Unioto grad wants to be a role model

CHILLICOTHE – Unioto High School senior Mackenna Steinbrook has kept busy throughout her academic career but is looking ahead to the future as she embarks on her next journey in life.

During her time at Unioto, she has been involved in organizations such as the student council, National Honor Society, National Honor Art Society and Key Club, to name a few, but also has been a member of 4-H. In addition, she has played volleyball for four years and recently set a state record for 72 assists in a match and is the oldest of three siblings.

"I've kind of taken a leadership role in my family ... and I want to be a role model for younger students and my peers," Steinbrook said.

Steinbrook, who says she enjoys being actively involved, is headed to Shawnee State University in the fall and plans to study occupational therapy. She was accepted into the master's program as a freshman, meaning she will get her bachelor's degree in three years and her master's degree in two years.

Her long-term ambitions are to either work in Cincinnati or at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus and work directly with children. However, she is quick to credit the continued support of her family, especially her parents.

"My family has been my No. 1 supporter since day one," Steinbrook said.

She also hasn't forgotten the help of her volleyball teammates the last four years, many of whom Steinbrook has known since third or fourth grade.

"We're like a big family," Steinbrook said.

Steinbrook also has an important message for her fellow classmates.

"I would say my best advice would be is to be yourself and that hard work truly pays off," she said.

James Osborne, principal at Unioto High School, is one of several teachers and administrators Steinbrook cited as playing an important role in helping her throughout her high school career and said Osborne has had her best interests in mind.

"He's been through my side through it all," she said.

Osborne spoke positively about Steinbrook and looks forward to her accomplishing big things down the road.

"The sky's the limit," Osborne said. "She's going to make some company very happy."

He added: "She's just one of those people that brightens up a room."

Unioto High School Class of 2015

• Number of graduates: 155

• Valedictorian: Meghan McKell

• Salutatorian: Kera Robinson

• Class Colors: Lavender and Whites

• Class Flower: Purple Gerber Daisy

• Class Song: "See You Again" by Wiz Khalifa

• Class Motto: We can look forward with hopes and look back with cherished memories, looking toward the future while learning from the past.