QHS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlights
As the Quincy High School Class of 2026 prepares to turn the page to its next chapter, we’re spotlighting a group of seniors whose experiences, achievements, and memories have helped shape the spirit of QHS. Through academics, athletics, the arts, leadership, and service, these students have made a lasting impact on their school community while preparing for bright futures ahead. In this year’s Senior Spotlight, they reflect on the moments that defined their high school journey, the people who inspired them, and the advice they hope to pass along to the next generation of Blue Devils.
Ben Schelp
What extracurricular activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in during high school? Which one shaped you the most, and how?
During High School I was involved in football, track, wrestling, tennis, and I was also the blue devil. Football shaped me the most, it has been a big part of my life for 12 years, it has taught me hard work, discipline, and to look past my mistakes.
What’s a moment, tradition, or experience from high school you’ll never forget—and why does it stand out?
One tradition I will never forget is the blue devil. I grew up watching and admiring the blue devil, when I got the opportunity to be the blue devil it was extremely surreal. I think it is awesome how excited the kids get when the blue devil comes out.
Is there a teacher, coach, or mentor who has had a lasting impact on you? How did they influence your journey?
The teacher who had the most lasting impact on me is Mrs. Paul. Everyday Mrs. Paul greets me and every other student she comes across with a smile even when she is going through something hard or having a bad day. Mrs. Paul has influenced me in many ways, but the biggest way is how she always treats everyone she comes across with love, she gives everyone a fresh start every day no matter what they have done in the past. Seeing her treat everyone like this every day has influenced me to do the same in my life.
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up—and has that changed?
When I was younger I never knew what I wanted to do when I was older. I now want to be a wealth advisor.
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself during high school?
Something I learned about myself is that when I apply myself and work hard, I can make anything happen.
What’s an accomplishment or moment—big or small—that you are proud of from your time at QHS?
In my time at QHS the moment I am the most proud of is winning the conference in football my junior year.
What are your plans after graduation, and what are you most excited or nervous about as you begin this next chapter?
After graduation I am playing football at Butler & studying finance. I am very excited to play college football, however I am somewhat nervous.
What will you miss most about Quincy High School—whether it’s people, traditions, or just the everyday experience?
What I will miss the most at QHS is my friends.
What’s one piece of advice or message you’d give to students about starting their freshman year at QHS? Advice for students starting their senior year?
One piece of advice I would give to freshman is to get involved with as many extracurriculars as you can, the more you do the more well rounded you will be. One big piece of advice I would give to seniors is to branch out and meet as many people as you can.
Diya Nanjappa
What extracurricular activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in during high school? Which one shaped you the most, and how?
During high school, I was a member of the QHS Girls Golf Team, Science Research Club, Debate Team, Beta Club, National Honor Society, and Student Council. Outside of school, I have played piano for 12 years, I am a 2nd degree black belt in Taekwondo, and I have been a mentor in the QPS Mentor program all throughout high school. Being in the Science Research Club opened up opportunities for me that I never would have imagined were possible. The club gave me the opportunity to attend the International Science and Engineering Fair where I met incredibly bright students and professors from all across the globe!
*Diya has also earned this year’s valedictorian distinction.
What’s a moment, tradition, or experience from high school you’ll never forget—and why does it stand out?
I will never forget winning the Western Big 6 Championship with the girl’s golf team this past year! My teammates are some of my best friends, and getting to share this excitement and blue devil pride with them made this win all the more special.
Is there a teacher, coach, or mentor who has had a lasting impact on you? How did they influence your journey?
My first grade teacher Mrs. Merrill truly unlocked a love for learning in me. She constantly encouraged us students to be creative and thoughtful, especially through our writing. She inspired me to keep a poetry journal all throughout my childhood, which was so formative that it became the subject of many of my college essays!
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up—and has that changed?
Throughout elementary school, I wanted to be a pediatrician when I grew up. During middle school, though, as I started to learn more about history and discovered a love for public speaking, I had a shift in my dreams and decided that a career as a lawyer aligned with my passions.
What are your plans after graduation, and what are you most excited or nervous about as you begin this next chapter?
After graduation I will be attending the University of Virginia where I will be studying government with a prelaw focus. I am elated by the idea of gaining knowledge and experiences at a university so rich in history and culture! Even though I am nervous to leave my friends and family, their support gives me the confidence I need to conquer this next chapter!
What will you miss most about Quincy High School—whether it’s people, traditions, or just the everyday experience?
I will miss being greeted in the mornings by QHS’ kind security guards and staff members. Their welcoming smiles and “good mornings” always brighten my day!
What’s one piece of advice or message you’d give to students about starting their freshman year at QHS?
For students starting their freshman year, try everything that you are interested in, whether that be sports, clubs, or classes; you never know where you will find friendships that make your high school experience! For seniors, the stress of thinking about your future can be intense, but as long as you believe in your dreams and yourself, everything will work out exactly as it should.
Jacob Salisbury
What extracurricular activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in during high school? Which one shaped you the most, and how?
I was involved in QHS basketball and QHS Baseball. Baseball shaped me the most as a person bettering my social skills, making different friends, and helping my interviewing skills.
What’s a moment, tradition, or experience from high school you’ll never forget—and why does it stand out?
The biggest tradition that stands out to me is the Blue Devil during basketball games. It was such a cool experience watching that at a high school basketball game.
Is there a teacher, coach, or mentor who has had a lasting impact on you? How did they influence your journey?
Mrs. Lawson was a big impact on me. She was always here to talk to, even when you were in trouble, and she loves all of us with all her heart.
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up—and has that changed?
When I was younger I had always dreamed of being a professional sports athlete. That went out the window fast and I started pursuing an interest in finance and accounting because I enjoy math.
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself during high school?
Something I have learned about myself is that even when times get hard I try and push through and make things batter.
What’s an accomplishment or moment—big or small—that you are proud of from your time at QHS?
One of my small accomplishments was sports related, making the varsity baseball team as a sophomore. It was something I really wanted, so I put in the work and made it happen.
What are your plans after graduation, and what are you most excited or nervous about as you begin this next chapter?
I plan to attend Illinois State, majoring in finance. I am most excited to make new friends and memories.
What will you miss most about Quincy High School—whether it’s people, traditions, or just the everyday experience?
The biggest thing I will miss is the people here. I have made so many friendships that have helped me get through it.
What’s one piece of advice or message you’d give to students about starting their freshman year at QHS? Advice for students starting their senior year?
Do not take it for granted. These 4 years go by fast, make the most of them. If you want a good GPA, make sure you try really hard your freshmen year.
Caleigh Twaddle
What extracurricular activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in during high school? Which one shaped you the most, and how?
During High School, I was involved in an array of activities, including Student Council, Beta Club, NHS, ILMHS, Girls’ Soccer, Electric Blue Show Choir, Madrigal Choir, Yearly Fall Musical, and Theatre Guild. The activity that shaped me the most would have to be the yearly fall musical. Musical shaped me because it truly allowed me to grow in my confidence as a performer and person and challenged me to take risks and make bold choices. Through the fall musical, I developed my love for storytelling and discovered my passion for sharing important messages with audiences.
What’s a moment, tradition, or experience from high school you’ll never forget—and why does it stand out?
One tradition from my high school experience that I will never forget is circling up to sing “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” before every run of the musical. This is such a special tradition that has been going on for several years, and it truly helps the whole cast feel connected and calm in a moment of high stress and intensity.
Is there a teacher, coach, or mentor who has had a lasting impact on you? How did they influence your journey?
A teacher/mentor who has had a lasting impact on me would have to be Dombro (Mr. Ben Dombroski). He has taught me the importance of kindness no matter what, shown me that hard work truly pays off, and the joy that can be found in everyday life. Dombro is such an optimistic, silly, kind, and encouraging person. He truly is such a light in this world, and I aspire to be more like him every day.
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up—and has that changed?
When I was younger, I wanted to be a mermaid-popstar-firefighter. Unfortunately, that has changed. However, I am pursuing a career in Musical Theatre, so I will still get the opportunity to sing!
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself during high school?
I have learned that my kindness is important and the way you treat people really matters. It has allowed me to create a good reputation for myself, and I have earned the respect of students and teachers alike. The things we say and do matter!! One compliment or word of encouragement could make someone’s day!
What’s an accomplishment or moment—big or small—that you are proud of from your time at QHS?
One, well, two moments I am proud of at QHS are getting the opportunity to perform with both of my sisters during the fall musical. I was able to perform White Christmas alongside my older sister Lily and Mary Poppins with my little sister Abby. These experiences were incredibly special, and it always makes me incredibly proud to get the chance to perform alongside my sisters.
What are your plans after graduation, and what are you most excited or nervous about as you begin this next chapter?
My plans for after college are to attend college and get my BFA in Musical Theatre. I am very excited to learn more about my passion and grow my skills and abilities. I feel so incredibly grateful to my family and friends who have supported me in chasing my dreams and aspirations!
What will you miss most about Quincy High School—whether it’s people, traditions, or just the everyday experience?
The thing I will miss most about QHS would absolutely be the people. The teachers and faculty at QHS are incredible, and I am so beyond grateful for all their guidance, encouragement, and continued support for these past 4 years. I will also miss my friends so dearly. I have been blessed with some amazing friends, and I am so thankful for 4 years full of wonderful memories!
What’s one piece of advice or message you’d give to students about starting their freshman year at QHS?
Advice for students starting their senior year? For a freshman, my advice would be to take every opportunity and be involved in as many things as possible. You won’t regret it! That is how I met some of my best friends and how I have become so close with the teachers and faculty at QHS. For seniors, I would say to just enjoy your senior year to the fullest. It is truly an emotional roller coaster, but there is so much joy and fun to be had, so truly soak up every moment!
If you could leave one message in a time capsule for future students, what would it be?
Enjoy every moment! The laughs, the tears, the learning, the growing, the changing. Embrace it all and truly cherish each memory because it will be over in a flash!
To the Class of 2026 —
Congratulations on reaching this exciting milestone and beginning a new chapter beyond Quincy High School. Your time at QHS has been filled with growth, memories, friendships, and accomplishments that have helped shape both your future and the spirit of our school community.
As you move forward, take with you the lessons you’ve learned, the connections you’ve made, and the confidence to embrace whatever comes next. Whether your path leads to college, the workforce, military service, or new adventures still unfolding, just remember:
Once a Blue Devil, Always a Blue Devil!
2026 Graduation Yard Signs & Limited Edition Keepsake Ornaments
Celebrate the 2026 Quincy High School Grads and support QPSF by ordering your yard signs and limited-edition 2026 Blue Devil ornaments today! Only available while supplies last!
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READ MORE ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS
To read more QHS Alumni Spotlights, visit qpsfoundation.org/alumni-spotlights.
