“It’s a real honor to be nominated. I’m grateful of this opportunity not just to be another face in the crowd,” senior Jenna Graves said of her status as a Winterfest candidate.

Graves is 17 years old and the youngest of five siblings. She maintains a job at Gordon’s Food Service while still being a participant in many extracurricular activities at Monroe High. In addition to being on the school tennis team, she is a member of National Honor Society, the Calculus club, and DECA.

Safe Kids of Monroe is lucky enough to have Graves offer her limited time to be a volunteer who is dedicated to the safety of the youth of Monroe.

Explaining the purpose of the organization and her role within it, she said, “Safe Kids of Monroe helps children to be safe in the community. The hospital is one of the sponsors. I usually check car seats to make sure children are properly seated in them.”

According to Graves, eight out of 10 car seats are improperly used.

With her last year in high school coming to a close, Graves is dealing with mixed feelings.

“I’m scared and excited that this year is coming to an end,” she said. “I’ve met so many people that have truly impacted my life.”

As she moves forward in her life, Graves plans to attend community college to have time to make decisions about her life.

“I want to go to community and figure out what I want to be when I grow up,” she said.

In the meantime, Graves made sure to share her thankfulness towards the students of Monroe High.

“I appreciate everyone who supports and votes for me,” said Graves.