Submitted by Westfield Washington Schools
Westfield Washington Schools held its 28th annual Evening of Excellence, honoring 264 seniors who achieved a 3.8 grade-point average or higher at the end of their junior year. This distinguished group represents 30 percent of the senior class, reflecting the academic rigor, dedication, and perseverance that define the Shamrock community.
The Westfield Washington Schools Board of School Trustees hosted the event. Board President Mike Steele welcomed families and students, recognizing the outstanding achievements of those being honored.
“It is an honor for the Westfield Washington Schools Board of School Trustees to host this special event,” Steele said. “On behalf of the Board, our staff, and our leaders, I want you to know how proud we are of your hard work. Tonight is all about celebrating you. Great job, Shamrocks!”
Board members in attendance included President Mike Steele, Vice President Rebecca Ogle, Member Carrie Larrison, and Member Amber Willis. Secretary Bill Anderson was unable to attend.
Westfield Education Foundation Executive Director Ashley Knott congratulated students and encouraged them to apply for one of the 41 scholarships available through the Foundation’s common application, which opens in November. These scholarships are made possible through partnerships with community members, businesses, and legacy donors, honoring excellence, supporting academic rigor, and encouraging student success across various pathways.
Superintendent Dr. John Atha introduced keynote speaker and WHS alumna Cailyn Henderson, Class of 2018. Henderson is the co-founder of Fore the Girls, part-owner of Golf Girl Games, and owner of Cailyn Henderson LLC. With nearly 800,000 followers across Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, she has become a voice of leadership in the golf and lifestyle industries.
Her work has led to collaborations with global brands such as Adidas Golf, Callaway, BMW, Golf Channel, Garmin, and the Evian Championship. Creative Artists Agency also represents her. Before her professional career, Henderson was a standout collegiate golfer at the University of Indianapolis, earning GLVC Freshman of the Year, NCAA Division II All-American honors, multiple tournament wins, and setting the program scoring record.
In her keynote address, Henderson shared how her journey has been shaped by faith, resilience, and reinvention. She spoke candidly about setbacks, changing plans, and the importance of staying true to one’s values. Her message emphasized leadership, perseverance, and treating others with kindness: “People won’t remember how you performed, but they will remember how you made them feel.”
Principal Alicia Denniston closed the celebration by thanking families for attending and recognizing the students as they were called forward to receive their plaques.
Westfield Washington Schools congratulates all honorees of the 2025 Evening of Excellence. Their achievements reflect not only academic excellence but also the character and leadership that will shape their futures.
Photos by Rocks Media House / Westfield Washington Schools