Passing The Torch For Campus Life

Cara Lacey has led and managed Campus Life for six years, dedicating time and energy to students in the community.

At the closing of the 2014-2015 school year, Lacey is clearing herself up for more time with family and is giving the honor of leading Campus Life (CL) to college student and Waverly CL alumni Brooklyn Sumovich.

Sumovich has high hopes for her opportunity and is looking forward to her new position with the club.

“I am excited about taking over the program,” Sumovich said. “I might be able to reach a new group of students, and I can’t wait to see how this program grows with new leadership.”

Various members were given the opportunity to interact with Sumovich through a bible study group which she led.

While there are a few that think she’ll fit the part well, certain students are not so optimistic about the change.

“It’s definitely the start of a new era,” junior Andy Miesbach said. “And I can’t say I like it.”

Some, however, are willing to try and adapt to the new leadership.

“Cara did an excellent job of being a leader, and no one will be able to do what she did,” junior Greg Wetzel said. “But I do plan on giving Brooklyn a fair chance.”

The decision wasn’t an easy one for Lacey, especially with all the relationships she has built solely through CL.

“For me to do this job well, it needed to be my life,” Lacey said. “My children shared me with numerous kids, and they did this graciously. Sometimes, though, it was too much.”

With two of her kids in high school and one finishing college, Lacey doesn’t want to miss any of it.

“My oldest daughter had gotten married in July, and that was a wake-up call to me how fast time flew with her,” Lacey said. “One other was starting her sophomore year and my baby was starting his freshman year. I knew I was going to blink and they would be gone.”

Although members of Campus Life are upset to see Lacey go, they understand her decision.

“Cara contributed a lot, and not even just on Sundays,” sophomore Emily Clarke said. “Throughout the entire week, she was always doing something for somebody.”

Lacey stepping down isn’t the only concern members have about the future of the club.

“I’m dreading the loss of connection that I think will happen,” sophomore Addie Schneider said.

Even though it’s the end of Lacey’s leadership, it’s not the end of her influence and support for the teenagers in Waverly.

“I seriously love each and every one of these kids,” Lacey said. “And I will still always, always, always be available.”