Reflections from Graduating Seniors on the HY Board

Congratulations to Our 2026 graduating seniors: Asher Pinkston, Grace Rich, Saira Hashmey and Zinna Park!

Thank you for your commitment to making a positive impact in Issaquah Highlands. As you pursue new goals, we hope you carry this experience with you and continue building community wherever you go.

Asher Pinkston

During my time on the HY Board, I learned a lot about leadership and how to connect with my peers, both younger and older. I found joy in putting on events and spreading happiness in the community. While it took a lot of planning, seeing each event through to the end was super rewarding.

My hope for the future of the HY Board is that it continues to spread positivity and foster connection while finding new and unique ways to reach all sorts of different people.

Much of what I learned over the years is applicable to all sorts of my future endeavors. I learned leadership, communication, planning and much more through my experience on the HY Board.

The HY Board was helpful in building my confidence. This was one of my first experiences working on large-scale group projects, and it helped me gain experience talking to strangers. The relationships I developed on the board, and the chance to see those friends both at school and beyond, made a lasting impact on my high school experience.

Grace Rich

Over the past few years, the HY Board has taught me more than I ever expected to learn about leadership, responsibility and the power of community. Throughout my time on the board, I have grown not only as a person but as a leader.

To the remaining members of the HY Board, I hope you never underestimate your impact. Make sure to always show up, take risks and be bold with your ideas. Take advantage of this opportunity you’ve been given to help others and always remember to support each other and have fun!

I joined the HY Board in middle school, and on the day of our first meeting, I remember being presented with so many new opportunities to grow my leadership skills. I didn’t know where to start! Taking this step to apply and interview was daunting, but it was a challenge worth taking.

I would highly recommend the HY Board to any student who wishes to grow patience, self-discipline, accountability and so many other valuable life skills at a young age.

Saira Hashmey

When I first joined the HY board, I was a seventh grader who had just come out of COVID-19 and felt extremely nervous around older students. What surprised me most was how the board truly created a safe space where every voice mattered.

I learned to be resilient, delegate effectively, step into leadership roles, support others and create a welcoming environment. Along the way, I grew more confident, organized and strong-willed.

The people and the community made my time on the board truly worthwhile. Each meeting fostered a positive space, and the friendships I formed became meaningful connections. I hope the remaining HY Board members continue to have fun together. Laughing, making memories and smiling with each other is necessary to make other people happy. Happiness is infectious.

My experience on the HY Board has shaped how I approach the future. It taught me to embrace what comes next with excitement. As I apply to college and discuss plans with my family, I feel genuinely excited and ready for the next chapter.

Zinna Park

On the HY Board, I enjoyed meeting new people and learning more about Issaquah Highlands as a whole. Connecting with individuals from different backgrounds and engaging in meaningful conversations has been one of the most memorable parts of my experience.

Serving on the HY Board also helped to build self-confidence in countless ways. Volunteering and taking on leadership roles pushed me to take initiative and step outside
my comfort zone. Whether helping organize community events or leading a meeting, I learned to trust my ideas and communicate them clearly.

I hope my legacy on the HY Board reflects leadership. Serving as vice president and president was a true honor, and I aimed to support fellow members so they could feel grounded and confident in the work we do together.

Looking ahead, I’d like to see the HY Board continue to thrive as a space where youth create meaningful moments and great experiences. My time on the board has been a one-of-a-kind experience, surrounded by peers who share a passion for community, service and our neighborhood.