Highland Park Neighbors Magazine Articles

Since 2018, Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) has proudly recognized an exceptional Highland Park High School (HPHS) senior each May with the HPCF Personal Achievement Award. This honor is awarded to a student who has “persevered despite obstacles or disability, thrives in the school environment, is a hard worker and a positive influence, and elicits a feeling of joy from those who interact with them,” said Jean Meadows, HPCF Board Member and Chair of the Personal Achievement Award Committee. Through this recognition, HPCF celebrates students who demonstrate extraordinary resilience and a deep commitment to their education. Vanessa Flores, the 2025 Personal Achievement Award Recipient, exemplifies all of these qualities.

L to R: HPHS teacher Cari Shindler, HPCF Board Member Jean Meadows, Vanessa Flores, HPCF Board Chair Laurie Levin, HPCF Board Member Betsy Brint

Vanessa’s journey is one of perseverance, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. She began high school in specialized academic support classes and, by sophomore year, had successfully transitioned into all general education courses, continuing in those courses through her senior year. By graduation, she had earned an impressive weighted GPA of 3.54, all while working two part-time jobs.

Her teachers quickly recognized the qualities that set her apart. One remarked that she is “as determined and tenacious a learner as I have ever had the pleasure of teaching.” Another noted she is destined “for big things.”

During her senior year, Vanessa was accepted to several four-year universities and is proudly college-bound, with Illinois State University likely to be her next step. As the first in her family to attend college, she worked closely with school staff to navigate financial aid options and make her dream a reality.

2025 Recipient Vanessa Flores with her brother and parents

2025 Recipient Vanessa Flores

“Vanessa embodies the spirit of the Personal Achievement Award in every way,” said Betsy Brint, member of the Personal Achievement Award Committee. “She set high academic goals for herself, and with the guidance of her teachers, Vanessa worked hard to exceed those goals while working 30 hours a week outside of school. She is an inspiration to her peers, and, after meeting her, she is also an inspiration to me!” she added. “Vanessa is truly a Highland Park Giant,” noted Jean, “living the values of her school and community. She is an extremely hard worker, always respectful to her teachers and peers, has become a strong self-advocate, and consistently puts in her full effort to succeed. We know that she will be a positive and active participant in her school and community and will achieve whatever goals she sets for herself. Vanessa has charmed us with her warmth, her energy and her intention.”

Vanessa received the Personal Achievement Award at HPHS’s Student Honors Night on May 19, 2025. HPCF is proud to recognize her not only for her academic and personal accomplishments, but also for the inspiring example she sets through her steady commitment to growth and success. The HPCF Board and Staff congratulate her on all her achievements and wish her all the best in all that lies ahead. For more information about past recipients, visit https://www.hpcfil.org/awards/personal-achievement-award/.