Dear Classes of 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028,
What an adventure it has been. Serving first as a student leader freshman and sophomore years, then as your student body president junior and senior years, has been an honor I will always cherish. My journey within these halls began back in August of 2021, and in the years since, this school has become so much more than a building. It’s where I found my closest friends, learned invaluable life lessons, discovered my motivators, and felt the unwavering support from some amazing students and staff within this amazing community.
Together, we’ve witnessed the electrifying energy of four state championships, celebrated three glorious victories, and navigated the often-complex dynamics that make our school, BHS, Belleville High School. I’ve had the privilege of observing our vibrant school culture, alongside all its triumphs and its challenges.
As my term comes to an end, I wanted to share a few reflections fostered from my own high school experience, hoping they might offer some guidance as you each continue your own journeys in high school and beyond.
Entering these doors, there’s a whirlwind of unknowns and daunting questions: “Who are you going to be?” “What are you going to be?” But rarely does anyone ask, or truly know, “How are you going to do it?” That, I believe, is the crucial first step in navigating this nuanced and transformative time.
So, as you continue to shape your future, please consider these thoughts:
Do SMALL things in a BIG Way: It’s the deliberate and consistent effort, the attention to detail, and the passion you bring to even the seemingly insignificant tasks that truly make a difference. Put effort and passion into everything you do and discover your purpose while doing so.
Keep the big goals personal: This one hits very close to home for me, and was the source of some tribulation I experienced in my high school years. While sharing aspirations can be inspiring, your deepest motivations and dreams are yours alone. NOBODY is entitled to that information, that insight on what is keeping you motivated, what drives you. Nurture the goals and dreams privately and quietly, and let them navigate your unique path.
Be confident in who you are: Embrace your individuality, your beliefs, your quirks, and your strengths. NEVER let anybody tell you who you should be, or what box you should fit into. Authenticity is your superpower. There is nothing more enticing than an individual who can stand up and stand out in who they are. Confidence is always the key.
Advocate for YOURSELF and your community: Your voice matters, your voice is valuable, and your voice and your story deserves to be heard. Don’t hesitate to speak up for your needs and hopes for the betterment of the community around you. Change starts with you speaking up for what truly matters to you. Never stop fighting for what you believe in, fight through silencing, fight through accusation, fight against the violence with poise and diplomacy, fight for the cause, fight for the future. “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi.
Never be afraid to ask for Help: This is for all my oldest siblings and independent people. Seeking guidance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Everything won’t simply come to you. Sometimes it takes some effort to figure things out. There are always people in your corner willing to support you; find out who they are and use them to your advantage. Every person is put in your life for a divine purpose.
Failure is NEVER the end: This one is super special to me because it was one of the last big lessons I ever learned in High School. So to all my high-achievers, my perfectionists, I want you to know that failure is an inevitable part of growth. And remember, failing doesn’t make you a failure, it makes you strong, it makes you resilient, and it makes you wiser. Learn from it, rise stronger, and keep moving forward.
The last thing I want to leave you with is a reflection on some observations I made during my time at the high school, which allowed me to re-evaluate the values of life. What truly matters to you, as you sit in the classroom, as you prepare to walk across the stage? Will you be remembered for your class rank and academic achievements alone, or for the way you lifted and inspired others? Will you be remembered for your amazing outfits and hairstyles, or the initiatives you championed? Will you be remembered for your popularity and followers on social media, or the spirit of activism you embodied with your platform?
Continue to amplify your voice, continue to champion social justice in spite of censorship, continue to be the change you wish to see, continue to be the example, continue to lead, continue to be different, continue to break generational curses, continue to lead a life for yourself and not for others.
To the graduating Class of 2025, it has been an absolute privilege to walk alongside you. As you embark on your next chapter, carry the spirit of our school with you.
To the underclassmen, embrace every opportunity, learn from every experience, and continue to build the incredible legacy of our school.
To my Class of 2025 student council officers: Jasiah, Karla, Kennedie, Tim, Kennedie, Italy, Laryssa, and Lindsey — Thank you for being some of the most supportive and dynamic students I have ever had the privilege to work with. You have taught me lessons about leadership without even knowing it, that will last a lifetime. You each are special and a valuable asset to any team. Always remember you DESERVE a seat at any and every table. I will miss you all, and I cannot wait to see the great things you’ll do in life, both big and small.
Thank you for allowing me to serve. I will forever cherish the memories and the lessons learned within these walls.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Ivana Goff
Class of 2025 President, Student Body President
National Honor Society Vice-President
