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GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Marquette Catholic’s end of year wrap-up

GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Marquette Catholic’s end of year wrap-up

What’s recently happened?

Marquette Catholic High School (MQT) had its magic moment at the Enchanted Garden-themed Prom. Held at Blue Chip Casino, the MQT Blazers had a Grand March, where students processed with their groups and dates. Pictures were taken by family and friends, students had smiles on their faces, and many people had a great time.

The week leading up to Prom was a themed Spirit Week, where students were able to dress up in themed attire for each day. It was a fun way for students to show some creative expression and be out of uniform for the week.

MQT seniors had its annual Skip Day and Prank Day. Students pitched in to rent a bouncy house for the and hosted a “Parking Lot Party” for their senior prank.  Students brought games, food, sidewalk chalk, chairs, drinks, snacks, music, and good company for each other. 

A group of MQT seniors travelled to Chicago, Illinois for skip day. The group met up at the Bean, took a picture, then dispersed into their respective groups to explore the city and hang out with friends.

Lastly, MQT's new, refurbished Father Marquette statue has been restored. MQT students and staff gathered to see the new statue blessed in the courtyard outside the school. It was a great show of community and faith.

What’s coming up?

Final exams for the 2024-2025 school year are finally here. Students are studying, perfecting, memorizing, and remembering everything they have done this past semester in order to gear up for their final exams and final projects. 

This can be a very stressful time, but students are going to be well prepared by their teachers, parents, friends, classmates, and themselves. MQT is proud of all students for their growth, dedication, and commitment to their studies this semester. 

Graduation for the Class of 2025 quickly approaches on June 11, 2025. MQT is excited to celebrate the seniors and all of their accomplishments over the years. It has been a great joy to have them be a part of the MQT community. Good luck in your future endeavors. 

Staff spotlight:

Katie Collignon is the principal of MQT and the Varsity Girls Basketball coach. She is involved with almost everything at the school. She is ending her ninth year at MQT.

Outside of school, she plays in an adult volleyball league and is a parishioner at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church.

Collignon has a Bachelor’s degree in marketing and accounting from Ferris State University, where she also played collegiate basketball. She also has a Master's degree in Sports Administration from Valparaiso University. She has another Master’s degree in educational leadership from Indiana University. She is a very educated leader at MQT and works very hard to make it a positive place to be. 

Collignon has many interests and hobbies.

“My interests revolve around staying active, traveling, hiking, and pretty much anything that gets me outdoors. I love fresh air and movement. I really value time with family and friends, especially trying new restaurants or exploring new cities and towns,” Collignon said.

Collignon incorporates her interests into her work life intentionally. She is present and active on campus, supports the students in athletics, clubs, and theatre productions. 

“I believe strongly in making time to take care of yourself, which often means early mornings and later nights, but it’s worth it. I always try to carve out one fun activity each weekend with my husband to keep life balanced,” Collignon said.

Collignon really enjoys MQT, especially the people. No two days are the same. The students bring so much energy and curiosity and the staff are so incredible and inspiring.

“On the best days, you really feel like you’re helping shape and motivate the next generation for the better,” Collignon said.

Collignon has earned many degrees, been at MQT for just under decade, and has valuable words to share.

“Prioritize your health, peace, and growth. When you’re grounded, you are in the best position to lift others up. Stay optimistic. Life will throw challenges your way, but your mindset is your greatest asset. Always make time to give back. Whether it’s your time, wisdom, or simply your kindness, you never know how much your presence can mean to someone else,” said Collignon.

Student spotlight:

Eleanor Crane is a junior at MQT. She started at MQT her freshman year and has attended all three years. She is extremely involved in the MQT community. She is involved in MQT’s Theatre program, choir, National Honors Society, Academic Super Bowl, Academic Quiz Bowl, Blazer Spirit Club, Cross Country, and Track and Field.  She is also involved in her community outside of school. She attends church, sings in the choir, and participates in theatre outside of school.

“These activities have shown me how to be a part of a group and thrive with other people. I’ve learned that being around different people helps you grow and it feels amazing to work with others,” Crane said.

Her hobbies include singing, acting, painting, writing, fashion, crafts, and music. She is a very outgoing person and would describe herself as so.

“I'd describe myself as extroverted, energetic, friendly, and supportive,” Crane said. 

Her family consists of herself, her mom, dad, and older brother. 

“They're the most supportive group of people who have influenced and encouraged me when trying to fulfill my dreams,” Crane said. 

In the future, she plans to major in musical theatre in college and become an actress. She wants to achieve her goal of living out her dreams with the people she loves around her.

Throughout her time at MQT, she has learned so much about herself and about others.

“I’ve learned to be myself. That is how I will find my people. I became more confident throughout high school because I’ve been myself,” Crane said.

Some advice she would give to other people would be to try everything and put yourself out there in the world, especially to new people.