Lilah Dhanani
Nominated by Pat Wire, Social Studies Teacher
Beyond her academic contributions, Lilah’s upbeat and approachable demeanor acted as a social glue within the class. Her presence was a reminder that the best sociological insights often come from a place of deep human compassion.
Lauren Feiwell
Nominated by Mike Kedzie, Environmental Science Teacher
Lauren has been a kind, friendly, and good-hearted person all year long. She brings a positive attitude to class every day and always seems to be in a good mood. She talks with many students in the class and myself on a daily basis and always genuinely cares about the well-being of others. She is honest and reflective in conversation. She enjoys a good laugh and also surrounds herself with others that have a similar welcoming demeanor. Lauren has made our Horticulture class a better place this year, making her an outstanding candidate for the Goodwill Award.
Oscar Gonzalez
Nominated by Katie Schmitt, Instructional Coach
Oscar remains one of the kindest humans I know. He’s not just one of the Best of BHS; he’s one of the best of all time. I am grateful to have known him. He is such a hard worker, and he always supports others. Never one to miss an opportunity to help, Oscar is always willing the lend a helping hand. If you meet Oscar Gonzalez, your world just got a little bit better.
Muneeb Iyyaz
Nominated by Kirsten MacGregor, CNA Instructor
Muneeb is always respectful to his peers and his instructor. However, in CNA, he went above and beyond being a student and revealed his true character as a healthcare provider. Muneeb demonstrated energetic empathy for senior citizens in the nursing home during four 10-hour shifts on the weekends. Muneeb is able to communicate honest feedback in a constructive and friendly way that serves to better outcomes for his peers. He also does so with a great sense of humor! Muneeb is on his way to do great things with an honest, kind heart.
Ethan Kim
Nominated by Heather Graham, Math Teacher
Ethan Kim is the kind of student who makes a lasting impact on everyone around him. As a teaching assistant in my Algebra 1 class, he brings a genuine warmth and positivity that helps students feel comfortable, supported and capable. Ethan has a natural ability to connect with others, building strong relationships and meeting students where they are, both academically and personally.
He consistently steps up as a role model in the classroom, showing responsibility, patience and kindness in everything he does. Whether he’s helping a student work through a tough problem or offering encouragement on a hard day, Ethan leads with authenticity and care. He also brings thoughtful insights to lessons, adding value in ways that truly enhance student learning.
Ethan is simply a good person, someone who makes the classroom a better place just by being in it, and he is incredibly deserving of this recognition.
Zach Lampros
Nominated by Lisa Horcher, Community Connections Coordinator
Zach is a great leader but is alway inclusive of other students. He is kind and caring by nature, he is a great kid!
Avery Lawson
Nominated by Karen Fish, Coach
Avery has a great positive attitude who is kind, always willing to help others in class and welcoming to others. She has been working with the BEST students during adaptive physical education class where she encourages the students and is patient when talking with them. Avery also has been volunteering with the BEST and STRIVE students afterschool through the special olympics track and field where she works with the students to help with their specific event where she shows great kindness working with them.
Mel Miller
Nominated by Jon Mihevc, English Teacher
Mel always arrives in class with a cheerful attitude. She works well with others. She is honest, hardworking, and regularly prepared for class. She extends herself with me, asking questions—“How was your weekend? Did you go to the jazz concert? Did you know about the concert at Elmhurst college at the end of the month?” She performed on Saxophone (along with Marco Stabile on guitar) for my Mythology class. She is just a very fine person!
Alec Stewart
Nominated by Veronica Sanchez, Spanish Teacher
Alec Stewart always has a smile on his face when I see him in the hallways. When I had him in class he was always kind, pleasant and helpful with everyone.
Ian Stockton
Nominated by Lisa Horcher, Community Connections Coordinator
Ian has in instrumental in helping prepare for Decision Day 2026. His help in the College and Career Center has help us prepare for this great celebration!
Andrew Verone
Nominated by Kevin Art, Wellness Counselor
I have personally never met Andrew. However, I was impressed and inspired by his positive support of his peers in the hallway. I was walking back to my office from the Gym after the Assembly on April 1. Just outside the PE office, a group of students who performed in the assembly were starting to make their way back to class. I saw Andrew go out of his way to congratulate all of them on “an amazing performance.” This simple act of sincere kindness clearly had a positive impact on the performers. They were quick to respond with smiles and appreciative heart-felt “thanks.” Watching that simple hallway interaction was the highlight of my day. It’s easy to see that Andrew is making a positive and lasting difference at BHS. Way to go Andrew!
Arya Zubelik
Nominated by Marta Constenla, Spanish Teacher
Arya is a wonderful student with a very genuine smile full of greatness and kindness! She is always positive, helpful, collaborative, and humble. Teaching her is not only a pleasure, but an honor!
