MILWAUKEE — Between college-level courses and acing it on the court, Anna Heffernan is excelling in her senior year.

The classroom is a place where Heffernan excels. She’s in six college-level courses and maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA, while being ranked number one in her class.

“It’s busy, but I enjoy learning and getting ready for college,” Heffernan said.

Heffernan has goals to attend Marquette University next year for a major in communications and a minor in studio art. 

She said she believes her high school career at MacDowell Montessori School in Milwaukee has prepared her for the future.

“I just have the mentality that I can go the extra mile and work hard,” she said. “With that, I balance everything out and everything motivates me as they all intertwine.”

(Spectrum News 1/Megan Marshall)

Aaron Spiering is one of Heffernan’s teachers and the men’s basketball coach. He said Heffernan is a positive addition to his classroom.

“She is a joy to have in classes,” Spiering said. “Rarely in my time here at MPS do you find a student who can connect with you in both academics and athletics.”

Heffernan has had to manage her time wisely with all of her academics, the student council and various community activities that she is a part of.

Heffernan’s main sport has been volleyball. She played golf and soccer throughout her time as a sophomore and junior as well. 

For volleyball, she’s been named student athlete of the week each year of her career, named second team all-conference and offensive player of the year on her volleyball team.

She said she is proud of all the accolades she’s been able to accomplish throughout her high school career.

(Spectrum News 1/Megan Marshall)

“I love dedicating myself to everyday practices, especially at a varsity level,” she said. “It’s really important to show up every day no matter what you are doing.”

Both of her volleyball coaches said her energy and effort during practices and games is unmatched.

“Having Anna as a player has been amazing,” assistant volleyball coach Justin Jager said. “She has always been a leader, she’s always been here and an individual that shows up to practice every day with a humongous smile on her face and her energy is infectious.”

Head volleyball coach Marcus Wenzel echoed those thoughts.

“I have to admit, she is one of the reasons you get excited to come to practice and games every day,” he said.

They said when she graduates this spring, her presence on campus will be missed. However, they said she’s leaving behind a legacy as a positive example for others.