A BETTER CHANCE
WELLESLEY
Opening the door to greater educational opportunities since 1972
Senior
Cortney 2026
Cortney is a dedicated student from the South Side of Chicago. She has been independently studying Spanish since 2018 and is a member of both the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. A talented artist since fifth grade, Cortney was also a member of the Chicago Children’s Choir. At Wellesley High School, she serves as the cheerleading captain and the financial leader of the Young Ethnic Scholars (Y.E.S.) club. She has also participated in Outdoor Track since freshman year. In choosing to attend WHS, Cortney is embracing the opportunity to engage with a new and diverse learning community far from home.
Host Family: Beanie and Drew Spangler
Academic Advisor: Elizabeth Smith
Photo by Roger Pelisser
Juniors
Alty 2027 (left)
Alty was born and raised in Lawrence Massachusetts, where she attended a Community Day Charter school. She enjoys creating new bonds with her peers, learning from others and participating on the varsity cheerleading team. She loves to hang out with friends and find new opportunities to connect with community opportunities in Wellesley. Alty wants to pursue a career in finance and start her own business.
Host Family: Cathy and John Bueker
Academic Advisor: Beth Falk
Photo by Roger Pelisser
Janelle 2027 (right)
Janelle is from Riverside, Rhode Island, and has a deep passion for exploring the world. She loves traveling, reading, writing, singing, and trying new things. Janelle thrives in conversation and finds joy in making others smile. At Wellesley High School Janelle participates in cheerleading, a cappella, the improv troupe, school musicals, student council, and Young Ethnic Scholars. She enjoys meeting and connecting with other students as a student ambassador in the Journeys program which facilitates conversations among peers about solutions to school challenges. As an ABC Scholar, Janelle is excited to grow both personally and academically, while building strong, lasting connections within the Wellesley community.
Host Family: Nancy and Stephan Braun
Academic Advisor: Larisa Alpaugh
Sophomores
Crystal 2028 (left)
Crystal was born and raised in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where she developed a strong sense of community and a passion for helping others. She is thrilled to embark on her journey with ABC and eager to embrace new opportunities. At Wellesley High School she is involved in the Art Club, AVS Leadership Academy at Havard, Young Ethnic Scholars, and varsity cheerleading. Crystal is known for her compassion and empathy. She dedicates time to community service, actively contributing to projects that make a difference in the lives of others. Her genuine care for those around her is a hallmark of her character, influencing both her personal and professional interactions.
Host Families: Jessica and Bruce Pratt
Emma and Gregory Tanzer
Academic Advisor: Tere Ramos
Photo by Roger Pelisser
Emmie 2028 (right)
Emem, affectionately known as Emmie, is enthusiastic about building meaningful relationships with her fellow scholars. She believes that collaboration and connection are key components of a successful academic experience. Emmie has a deep passion for reading, art, and music, which she heavily integrates into her journey at ABC. Whether it's immersing herself in literature, expressing creativity through various art forms, or appreciating the rhythm of music, Emmie is eager to explore these interests further and share them with others. She looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead and is eager to make the most of her experience at ABC.
Host Family: Susan Frigoletti
Academic Advisor: Kate Lester