The Pioneer – Senior Issue 2021

The IONEER MAINE EAST HIGH SCHOOL NEWS May 21, 2021 Senior Issue 2021 Seniors George Philip, Tehreem Quereshi, Prapti Patel, Jordan Oslowski, and Daphne Kritikakis enjoy College Decision Day 2021.

Senior Honors Night 2021 Honoring Maine East’s best and brightest CLASS OF 2021 MAINE SCHOLARS – Top 1% of graduating class Ashutosh Kumar Isabella Piekut Nicole Piekut Tehreem Quereshi Emily Swoboda CLASS OF 2021 – TOP FIVE PERCENT 2021 Good Will Awards Jaeren Dadivas Aryan Mashruwala Solomiya Plugator Good Will Awards are given to those students of the Scott Davis James Gold senior class who have done the most, as determined Merlin Josin Alexia Kando Leah Mathew Michelle Polak through nomination by the faculty and election by Daphne Kritikakis Jordan Oslowski Tehreem Qureshi the senior class and faculty, to promote good will at Ashutosh Kumar Roshni Kurian Christopher Paramby Hadi Rihawi Maine East and in Maine Township. Roshni Lotwala Prapti Patel Khayla Roshelle James Gold Tehreem Qureshi Neelesh Patel Roshni Lotwala George Philip Santiago Nina Hernandez Emily Swoboda Isabella Piekut Nicole Sobski Nicole Piekut Emily Swoboda Prapti Patel Jordan Oslowski Daphne Kritikakis Caitlin Urban Brigit Thomas 2021 Department Merit Awards / Rising Stars Each department at Maine East may grant up to three Merit Awards to individuals who have completed at least two credits of course work in the department. Recipients have demonstrated either excellent performance, unusual service, or special accomplishment in the department giving the award. The Rising Star is awarded to a student who has achieved significant growth and progress. CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY FINE ARTS ENGLISH PHYSICAL EDUCATION EDUCATION Emily Medina Adiel Detoito Art Department Prapti Patel Alexia Kando Applied Technology Christina Alhaj Emily Swoboda Adeline Stan Sebastian Alcocer Eleni Kontoravdis Rising Star: Christina Alhaj Marcelo Bandera Rising Star: Samuel Adelman Anthony Jdaidany Jordaane Schwab E.L.L. SCIENCE Rising Star: Adam Amedin Rising Star: Enkhmurun Kyleen Aranas James Gold Business Division Isidora Dordevic Anastasia Chorna Enkh-Amgalan Chris Paramby Parpti Patel Scott Davis Music Department Adilene Patricio Rising Star: Angelica Torres Lima Merlin Josin SOCIAL SCIENCE Rising Star: Shane Paz Iva Galic WORLD LANGUAGES Ashutosh Kumar Family & Consumer Sciences Michelle Polak Tehreem Quereshi Cyril Denise Chiu Mee Emily Swoboda Daphne Kritikakis Emily Swoboda Angelica Torres Lima Rising Star: Saul Vidal Roshni Kurian Rising Star: Great Star Cagape Caitlin Urban Rising Star: Alisha Junaid Christopher Paramby Speech Arts Department Rising Star: Aguida Bangoura 2 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021 Iva Galic Alexia Kando MATHEMATICS Cecylia Selwocki Bushido Ellis Rising Star: Kenshin Polintan James Gold Ashutosh Kumar Rising Star: Aryan Mashruwala

2021 DEPARTMENT AWARDWINNERS The graduating senior who has excelled the most in a particular department at Maine East earns the Department Award, voted by the faculty of each department. This highly coveted honor recognizes truly exceptional accomplishment throughout several years of study. Rushane Wright Inara Matani Mirna Shamon Dimitra Kakares Siya Libu Applied Technology Business Education Family/Consumer Science Art ELL Isabella Piekut Nicole Piekut Hadi Rihawi James Gold Sabrina Stearns Mathematics Music Speech Arts English (Co-Winners) Caitlin Urban Steven Abraham Prapti Patel Lejla Murati Physical Education Science Social Science World Languages MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 3

College, Organization, & Community Scholarships Congratulations to the members of the Class of 2021 at Maine East, who have earned MILLIONS OF DOLLARS in College, Community, and Organization scholarships! D.A.R. Good Emmanuel Hildebrandt Helen Dobbins EA207 Citizenship Award Memorial Scholarship Scholarship Gabriela Konopka Hadi Rihawi Daniela Vertucio Scott J. Bloomberg Des Plaines Senior PE Leaders Scholarship Scholarship Leah Mathew Community Foundation Sadie Nina Hernandez Prapti Patel Rose Argus Scholarship Sara Hussien Athletic Boosters Scholarships Maine Township Dist. 207 Park Ridge Daphne Kritikakis Educational Foundation Panhellenic Scholarship Jordan Oslowski Emily Swoboda COACH Scholarship Gabriela Konopka Prapti Patel Sabina Matezic Caitlin Urban Daniela Vertucio Maine East Class of 1983 PF Credit Union Senior Service Awards Scholarship Rising Star Award Gabriela Konopka Daphne Kritikakis Ashutosh Kumar Diana Sakander Roshni Lotwala Lesley Molina Marine Corps Distinguished Christopher Paramby Athlete Award Daniela Vertucio Athletic Awards Konrad Wilk Ron Heiser Athletic Female Athlete of the Year Fredric Bacon Memorial Achievement Award Jordan Oslowski Artist Scholarship Dimitra Kakares Jeff Becerra Christian Liboy Charles Himel Scholarship Khayla Santiago Tracy Trinh Duong Marine Corp Scholastic Al Carstens Athletic Excellence Award Leadership Award Ashutosh Kumar Nicole Piekut Chris Iliopoulos Eleni Kontoravdis Semper Fidelis Award for Musical Excellence Sam C. and Ruth E. Marzulo Isis Bautista Achievement Awards Caesar Graham Angela Foster Memorial Scholarship Angelica Torres Elise De Salle Male Athlete of theYear Ramy Atia 4 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021

Seal of Biliteracy The Seal of Biliteracy can be earned by any senior demonstrating proficiency in another language in addition to English. Student who choose to pursue this honor must demonstrate proficiency in the domains of read- ing, writing, speaking and listening. The Seal of Biliteracy is indicated with an official seal on the District 207 diploma, and is noted on the student’s official transcript. Janely Acosta – Spanish Gabriela Konopka – Polish and Spanish Diana Bahena – Spanish Daphne Kritikakis –Spanish Isis Bautista – Spanish Alexandra Lapinski – Polish Estefani Cruz Ramirez – Spanish Fatima Lima Vasquez – Spanish James Gold – Polish Vivian Molina Sumba – Spanish Eman Kamel – Arabic Angelica Torres Lima – Spanish COLLEGE DECISION DAY 2021 MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 5

COLLEGES – ALPHABETICAL BY COLLEGE Colleges the Class of 2021 will attend, as reported by students to the Career and College Resource Center AMERICAN UNIVERSITY COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY EMORY UNIVERSITY Washington, D.C. New York, NY Atlanta, GA Aguida Bangoura Solomiya Plugator Tehreem Qureshi Isabella Piekut Mohammed Arsalan Qureshi CORNELL COLLEGE FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY Mt. Vernon, IA Tallahassee, FL AUGUSTANA COLLEGE Angela Kablar Rock Island, IL Jordaane Schwab HARPER COLLEGE Alexxa Soto Collazo DEPAUL UNIVERSITY Palatine, IL Alvin Theccanat Chicago, IL Juanita McGregor BELMONT UNIVERSITY Christina Alhaj Anastasiia Chorna Memphis, Tennessee Jeremy Jarmuz Adeline Stan ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF Joshua Kora TECHNOLOGY BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY Anjali Patel Chicago, IL Lisle, IL Deep Rana Erik Olijnyk Alenta Tom Suad Hussein Yulia Shishkevich ILLINOIS STATE Diana Bahena UNIVERSITY BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC Alisha Junaid Normal, IL Boston, MA Dimitra Kakares Hetvi Modi Daniela Vertucio Destiny Nelson Umang Regmi Jaden Landau Temitope Sanni Sabrina Stearns BOSTON COLLEGE Brigit Thomas Boston, MA Konrad Wilk Ronnette Bressler Jesse Chavez Christian Liboy Pranjali Patel INDIANA UNIVERSITY Inara Matani Bloomington, IN BRADLEY UNIVERSITY Mason Chin Peoria, IL DEPAUW UNIVERSITY Scott Davis Ethan Rich Greencastle, IN Charmi Patel IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY CARTHAGE COLLEGE Ames, IA Kenosha, WI DOMINICAN UNIVERSITY River Forest, IL Ryan Schellhorn Michelle Gorak Lezly Gil Dev Desai COLLEGE of DUPAGE Eleni Kontoravdis JOHN A. LOGAN COLLEGE Glen Ellyn, IL Alexandra Lapinski Carterville, IL Eman Kamel Cynthia Youssaef Cyril Denise Chiu Mee COLUMBIA COLLEGE ELMHURST COLLEGE Chicago, IL Elmhurst, IL KENYON COLLEGE Gambier, OH Cydaney Whyte Ashley Guzman Michelle Polak Jeffrey Becerra 6 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021

COLLEGES – ALPHABETICAL BY COLLEGE LA SALLE UNIVERSITY MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY Philadelphia, PA Chicago, IL Boston, MA Jayde Blanca Bushido Ellis Miranda Irizarry Kirsten Pajak LAKE FOREST COLLEGE Lake Forest, IL NORTH PARK UNIVERSITY Parthkumar Rana Lejla Murati Chicago, IL NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY Anjali Abraham Evanston, IL Appleton, WI Leya Reji George Philip Khayla Roshelle Santiago Mariam Sawa Mirna Shamon Julian Ziskind LEWIS UNIVERSITY Romeoville, IL Abdulmajeed Raeedy LINCOLN COLLEGE Lincoln, IL Kyra Davis LOYOLA UNIVERSITY OAKTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE – Des Plaines, IL Chicago, IL Imaan Abid Daniela Garate Ishika Patel Wisam Achmar Zina Abood Shadale Marie Guinto Pammi Patel Daphne Kritikakis Michael Abregana Muhammad Hashmi Priyal Patel Aya Abushihab Melissa Hernandez Vraj Patel Sabina Matezic Samuel Adelman Gabriel Herrera Adilene Patricio Maida Mulalic Zoha Ahmed Christopher Iliopoulos Shane Paz Zainab Safdary Steifany Imsaih Kenshin Polintan Diana Sakander Anu Anil Nathaniel Jallores Jiemill Ponte Blessen Zachariah Kyeleen Aranas Anthony Jdaidany Areesha Rahim Salvador Awit Elizabeth Joseph Mary Rihani MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY Marcelo Bandera Cyril Josin Oscar Saenz Milwaukee, WI Christian Bobila Saud Bin Junaid Ahmed Amber Samee Akhtar Nina Abraham Great Star Cagape Daniella Karam Ahmed Sepanik Jexienne Chavez Patrick Kopec Melvin Shijo MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY Miriam-Cristina Joshua Luce Tooba Siddiqui East Lansing, MI Muhammad Mairaj Fernando Soriano Cruz Charles Monical Cusniriuc Haroon Mian Panagiotis Spyropoulos Edison Dela Peña Gianna Mok Alyssa Valle MILWAUKEE SCHOOL OF Aleksandra Mroczka Saul Vidal ENGINEERING Edvin Delalic Malgorzata Musiejuk Jakub Wiklik Milwaukee, WI Nicholas Demiglio Christian James Natnat Ashley Woods Elvis Nikolic Aaliyan Yousuf Alexander Chapovalov Adiel Detoito Om Patel Mariyam Yousuf Peter Dimas Prem Patel Jonathan Zhagui MISSOURI SOUTHERN STATE Alexander Dhruti Patel UNIVERSITY Dimitrijevic Joplin, MO Vladyslav Faychuk Gabriel Ferguson Steve Abraham MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 7

COLLEGES – ALPHABETICAL BY COLLEGE ROOSEVELT UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS at CHICAGO • Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Janely Acosta Khadija Jhakaria Leilani Perez Danna Aburmishan Ali Al Saeedy Nandini Jirobe Jefrin Reji Isis Bautista Roshni Lotwala Bianca Romero SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY Sourmi Beniamin Priya Mathew Devatheertha Saji St. Louis, MO Arianeth Cespedes Sandoval Daniel Miranda Rosemary Shabu Roshni Kurian Ronnenz Edrienne Chua Emma Odicho Bhavya Shah Karan Patel Hanna Codreanu Effie Panagiotopoulos Robeena Thekkilakkatt Aaron Pilac Nancynghi Duong Christopher Paramby Lesley Vega Reyes Tracy Trinh Duong Yesha Parikh Joshua Vinesar SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF Nina Hernandez Prapti Patel Hewe Wong ART AND DESIGN Moneer Ihmoud Sagarkumar Patel Nimra Yousaf Savannah, GA Jacob James Mia Diaz SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY Butler County, PA   Anthony Sarkis SO. ILLINOIS UNIV. EDWARDSVILLE Edwardsville, IL Sheza Zaidi ST. OLAF COLLEGE Northfield, MINNESOTA Hiba Samad ST. XAVIER UNIVERSITY Chicago, IL Nina Idichandy UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA Tucson, AZ Jordan Oslowski UNIVERSITY OF IOWA Iowa City, IA Riya Patel UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO Chicago, IL Hadi Rihawi 8 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021

COLLEGES – ALPHABETICAL BY COLLEGE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS – UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN WAKE TECHNICAL URBANA-CHAMPAIGN Ann Arbor, MI COMMUNITY COLLEGE Champaign, IL James Gold Ali Al-Chalabi Raleigh, NC Jaeren Dadivas UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI – Diya Patel Merlin Josin KANSAS CITY Ashutosh Kumar Kansas City, MO WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY Basil Levy Leah Mathew St. Louis, MO Aryan Mashruwala Kruti Patel UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – Emily Swoboda Neelesh Patel MILWAUKEE Benjamin Salemi Milwaukee, WI WELLESLEY COLLEGE Kinza Sherazi Emily Medina Wellesley, CT Caitlin Urban Nicole Sobski UNIVERSITY OF IOWA Iowa City, IA VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY XAVIER UNIVERSITY Valparaiso, IN Cincinnati, OH Gabriela Konopka Angelina Biju Alyson Gruss YALE UNIVERSITY New Haven, CT Nicole Piekut MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 9

COLLEGES – ALPHABETICAL BY STUDENT IMAAN ABID Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ZINA ABOOD Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois NINA ABRAHAM Marquette University Milwaukee, Wisconsin STEVE ABRAHAM Missouri Southern State Univ. Joplin, Missouri ANJALI ABRAHAM North Park University Chicago, Illinois MICHAEL ABREGANA Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois DANNA ABURMISHAN Roosevelt University Chicago, Illinois AYA ABUSHIHAB Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois WISAM ACHMAR Loyola University Chicago, Illinois JANELY ACOSTA University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois SAMUEL ADLEMAN Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ZOHA AHMED Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ALI AL SAEEDY University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois ALI AL-CHALABI University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois CHRISTINA ALHAJ DePaul University Chicago, Illinois ANU ANIL Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois KYELEEN ARANAS Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois SALVADOR AWIT Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois DIANA BAHENA DePaul University Chicago, Illinois MARCELO BANDERA Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois AGUIDA BANGOURA American University Washington, D.C. ISIS BAUTISTA University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois JEFFREY BECERRA Elmhurst College Elmhurst, Illinois SOURMI BENIAMIN University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois ANGELINA BIJU Valparaiso University Valparaiso, Indiana JAYDE BLANCA La Salle University Philadelphia, Pennsylvania CHRISTIAN BOBILA Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois RONNETTE BRESSLER Illinois State University Normal, Illinois GREAT STAR CAGAPE Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ARIANETH CESPEDES SANDOVAL Univ. of Ill.-Chicago Chicago, Illinois ALEXANDER CHAPOVALOV Milwaukee School of Engineering Milwaukee, Wisconsin JESSE CHAVEZ DePaul University Chicago, Illinois JEXIENNE CHAVEZ Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois MASON CHIN Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana CYRIL DENISE CHIU MEE John A Logan College Carterville, Illinois ANASTASIIA CHORNA Harper College Palatine, Illinois RONNENZ CHUA University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois HANNA CODREANU University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois MIRIAM-CRISTINA CUSNIRIUC Oakton Comm.College Des Plaines, Illinois JAEREN DADIVAS University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois SCOTT DAVIS Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana KYRA DAVIS Lincoln College Lincoln, Illinois EDISON DELA PENA V Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois EDVIN DELALIC Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois NICHOLAS DEMIGLIO Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois DEV DESAI Iowa State University Ames, Iowa ADIEL DETOITO Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois MIA DIAZ Savannah Coll. of Art & Design Savannah, Georgia PETER DIMAS Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ALEXANDER DIMITRIJEVIC Oakton Comm. College Des Plaines, Illinois NANCYNGHI DUONG University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois TRACY TRINH DUONG University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois BUSHIDO ELLIS Northeastern University Boston, Massachusetts VLADYSLAV FAYCHUK Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois GABRIEL FERGUSON Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois DANIELA GARATE Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois 10 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021

COLLEGES – ALPHABETICAL BY STUDENT LEZLY GIL Dominican University River Forest, Illinois JAMES GOLD University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan MICHELLE GORAK Carthage College Kenosha, Wisconsin ALYSON GRUSS Xavier University Cincinnati, Ohio SHADALE GUINTO Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ASHLEY GUZMAN Elmhurst College Elmhurst, Illinois MUHAMMAD HASHMI Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois MELISSA HERNANDEZ Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois NINA HERNANDEZ University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois GABRIEL HERRERA Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois SUAD HUSSEIN Benedictine University Lisle, Illinois NINA IDICHANDY St. Xavier University Chicago, Illinois MONEER IHMOUD University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois CHRISTOPHER ILIOPOULOS Oakton Comm.College Des Plaines, Illinois STEIFANY IMSAIH Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois MIRANDA IRIZARRY Moody Bible Institute Chicago, Illinois NATHANIEL JALLORES Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois JACOB JAMES University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois JEREMY JARMUZ DePaul University Chicago, Illinois ANTHONY JDAIDANY Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois KHADIJA JHAKARIA University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois NANDINI JIROBE University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois ELIZABETH JOSEPH Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois CYRIL JOSIN Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois MERLIN JOSIN University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois ALISHA JUNAID DePaul University Chicago, Illinois SAUD BIN JUNAID AHMED Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ANGELA KABLAR Florida State University Tallahassee, Florida DIMITRA KAKARES DePaul University Chicago, Illinois EMAN KAMEL College of DuPage Glen Ellyn, Illinois DANIELLA KARAM Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois GABRIELA KONOPKA University of Iowa Iowa City, Iowa ELENI KONTORAVDIS Dominican University River Forest, Illinois PATRICK KOPEC Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois JOSHUA KORA DePaul University Chicago, Illinois DAPHNE KRITIKAKIS Loyola University Chicago, Illinois ASHUTOSH KUMAR University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois ROSHNI KURIAN Saint Louis University St. Louis, Missouri JADEN LANDAU Illinois State University Normal, Illinois ALEXANDRA LAPINSKI Dominican University River Forest, Illinois BASIL LEVY University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois CHRISTIAN LIBOY Boston College Boston, Massachusetts ROSHNI LOTWALA UIC Honors College Chicago, Illinois JOSHUA LUCE Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois MUHAMMAD MAIRAJ Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ARYAN MASHRUWALA University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois INARA MATANI DePaul University Chicago, Illinois SABINA MATEZIC Loyola University Chicago, Illinois PRIYA MATHEW University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois LEAH MATHEW University of Missouri–KC Kansas City, Missouri JUANITA MCGREGOR Harper College Palatine, Illinois EMILY MEDINA Univ. of Wisconsin –Milwaukee Milwaukee, Wisconsin HAROON MIAN Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois DANIEL MIRANDA University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois HETVI MODI DePaul University Chicago, Illinois GIANNA MOK Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois CHARLES MONICAL Michigan State University East Lansing, Michigan ALEKSANDRA MROCZKA Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 11

COLLEGES – ALPHABETICAL BY STUDENT MAIDA MULALIC Loyola University Chicago, Illinois LEJLA MURATI Lake Forest College Lake Forest, Illinois MALGORZATA MUSIEJUK Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois CHRISTIAN JAMES NATNAT Oakton Comm. College Des Plaines, Illinois DESTINY NELSON Berklee College of Music Boston, Massachusetts ELVIS NIKOLIC Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois EMMA ODICHO University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois ERIK OLIJNYK Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago, Illinois SEBASTIEN ONIS DePauw University Greencastle, Indiana JORDAN OSLOWSKI University of Arizona Tucson, Arizona KIRSTEN PAJAK Northeastern University Boston, Massachusetts EFFIE PANAGIOTOPOULOS University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois CHRISTOPHER PARAMBY University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois YESHA PARIKH University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois ANJALI PATEL DePaul University Chicago, Illinois PRANJALI PATEL DePaul University Chicago, Illinois OM PATEL Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois PREM PATEL Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois DHRUTI PATEL Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ISHIKA PATEL Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois PAMMI PATEL Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois PRIYAL PATEL Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois VRAJ PATEL Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois KARAN PATEL Saint Louis University St. Louis, Missouri KRUTI PATEL University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois NEELESH PATEL University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois PRAPTI PATEL University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois SAGARKUMAR PATEL University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois DIYA PATEL Wake Technical Comm. College Raleigh, North Carolina ADILENE PATRICIO Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois SHANE PAZ Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois LEILANI PEREZ University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois GEORGE PHILIP Northwestern University Evanston, Illinois ISABELLA PIEKUT Emory University Atlanta, Georgia NICOLE PIEKUT Yale University New Haven, Connecticut AARON PILAC Saint Louis University St. Louis, Missouri SOLOMIYA PLUGATOR American University Washington, D.C. MICHELLE POLAK Kenyon College Gambier, Ohio KENSHIN POLINTAN Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois JIEMILL PONTE Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois MOHAMMED QURESHI American University Washington, D.C. TEHREEM QURESHI Columbia University New York, New York ABDULMAJEED RAEEDY Lewis University Romeoville, Illinois AREESHA RAHIM Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois DEEP RANA DePaul University Chicago, Illinois PARTHKUMAR RANA Northeastern University Boston, Massachusetts UMANG REGMI DePaul University Chicago, Illinois LEYA REJI North Park University Chicago, Illinois JEFRIN REJI University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois ETHAN RICH Bradley University Peoria, Illinois MARY RIHANI Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois HADI RIHAWI University of Chicago Chicago, Illinois BIANCA ROMERO University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois OSCAR SAENZ Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois ZAINAB SAFDARY Loyola University Chicago, Illinois DEVATHEERTHA SAJI University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, Illinois DIANA SAKANDER Loyola University Chicago, Illinois BENJAMIN SALEMI University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois HIBA SAMAD St. Olaf College Northfield, Minnesota 12 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021

COLLEGES – ALPHABETICAL BY STUDENT AMBER SAMEE AKHTAR Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois Chicago, Illinois TEMITOPE SANNI DePaul University Appleton, Wisconsin Butler County, Pennsylvania KHAYLA SANTIAGO Lawrence University Chicago, Illinois Ames, Iowa ANTHONY SARKIS Slippery Rock University Mt. Vernon, Iowa Des Plaines, Illinois MARIAM SAWA North Park University Chicago, Illinois Chicago, Illinois RYAN SCHELLHORN Iowa State University Chicago, Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois JORDAANE SCHWAB Cornell College Des Plaines, Illinois Chicago, Illinois AHMED SEPANIK Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois Wellesley, Massachusetts ROSEMARY SHABU University of Illinois at Chicago Des Plaines, Illinois Rock Island, Illinois BHAVYA SHAH University of Illinois at Chicago Des Plaines, Illinois Memphis, Tennessee MIRNA SHAMON North Park University Normal, Illinois St. Louis, Missouri KINZA SHERAZI University of Illinois Rock Island, Illinois Chicago, Illinois MELVIN SHIJO Oakton Community College Chicago, Illinois Chicago, Illinois YULIA SHISHKEVICH DePaul University Milwaukee, Wisconsin Des Plaines, Illinois TOOBA SIDDIQUI Oakton Community College Chicago, Illinois Normal, Illinois NICOLE SOBSKI Wellesley College Des Plaines, Illinois Chicago, Illinois FERNANDO SORIANO CRUZ Oakton Community College Chicago, Illinois Des Plaines, Illinois ALEXXA SOTO COLLAZO Augustana College Chicago, Illinois Chicago, Illinois PANAGIOTIS SPYROPOULOS Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois Chicago, Illinois ADELINE STAN Belmont University River Forest, Illinois Des Plaines, Illinois SABRINA STEARNS Illinois State University Des Plaines, Illinois Chicago, Illinois EMILY SWOBODA Washington University Edwardsville, Illinois Des Plaines, Illinois ALVIN THECCANAT Augustana College (Illinois) Chicago, Illinois ROBEENA ANNA THEKKILAKKATT UIC BRIGIT THOMAS DePaul University ALENTA TOM DePaul University CAITLIN URBAN University of Wisconsin-Milw. ALYSSA VALLE Oakton Community College LESLEY VEGA REYES University of Illinois at Chicago DANIELA VERTUCIO Illinois State University SAUL VIDAL Oakton Community College JOSHUA VINESAR University of Illinois at Chicago CYDANEY WHYTE Columbia College JAKUB WIKLIK Oakton Community College KONRAD WILK DePaul University HEWE WONG University of Illinois at Chicago ASHLEY WOODS Oakton Community College NIMRA YOUSAF University of Illinois at Chicago CYNTHIA YOUSSAEF Dominican University AALIYAN YOUSUF Oakton Community College MARIYAM YOUSUF Oakton Community College BLESSEN ZACHARIAH Loyola University SHEZA ZAIDI So. Illinois Univ.-Edwardsville JONATHAN ZHAGUI Oakton Community College JULIAN ZISKIND North Park University MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 13

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SENIOR To the Class of 2021: SUPERLATIVES L’chayim! 16 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021 by Aviva Hurwitz L'chayim! To the life we have lived- Look back upon lessons learned, stories to share with new friends and old. We may be leaving now, but our journeys have just begun. Do not dwell on the should-haves, the out of reach opportunities, the failures. There are more memories to make. L'chayim! To the life we have ahead- Look forward to uncertain future. Daunting now, while we sit in its shadow, but rich with possibility. Run quickly! Reach out to it now, The future will not wait. Raise your glass, Proclaim proudly, loudly, L'chayim! To life! To all we have learned in these years, and to all we have ahead. *Note: The direct translation of “L’chayim” is “to life”. In Judaism, it is often spoken as a toast on special occasions.

Dear Class of 2023, Hi sophomores, or should I say incoming juniors? I know your high school life this year is not how you expected it to be, but it’s an experience. Your junior year next year is going to be way different than ours, let me tell you! When you start your Junior year in the fall you will most likely wonder, “Why are juniors so stressed out? There is nothing to be stressed about!” That’s what I thought when I started, so I feared nothing. And that’s the WORST thing to think. Ever. Trust ME! As soon as you start your junior year, start thinking about what career you want to choose. If you already have chosen it, then start thinking about colleges because it’s never too early to start. You will probably have second thoughts about your career choice or college, you will probably find roadblocks in your path. I know all of this because, “Been there, done that!” So sit down and think with a peaceful mind about what you want to do in life. That can be help- ing a family business, a four-year college... anything. But do what you want to do and not what everyone else is doing. Choose a career that you would be able to do for the rest of your life without being bored of it. That’s what seniors have told me and I thought I should share it with you! But between all of this, DON’T forget to study for your SAT! That’s the most important thing! I think it’s easier for you because many colleges have gone test-optional. But if you are thinking about applying to a college that is not test-optional or planning to attend an Ivy League or other elite school, you need that SAT score and GPA! And lastly, don’t forget to attend any school events that you can! After all, you couldn’t do it this year, so live it up in 2021-22! --Mariya Lokhandwala,, M.E. Class of 2022 I wish I knew junior year was a wake up call. I wish I knew life would drag me into reality. I wish I knew adulting would be right around the corner. So take it from me, they don’t say junior year is the hardest year for no reason! You’re going to face real life, while having to maintain your school work and yourself. You’re going to stand toe-to-toe with decision making, ranging from choosing to be on time, prepared, and ready for school, to where you want to go to college, if that’s even in the picture. You have to choose the path you’re going to take after high school. You’re going to have to take action for yourself and your future. Therefore I want to tell you, junior year isn’t a game. Pay attention to due dates and exact times, these mi- nor details that are hidden from plain sight and can make or break your grades. Build a step-by-step plan for your future after high school, because people aren’t going to hold your hand throughout life. Figure out where you’re going, when it’s going to be, how it’s going to be paid for, and how it’s going to benefit you. Have a set goal for your future, that goal will build your resilience if you truly want it. Ask yourself, where do you see yourself in the long run? That response is your goal and your plan should help you reach it. Don’t let your ideas just be ideas, live those ideas! Start that business, fully invest into that club you’ve thought about starting. Those ideas that we often laugh off, tend to be gold in the future. Don’t be afraid to be different and stand out, whether that be through style, niche, or actions. Train your mind to think beyond your years, because the path to success looks almost identical to the path of failure, you just have to be wise enough to tell the difference. Don’t sit back and expect life to just come together for you, take matters into your own hands and shape your life, starting now! ––Alyssa Sanon, Class of 2022 See you next year... IN school! MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 17

Do something NORMAL this summer! By Victoria Kulaga our lives is coming to an end. activities they did prior to the pitals, nursing homes, and public The CDC has announced that pandemic. If vaccinated, it is also transportation, as some facilities We all know that this past year fully vaccinated people no longer safe to gather with a group in still require masks. Now here is a has been a whirlwind of change need to wear masks, can have which some are not vaccinated. list of fun activities to enjoy over and adaptation, but fortunately, social gatherings without social Make sure to check the guide- the summer! this strange act in the play of distancing, and can resume any lines in certain areas such as hos- Have a picnic with friends in the park! Since it’s outdoors, it is possible to Go Shopping! Malls and stores are all open, just check the hours because gather with vaccinated OR unvaccinated friends. some malls close earlier than usual. Treat yourself to some new clothes or anything you’ve had your eye on. Visit and support local restaurants! Most establishments have their own Make a reservation at the Chicago Botanic Garden or an amusement mask policy, so be respectful of it. Park Ridge has many 4 and 5 star park! Six Flags is open, just make sure to schedule your visit in advance restaurants. on their website. The Botanic Garden is a summer favorite, but this year make sure to preregister for a timed entry. Go on a bike ride or hike! There are many local forest preserves and beautiful bike paths to enjoy. Bring a friend or more for a fun and safe OTHER IDEAS: experience. It’s also a great way to get back in shape after the long pan- demic. Stargazing! Wait for a cloudless evening and drive outside the 18 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021 suburbs a little farther away from the Chicago pollution to see the stars. Bring a friend and some blankets for a memorable experi- ence. Visit some people you haven’t seen in a while. Whether it’s family you haven’t seen because of the virus, or friends you haven’t seen because of virtual school, make some plans with them! Find a new hobby! The summer is a great time to explore new areas, and with the extra time, you can try a variety of new activi- ties that you didn’t have time for in the school year. You can try baking, writing, sewing, painting, gardening, skateboarding, or yoga. There are so many ways to expand your skill set and better yourself as a person. Have an amazing summer!

Olivia Rodrigo tells Filipino Club raises aware- ex-lover ‘good 4 u’ in ness during AAPI month her new single By Glenn Phillip Reyes By Rianca Argenal Opening her music video came out this January, it quickly As of 1990, May has been ways to stand up against the in a gym wearing a cheerleader became a record-breaking hit. recognized as AAPI month or inequality Asians have faced, outfit, no one could have guessed Rodrigo’s notable achievements Asian American and Pacific providing resources on how to that Rodrigo would commit arson include: becoming the youngest Islander month. This month deal with hate crimes as well to revenge a former lover who artist to have a song that spent its commemorates the contribu- as staying connected together “moved on really easily,” saying first eight weeks at #1 on the Bill- tions and influences Asian as a “pamilya.” “Although this “good for you,” albeit laced with board Hot 100 (“drivers license”); Americans and Pacific Islanders year has been tough, our club sarcasm. Described as a pop-punk the youngest artist to have two have made on the American his- has always strived in provid- song, “good 4 u” is the third single songs charting simultaneously on tory and culture. Unfortunately, ing the best experience for released by Rodrigo in anticipa- the Hot 100 (“drivers license” and Asian Americans have seen a our members,” said Madison tion of her upcoming album, Sour, “deja vu”); and the first Asian- record number of hate crimes Serrano, club vice president. set to release on May 21. While American woman (Rodrigo is over the past year due in part to “One experience I will forever previous singles, “drivers license” half-Filipina) to have a song take misleading and racist language cherish is when we donated and “deja vu” had lyrics laced with the Number 1 spot on the US used to refer to the COVID-19 the funds received from a nostalgia, “good 4 u” contains iTunes and Apple Music charts. In Pandemic. While Maine East fundraiser to an organization indignant verses, as Rodrigo ques- addition, she recently performed as a whole speaks out against that works directly with Asian tions how her ex could seem so at her songs at the BRIT Awards and inequality, one club in particular communities in major cities. peace, while she “lost her mind” on SNL. With the success of her has shown resilience throughout It really showed the personal and “spent the night/crying on the singles and the excitement sur- the year and plans on doing so relationship FIlipino club has floor of [her] bathroom.” rounding Sour, there is no doubt much more in the future. created within the Maine East that Rodrigo will become one of community.” In addition to starring in the best artists of this generation. Maine East Filipino Club High School Musical: The Musical: provides members of the Maine As AAPI month comes to The Series, Rodrigo has solidi- East community with an op- an end in the coming weeks, fied herself as a descriptive, vivid portunity to strengthen their it is important to celebrate the storyteller. Her lyrics went viral knowledge about the Filipino big and small things Asian on platforms on TikTok, where Culture and tradition as well Americans and Pacific Island- “drivers license” became a popular as providing a safe space for ers have done locally and na- topic of interest following specula- anyone at Maine East. Through tionally. As Maine East Filipino tion that the song centered around its events and activities, Filipino Club grows its members and Joshua Bassett (her co-star) and Club has created a sense of their community, they have Sabrina Carpenter in a teenage family as well as promoted only big things ahead of them love triangle. However, the versa- community involvement and and plan to provide a more tility and longevity of her singles awareness of their heritage. “normal” club experience next prove that Rodrigo’s talent could Filipino club also aims to foster year. AAPI month is not only eclipse the period of tabloid gossip: the development of leaders a time to celebrate and honor even though “drivers license” only that will continually educate the AAPI cultures across the themselves beyond the academic U.S. but also to advocate for experience and affect the greater everyone's safety and equality. community. Happy AAPI month to those of the Maine East High School This year, Maine East community! Filipno Club has demonstrated MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 19

Sheikh Jarrah crisis continues history of displacement By Dalal Hassane have praised the idea of a two-state and oppressors. cannot be a Zionist while being an solution, advocating for the coexis- Additionally, a two-state solu- advocate for Palestinian human Throughout the world, indig- tence of Palestine and Israel. rights, because one must come at the enous peoples have been subject to tion would mean the permanent expense of the other. A free Palestine displacement and ethnic genocide Many efforts at justifying Israeli colonization of lands to which will not be in sight until decoloniza- by their colonizers. A prime example attacks against Palestinian civilians Palestinians are indigenous. Many tion is made a reality and anti-Zion- of this is the issue of apartheid in include the argument that Palestin- arguments have been made to ism is an accepted norm. Palestine. ians have also “attacked” Israeli rationalize why Israeli people are forces and occupied land, and that indigenous to Palestinian land, but What is happening in Sheikh In 1948, over 700,000 Palestin- terrorist groups like Hamas have these are false attempts to justify the Jarrah today is not a new crisis for ian people were forcefully removed instigated violence. However, to violent occupation of Palestinian Palestinians. It is another chapter to from their land by Israeli forces as watch Israel unleash violent attacks land. Indigenous tribes in Palestine a horrifying narrative perpetuated a result of many attempts to occupy against Palestine and believe that include the Bedouin Jahalin, al- by colonialism and ethnic cleansing. Palestine. Over the course of the past Palestinians do not have a right to Kaabneh, al-Azazmeh, al-Ramadin century, Israeli forces have instigated self-determination is to prolong and al-Rshaida. Many neighborhoods, towns, ethnic cleansing, increased coloniza- the imperialist and anti-Indigenous and cities like Sheikh Jarrah have tion of Palestine, and a system of belief that Israel should not be held The colonialist idea that under- undergone horrifying Israeli occu- apartheid. accountable. Focusing on Palestin- mines the indiginiety of Palestinians pation and this will never end until ian self-defense shifts attention away comes from the bigoted ideology of the world realizes that “peace” or the This past month, however, from the root issue at hand: the long Zionism. Prior to attempts at colo- “recognition of both sides'' will not Palestine has been a subject of much history of the subjugation of Pales- nizing Palestine, Zionists claimed end the suffering of Palestinians. media attention as a result of the tinians within their homeland. European superiority. However, this forced removals of families in the changed when pushes for the occu- A push for decolonization and Palestinian neigborhood, Sheikh Jar- The very reality of this crisis pation of Palestine became a priority the condemning of apartheid will rah. Global protests have called out is not as complicated as settler- of Zionists and biblical excuses were end the suffering of Palestinians. these attempts at displacement ac- colonialist ideologies make it out to made to argue for the supposed An end to the billions of dollars of companied by brutal acts of violence be. The existence of the state of Israel indigeniety of Israeli people. aid that the United States and other by the Israeli military and police. in any way, shape, or form comes at Israeli allies provide for imperial- the expense of the human rights of While the definition of Zionism ist interests will end the suffering As news of the genocide circu- Palestinians. Those who advocate for has been regarded as a movement of Palesitnians. The suffering of lates around social media, there have a “two-state solution” insinuate that for liberation, it is a racist ideology Palestinians will end when the world many ongoing trends of two-sided Palestinians should live in “peace that justifies settler-colonialism, sees a free Palestine, from the river phrasing, labeing it as a “conflict,” and harmony” with their colonizers forced displacement of Palestin- to the sea. “eviction,” or “clash.” Many people ians, and ultimately, apartheid. One Is the idea of Universal Basic Income in our future? By Jason Chung seeing what universal basic income ing to go into debt. After only 12 SEED program were able to find would do to a population. It gave months in, over 52 percent of the full-time employment at twice the These days it’s really hard $500 per month to randomly se- SEED participants were able to pay rate of the control group. A lot of to be financially stable. With the lected individuals over two years. for an unexpected expense without the money that was earned was ac- minimum wage stagnating at a financial issue. tually spent on goods and services $7.25 per hour since 2009, and the One couple in their late 20s, like groceries and utilities, but the minimum cost of living increas- who lives in Stockton with their The idea of “free cash” has monthly payment also gave a lot of ing by about 2.3% per year, more three children, used to have panic its critics. Many believe that the SEED members something less and more people are experiencing attacks due to financial stress, but participation in the labor force earnable: time. “By having a little anxiety over money. after being enrolled in the SEED would massively decrease if people bit more economic security, they program, they claim that their were to receive a basic income. were able to spend more time on Two years ago, most US citi- constant financial anxiety has In Stockton, though, it had the their employment, and with their zens wouldn’t have known what a greatly decreased. “I had panic exact opposite effect. Having more own families.” Says a researcher universal basic income (UBI) was, attacks and anxiety,” Pam told the money to spend on entertainment, from Stockton. but since Andrew Yang’s presiden- researchers in Stockton. “I had to fashion, etc. allowed more people tial run made it the focus of his take a pill for it. And I haven’t even to participate in the labor force With the growing positive campaign, more Americans are touched them in a while. I used to with a positive attitude. No one evidence behind universal basic informed about UBI. In Febru- carry them on me all the time.” wants to “work to live.” but people income, it's not hard to see a future ary 2019, Michael Tubbs, mayor are willing to work for something in which it is implemented in our of Stockton, California, put the During the beginning of the they want, like a new gaming current society. But the idea of idea to the test by launching the program, only 25 percent of the console, or fashion items that UBI is still in its early stages, with Stockton Economic Empowerment members in the SEED program normally wouldn’t be affordable. the long-term side effects still Demonstration (SEED) program. were able to pay for an unexpected Because they were given a baseline being unknown, it continues to be The program was the first step in expense (like a car repair or a income security, people from the tested up to this day. sudden hospital bill) without hav- 20 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021

Will Steph Curry’s late surge spell M-V-P ? By Syed Abbas Nikola Jokić: Stephen Curry Chris Paul The National Basketball Plays for the Denver Nuggets Plays for the Golden State War- Plays for the Phoenix Suns Association’s MVP Award is whose record is 47-25, which riors whose record is 39-33, whose record is 51-21, which given annually to the league’s places them in 3rd place in the which places them in 8th place places them in 2nd place in the best performing player who Western Conference. His stats in the Western Conference. His Western Conference. His stats is also the “most valuable include an average of 26.4 points, stats include: 32.0 points, 5.5 re- include: 16.4 points, 4.5 re- player” for his team. 10.8 reboundsounds, and 8.3 bounds, and 5.8 assists per game. bounds, and 8.9 assists per game. This year’s MVP race is assists per game. tight with the top three can- didates for most of the season being Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid. Most analysts have Jokić ranked at number one. Some analysts also include Stephen Curry and Chris Paul in the MVP conversa- tion because of their late- season performances. Here is a breakdown of the major candidates: Giannis Antetokounmpo Joel Embiid Plays for the Milwaukee Bucks whose record is 46-26, which places Plays for the Philadelphia 76ers whose record is 49-23, which places them them in 3rd place in the Eastern Conference. His stats include: 28.1 in 1st place in the Eastern Conference. His stats include: 28.5 points, 10.6 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Some may wonder why definitely very valuable to in the play-in tournament, Jokić is an all-around Chris Paul is even a candidate, the team. Others may argue which means they have a player who does everything but when Chris Paul wasn’t that Stephen Curry should be chance of not even making the for his team. After the ACL in- part of the Suns last season, ranked higher. Even though playoffs this year. jury to Jamal Murray, Denver’s their record was 34-39, not Curry has great numbers, other star player, Jokić stepped enough to get into the play- leading the league in points The NBA MVP award up and made sure his team offs. per game, his team has the should go to Nikola Jokić of remained successful. Jokić 8th best record in the Western the Denver Nuggets. Jokić is has dished out 8.3 assists per This year with Paul, the Conference. the only MVP candidate who game, which is very impres- Suns are in 2nd place with a hasn’t missed a game this sive for a player his size. He is chance to make a deep playoff Part of becoming an MVP season. MVP means “Most also scoring very efficiently, run. Even though his num- is that your team is successful Valuable Player” and you which is part of why the Nug- bers aren’t the best compared and the Warriors really aren’t. can’t be that if you’re not even gets are successful. to the other candidates, he’s They find themselves playing playing. MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 21

SPORTS BOYS VOLLEYBALL Head Coach: Jon Kulesza KEY PERFORMERS: SEASON HIGHLIGHTS: Several players have stood out recently. Junior Early on, we defeated conference rival Maine Gavin Bujdei had an amazing match vs. the #1 West twice in the same week and recently team in the State, Glenbrook North. Also, do- just knocked off the Giants of Highland Park. ing well and being a tough force with his block- We are continually progressing and our hope ing is senior, Ben Salemi. Senior, Gabe Herrera is to peak for Regionals. We’ve played some has had a great presence in all of our matches of the best teams in the State and our hope and is logging a ton of minutes as our setter. is that helps us down the line. COACH’S COMMENT: There is no doubt that every athlete and school has had struggles in the last year. These young men have bought in and have been committed since early Fall. I applaud them on their loyalty to the program and their ability to face adversity. Congratulations to all players, especially the se- niors and their pending graduation! 22 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021

SPORTS GIRLS TRACK & FIELD Head Coach: Laurel Kramer KEY PERFORMERS: COACH’S COMMENT: Nina Abraham (Sr) 2021 Girl’s Track and Field has experienced a very Fatima Lima (Sr) atypical season, but we are so proud of the girls Emily Swoboda (Sr) who have made it out and really taken it in stride Haleena Mathew (Sr) (pun intended)! Though smaller in numbers, the Kyeleen Aranas (Sr) team has been strong in accomplishments! The girls have regularly been achieving Personal Re- SEASON HIGHLIGHT: cords (PRs) each opportunity to compete and are working hard during practices to shave off those Looking forward to hosting seconds in their races and add on those meters in Conference at Maine East their jumps and throws. on Friday May 28th! BOYS TRACK & FIELD Head Coach: Chris Peters KEY PERFORMERS: COACH’S COMMENT: Jaden Landau (Sr) The boys track and field team continues to improve as we move Konrad Wilk (Sr) toward the championship part of the season. The CSL Championships Ash Kumar (Sr) and IHSA Sectional Meet are the first two weeks in June. The guys Jaeren Dadivas (Sr) continue to work hard and improve. Each meet we have had some Edison De La Pena (Sr) improved performances. I think the team will be ready and we will see some great performances at the CSL Championships and IHSA Sec- tional Meet in a couple of weeks. MAY 20, 2021 | THE PIONEER | 23

SPORTS BASEBALL Head Coach: Ron Clark KEY PERFORMERS: SEASON HIGHLIGHTS: Chris Miller, Captain (SR) Defeating Conference/District 207 rival Maine West 6-5 and Chris Iliopoulos, Captain (SR) 2-1 on consecutive days. We hope to finish our Conference season strong heading into the IHSA state playoffs. Mason Ishii (JR) Jalen Moraga (FR) COACH’S COMMENT: It has been a pleasure being back out on the baseball diamond this season after missing out on playing the 2020 season due to COVID. The team has made very good progress throughout the season and has had some great games. We have also been fortunate to have some outstanding Senior leadership this season. Our seniors include, Chris Iliopoulos (Captain), Chris Miller (Captain), Christian Liboy, Anthony Sarkis, Jeff Becerra, Joe Dimiglio and Jigar Trivedi. The SENIOR ISSUE STAFF The Pioneer reports on news, entertain- ment, and sports events for Maine East High IONEER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF School and the surrounding community. The Dalal Hassane Pioneer is distributed in school to students and Maine East High School staff; digital copies of each issue are available Park Ridge, Illinois EDITORS at The Pioneer website: bit.ly/ThePioneer May 21, 2021 Rianca Argenal bit.ly/ThePioneer Victoria Kulaga Readers can send story suggestions, photos, let- @mehspioneer ters to the editor, or comments to sponsor Matt REPORTERS Miller or assistant sponsor Dave Hessert via Jason Chung email: [email protected]; Aviva Hurwitz [email protected] Mariya Lokhandwala Glenn Phillip Reyes Alyssa Sanon 24 | THE PIONEER | MAY 21, 2021