Nearly a third of Woodlands Academy seniors are State Scholars

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart has been notified that 10 members of the Lake Forest all-girls high school’s senior class are being honored as Illinois State Scholars. This designation by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission recognizes exceptional academic achievement that indicates an especially high potential for success in college.

Woodlands Academy’s recipients this year are Karishma Bhatara, Megan Caserio, Teresa Ciaglo, Abigail Hironimus, Janel Ivy, Gianna Keuer, Judith Koukol, Kaley Meister, Kathleen O’Donnell and Aanya Sahu.

“I am so very proud of our State Scholars for achieving this recognition of all their hard work and outstanding academic performance during their years at Woodlands Academy,” Principal Rocco Gargiulo said. “I’d also like to thank our faculty members for creating an environment that prepares girls for college and beyond by empowering them to lead, compete, engage and explore.”

The Illinois State Scholar designation is a non-monetary award. Honorees receive a congratulatory letter and Certificate of Achievement from ISAC. They can download an official Illinois State Scholar badge to display on their online profiles and social media platforms. It also can be shared with their high school counselors, colleges, employers and others.

“On behalf of ISAC, congratulations to all our Illinois State Scholars for their extraordinary academic achievements,” said ISAC Executive Director Eric Zarnikow. “The accomplishments of these high school seniors reflect their passion and dedication to academic pursuits.”

Woodlands Academy is a Catholic, independent, day-and-boarding, college-preparatory school for young women of all faiths in grades nine through 12. Founded in Chicago in 1858 and located in Lake Forest since 1904, Woodlands is part of a worldwide network of Sacred Heart Schools that spans the United States and 40 other countries on six continents. To learn more, visit woodlandsacademy.org.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission helps make college accessible and affordable for students throughout Illinois. It provides comprehensive, objective and timely information on education and financial aid for students and their families. To learn more, visit isac.org.