How to go
What: Graduation
Where: Princeton Pike Church of God, 6101 Princeton Glendale Road
When: 11 a.m., Saturday
MONROE — Late into the night, Monroe High School senior Ellen Short works on homework. After catching a few winks of sleep, the student council president starts her day in a flurry.
“I’m constantly texting and calling people, trying to make sure everybody’s doing what they’re supposed to be doing,” she said. “I come to school and usually am in constant communication with everyone. After school, I’m usually at some meeting, practice or banquet.”
It’s exhausting, she admitted, but if there is something to be done, she makes sure it happens.
“She doesn’t look for notoriety,” Principal Robert Leahy said. “When you need something, she’s there. She doesn’t complain. She just goes about her work. She’s been an integral part of our student body.”
Short has a fraternal twin sister Erin, who actually looks identical to her if not for the half-inch height difference.
Although the two participate in several activities together, Short said her way of distinguishing herself was to take on leadership roles. Her list is lengthy: class president, president of the National Honor Society and president of Thespian Troupe 1709. Her activities do not stop there, though. She is on the anti-drug and alcohol abuse prom summit committee, the Middletown Youth Community Foundation Council, the varsity tennis team, show choir, two vocal ensembles and she takes college classes at Miami University Middletown.
Organization and mobilization are her strengths.
“A lot of people encourage me to do it, because a lot of people see me as a leader. I just want to represent my class well. I also do it, because I really value being very well-rounded. I just wanted to make sure not to leave any stone unturned, because you never know what will be your niche.
The twins are heading to Wilmington College in the fall where Short said she anticipates studying English education or communications. She earned $14,000 in scholarships and a solid financial package from the school, which she said was why she made the choice. She is especially looking forward to deep discussions in her literature classes — ones that will make her think and challenge herself.
Of high school, she will miss the funny conversations she hears in the halls, and the funny antics of her peers.
“A lot of my classmates are so smart,” she said. “They’re all going to be so successful. They’re a lot of fun and have a great sense of humor. They really value community, which is very cool ... I think I’m going to miss the spirit, but I’m ready to learn new things.”
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