Coming into the second semester of the ‘25 – ‘26 school year comes the third recipient of The Galena Rotary Student of the Quarter award. This award recognizes sophomores who have excelled in their efforts to improve academically and are not always recognized for these efforts. One is chosen for this award based on teacher nominations who have noticed a student’s exemplary effort, performance, and overall character. Makenna Berning ‘28 is the official recipient of this award for the quarter and falls short of these requirements.
Bering’s character is one that is synonymous with the traits of dedicated, natural leader, and kindness. Among interacting with Berning, these traits are utterly obvious, making her the perfect candidate for this award. Many staff members had notable comments to submit about Berning for this award, attesting to her all around infectious nature.
Berning consistently demonstrates initiative and responsibility in all that she does. Her math teacher, Mrs. Calfee, shares, “Makenna has been so proactive in taking care of work that she has missed when she’s been out of class. She is polite, kind, and a joy to have in class.” This level of accountability and maturity reflects her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
In addition to her academic diligence, Berning’s character sets her apart. Mrs. Hendricks describes her as “a kind, respectful, and exceptionally hardworking student who never turns in anything less than her best work. She is extremely personable and consistently goes out of her way to ensure that everyone around her is doing well. She works effectively with anyone and brings a positive presence to every situation. This year, she has truly excelled in all areas.” Makenna’s ability to uplift her peers while maintaining high academic standards speaks volumes about her integrity and leadership.
AG teacher Mrs. Brown also notes Berning’s reliability and leadership, stating that “Makenna is a great student and I know I can trust her with leadership roles or jobs to do in my class and in FFA.” Being entrusted with leadership responsibilities both in the classroom and in FFA highlights the confidence her teachers place in her and her proven ability to follow through with excellence.
Berning exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Galena Rotary Student of the Quarter program: scholarship, leadership, character, and service. She not only achieves at a high level academically but also strengthens the school community through her kindness, dependability, and positive influence.
Berning is involved in FFA, trapshooting, and softball. She mostly enjoys her math class with Mrs. Calfee and her agriculture courses with Mrs. Brown. After high school, she would like to pursue a degree in elementary education. Students like Bering are a testament to the exemplary stands of Galena High School and are what leave behind legacies to inspire future generations.
