As graduation is right around the corner, the class of 2026 is preparing to take their next steps toward the future. Heading in different paths and looking at what life truly has to offer for them. Among them are seniors Hayley Cunningham, Abygale Cuppy, and Eric Morrow. These students are just some of the best that Stevens has in store and a little about what the next steps are for them.
Hayley is hardworking and dedicated. Earning herself a spot at Brown University. This fall, Hayley will begin an exciting new chapter in Rhode Island at one of the nation’s top Ivy League schools studying political sciences and eventually, go to law school. Stating that her biggest priority next year is to learn what she loves and continue to do meaningful work for herself and others. She shared that her time at Stevens paved a path for her at Brown. “I’m forever grateful for my teachers and peers that inspired and encouraged me along the way.” said Hayley, “I was pushed to be a part of meaningful programs like the Senate Page Program and the Senate Youth Program that not only changed me but pushed my application to the next level.” In our little interview I asked what she will miss about Stevens and if she got a redo for anything over the past four years, what would it be? She explained that when she first moved from Tennessee that she had no intention of getting into an Ivy League school. She was shy and looking back now, she’s a totally different person. She later gives credit to her experience here at Stevens for who she is now. But when asked what she would have done differently is given the choice, she didn’t say “take more AP classes” or “Join more clubs” but rather to worry less and enjoy what is in the present. Don’t stress over grades, applications, or classes but prioritize your mental wellbeing and relationships. To end, I asked her what her advice would be for the underclassmen. In response, she said “Seriously just enjoy where you are right now. It’ll all be over soon so make the most of your time here.”
Another one of Stevens most bubbly personalities is Abygale Cuppy. Abygale has been one of our cheerleaders for the past four years and no matter where
she is, she always seems to have a smile on her face. Next year she plans on going to the University of Northern Texas to major in elementary education and minor in film. She hopes to teach kindergarten and later produce kids shows and movies. In our interview I asked what she thinks her high school experiences have taught her for what is next in her life. She came back saying that high school has shown her how to branch out and learn from all types of people. Teachers, peers, and mentors can all teach you lots about life and what you may want to do. Later saying, “One thing I will miss about high school is being in such close proximity to everyone.” Her advice for people would be to branch out as much as you can in high school, go to everything you can! Plays, school concerts, competitions, and sports games, you never know what you might like.
Eric Morrow has made the most of his senior year as a track runner and competitor in Mr. SHS where he won best dressed. After graduation, he plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, where he will major in Sports Business. Eric hopes to make new friends, earn good grades, and have an overall great freshman year. He says high school prepared him by teaching him responsibility, avoiding procrastination, and learning how to work well with others. Eric also learned how to handle challenges and stay focused on his goals. While he will miss his friends and teammates the most, he wishes he had gotten more involved and taken advantage of more opportunities, including joining track his freshman year. His advice to the underclassmen is, “Make good friends and don’t be afraid to talk to your teachers – they want to help you succeed.”
In the end, Hayley Cunningham, Abygale Cuppy, and Eric Morrow highlight what makes this senior class memorable. Each of them has taken a different path, faced their own challenges, and created lasting impacts in their own ways. Whether through academics, extracurricular, or personal growth, they represent the determination and individuality that defines this year’s graduating class. As they move on to their next chapters, their experiences serve as a reminder that success isn’t a one size fits all but rather shaped by passion, resilience, and the willingness to grow.
