Willowbrook names March recipient of 88’s Best recognition

Pictured is Willowbrook senior Emma Cismesia, who has been named as the school's March recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her outstanding work in the performing arts/electives.

Emma Cismesia has been named as Willowbrook’s March recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her outstanding work in the performing arts/electives. Cismesia, a senior, was recognized during the April 13 District 88 Board of Education meeting. To listen to Cismesia’s 88’s Best presentation, click the audio file above.

Cismesia shines in and out of the classroom, demonstrating an endless commitment to her success in academics, music and theatre. As a student, Cismesia consistently pursues the most rigorous courses available at Willowbrook. At the conclusion of her high school career, she will have completed three Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level courses, as well as a multitude of honors courses. As a result of her academic accomplishments, Cismesia has been a member of the Honor Roll throughout her four years at Willowbrook and is an inductee of the Tri-M (Modern Music Masters) Honor Society, where she serves as Secretary. She also is a member of the Thespian Troupe and was recognized with the Human Relations Award and the Music Department Outstanding Student award.

Beyond the classroom, Cismesia is a recognized and celebrated vocalist. She is a member of Concert Choir and Show Choir (CenterStage). She also has been recognized by the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) as a three-time All-District selection, including being named as the top performer this year for District 9. She was named as an ILMEA All-State Musician three times, including the past two as a member of the Honors Chorus. Her talents are such that she was selected to perform the National Anthem during the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Girls Basketball State Tournament in March.

Cismesia is a mainstay on the stage as well. She has performed in multiple theatre productions at Willowbrook and served as Assistant Director for “Lend Me a Tenor.” Throughout her high school career, Cismesia has been part of nine productions, and she was selected as an All-Sectional cast member for Willowbrook’s IHSA contest play. She was the lead in this year’s musical, “Mamma Mia!,” which was featured on WCIU, The U, morning show “The Jam” when the show came to Willowbrook in November to celebrate School Spirit Day.

“I’m so glad Cismesia is being recognized as District 88’s Best – she is definitely deserving of this honor,” said Linda Radtke, Willowbrook Music Department Accompanist. “She is a terrific student and works hard to keep growing and learn new things. She also has a natural gift for music. She has a beautiful singing voice. It was really fun to work with her on ‘Mamma Mia!’ this past fall. She really put her all into it and helped make it a terrific show.”

Willowbrook social studies teacher Maritza Francisco agreed.

“What an amazing young woman!” Francisco said. “I remember Cismesia in AP Human Geography, as she told me her interests in the performing arts and singing. She has achieved her goals and then some! She is a very talented young woman, but more importantly, she is a true example of a Willowbrook Warrior. She is a shining example of the versatility and talent in our student body in and out of the classroom.”

Cismesia’s plans for the future include attending Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, where she will pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre.

• District 88 values the hard work and achievements of students and wants to make sure students are honored and recognized for their accomplishments. The District 88 Board of Education and administration created the 88’s Best award to highlight students’ success. That award recognizes nine Addison Trail and nine Willowbrook seniors each school year for reaching their personal best in various areas. Recipients are honored during a District 88 Board of Education meeting in one of the following areas: academics, highly improved performance, extracurricular activities, service work or performing arts/electives. They receive an 88’s Best glass sculpture and a certificate to a local restaurant.