Ozark Catholic Academy graduates

Valedictorian

• Mia Passantino, 18

Parish: St. Joseph, Tontitown

Parents: Alex and Kristin Passantino

College and major: University of Alabama Honors College, majoring in civil engineering

What goals do you want to pursue after college? I've always loved practical design and a degree in civil engineering will give me the skills to create and design solutions to everyday problems. I enjoy helping people and I hope my new skill set will give me the opportunity to pursue this as my career.

What is your proudest accomplishment to date? While it isn't an accomplishment I achieved alone, I'm proud of the service work that I did with my class in 2021. We went to Auxier, Ky., and repaired the homes of people who would have otherwise been unable to afford the needed repairs. It is an experience that has stuck with me and shaped the way I view my future and my career.

How will your faith be a part of your future? Part of the reason why I chose the University of Alabama is the active Catholic center on campus. BamaCatholic is a vibrant community and I'm looking forward to being a part of it when I start college in the fall. My faith is very important to me and I know it will be a constant in my life ahead.

Scholarships: National Merit Finalist Scholarship

High school honors and awards: National Merit Finalist, OCA Veritas Award, CLT10 Regional Scholar, All-Conference Golf 2020 and 2022, All-Conference Track 2021 and 2023