EDITOR’S NOTE:
This is the fourth in a series of 10 articles honoring the top 10 academic seniors at Carthage High School.

English is her passion so English will be her major and the focus of her future.

Justine Leiser, the seventh ranked academic senior at Carthage High School, will attend Truman State University in Kirksville, Mo., following graduation and will major in English and minor in theater.

“English is something I have always been passionate about,” said Leiser, daughter of Don and Ron Leiser. “Of all the people in my class, I think I’m the one who is really big on Literature. Mrs. Swift (CHS teacher) taught me to love English.

“I want to become a college professor of English to give my love of literature back to other kids,” she continued.

Justine has been a member of the high school debate team and theater group. One of her big thrills this year was playing Rizzo in “Grease.”

“That character is so completely different from me and that is why I enjoyed it so much,” said Justine.

Being a part of the final graduation class at the current building means something special to Justine.

“I really love this building because this is where I fell in love with literature and teaching,” she said. “That will always mean a lot to me.”

Looking 20 years down the road, Justine sees herself as published and happy.
“I don’t have any particular road map,” she said.

There are many people who have had an influence on Justine’s life, but her parents are at the top of the list.

“They have always been there for me,” said Justine. “The way I am and most of my personality come from them.

“I’m also grateful to Mrs. Swift and Mrs. Tubbs for instilling the love of English into me life.”