By Jay Hoberecht

Tess Elizabeth Sumner is a junior at Chisholm High School.  She is a self- proclaimed shy person but really seemed to be a self-aware and self-assured young woman that is making a difference at Chisholm High School as she answered questions. 

At Chisholm Tess is vice president of the National Honor Society, in student council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, cheer and athletics.  She plays mostly setter on the Lady Longhorn volleyball team and runs the 100 and 200-meter, 4X100 and 4X200 relays in track.  She sustained a shoulder injury in volleyball which has limited her cheer time this season.  

Tess is involved in the Chisholm FCA group and enjoys being around students who live their faith outside church. While being injured Tess says she relied on trusting the process and her faith to help her. She attends St. Gregory’s Catholic Church.  She has made many new friends through FCA.  Chisholm FCA meets weekly for a short devotional and discussion time. Her FCA sponsor, Mr. Buford, says FCA has been a good match for Tess.

“She has really stretched her boundaries and is a good leader,” said Buford.

Her cheer coach Christy Staab talked about Tess’s commitment to the cheer squad.

“Tess makes every practice and encourages her teammates even though she’s injured. She’s a caring individual and an amazing young lady.”  

One of her highlights was winning the 100-meter in an eighth-grade conference track meet.  She remembers it being such a confidence builder for her before entering high school.   

Her advice for a youngster entering middle school is simple

“Stay committed, and don’t give up when things get hard because they do get hard.  Don’t fear failure because God leads us to be a part of things. Just be yourself.”

Sumner is leaning towards attending college at UCO and becoming a physical therapist.  She has always been interested in health services and likes helping people. 

Tess Sumner is making a difference at Chisholm High School by living her faith and trusting the process.