Kiwanis Student of the Month Nov 2024: Olivia Copps

Ferndale High School senior Olivia Copps is a natural leader. She’s been a member of Associated Student Body leadership since the start of middle school, and currently serves as FHS’ Executive ASB President. Copps was even selected by school district leadership to be one of the student speakers at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new FHS campus this spring.

“Getting to speak at the ribbon cutting ceremony meant so much to me because I was asked by the people I look up to the most,” she said. “Given the fact that I have multiple generations of Golden Eagles before me, I was honored to represent them and other alumni in Ferndale.

One major project Copps led was an interhigh meeting last school year, where student leaders from all over Northwest Washington came to Ferndale to collaborate. This was the first such meeting hosted at FHS in about 15 years.

“(Leadership teacher) Mr. Moravec helped push me past my doubts and fears about it and assured me I could do it, which led to a very smooth and fun experience,” Copps said of the interhigh meeting. “It reassured me that I can do hard things.”

Outside of leadership, Copps has been a member of the Golden Eagles’ volleyball, tennis, and basketball teams. She also has performed with the school’s orchestra and is a member of National Honors Society.

After graduating from FHS, Copps plans to stay local and study at Western Washington University. Her eventual goal is to earn a master’s degree in education and become a high school English and leadership teacher.

“There are many teachers here at FHS who have shaped me and been a huge influence at school,” Copps said. “These are also the teachers that make me excited to come to school. I want to be that teacher for someone.”

Copps said both of her parents have helped her to become the best version of herself. She also credits FHS leadership teacher Marty Moravec with being a wonderful mentor and role model, as well as an inspiration for her to join the teaching ranks.

“He has shaped me into the leader I am today by breaking me out of my shell and helping me recognize the things I can do,” Copps said of Moravec. “He has taught me how to be comfortable and proud with the person that I am.”