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Senior Story: Kenzie Lambert

Senior Story: Kenzie Lambert

Makenzie (Kenzie) Lambert is the kind of student who throws herself wholeheartedly into life—whether it’s loom knitting while watching Adventure Time, playing volleyball, writing poetry or researching things that make her curious. Her passions are vast and ever-changing, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“In the next 5–10 years, I see myself attending college and hopefully finding my passion,” she says. “I’d love to attend culinary school, travel the world, try new foods and recreate photos from my grandparents’ U.S. road trip. I want to live my life to the absolute fullest.”

Kenzie also dreams of adopting dogs and guinea pigs, and she hopes to one day work in a job that positively impacts the world—whether through community, environmental change or personal connection.

That commitment to growth and making the most of each opportunity has been shaped by her journey at Richfield High School and especially by the support of French teacher Madame Steele.

“Madame Steele has had the biggest impact on my life,” Kenzie says. “She never gave up on me, even when I had given up on myself. She taught me more than French—she taught me how to be emotionally healthy and how to balance school, work and life.”

Madame Steele is proud of Kenzie for her tremendous growth during high school. “I have had Kenzie in class for the last four years. Last year, while in France, I saw this incredible confidence start to develop, and it carried over into her senior year. Whether it’s with her dance team, doing her solo, taking college courses or openly sharing her feelings, Kenzie has really been brave this year. I’m so proud of her hard work!”

Kenzie’s advice for incoming freshmen reflects her experience: “Try anything new that interests you. You’ll find out so much about yourself. Don’t be afraid of change—it makes high school exciting. And most importantly, don’t give up on yourself. Each day is a chance to start fresh.”

Full of creativity, ambition and compassion, Kenzie is ready to take on the world!

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Amelia Rheinhart

From the soccer field to the science lab, Amelia Rheinhart is leaving her mark at Richfield High School. This fall, she’s headed to Gustavus Adolphus College to major in Biology—the first step on her path to becoming a genetic counselor. 

Jessica Tezoquipa

Jessica will attend Augsburg University this fall to study Communications and Creative Writing. Her goal? To become a journalist who sheds light on injustice—whether it’s exposing political corruption or reporting on human rights violations around the globe.

Warner Standing Bear

Warner offers this advice to underclassmen: “Take as many risks as you can, at least socially. Refusing to be as intense, honest and weird as you really are will only attract the wrong people. Don’t let others take your joy, no matter what.”

Dulce Valero-Gallegos

This fall, Dulce will begin her college journey at the University of St. Thomas, where she plans to major in Political Science and minor in Public Administration and Psychology. Her ultimate goal? To work at an immigration law firm, advocating for those who need it most.

Melanie Sherlin Estrada Lozano

During her time at RHS, Melanie was a force of nature—a wrestler, cheerleader, track athlete and a leader who shattered expectations and opened doors. She joined the wrestling team to create space for girls in male-dominated sports and proudly inspired others to step outside their comfort zones.

Janid Castro

As she prepares to graduate, Janid reflects on how far she’s come. “I’m mostly proud of overcoming the fear of moving to a new country,” she says. “I never thought earning my high school diploma was possible because of the language barrier, but I did it.”

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