GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Andrean makes a difference through service and friendship

What’s recently happened?

On October 10, Andrean High School students joined more than 500 students from several Diocesan schools at Franciscan Health Dyer for the annual Respect Life Prayer Service. Marking the 32nd annual Respect Life Celebration, students experienced a powerful gathering of song, prayer, and scripture to honor the dignity of all life. Franciscan Health announced this year’s Respect Life Month theme as “Life, Our Sign of Hope.”

This experience proved especially meaningful for many Andrean students. 

“I really enjoyed the atmosphere and the message. It was very moving to see everyone who cared about the lives of these babies,” said Maddie Maronowski, senior campus ministry member.

For students, this event was one of many service opportunities offered in October. The Campus Ministry Department also collected donations for the Merrillville Women’s Care Center. Opportunities like these keep the Andean community grounded in humility and service, reminding all to act as servants for others.

What’s coming up?

The Andrean Cheer Team will host its annual “Lil’ Niners Cheer Camp” on December 8, 10, and 11 for students in grades K–8 across the Region. Participants will showcase the skills they’ve learned by performing during halftime at the Merrillville versus Andrean basketball game on December 13. Each camper will receive a T-shirt, along with red and gold pom-poms.

This event is an exciting experience for both the young participants and the current cheerleaders, who get to pass down their legacy to the next generation.

Junior Adrianna Sanchez, who will be working her third Lil’ Niners Cheer Camp this year, knows how meaningful this camp is to the future of the Andrean community.

“It’s amazing to see how much the younger girls look up to us. The camp helps our team bond, and it’s special to make an impact on the kids who might one day cheer for Andrean,” Sanchez said.

Staff spotlight:

Through service trips, prayer opportunities, and everyday encouragement, Campus Minister Gianna Niece helps create an environment where students can grow in both faith and friendship.

Niece says her favorite thing about Andrean is the community. She loves how students and teachers support each other and how the school offers unique experiences outside the classroom.

One of her favorite service trips was visiting the VA Center in Crown Point. Students handed out treat bags to veterans, which included donated snacks, candy, “thank you” notes, and handmade keychains with words like brave and courage. She felt that this was special because it was a school-wide effort. Seeing students bring smiles to the veterans made the day meaningful.

She also shared that one of the best parts of service trips is the friendships students form. Many students go on the trips not knowing everyone, but by the end, they’ve made new friends and memories. 

“Creating new friendships and opportunities is what the Andrean community is all about,” she said.

When it comes to her role, Niece said she feels lucky to walk with students as they grow in their faith. She enjoys helping them serve others and learn what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ. 

“It’s something really special that we have at our school,” she said.

Her passion for service and her care for students make her a true blessing to the Andrean community, and her impact continues to shape the faith and friendships that make our school feel like home.

Student spotlight:

Lailoni Staten, a senior student-athlete, is beginning her final season as a member of the Lady Niners basketball team. As the senior starting point guard of the team, she embraces her leadership role and the responsibility that comes with guiding a younger team.

“Being the only senior on the basketball program means a lot to me,” Staten said. “It shows my determination for the program and how I’ve gained a bunch of little sisters—something I’ve always wanted.”

In their first game of the season against their rivals, the Merrillville Pirates, the Lady Niners secured a thrilling 45–41 victory. This was a particularly meaningful win for Staten after a tough loss to them last year.

“The thing I’ll miss most about Andrean is my team,” she shared. “I love how close we’ve gotten over the years despite our age differences.”

Outside of basketball, Staten is involved in volleyball, the Ambassador Program, and Student Council. She truly embodies the dedication and spirit of Andrean’s student-athletes.