Lake County Gazette

Lake Forest Community High School has announced that this year’s Wall of Excellence honorees will be recognized at halftime during the varsity football game against Carmel Catholic on September 5, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

According to a press release, the Wall of Excellence, supported by the LFHS Booster Club, honors the legacy of Brian Vandenberg, a former Boosters president and founder of the mural who passed away earlier this year. Vandenberg envisioned the Wall in 2010 to showcase LFHS teams and students. His efforts led to the first installation in 2011; this year’s mural features a tribute to him at its center.

The Wall recognizes student achievement in athletics, academics, leadership, and the arts, highlighting values such as integrity, commitment, and resilience. Honorees include 2024–25 Outstanding Senior Athlete Award winners Maeve Farrell, Marty Hippel, Lulu Keil, and Danny Van Camp. Additional senior athletes and student leaders such as Victoria Garcia de Leaniz Hernandez, Kat Yakes, and Mona Ferraioli are also recognized. The unveiling ceremony will take place during halftime of the September 5 football game against Carmel Catholic High School.

Lake Forest High School was established in 1935 as a public secondary school in Lake Forest, Illinois. It serves grades 9–12 and emphasizes mutual respect, high expectations, and a sense of belonging. Approximately 95% of its students pursue higher education through personalized instruction and a collaborative school environment. The school serves the communities of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Knollwood with the motto "Pursuits become habits."

Lake Forest Community High School District 115 serves about 1,500 students from Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Knollwood in grades 9–12. According to Lake Forest Schools, the district offers a range of academic programs including advanced placement courses and specialized electives. Students have access to athletics, performing arts, various clubs as well as career pathways and community service opportunities. Feeder schools include Deer Path Middle School and Lake Bluff Middle School along with several private and parochial schools in the area.