As he prepares to cross the stage, Ziggy Armstrong is already looking ahead to a future in neuroscience, one he hopes will let him combine curiosity, compassion, and a drive to serve others through research and patient-focused work.

A Class of 2026 Northbrook Senior, Ziggy, is finishing the year with one big milestone in mind: graduation. 

“Graduation will definitely be my biggest SBISD moment ever,” he said. 

After that pivotal day, Ziggy will head to the University of Pittsburgh to study neuroscience. His goal is to obtain his bachelor’s, master’s, and then his PhD, so he can one day become a neuropsychologist.

Interested in how the brain works and how care and research can improve outcomes, Ziggy said he’s motivated by the possibility of making a real difference for patients and families facing life-changing diagnoses.

“I want to help people with brain injuries, and diagnose diseases like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive impairments,” he said. 

He credits his SBISD journey with helping him prepare to take on these challenges and succeed. 

“SBISD helped me become someone ready to take on this little game we call ‘life,’” he said. 

He also noted that the internships he completed helped him build a portfolio that strengthened his application and earned him admission to his dream university.

Those experiences gave him the opportunity to explore professional settings, practice collaboration, and manage his time effectively.

For now, he’s basking in his graduation glow, and he's grateful to his partner, Sophia, for always being by his side and never letting him give up on his dreams. 

“I love them more than anything,” he said. 

As graduation approaches, Ziggy is focused on finishing strong and celebrating those who helped him get there. This fall, he’ll trade the familiar halls of Northbrook for a new campus in Pittsburgh, carrying with him the lessons, support, and momentum that shaped his SBISD journey.

#SBISDProud

Sophie Hare, Class of 2026 at Westchester Academy (WAIS), is eager to start her future, one dedicated to caring for others as a labor and delivery nurse.

It is a calling that speaks directly to who she is: someone who leads with compassion, shows up for others and finds purpose in being present during moments that matter most.

As she enters this next chapter with confidence, she knows that her firm foundation was built in Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD). Her involvement with the WAIS National Honor Society (NHS) played an integral role in who she has become.

“I found so much community through NHS and learned so many important skills that I will carry throughout my life,” she said.

Through NHS, Sophie found a group of peers who pushed her to grow, lead and give back. Those experiences don’t just reflect well on a resume; they shaped her and positioned her well for future success.

Several of her teachers played an instrumental role in Sophie’s development and in instilling belief in herself and her abilities. Among them were Mrs. Camano, Mrs. Clay and Mrs. Mack, each of whom left a lasting mark by offering guidance, encouragement and the steady support that helped Sophie trust in herself. In Mr. Kimmons’ art class, Sophie also found space to create and express herself, which boosted her confidence.

That appreciation goes all the way back to elementary school, where she remembers Mrs. Manfreda and how the teacher sparked a genuine love of learning, creating excitement about school.

As she prepares to turn her tassel, Sophie reflects on everything SBISD gave her: a community, a sense of purpose and a deep instinct to put others first. Those are the qualities that will surely make her an exceptional nurse.

In the fall, she will attend the University of North Dakota, where she will prepare to step into the delivery room and make a difference in the lives of the tiniest patients.

#SBISDProud