Kiwanis Student of the Month May 2025: Sophia Harper

Ferndale High School senior Sophia Harper takes pride in her ability to keep FHS students in the loop. As the elected ASB Executive Publicity Director, she runs the Ferndale Students page on Instagram (which is not district-affiliated) and creates graphics advertising upcoming events for the large video screen in the commons.

Harper said it’s important to her that a variety of groups are represented in what she shares with the student community.

“I want to demonstrate the importance of equal involvement through media and advertisement,” she said. “If I am able to involve all groups in upcoming event posts, it will attract more people to attend and feel comfortable.”

Harper hopes to further hone her communications skills in college, as she plans to attend Washington State University and study business and marketing.

Outside of student leadership, Harper also played volleyball for three years at FHS, being voted team captain during her junior year. She also works as a waitress at Texas Roadhouse, and impressed management enough that she now trains new hires.

Recently, Harper volunteered for Blue Skies for Children, helping entertain the crowd during their silent auction. The Bellingham non-profit gives essential items and sponsors enrichment programs for homeless, low-income, and foster children in Whatcom and Skagit counties.

“I was able to form connections and uplift my peers and community,” Harper said of the volunteer work.

Harper said the most influential person in her life is her mom, who is always finding volunteer and engagement opportunities for her.

“She has always stood by my side and pushed me in ways no one else has,” Harper said.