A new school year is underway, prompting the return of The Daily’s Students of the Week, which highlights exceptional students from local high schools.
Each week, high school principals and staffers in Livingston County share their nominees. We share those honorees online Fridays and in print Sundays.
This week’s students were nominated for their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, kindness and service to their school community.
Ari Hickman, Brighton High School
Note: Ari is a longtime freelance writer for The Livingston Daily.
Ari is the epitome of what a district vision statement is for students. She’s one of the few students at BHS who left “few to no stones to turnover.” Through athletics, clubs, yearbook and academics, Ari has demonstrated excellence in all of her experiences at Brighton High School.
Ari is first in her class, which is normally an amazing accomplishment, but this class is also one of the largest to come through BAS in some time, making the competition even higher — yet Ari has still earned herself a GPA of 4.4444.
Ari has accomplished so much and continues to strive for more. She’s been a yearbook editor and our school newspaper editor, a competitive swimmer, founder of the Civic Leaders Club, member of the Model UN — all on top of one of the most academically rigorous paths a student can take at Brighton High School.
Two teachers that’ve had an impact on Ari are Mrs. Kim Christiansen and Mrs. Colleen Buchanan. While it’s been incredible to watch Ari come into BHS so capable already, it was her growth as a leader that’s been one of the best accomplishments she’s had in her time here. BHS is sad to see Ari leave as a graduate of the Class of 2026, but is excited to see what she’ll accomplish in her future chapters.
Grant Wilkinson, Fowlerville High School
Grant, a senior at Fowlerville High School, has challenged himself with a rigorous college prep schedule, including multiple AP courses over the past two years. Beyond the classroom, Grant is a well-rounded student-athlete and leader. He serves as captain of the varsity tennis team, competes in both basketball and tennis, and is an active member of the marching band.
Known for his caring nature and strong leadership, Grant leads by example both in and out of the classroom, setting a high standard of excellence for his peers to follow. Grant exemplifies what it means to be a true Gladiator.
Bo West, Hartland High School
Bo is the Student of the Week for Hartland High School. Bo is an all-around great young man. He embodies what HHS wants represented as an EAGLE. He is a conscientious, hard-working, helpful and kind young man. Bo is always the first to offer a helping hand when a student or teacher needs it. He’s a great friend and student. HHS is grateful to have Bo.
Patrick McGlinnen, Howell High School
Patrick, a junior, is an outstanding example of a student leader. He’s always willing to step up and support those around him, bringing positive energy and dedication to everything he does. Patrick is enrolled in advanced courses and maintains a high GPA. His character, passion and commitment make him a valued member of Highlander Nation.
Noah Ferguson, Kensington Woods Schools
Noah, a junior, recently demonstrated persistence and drive outside the classroom by placing eleventh overall in the Howell Melon Festival 5K, finishing with an impressive time of 19:22. This same determination is evident in his academics, where he’s a dedicated member of the Kensington Woods Early College Program. As part of the college foundation track, Noah is already taking advanced courses at Kensington Woods while simultaneously managing classes at Washtenaw Community College.
Noah’s strong work ethic and leadership qualities are woven into all aspects of his school life. He’s a key member of the varsity track (running distance events) and cross country teams, a peer tutor in math and member of leadership. He also serves as the Dungeon Master for the school’s Dungeons and Dragons Club, a role requiring significant creativity and organization. Noah’s motivation and diverse contributions make him a true leader and a valued member of the school community.
— Contact reporter Evan Sasiela at esasiela@livingstondaily.com. Follow him on X @SalsaEvan.
This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Sept. 12: Who made the list for The Daily’s first Students of the Week 2025-26?
Reporting by Evan Sasiela, Livingston Daily / Livingston Daily
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