all year with helping Ms. Johnson plan and carry out school wide events designed to allow the students to grow closer with one another within their school community. She took on the responsibility of running all Bronco executive board meetings where she encouraged members to share ideas for events. "Some of the many events and things I have helped to plan are Homecoming, Prom, Pep-Rallies, Senior Spirit Wear, Kick-off Parties, themes for games and dress down days, Senior Day, and Senior Sunset." 

Sara will always look back fondly on her time in Student Government. "My favorite thing about being the leader has definitely been being able to impact the Montini student community in such a positive way. I love hearing positive feedback about different events and I love having the opportunity to make the school year as fun as possible for everyone. Overall, I simply loved seeing the students enjoy the events that we put on, as each member of the student government worked very hard to make them happen."

There's a good reason as to why Sara was chosen as Bronco Student of the Month twice during her time at Montini. She has been a very enthusiastic and involved Bronco. In addition to her time in Student Government, she also devoted her time as a Peer Minister (core team member) her junior and senior years. She was a member of Yearbook and Mental Health Clubs as well as a member of the Montini Maniacs (spirit team). She was also a member of the Volleyball Team and kept the Bronco community updated and informed as their Social Media Manager.

Academically she is a member of Montini's Spanish Club and Honor Society and was inducted into the National Honor Society during her junior year. She was most recently named a Bronco Academic All Star - which involves attaining a 3.95+ GPA throughout her high school career. She has earned the President’s Gold Award for Academic Excellence and is an Illinois State Scholar, a prestigious recognition, given annually by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, honoring the academic achievements of high school students from across the state. 

During Montini's Founder's Day Ceremony, held on Friday, May 19th, Sara received the St. Pope Paul VI Award as well as the Pax Christi Instrument of Peace Award. She also won the Gold Medal Award in four categories: Student Government, Student Activities, Theology and Science.

Her favorite Montini Memory? "I think it would have to be the senior year Winter Spirit Week pep rally. I loved seeing my classmates cheer each other on and put smiles on one another's faces. I will never forget the food eating relay where our senior boys ate cotton candy, popsicles, and Cool Whip the fastest I've ever seen!"

"Working with Ms. Johnson was an absolute joy," she adds. "She truly is a ray of sunshine and such a positive, genuine person. She is such a selfless person and role model for all students at Montini. She works so hard to make the school year memorable and great for everyone, even if it means sacrificing her own time. Ms. Johnson is someone I look up to in my own life, and I hope I can be more like her as I grow up!"

Sara definitely plans on seeking out leadership roles this fall as she begins a new chapter at the University of Illinois (Urbana Champaign) where she will be pursuing a Biology major. "At the beginning of the school year, UIUC holds an activities fair called "Quad Day" where students can join various clubs. I plan to do exactly that!"

As outgoing President of Student Government, Sara has a few words of advice to Montini's newest Broncos who will be walking through the doors very soon. "Being involved in school is the best thing that you can do. By having various involvements, you are guaranteed to meet many people who will root for you in your success. Involvement leads to opportunities that will help you grow in leadership!" 

"Sara always lives out the true identity of being Lasallian," adds Ms. Johnson. "We are so grateful to have her as our student body president for the 2022-23 school year. Of course, I was a little sad to see her graduate, but I am so happy for her and am confident that she will be successful in everything that comes her way in the future. Congratulations, Sara!”