The Mineral Point Kiwanis Club honored its November Students of the Month at its meeting Tuesday, November 4.
The students, who are members of the Senior class, are selected for this honor through a voting process by staff at the high school, and their biographies are written by themselves.
Mallory Gould
Mallory Gould is the only child of Mike Gould and Michelle Gould. She has three step-siblings: Emma, a Sophomore at UW-Madison studying Ag Business; Ben, a Sophomore at Belmont High School; and Michaela, a 6th Grader at Mineral Point Middle School.
Mallory has been a Mineral Point student her entire life. During her high school years, she has been involved in many extracurricular activities and clubs including Basketball, FFA, Future Business Leaders of America, Skills USA, Pointer Media, Sources of Strength, and Environmental Wellness Club.
She has been a dedicated FFA member since 8th Grade and has competed in many competitions, along with winning the Star Greenhand Award, Star Chapter Award, Star Blue and Gold Award, 3rd place proficiency, and 2nd place proficiency.
Outside of school, Mallory has used her entrepreneurial, leadership, and marketing skills to run her own pet-sitting business, Mal’s Pet Care, since 2023. She is also a very active member in the Jonesdale Jays 4-H Club where she has been the historian, secretary, and vice president.
For the last several years, she has shown cattle and goats at the Iowa County Fair. She volunteers at the Iowa County Humane Society as a feline friend and at the Mineral Point Dog Park. She worked at Alicia’s Best of Friends Pet Care as a kennel assistant. Mallory most recently started a youth apprenticeship at her church as the media coordinator. After high school, Mallory plans to attend a two-year technical college as a Veterinary Technician.
Mallory would like to thank the Kiwanis for the honor. Also, Mallory would like to congratulate her friend, Lilly Murn, for also receiving the November Student of the Month as she is a dedicated student and peer supporter.
She would especially like to thank the Mineral Point High School staff members for all their hard work and constant support in making Mineral Point a great school district. A huge thank you to Ms. Callie Gundlach who has been a fantastic ongoing support to Mallory, Mrs. Marcia Blackbourn for all of her years of pushing Mallory to do her best, Mr. Mike Robinson for helping encourage and embrace Mallory’s love for agriculture, and Mrs. Janet Lawinger for always being there anytime anyone needs her. Lastly, she would like to thank her mom, dad, boyfriend, family, and friends for always supporting her and consistently providing her with encouragement.
“Mallory Gould has always been a bubbly girl with lots of smiles. Whether Mallory is at school, in the show ring, or working with her pet care job with animals, her kind personality shines through. Kindness and seriousness to her studies have gone hand in hand for Mallory since she was a young girl in elementary school. I have enjoyed the journey of watching Mallory go from the young gal to the young lady she is today. Congratulations on becoming Student of the Month for November, Mallory! Best wishes in your future endeavors!” ~ Mrs. Jill McGuire, Kindergarten Teacher
“Mallory is a kind and loving soul with a strong passion for animals. She is a hardworking student and is very friendly to her peers and staff.” ~ Mr. Justin Leonard, High School Special Education Teacher
“‘Sincerity is the heartbeat of genuine character.’ Mallory Gould embodies this truth in everything she does. She is deeply conscientious of the feelings and needs of those around her, always approaching others with empathy and thoughtful consideration. Her creativity shines through in her ideas and efforts, bringing originality and a fresh perspective to every project she undertakes. Alongside her kind nature and imaginative spirit, Mallory is remarkably driven—setting high standards for herself and working with determination to reach her goals. This is obvious in the very successful small business she started for herself. She is a student whose sincerity and dedication make a meaningful impact wherever she goes. I am so excited to see where life takes you!” ~ Mrs. Kristin Staver, High School Media Teacher
“Mallory is a shining example of leadership and positivity both in and out of the classroom. She leads with enthusiasm, responsibility, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed. Her positive attitude uplifts those around her, and her dedication to her school and community make her an outstanding choice for Student of the Month.” ~ Mrs. Dani Robb, School Social Worker
“Mallory is an exceptionally kind and thoughtful student whose passion for animals is evident in everything she does. Her genuine love for creatures of all kinds is reflected in her caring demeanor and her enthusiasm for her small business. Mallory’s success serves as an inspiration to others, highlighting her ability to turn dreams into reality.” ~ Mrs. Michelle Rielly, Middle School English Teacher
“Mallory Gould is an incredibly kind and compassionate student whose friendly personality brightens everyone’s day. Her love for animals is inspiring, and she has already turned that passion into action by starting her own pet-sitting business. With her caring heart, strong work ethic, and dedication to helping others, Mallory has a bright future ahead as a veterinary technician.” ~ Mrs. Erika Brunson, Middle/High School Counselor
“Mal is one of the hardest-working students, inside and outside of the classroom. She excels at juggling her school schedule, while managing her own business. I trust her enough to take care of my own pets (who need a lot of TLC). A few of her main traits include being kind, responsible, motivated, and self-disciplined. If I ever need help with another student, Mal steps right in to help! I am so proud of how far Mal has come and can’t wait to see where she goes in life!” ~ Ms. Callie Gundlach, High School Special Education Teacher
Lillian Murn
Lillian Murn is the first child of Heather Harris and Sam Murn. She has one sister, Viola, who is an 8th Grader at Mineral Point Middle School.
Lilly has been in Mineral Point since she was born. In school, she is dedicated to the musical club, drama club, Sources of Strength, and many other clubs. She is first chair clarinet in the band and sings Soprano 2 in the choir. She has been involved in band for seven years, and choir for eight years. She has been involved in the marching band every year of her high school career. She is very, very dedicated to the arts programs at her school, as she feels most at home when she is participating in those things.
Outside of school, Lilly likes to work as a barista at the local Café 43. She likes to take walks out to the family farm to see the horses, and likes to fish, hike, and spend most of her time outdoors. After high school, she plans to attend UW-Stevens Point to major in Wildlife Ecology and Management, as well as possibly minoring in some sort of arts degree.
Lilly would like to give a huge thank you to the Kiwanis for this honor. She would also love to thank Mallory Gould, and congratulate her as well. She is such a sweet and kind person who is definitely deserving of this honor. She would also like to thank her teachers for the encouragement to pursue her dreams. She would especially like to thank Ms. Callie Gundlach, who has helped her in times of need all throughout high school, and has always been there for a listening ear. She would also like to thank her mom, dad, stepmother, and grandparents for being such supportive roles in her life recently.
Again, Lilly thanks you so so much for this opportunity, and is very grateful to be able to participate in this today!
“Congratulations to Lilly Murn for being a November Student of the Month! Lilly has always had a lot of energy and cared a lot about learning. She’s lucky to have musical talents and has flourished with art and academics. Lilly, it has been a pleasure watching you grow into the young lady you are today! Thank you for always remembering your roots and showing kindness to others. Best wishes in your senior year! Good luck in whatever you choose as future academic goals!” ~ Mrs. Jill McGuire, Kindergarten Teacher
“Lilly is an exceptional student whose enthusiasm is contagious. When we began reading ‘The Outsiders’ in class, Lilly quickly developed a deep connection with the novel. She not only absorbed its themes and characters but also became a remarkable resource for her peers. Her insightful analyses and thoughtful contributions enriched our discussions, turning her into the go-to expert for all things related to the book. Her love for the story and her eagerness to share her understanding remind me of the profound impact literature can have on young minds.” ~ Mrs. Michelle Rielly, Middle School English Teacher
“‘A creative spirit doesn’t just make art—it makes others feel seen.’ Lillian Murn is that spirit in motion. She is the kind of person who instantly brightens a room, her warm presence inviting others to feel comfortable, included, and valued. Lillian has a special gift for making everyone around her feel heard, and her kindness is as genuine as her enthusiasm. Beyond her uplifting nature, she is also an incredibly creative and talented performer, bringing depth, expression, and heart to every stage she steps onto. Her artistry and compassion make her someone who not only shines herself, but also helps others shine too. I am thrilled to have been a small part of your academic journey, which I am sure will continue to take you places in life!” ~ Mrs. Kristin Staver, High School Media Teacher
“Lilly has been such a bright and inspiring part of our music program. Her dedication, positivity, and genuine love for music shine through in everything she does. She plays clarinet in concert band, pep band, marching band, and woodwind ensemble, and every time she performs, her passion is unmistakable. Lilly has also shared her talents through clarinet solos at Solo and Ensemble competitions, where her expressive playing and musical maturity always stand out. As a section leader, Lilly leads with kindness and teamwork, always ready to help others and lift up those around her. Her connection to music runs deep—it’s something you can feel when she performs, drawing everyone in and making each moment special. Beyond band, Lilly has also been a standout in our school musicals, taking on lead roles and serving as a wonderful role model for younger students. Lilly’s talent, work ethic, and warmth have made a lasting impact on our program, and she will be deeply missed after graduation.” ~ Mr. Matt Nevers, Middle/High School Band Teacher
“Lilly Murn’s genuine kindness and inclusive spirit make her someone everyone enjoys being around. She approaches each day with empathy and thoughtfulness, making others feel seen and supported. Over the years, Lilly has grown into a confident, creative, and caring role model who helps make our school a better place.” ~ Mrs. Erika Brunson, Middle/High School Counselor
“Lilly consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication and effort in all she does. She expresses herself beautifully through music, inspiring those around her with her creativity and passion. As a natural leader, she sets a positive example and supports her peers with kindness and empathy. Her hard work, talent, and care for others make her truly deserving of Student of the Month.” ~ Mrs. Dani Robb, School Social Worker
“Lilly Murn has demonstrated amazing dedication to the music department throughout her high school career. She has participated in nearly all musical extra curricular activities that our district offers. Lilly has always displayed a strong desire to improve her craft, having taken private lessons throughout her life. I have particularly enjoyed witnessing her development within the Musical Theatre Club. For her first role in ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ she earned the award for Rookie Ensemble Member, for her supporting lead role in ‘Into the Woods’ she earned Most Motherly Character, for her supporting lead role in ‘Big Fish’ she earned the award for Most Wicked Belter, and I am excited to see how she continues to grow in her lead role of Gertrude McFuzz in this year’s production of ‘Seussical.’ Lilly has always represented our department and school well by participating in choir tours, festivals and competitions, such as Solo & Ensemble, UW-Platteville Honors Choir, Dorian Festival, and SWAL Conference Honors Choir. Lilly’s creative talents, varied interests, and consideration towards others have always been models for her peers, and they will be missed when she starts the next chapter of her life.” ~ Mrs. Ashley Calderon-McHugh, Middle/High School Choir Teacher
“I have been lucky enough to get to know Lilly since she was a Freshman in high school. Not only do we share a love for music, but we share a love for science, too! Lilly is a talented artist, excelling in musicals, plays, choir, and band. She has a kind heart, is a good friend, and is passionate about learning (especially when it’s of interest to her, like ecology). Outside of the classroom, Lilly makes one of the best chai tea lattes I’ve ever had, and can multitask in the cafe like no other! I’m excited to see what Lilly does next!” ~ Ms. Callie Gundlach, High School Special Education Teacher
(Gould and Murn photos by Lifka Bennett)