As her French I, II, III teacher and now her Senior English teacher, I can attest to Mandy's drive for perfection and understanding. She will put in long hours to come to comprehension rather than just zoom through an exercise in translation. She writes well, puts her heart in recitations and is a thoughtful participant in class discussions.
Mandy is and has been a class representative on Student Government. She can pitch in and work hard for the many projects around the school. But truly what fuels her spirit is her faithful participation in singing whether for chorus, church or stage, dancing, and most of all, her talented acting.
When chosen for Governor's School for the Arts in Musical Theatre at the close of her sophomore year Mandy was ecstatic! Indeed while she was elated she did not gloat when her classmate who also competed was not chosen. She has great sensitivity to others and a big heart. Her own success in school and on stage does not blind her to the need of a younger sibling who needs more coaching to be successful. Mandy is there for her little sister.
Despite her demanding school schedule Mandy continues to follow voice, dancing, and theatre lessons at the College Conservatory of Cincinnati. She has been in numerous school and extra-cirricular theatre performances and has been as soloist on the school's recent CD.
While the stage captures Mandy's talent and beautiful face, it is her rich voice I hear in my heart, "There is a balm in Gilead." That line, that song, is I believe her soul."
Sr. Mary Carol Henggeler, CDP
French/Senior English teacher
Novermber 3, 2002
"To Whom it May Concern:
I'm writing this letter in recommendation for Amanda Wilson as a recipient of the award from your institution. I have been here at Villa during Mandy's career and have seen her improve through the years in many ways.
I've had the privilege of having Mandy in class and can say that she is one to complete the task at hand with good work ethic. She was a model student for me and comprehended well.
Mandy is an achiever and I believe she will be a responsible student wherever she goes to school. She also practices the sportsmanship and Christian principles that we teach here at Villa Madonna Academy.
Feel free to call me at school if you have any questions. Thank you."
Sincerely,
Michael E. Woods, Ath. Dir.
Drama Chair
Villa Madonna Academy
"Dear Amanda:
Thank you for sharing your wonderful vocal talents with our parish today. I received several wonderful comments on your cantoring of the psalm, 'The Lord Is Kind And Merciful.' Indeed, the Lord was kind to send you to our parish. Many of the parishioners found it incredible that a high school senior could maintain such poise and vocal leadership as you led our prayer in song. It was truly a wonderful experience bringing this together, and we hpe you will consider a return when a cantoring assignment presents itself.
Sincerely,
Edward Walter
Director of Music Ministry
P.S. You left the enclosed music scholarship form in the cantor's folder. Good luck wherever you go. I'm sure the angels will enjoy the competition."