Columbia Independent School | Class of 2026
ETHAN ABADI
DEOLU ADEBIYI
Deolu is the son of Ade and Sadiat Adebiyi. He enrolled at CIS for his sophomore year and quickly became a key member of the class, excelling as a leader, athlete, musician, student and friend.
In his three years at CIS, Deolu participated in basketball, track and field, band, and the Interact Club. He earned all-district first team honors in basketball his junior and senior years, qualified for state in the 4×400 relay in 2024-25, and qualified for sectionals in the 100m dash in 2024-25.
“CIS has taught me how to form bonds with people, whether it is through group assignments, sports, or events. I have enjoyed the time I spent with all my friends and new people that I’ve met. I was able to step out of my comfort zone and interact with others more socially because of CIS.”
Deolu plans to study health sciences at the University of Missouri this fall.
PABLO BRAN ROMERO
Pablo is the son of Indira Romero and Luis Bran and nephew of Priscilla Ruiz and Andres Bran. He joined CIS for his senior year.
“My experience at CIS, although short, has been full of good moments and great friends. At first, I was a little nervous, but over time I made friends and realized how kind the students at CIS are. One of the main things that made me notice this was the upper school retreat, even though I was new, they never left me out and always included me in the activities.”
Pablo’s activities at CIS include the track and field team and the upper school chess team, which competed at the state level.
This fall, Pablo will study physics and mathematics at St. Olaf College.
SHANNON BULLARD
Shannon is the daughter of Cindy and Timothy Bullard. A Lifetime Lion, Shannon joined CIS in Junior Kindergarten 4.
“I’ve been a part of CIS for fourteen years now, and there’s nowhere else I would have rather grown up. I’ve seen lots of versions of this school, and it’s seen many versions of me. From a shy fairy-loving little girl to a fourth-grade geography wiz to a more confident competitor, I’m eternally grateful to CIS for giving me the opportunity and environment to grow.”
During her upper school years, Shannon has been deeply involved in leadership and academic extracurricular activities. She served as captain of the Academic Bowl team, co-captain of Model United Nations, and participated in Science Olympiad, Student Ambassadors, Camp Invention, Teaching Internship, Missouri Leadership Seminar, and Student Council.
Honors she’s received include the Academic Achievement Award in 2022, CIS Merit Scholarship, Outstanding Delegate at Mid-South Model United Nations, Boone Electric Youth Tour and Scholarship, and the Distinguished Service Award in 2025. Her Academic Bowl achievements include first place at districts in 2026, second in state in 2025, second in districts in 2024, and third at state as part of the JV team in 2023.
Shannon plans to study political science at Truman State University this fall.
KAYZIAH BURGESON
After attending CIS in second grade, Kayziah rejoined the school as a freshman and embraced the opportunity to get involved in academics, arts and athletics. A multi-sport athlete, she participated in golf, volleyball, cheer, swim and track. She was a member of the theater casts of Much Ado About Nothing, Six the Musical, and Pride and Prejudice. Kayziah is a member of the Camerata Choir, which was recently selected as one of only ten choirs to sing at the Missouri Music Educators Association conference.
Other awards and honors include selection to the all-district volleyball team, captain of the cheer team, three years on the Northeast Missouri District Choir, two years on the state choir ensemble, and the school record holder for the 500-yard freestyle in girls swimming. Kayziah was selected as the Columbia Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year.
“The time I have spent here at CIS I will always treasure,” says Kayziah. “I’ve made so many friends and memories! Everyone has always been so nice, caring, supportive, and loving. We’re all like one big family!”
Kayziah is the daughter of Alexandra Washington and Michael Burgeson. She will study aerospace science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University this fall.
BRYDON BUTLER
Brydon is the son of Clark and Gina Butler. He joined CIS as a junior and says he truly feels like he belongs at this school.
“I was quite nervous at first and didn’t know what to expect, considering I was coming from a 3-day scheduled school. The students and teachers at CIS made me feel welcomed, showing me kindness, acceptance and grace. I am grateful for all the friends that I have met and I will cherish all the good memories.”
During his time at CIS, Brydon participated in clubs such as Magic the Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, and Aquarium Club. He has an interest in owls and volunteered during his senior year at the Raptor Rehabilitation Project through the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine.
This fall, Brydon will enroll in the health sciences program with an emphasis in pre-med at the University of Missouri.
EFFIE CRAVER
Effie is a Lifetime Lion, having joined CIS in kindergarten. She is the daughter of Kirsten Craver and Jeff Craver.
“Everyone in CIS has always been incredibly supportive of me, whether it be friends, teachers, or coaches,” Effie says. “It’s evident through spending so much time at CIS that people are always willing to listen and help out. CIS has watched me grow since I was five years old, and truly shaped me into the person that I am today.”
An avid runner, Effie is an outstanding athlete in cross country and track. She has also participated in student council and the Interact Club during her time at CIS.
Effie plans to attend the University of Missouri to study engineering.
CALLIE GANN
Callie is the daughter of Jim and Marilyn Gann. She joined the CIS community in 7th grade and will attend the University of Missouri to study pre-occupational therapy.
During her years at CIS, Callie founded the Textile Club and participated in the Camerata choir, Science Olympiad, archery, orchestra, and theater, where she was part of the Matilda cast. Honors and awards include the Missouri Scholars Academy, Jefferson Moore Award, Deanna Corn Award, and earning Magna Cum Laude on the National Latin Exam.
Callie took part in a teaching internship during her senior year that offers the opportunity for upper school students to work alongside experienced teachers, assist with instructional activities, and engage with students in a real-world educational environment.
“This year, I have been enjoying my teaching internship with Mrs. Hassien’s kindergarten class,” Callie says. “It has been so fun to watch them learn how to communicate with each other and see how they think. I have also been enjoying the artwork they gifted me for good luck during one of my recent choir auditions.”
HANA JARBOU
Hana is the daughter of Ruba Jaouni and Mohammad Jarbou and joined CIS in first grade.
An avid athlete, artist, and leader, Hana participated in the cross country, track, mountain biking, taekwondo, and swim teams. She served as a CIS Student Ambassador and as a Muslim Youth North America Student Association photo ambassador.
Hana’s honors and awards include first place in the Missouri NICA Mountain Biking JV state races in 2024 and second place in 2025, first place in the MIST Art and Essay Competition in 2025 and 2026, and competing at state in cross country and sectionals in track.
“The teachers are so caring and fun, and they make every class very personal,” says Hana. “I appreciate how approachable they are, like my pride leaders, Mr. Soria and Mrs. Dittmer, and how communicative they are, like Mr. Elmore and Mrs. Primmer, who are always there to listen when you need to talk. CIS has truly shaped me into the person I am today.”
Hana plans to study engineering at the University of Missouri this fall.
HADLEY JOHNSON
Hadley is the daughter of Nate and Paige Johnson. She joined CIS in 9th grade and immersed herself in myriad activities, serving as co-captain of the Model United Nations team, editor of the yearbook and school newspaper, a Student Ambassador, vice-president of the student council, summer camp counselor, and a member of the Camerata choir and performing arts casts.
Awards and honors Hadley earned include the Lion’s Scholarship, a full scholarship to Missouri Girls State, four awards during Model UN conferences, and 2024 Northeast All-District Choir.
“CIS pushed me to try new things,” Hadley says. “I never would’ve joined Model UN at a large public school, I never would’ve joined choir, and I certainly wouldn’t have had the important relationships with my teachers that have made me the student I am today.”
Hadley will attend Bryn Mawr College this fall, to pursue a degree in political science.
TRINITY KANE
Trinity is the daughter of Cynthia Hayes and Kevin Kane. A Lifetime Lion, Trinity joined CIS in Junior Kindergarten.
In lower school, Trinity participated in Disney and Shakespeare plays, Girls on the Run, and Camp Invention. She was also on the Lower School Student Council.
In upper school, Trinity participated in tennis for 3 years, cheer for 3 years, serving as co-captain, and one year of swim team. She earned athletic letters and pins for those sports. She also helped coach the Lower School Dance and Cheer Team and a youth tennis clinic. Trinity is a member of the Medical Club. She was also a teacher intern in a JK3 classroom during her senior year.
“I’m grateful for the memories, the lessons, and the people, friends, teachers, and coaches who have made my years at this school unforgettable,” Trinity says. “As I move forward, I carry with me the values, friendships, and experiences that have defined my time here at Columbia Independent School.”
Trinity will attend the University of Missouri, majoring in biology and pre-med.
IRENE PAPAGEORGIO
Irene joined CIS in 7th grade. She is the daughter of Christos Papageorgiou and Katerina Papageorgio. This fall, she will study music with a focus in vocal performance, and international relations, at Occidental College.
A natural performer, Irene participated in multiple theatre productions, Chamber Choir, Madrigal and Camerata Choirs, Academic Bowl, and Model UN during her time at CIS. She earned multiple gold and silver awards and other honors at the state and district levels through the Missouri State High School Activities Association, Northeast Missouri District, the Central Methodist University music festival, Missouri Choral Directors Association and National Association of Teachers Singing. She earned the AP Scholars Award in 2025.
Irene credits her CIS music teacher as a significant influence. “It was here that my love for music was fortified, and then blossomed into something steady and intentional. With the guidance of Mrs. Jarquio, I discovered not only that music was my passion, but that I had the technique, discipline, and confidence to pursue it. Without her, I’m not sure I would have chosen vocal performance as part of my future, but she helped me trust the sound of my own voice.”
EVIE PENMAN
Evie is the daughter of Scott Penman and Amy Gossett. She joined CIS in 3rd grade.
“I think that my parent’s decision to enroll me in CIS for third grade is one of the best decisions they’ve ever made for me and I will forever be grateful,” Evie says. “I can confidently say that without the environment and people I’ve met here, I would be nowhere near the person I am today. The teachers, beginning with Ms. Medenis, have always welcomed me into the classroom and encouraged me to speak up and find my voice.”
Evie’s activities at CIS include three years of track, cheer in her senior year, the student newspaper, yearbook, and the weekly What’s Up Wednesday publication.
This fall, Evie will study psychology and sociology at Loyola University Chicago.
JAMES REYNOLDS
AZALEA ROSE
Zaylee is the daughter of Jake and Ania Rose and joined CIS her junior year. In just two years at CIS, Zaylee made her mark in the classroom and on the tennis court.
In tennis, Zaylee went undefeated during the 2024-25 regular season, placing first in districts and second in state that year. In 2025-26, Zaylee finished first in districts and fourth in state. She earned academic letters for tennis in 2024 and 2025, was the KTGR Athlete of the Week in 2024, and named CIS team MVP in 2024. Zaylee currently sits at #6 on the list of all-time girls tennis win records in Missouri, with a win percentage of 95.8%, according to MSHSAA.
Zaylee earned a National Merit Letter of Commendation for her PSAT score. Also a Science Olympiad competitor, Zaylee placed 1st in regionals and 6th in the state in 2025, and 1st in regionals and 6th in state in 2026. She earned 3rd place with the CIS team at the Missouri State Ethics Bowl competition, and placed first in Ceramics at the Columbia College High School Art Competition in 2026.
“I’ve cherished the chance to be creative here. Whether it was a new art project or a class assignment, I’ve loved being able to bring my ideas to life. I have also truly enjoyed my time playing on the CIS Girls Tennis Team with Coach Owen. I am forever grateful for the connections I have made at CIS.”
This fall, Zaylee will be attending and playing tennis for St. Olaf College.
AYLA ROWSON
Ayla is the daughter of Scott and Amber Rowson and joined CIS in 7th grade. She plans to attend the University of Missouri this fall to study business marketing.
During her years at CIS, Ayla participated in volleyball, cheer, and choir. She served as the social media coordinator for the student council and helped start the Den student coffee shop, providing baked goods each week during her junior year. As part of the Interact club, she organized a food drive and assisted with a blood drive.
Ayla portrayed Jane Seymour in SIX the Musical and worked backstage for this spring’s production of Pride and Prejudice. She was named to the all-district second team in volleyball her senior year, and she has earned her black belt in karate.
An accomplished vocalist, Ayla reflects on her success in the performing arts at CIS. “I had the honor of being in a vocal trio with Callie Gann and Irene Papageorgio for two years, receiving the highest honor at State for our ensemble.”
Mustapha salau
zoe schlacks
Zoe joined CIS in 1st grade. She is the daughter of Kaitlyn and William Schlacks.
During her time at CIS, she has participated in track, tennis and cheer.
“One thing that has stood out and been the most consistent to me through my time at CIS has been the tightly knit community that this school provided,” Zoe says. “I’ve noticed this especially in the sports that I’ve joined through the school, like track and tennis. Some of my favorite memories have been made during the after-school practices and or late-night track meets.”
An accomplished artist, Zoe plans to attend the School of the Art Institute of Chicago this fall.
ANNA SHANKS
Anna joined CIS in 8th grade and is the daughter of Aaron and Amanda Shanks. Her numerous activities during her time at CIS include Model United Nations, Science Olympiad, Theater, Camerata Choir, Student Council, Student Ambassador, Teaching Internship, and Ethics Bowl.
In addition, Anna participated in activities outside of CIS, including College for Kids, Missouri Symphony Conservatory, and Missouri Girls State.
Anna’s awards and honors include the Distinguished Service Award, Jefferson Moore Award, three delegate awards at Model UN conferences, 2nd and 3rd in the 2025 and 2026 Missouri High School Ethics Bowl (as a team), selection to perform at the Missouri Music Educators Association conference with Camerata Choir, AP Honors Scholar, CollegeBoard National Top Scholar Recognition, and a National Merit Commended Student for her achievement on the PSAT.
“As I move on from CIS, I take so much with me,” Anna says. “I have a deeper understanding of my place within my community and the impact I want to have.”
This fall, Anna will study mathematics and neuroscience at Truman State University.
BELÉN TURNER-DíAZ
SADIE WEST
