Posted May 27, 2025
Plymouth High School senior Avery Duff said her time at PHS has taught her the importance of community and the value of hard work.
“Whether it was leading a group or tackling a tough class, I learned that success doesn't happen alone; it comes from supporting others and being supported in return,” she said. “I've grown not only as a student, but as a leader, teammate, and friend.”
Avery plans to talk about the power of community in the remarks she will give as class exemplar during PHS Commencement Exercises on Sunday June 1.
“My speech is about how Plymouth has shaped us, supported us, and shown up for us every step of the way,” she said. “It's a reminder to carry the same values into whatever comes next, and to always remember where we came from.”
Avery was chosen as class exemplar by a panel of adults, based on her stellar academic work, extensive extracurricular involvement, and leadership skills. As class exemplar, she receives the $5,000 Rhyan Family Class Exemplar Scholarship. Mr. Rhyan, a former Board of Education president, was a strong proponent of the class exemplar designation, and memorials given in his name contributed to a scholarship fund administered by the Plymouth Education Foundation.
While at PHS, Avery was very involved in the dance team, where she served as co-captain this year. “Being a part of and leading our team was one of the most rewarding parts of my high school experience,” she said. “We all pushed each other to be our best, on and off the floor, and the bonds we shared made all the long practices worth it.”
Avery also served as editor of the Quit Qui Oc yearbook committee this year. “Being a four-year member of the team allowed me to grow into a leadership role and overall strengthened my ability to work with others towards a shared goal.”
She also was Student Council president, National Honor Society treasurer, and WeAct local charities leader.
Avery most enjoyed science classes at PHS, especially Advanced Chemistry. “Mrs. Pieper made the class both challenging and entertaining, and I loved all the hands-on labs and group experiments we got to do,” she said. “In this class, I discovered my passion for science and chemistry, which led me to find pharmacy – the healthcare field I will be pursuing in the future.”
She plans to attend UW-Madison in the fall to major in pre-pharmacy. “I will then go on to earn my PharmD and hopefully work as a clinical pharmacist!”
Avery said she is grateful for all the support and relationships she’s had at PHS. “The memories I've made here will stay with me forever, and I cannot thank all my family, friends, and supporters enough for helping me reach my goals and get me to where I am today!”
Learn more:
• Details about the 2025 Plymouth High School Commencement Exercises.
Avery Duff receives the Rhyan Family Class Exemplar Scholarship from Lindsay Leider of the Plymouth Education Foundation at Awards Night.
