Willowbrook names October recipient of 88's Best recognition

Pictured is Willowbrook senior Taha Akhtar (right), who has been named as Willowbrook’s October recipient of 88’s Best recognition. He's pictured with Willowbrook Principal Dr. Daniel Krause.

Taha Akhtar has been named as Willowbrook’s October recipient of 88’s Best recognition for his outstanding academic accomplishments. Akhtar, a senior, was recognized during the Oct. 30 District 88 Board of Education meeting. To watch his 88’s Best presentation, go to https://www.dupage88.net/site/page/7802 (or click the video above).

As a student, Akhtar consistently pursues the most rigorous courses available at Willowbrook. At the conclusion of his high school career, Akhtar will have completed 14 Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level courses, as well as a multitude of Honors courses. As a result of his academic success, Akhtar has been recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction and has been named to the Distinction Honor Roll each semester of his high school career. He also received the Outstanding Freshman Award and is a 2017 QuestBridge College Prep Scholar. Akhtar is an inductee of the National Honor Society, the National English Honor Society, the Math Honor Society and serves as Historian for Civitas (Willowbrook’s Social Studies Honor Society).

Beyond the classroom, Akhtar demonstrates his skills and talents as a contributing member of Science Olympiad, Business Professionals of America, DECA, Scholastic Bowl and Econ Challenge. He serves as Secretary for the Muslim Student Association and has been a member of the Boys Volleyball, Boys Soccer and Boys Tennis teams during his high school career. He also serves as a Student Ambassador, assisting students who transfer to Willowbrook, and is a member of the College of DuPage CTE Leadership Academy Team. Beyond Willowbrook, Akhtar volunteers at the Islamic Foundation, serving as a teacher assistant for fifth-grade students.

“Akhtar is so gracious and humble when seeking out advice on writing, academics and college applications,” said Terri Woebel, Willowbrook English teacher. “I am always thrilled when I see him in the halls and when he visits my classroom. He has infectious kindness and positivity exuding from him at all times. He is such an inspirational young man, a leader and a role model. Akhtar has faced some challenges in his life, but these only serve as inspiration for him. Yet, one might never know about any hardships, because he is always so positive and focused in class.”

Willowbrook physical education teacher Eduardo De La Cruz agreed.

“I believe Akhtar is true representation of what a student-athlete can be here at Willowbrook High School,” De La Cruz said. “I have had the privilege of teaching Akhtar and coaching him in both soccer and tennis. His involvement in multiple sports and clubs/activities, along with the development of his time-management skills, is unprecedented. To maintain his academic success and being a high-level athlete in both sports shows the leadership skills we want to see in our Warriors. His willingness to always help his peers is one trait that will always stand out in explaining who Akhtar really is. He is one of the most intelligent young men I have had the privilege of knowing in my nine years here at Willowbrook.”

Willowbrook science teacher Megan Graham said Akhtar’s strong work ethic is what makes him stand out.

“Akhtar is a very hardworking individual,” Graham said. “He will do whatever it takes to achieve the very high goals he sets for himself. He is always well prepared for class and has a great deal to offer. Akhtar is a very powerful, inspiring leader in the classroom; he is the kind of student who lets his actions speak for themselves.”

Akhtar is in the process of applying to The University of Chicago, Yale University and Northwestern University. He plans to earn a pre-med degree and pursue a career as a physician.

• 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 students 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.