Photo Provided By Lily Squires
Senior Lily Squires graduates this year from South Salem High School after her four-year journey. She became editor of social media at the Clypian, flag football team quarterback and Senior Class Vice President. She hopes to pursue her love of journalism and sports as she starts a new chapter of her life.
Squires’s Mark On The Community
Squires started her time at the Clypian on her first day of Freshman year. Years later, she was promoted to the Social Media Editor and became a leader in the Clypian.
“Since I was young, I have always wanted to do some sort of social media. When I came to South and I was doing my tour, Ryan Marshall was showing the journalism program, and I could not believe that I could do this,” Squires said.
Social media has always stuck with Squires as she has found it as a way to share people’s stories and perspectives. She wants to make an impact in her community wherever she goes. Having the opportunity to reach out to new people has become a valuable part of her life.
“I have learned the importance of being a friendly face and being kind. Being considerate of people and how it will impact their life and my life as well. It will take you so far in life,” Squires said.
Saying Goodbye
Squires plans on attending the University of Oregon and pursuing the opportunities in their journalism school. Ultimately, she wants to work for a professional sports team in public relations. Her experiences from the Clypian have led her to become the person she is.
“I have spent part of every single day in this classroom. Eriksen helped with walking in the door, helped grow my understanding of journalism, how to be a leader and helped me overcome some things,” Squires said.
She hopes to be a part of UO’s journalism news outlet and carry on her passion. Although after being heavily involved in the Clypian, leaving it behind has become bittersweet.
“It is a weird feeling because I once was passed down and I remember that feeling, but I have full faith in Leah, Indeerah and Nora. I think they will take it to new levels, but I am excited to watch it from afar,” Squires said.
From her memories in the Clypian, working hard and becoming herself, her time at South has become an important part of her life and her identity. She is ready for the growth that will come and embrace herself in her community.
“Student voices are so important, your voice matters. Continue to put yourself out there and do not be afraid of failure,” Squires said.
