Lucia Pugliese, a rising senior at Momence High School, is a name that resonates with excellence, determination, and a bright future. With a name that dances like music, Lucia’s presence is a harmonious blend of academic prowess and community spirit.

As a junior, Lucia has already made her mark, not just with her outstanding grades but also with her vibrant personality. She takes pride in her academic achievements, maintaining high standards and striving for excellence in all her endeavors. “I am very particular about my grades,” she admits, highlighting her commitment to academic success. Lucia’s dedication has positioned her among the valedictorian hopefuls, a testament to her hard work and determination.

Lucia’s academic journey is not a solitary one. She finds inspiration in her older sister, Alex, who is majoring in architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology. “Alex has always been very motivated in school, and that has influenced me a lot,” Lucia shares. Her other sister, Katie, is pursuing environmental science at the University of Wisconsin in Stevens Point, while her younger brother, an 8th grader, brings a different dynamic to the family with his varied interests.

The Pugliese family is a close-knit unit, with parents who have demonstrated resilience and hard work. Lucia speaks fondly of her parents, who grew up in South Holland and have instilled strong values in their children. Her father, a tool designer at Panduit in Tinley Park, and her mother, who worked her way up from hands-on trades to earning a PTA degree, are her role models. “They’ve done a lot and know a lot,” Lucia says, admiration evident in her voice.

Growing up in Momence, Lucia has experienced the warmth of a tight-knit community. “I like living here because it’s tight-knit, and you never feel nervous because you know everybody around you,” she reflects. This sense of belonging and familiarity has shaped her outlook on life and her interactions with others. Lucia cherishes the shared experiences with classmates and teachers, particularly highlighting her physics teacher, Mr. Sala, and her English teacher, Ms. Barnett, as significant influences.

Lucia’s ambitions extend beyond the borders of Momence. While she plans to stay in-state for college, possibly at a school in Chicago or the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, she harbors dreams of traveling and exploring the world. Her family’s travels to places like Washington State, Glacier National Park in Montana, and Banff in Canada have ignited a passion for exploration in her. “I want to see the world,” she declares with enthusiasm.

Despite her many achievements, Lucia remains humble and grounded. If she could advise her younger self, she would emphasize the importance of being true to oneself and not being afraid to step out of her comfort zone. “Just be yourself and don’t be scared to try new things,” she would tell her younger self. This confidence and selfassuredness are qualities that have developed over time, bolstered by her academic successes and the support of her family and friends.

Looking ahead, Lucia is both excited and nervous about the future. The uncertainty of what lies ahead is daunting, but her determination and resilience shine through. She plans to take the ACT and SAT multiple times to secure the best possible scores, aiming to open as many doors as possible for her college education.

As Lucia prepares for her senior year, she remains focused on her goals and dreams. Her journey at Momence High School is a testament to the power of hard work, the importance of a supportive community, and the impact of a loving family. Lucia Pugliese is not just a shining star at Momence High; she is a beacon of inspiration for her peers and a proud representative of her community.

In the end, Lucia’s story is one of promise and potential, a narrative that leaves us feeling hopeful and proud. Her achievements and aspirations reflect the best of what Momence has to offer, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this remarkable young woman.