Reese ’26
College/School Attending This Fall: Northwestern University
Major/Area of Interest: Theater
Years at Shipley: 6
Activities and Positions Held:
All School Vice President, Arts Committee (Performing Arts Head), Shipley TV, Glee Club, Shipley Singers, Yearbook, JV Basketball, All Theater Productions (Including choreography and directing).
Who was your most influential teacher and why?
Ms. Willing for Honors Biology my junior year. Honestly, it was the hardest class I ever took, but Ms. Willing was there for me every step of the way. I had to work so hard in that class, and every time I was struggling, I could just turn to her for help. She became an incredible mentor for me, and someone I could just talk to about anything.
What was your favorite class and why?
My English class, Modern Drama, because I got to learn about theater in an English classroom setting. It was amazing because I got to really dive into the plays and the characters within them, and finish each reading with a fun, different project. Not to mention, Mr. Hornung was an incredible teacher and never failed to put a smile on my face. I looked forward to that class every day.
What was your most memorable experience at Shipley?
Probably the winter musicals. Every year was a different experience with a different cast, but each year I had so much fun. The bond created throughout the theater department during those busy months was outstanding.
What does Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing mean to you?
To me, it means to pursue your dreams and desires to the fullest extent. Do what you've always dreamed of and forget the fear of failure, but as you move forward with those goals, do it as a compassionate person. Don't take what you have for granted. Be thankful, be grateful.
How has Shipley encouraged you to take risks?
I was fortunate to have teachers who consistently supported and encouraged me, and gave me the confidence to try new things. My classmates were just as motivating, always willing to participate and collaborate, which made every experience more meaningful. Opportunities like co-directing and choreographing pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me grow both creatively and personally. Because of this environment, I felt more confident taking risks and challenging myself in ways I never expected.
Please write a short reflection on your time at Shipley and what it meant to you.
My time at Shipley was incredibly meaningful, especially through my involvement in theater and the guidance of Mr. Brown, who was the best mentor I could have asked for. I built friendships I will never forget and created memories that truly shaped who I am today. These experiences helped me grow in confidence and step outside my comfort zone in ways I never imagined. As I move forward, I feel ready to take on whatever comes my way—not just to handle it, but to genuinely enjoy the work I’m doing. Shipley showed me how much of a privilege education is and how powerful it can be in shaping my future.