Photos: Chris Emeott
Welcome to our annual Senior Spotlight feature. We asked local high school principals, teachers, counselors and staff to nominate students who best exemplify each school’s core values. Read along to meet a selection of up-and-coming 12th-grade students, and get to know these scholars who are passionate about inclusion, family, athletics and more. Most impressively, these students are deeply involved in their academic communities and actively determined to leave a positive imprint on their schools.
Now, learn more about five local students—from the educators who nominated them to the students themselves.
Kollie (Cindy) Darboi
Osseo Senior High School
“Cindy has been a positive, uplifting leader whose focus continues to be about the culture and climate for students at Osseo Senior High. She works to engage all students with multiple perspectives to ensure all voices are heard.” —Sara Vernig, principal
What is an achievement that you are most proud of?
I am most proud of my determination. Coming to Osseo Senior High School was a scary and exciting step for me … From there, I started to navigate my way. I picked the classes I wanted to take, not my parents nor friends … Junior year, I started a Black Student Union with some friends. (I have a lot of close friends at Osseo now.) … Not having a group like that at Osseo always felt like something was missing.
What is something that your peers may not know about you?
I’m very observant, and I don’t have it all figured out. I pay a lot of attention to things around me. Sometimes, that can come off as judgmental, but I am OK with that … I don’t put my personal life on social media. Anything I post on social media is open to the public’s eyes, and I take pride in keeping my business as the center of my social media rather than my personal life. People often give me compliments about how I carry myself, but they don’t know, even on my worst days, I don’t let the world see me crumble. Life is a resource; you have to use it to your advantage.
What person in history would you most like to invite to your graduation?
Whitney Houston, because she inspires me in music, and she always [seemed] to be a kind soul.
What is something that brings you joy?
Cooking, music, Sofia the First [and] decorating.
What one item is always in your backpack?
A pencil.
What’s next for you after high school?
Life after high school is still undecided. Things I am thinking about are culinary school, business major and physiology.
Extracurriculars, Clubs and Sports:
- Black Student Union, president
- Track and Field
Caden Laird
Heritage Christian Academy
“Caden is an outstanding young man, one who is well-developed in several areas: Academically, he is an AP scholar. As an artist, both on stage as an actor and vocalist, he excels. Athletically, he is a strong competitor and a team player. In all areas, Caden understands the value of teamwork and encouraging his peers. He cares deeply about the world outside his own corner of it—compassionate and gracious. He is an intelligent and thoughtful, critical thinker and a friend to all. Caden is a very stable, well-grounded individual.” —Julie Herman, director of admissions and community relations
What is an achievement that you are most proud of?
I have always participated in theater, but in the spring of 2023, I told my directors that I wouldn’t have the capacity to undertake a large role due to my busy schedule. Just a few days prior to the show, my director called to inform me that one of my castmates was severely ill, and she needed me to give my best effort in stepping up to fill the role … I discovered that I had just a few days to learn 133 lines, a duet and several difficult scenes. Somehow, through the power of prayer, the motivation in me and the support of others, we put on the greatest performance that I have ever been in.
What is something that your peers may not know about you?
… I am an avid cyclist. I bike frequently and am passionate about the beautiful trails and parks systems in our area.
What person in history would you most like to invite to your graduation?
AP U.S. History is my favorite class, so I suppose I would invite former U.S. President[s] … George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Hearing their input at my graduation would be an honor.
What is something that brings you joy?
Futbol = Life. I love soccer with my whole heart. There is something amazing about the beautiful game that makes you love every detail.
What one item is always in your backpack?
My Bible.
What’s next for you after high school?
Going to a four-year college/university. I am hoping to join some type of pre-law program or [major] in political science or sociology.
Extracurriculars, Clubs and Sports:
- Basketball DJ
- Club Soccer
- Concert Choir
- Confirmation Table Leader at Plymouth Covenant Church
- Select Choir
- Student Government
- Theater, 25 total shows
- Varsity Boys Soccer
- Worship Team
- Youth Group Leader
Matthew Hunter
Providence Academy
“Matthew is a model of what we are looking for in a student at Providence Academy. He is an outstanding student … He is active in the arts as a member of our school band and is a three-sport athlete, taking part in football, basketball and baseball. Matthew is a model of all aspects of our motto: faith, knowledge and virtue. He is a shining example of what a student at Providence Academy looks like!” —Kurt Jaeger, Upper School director
What is an achievement that you are most proud of?
I was selected by my football coaches for the Why We Play Award. This honor is presented to high school athletes who exhibit exemplary character, integrity and leadership. This award is particularly special to me because the qualities that are highlighted in this award are the qualities that I value as a foundation in my life. I have been playing football since I was in 4th grade. I have enjoyed come-from-behind wins and the disappointment of unexpected defeats. As I have matured as an athlete and learned from coaches who inspire me beyond the game itself, the wins and losses have meant less while the life lessons have meant more. As I move beyond Providence, I hope to continue to live up to the standards for which I was awarded.
What is something that your peers may not know about you?
… I mostly enjoy playing strategic board games with my three brothers … I also enjoy playing card games. One of my favorite card games is called 25. It is an Irish card game that my grandfather, an Irish immigrant, taught to my mother and her siblings. I learned this game from my mom when I was little and have enjoyed playing it at family gatherings ever since.
What person in history would you most like to invite to your graduation?
St. Maximillian Kolbe. I admire his courage and selflessness.
What is something that brings you joy?
I find the most joy in playing baseball. While this is only my second year of playing baseball, it has already become my favorite sport. This is a result of good teammates, good coaches and the game itself.
What one item is always in your backpack?
A piece of sporting equipment.
What’s next for you after high school?
I am fairly confident that I will double major in political science and either business or pre-med.
Extracurriculars, Clubs and Sports:
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Chess Team
- Football
- Jazz Band
- National Honor Society
- Symphonic Band
- The Squires of the Body of Christ at Holy Family, member
- Quizbowl Team
Jordan Ode
Maple Grove Senior High School
“In a school of 2,400 plus students, Jordan Ode stands among her peers as a student, an athlete, a friend and a great example of The Crimson Way. She exhibits every trait we hope to see in a student-athlete. She’s dedicated to academics, develops positive and respectful relationships with staff and she values her classmates and teammates. Her basketball coach, Mark Cook, says, ‘She is so driven and hard-working in and out of the classroom. We get to see it daily at practice, and when you talk to her teachers, you find out it is no different in the classroom …’ And, as good of a player as she is, she’s an even better young woman. Her best days are still ahead, and we are grateful to have her represent Maple Grove Senior High School and the Crimson Family.” —Bart Becker, principal
What is an achievement that you are most proud of?
Winning the 5 AAAA girl’s basketball Section Championship with my team and placing fourth in the State Tournament this year to make school history. This team has persevered through a lot over the past few years, so for us to finally make a much-needed breakthrough and make school history in the process is something I will forever be proud of. This team was something special. The work ethic was unmatched, and the dedication and focus to preparing for every game was always evident … This past season, I was also able to surpass 1,386 points to become Maple Grove’s all-time leading scorer in points as well as break the single-season record with 651 points. None of this is possible without great teammates and coaches behind me, so I want to thank them for making this possible.
What is something that your peers may not know about you?
I have played the saxophone in the band for seven years, and I am bound to be certified bilingual in Spanish this year! Ever since I picked up the saxophone in 5th grade, I have loved playing music … My reason for learning Spanish stems from my desire to play professional basketball over in Spain after college. Along with playing in the WNBA, I have always dreamed of playing overseas since I was a little girl. Learning Spanish would allow me to better communicate with the locals and better understand their culture once I am there.
What is something that brings you joy?
My family. Whether it’s playing board games together, going to sporting events or just watching a movie, I can always count on them to lift my spirits or make me laugh.
What person in history would you most like to invite to your graduation?
My grandmother … the strongest woman I know. She had a brilliant mind, was the best baker around, caring, honest and full of love. She was my No. 1 supporter and always wanted the best for me. Unfortunately, she passed away on August 16, 2023, after fighting ovarian cancer for around three years. My grandmother’s memory will forever live on in me, and I will be thinking about her when I graduate in June of 2025.
What one item is always in your backpack?
My AirPods.
What’s next for you after high school?
I will be attending Michigan State University on a basketball scholarship.
Extracurriculars, Clubs and Sports:
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes
- GirlsINSports
- Ode Hanna Hoops Basketball Training, founder and co-owner
- Varsity Basketball
- Wind Ensemble, saxophone
Caleb Lee
Parnassus Preparatory School
“Caleb was recently recognized with a Minnesota High School League ExCEL Award for his achievements in athletics, academics, leadership and community service … He believes, ‘You can’t be in your own secluded circle—you need to experience new people and other ways of thinking.’
“Caleb applies this personal philosophy both in and outside of the classroom. As a dedicated student with a rigorous course load, he is constantly working to deepen his learning … Outside of school, he seeks to engage with and serve others in his community …” —Robert Jameson, Student Senate advisor
What is an achievement that you are most proud of?
… My 4A ExCEL Award. This award recognizes a junior student of the highest honors of leadership, community service, education and athletics … Out of about 300 plus students, only 40 were picked, including me. A main reason I am most proud of this achievement is due to its large scale of competition and the diversity of topics we were competing with. I was honored to be a part of an elite group of students in Minnesota.
What is something that your peers may not know about you?
… I am a false genius. I would not be doing well in school if I did not put in the effort. I do not retain information as easily as people may think. When I am at school, I make sure to pay close attention to lectures, and at home, I continue to deepen my understanding of specific concepts … This proves the whole idea that hard work beats any talent.
What person in history would you most like to invite to your graduation?
Jesus of Nazareth.
What is something that brings you joy?
My golden doodle, Kora.
What one item is always in your backpack?
An eraser, because I make a lot of mistakes and am then able to correct them.
What’s next for you after high school?
I have always wanted to pursue an education and an occupation that ties business and the medical field. This created my dream for the future; I want to become a hospital CEO.
Extracurriculars, Clubs and Sports:
- Baseball
- Cross Country
- Cross Country Skiing
- Golf
- Economics Club
- Math League
- Model UN
- National Honors Society
- Student Senate
- Track and Field
- Youth in Government
Maple Grove Magazine extends its appreciate to the team at Hennepin County Library for its use of the Maple Grove Library as a backdrop for our Senior Spotlight photo shoot.
Maple Grove Library
8001 Main St.; 612.543.6450
