Bible

Demetri Crooks

Demitri Crooks has a deep desire to understand the word of God and to share his discoveries with his brothers and sisters in Christ. He is an example to many around him through his curiosity and interest in deepening his relationship with the Lord.

Business & Communications

Annie Vonder Bruegge

Annie knows what it takes to create culture. She is hard-working and responsible. She served in our department for four years on the Yearbook Staff—two of those years as the editor (one of only two students in the last 30 years to hold this position for both junior and senior year). She has consistently shown what it means to do hard things, to follow through, and to take on the final responsibility. 

English

Taylor Synowiec

Taylor is a high-level engager of ideas. She loves literature because she recognizes the ways in which stories help us better understand who we are as image bearers of God. She’s also a terrific writer who has the ability to formulate compelling arguments by offering textual insights that even her teachers learn from. In all of this, Taylor approaches her work and thought as a student through a clear biblical lens that she’s able to passionately and clearly articulate to those around her. She’s able to achieve these things because she possesses a God-given wisdom and maturity beyond her years.

History

Jacob Pederson

Jacob is an exceptional young historian with both demonstrated achievement and deep intellectual curiosity. Earning a score of 5 on the 2025 AP U.S. History exam reflects not only his strong academic ability but also a sophisticated understanding of historical analysis and interpretation. He is deeply and independently read across historical topics, engaging with history not just as a subject, but as a genuine intellectual passion. Jacob approaches the past with the mindset of a true historian—curious, analytical, and eager to understand complexity.

Math

Enoch Wong

Enoch exemplifies the qualities of a superior student by grasping the fundamental concepts and principles of each discipline and by analyzing problems and developing effective solutions. He is persistent in solving complex problems and able to adapt to various situations. He is a self-directed and curious student who actively seeks knowledge and improves his skills through practice and reflection.

His confidence leads to assurance in applying skills independently and engaging with new material across all subjects. Enoch is also a terrific communicator and has the unique ability to point others toward a better understanding of the world around them through the study and discussion of specific disciplines.

Performing Arts

Theatre

Josie Mosley

Josie Mosley has been a committed member of the Performing Arts department at WCA throughout her entire high school career. Her excellence in the classroom, spanning nearly every theatre and choir course on offer, has carried over into her numerous standout performances on stage. Josie is committed, tenacious, and a devoted follower of Christ. We look forward to seeing how God works through her as she pursues Musical Theatre at Webster University and beyond.

Music

Denny Muehleisen

Denny Muehleisen has contributed to the Westminster Music Department as a whole and specifically to the Orchestra. She’s been enrolled in orchestra for six years and has participated in several pit orchestras and many of our tours. She consistently exceeds teacher expectations for understanding and execution of skills and has a gift for creative problem-solving and gently leading her colleagues. She fosters personal connections among ensemble members, often seeking out less engaged students. She is the founding member of the Westminster Chamber Orchestra, and most importantly, is a Christ-like servant-leader. Denny is an exemplary student, musician, and leader.

Physical Education

Kate Reidler

Kate has been a dedicated student in physical education since her freshman year. She has taken strength and conditioning every semester and continues to challenge herself by participating in summer programs as part of her off-season training. She is an incredibly hardworking student who embodies a commitment to physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.

Kate also made each of her classes better by assisting her workout partners with their own form and pushing them to work to the best of their ability. She has a deep understanding of the process and consistency required to live a healthy lifestyle, and has committed herself to modeling this lifestyle for those around her.

Science

Salem Dawit

Salem truly exemplifies the qualities of the scientific mindset. She doesn't just learn the material; rather, she seeks to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of each presented topic. Salem also exhibits outstanding leadership qualities. She has helped lead the WCA Women in STEM event and take on leadership roles in robotics. Not only is Salem outstanding in her work, but also in her character. She is conscientious, helpful, and humbly seeks and follows through on advice from her teachers. Her passion for pursuing excellence has contributed to the honor of being accepted to the rigorous engineering program at Washington University. Her willingness to challenge herself in AP science courses demonstrates the true heart of a scientist.

STEM

Enoch Wong

Visual Arts

Molly Bruce (3D Design)

Molly is driven by a desire to see her artistic vision take shape and doesn't give up when faced with challenges. Molly has thrived in Ceramics I, II, and III. She takes risks with her work and is willing to fail for the sake of trying something new. She has a great attitude, is always present, and shows real commitment to learning and creating. Molly spreads creative energy and encouragement in the studio, spurring her classmates to higher achievements.

Molly’s interest and excellence in art making have been evident through her broad and deep study of visual art. In addition to Ceramics, she distinguished herself in Drawing, AP Studio Art, AP Art History, and the Visual Arts Academy. This spring, she had work selected for display in the 14th Annual Young Artists Exhibition at the St. Louis Art Museum, where it will remain on view until the fall.

Ethan Harris (2D Design)

Ethan's passion for photography has truly set him apart. His good humor and curiosity are coupled with a tremendous work ethic and high personal standards of excellence. As a Photography student, Ethan consistently demonstrated exceptional technical skill and artistic vision, resulting in creative compositions and genuine beauty. His curiosity about equipment and techniques pushed him to grow as an artist, always eager to experiment and refine his craft.

As this year's president of the Photography Club, Ethan has been a leader and an encourager, sharing his knowledge with others while inspiring them to step beyond the classroom. He challenges his peers not only to improve their skills but to go out into the world, notice its beauty, and capture it with intention. Ethan has also challenged himself this year to expand his art-making experience, enrolling in Printmaking and Oil Painting classes, where his desire to learn and grow as an artist continues to advance his creative journey. Ethan's dedication, creativity, and leadership make him a truly deserving recipient of this award.

World Languages

Spanish

Ava Fichter

Ava’s curiosity about other cultures is evident, especially through her experiences traveling abroad. She consistently seeks out opportunities to engage with people from diverse backgrounds, which has shown both her open mind and genuine empathy for others. She brings this curiosity into the classroom, where she eagerly shares about her travel experiences. Most recently, Ava shared that she was needed as a translator during her senior service site and was thrilled to be able to serve and connect with others using her Spanish.

Ava’s daily classroom performance has been outstanding. She communicates with a high level of proficiency in both writing and speaking, and she excels at interpreting complex texts and audio materials. Not only has she gained excellence in her performance in class, but her willingness to consistently speak with me in Spanish is special and shows her dedication to mastering the language. I know that Ava will excel at any opportunity that is given to her in her future endeavors.

French

Athena Begay

During her time in the WCA World Languages program, Athena has shown dedication to the French language and enthusiasm during class discussions. She is frequently looking to expand her vocabulary in order to communicate better in French. The presentations that she has given have been particularly impressive, as they have always gone beyond what was expected of her.  She has provided valuable input to the French classes that she has been in and is always respectful of her fellow students. She has been a joy to have in class.

Chinese

Enoch Wong