At Seward High School, January’s Student of the Month is someone who proves that character can shine just as brightly as academics. This month’s recognition goes to someone whose personality fills a room the moment she walks in. Mikinley Williams has received the recognition, and according to her, “high school is not just about academics… personality is what counts in the end.”
Mikinley is known for being bubbly, outgoing, and genuinely kind to everyone she meets. She has a natural charisma that makes people feel comfortable around her. Whether she’s talking with friends in the hallway, helping a teacher after school, or cheering on her teammates, she brings an energy that’s hard to miss. She’s the kind of person who doesn’t hesitate to lend a hand when needed.
While she jokes that everyone knows she didn’t earn Student of the Month for academics, she still has goals for herself. Her main academic goal? Graduate. She admits that school can be stressful, especially when work piles up. When it comes to managing her time, Mikinley admits she often gets things done “at the dead of night.” She’s faced challenges with missing assignments and feeling overwhelmed, sometimes even “crying through it,” but she keeps going. Her advice to other students is simple and real: “Don’t be like me; do your work.”
One of her favorite classes is Foods, taught by Jean Beck, mainly because, as she says, “there’s free food.” Outside of class, she’s involved in just about everything. Mikinley plays basketball, volleyball, and soccer. She unofficially participates in student council as “vice president” and is always around to support school events. She is also the president of the announcement club, bringing a daily enthusiastic review of the current sports events at Seward High School!
Ms. Swander has played a big role in Mikinley’s time at Seward High School. She describes her as someone who is always honest and straightforward, saying she appreciates her because “she’s always keeping it real.” Ms. Swander doesn’t sugarcoat things, but she also clearly cares about her students and wants them to do better. That balance of honesty and support has stuck with Mikinley.
Outside of school, sports are a big part of her life. Mikinley is currently committed to pursuing her academics and athletic abilities at Ottawa University in Kansas. She has decided to take the next big step in her athletic career by committing to play as an outside hitter for their volleyball team!
At Seward High School, being named Student of the Month goes beyond grades. It recognizes students who show up, stay involved, and make a positive difference in the school every day. For January, Seward High School recognized someone who makes the school brighter simply by being herself. Mikinley Williams’ kindness, energy, and willingness to help others are what truly set her apart. Congratulations Mikinley!
