Student Of The Week: 7th Grader Diana Viz

TINLEY PARK, IL — Students of all ages undergo stress, pressure and growth during their academic careers. Patch wants to highlight students in your community that have shown strength and courage during stressful learning situations amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

This week, Patch is recognizing the hard work and dedication of Diana Viz, a 7th grader at Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School in Orland Hills.

According to staff, Viz was nominated because she exemplifies what it means to be a Cardinal. Academically, she was consistently on the A-Honor Roll last year.

"Diana always puts forth her best effort in all she does and frequently participates in class. She strives to be inclusive with others, noting when someone is in need of an extra bit of kindness shown. Diana wants everyone to be the best that they can be and wants the very best for everyone. Both academically and as a compassionate classmate, Diana serves as a role model to others."

Viz plans to go to Benet Academy for high school. Some fun facts about her are she has five older siblings that have all graduated from CJB and her current teacher Mrs. McLaughlin has taught and mentored each one of them.

"Attending in-person school during the pandemic has been invaluable. Being able to interact with teachers and students under certain Covid-19 precautions, is worth it for being back in school and staying healthy. I am so grateful for everything the CJB staff has been doing to keep the school community safe," Viz said.

The 7th grader said she is thankful for the school's administration amid COVID-19.

"Aside from everything that has been happening, we are still able to practice our faith and have school liturgies. The commitment and sacrifices the administrators and teachers have made are unbelievable," Viz said. "All in all, CJB has adapted very well to the circumstances we have faced, and I am so gracious to be a part of such a wonderful educational environment."

In addition to being a diehard Notre Dame football fan with her dad, Diana wants to follow in his footsteps and become a lawyer. She participates in choir, band, drama club, school newspaper and plays basketball, soccer, volleyball, tennis, and runs cross country.
Way to go Diana!

Do you have a student you would like to nominate as student of the week? Nominate your student by clicking here!