This Saturday, March 2nd, Lockport’s very own Chelsea Osei will be heading to Capitol Hill as one of two Illinois representatives for the 62nd Annual U.S. Senate Youth Program. This prestigious program features a total of 104 of the top leaders in the United States, including two selections made from D.C. and the Department of Education. During the week-long experience, delegates will be able to witness addresses by senators, cabinet members, and officials from other government agencies. Additionally, each delegate will receive a $10,000 scholarship to go towards their undergraduate degree. Each year, two Senators get the opportunity to Co-Chair the USSYP; this year’s being Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and John Barrasso, M.D. of Wyoming. 

Everyone who knows or even knows of Chelsea is familiar with her unmatched drive for social and political equity from our town of Lockport, with the goal of reaching the entire United States. She is Regional Speech Champion, Head of Community Outreach for LTHS’s Student Equity Action Club, founder of GenerationAMP a program working to bridge the gap between art and activism through Citizens University, the founder of the AP Advisory group at LTHS, and a part of the first pair of student members to serve on the District 205 Board of Education. Chelsea’s immense achievements are only possible because of her empathic and sedulousness in which she carries with her day in and out. 

I have had the immense privilege of working alongside Chelsea Osei since my freshman year here at Lockport. My witnessing of her success and world-changing accomplishments has only motivated me to grow and become a better person. Chelsea has touched many more lives than my singular. All over the Lockport community, there are many who hold the same admiration for Chelsea as I do. Here are some of the things they had to say:

Over the past several years, Chelsea has given up her study hall period to assist as a Library Aid. Ms. Nolan, a beloved Library Media Assistant at East Campus, says this: “[Chelsea] has an inner drive that she listens intently to. I must say I listen to her thoughts and ideas regarding our school and leadership. It is interesting to hear things from the perspective of a student involved with leadership.  She gives me a fresh new perspective from her level. I have learned to listen for her point of view and take it in and reflect in a new way.” One piece of advice Ms. Nolan has for Chelsea as she goes into college to “Never turn down an opportunity. Don’t let your fear drive you. You never know what lies ahead and everything can be a learning experience. You can always find the positive in the experience.”

Starting her senior year, Chelsea has served as a gym leader for Mr. Elkei’s 3rd period Advance Fitness and Self Defense class. Mr. Elkei, PE Department Chair, graciously said that “Having Chelsea in class for the past year has been a tremendous experience. She has been a great motivator, friend, leader, role model, and advocate for the students in my self-defense classes. No matter what is going on personally with Chelsea, she comes to class each day with a smile and is ready to help her peers have the best experience they can. She consistently is found giving words of encouragement or offering help to students in need. I often have to miss class because of meetings. When I’m away, I have no worries about what is going on in class because I know Chelsea is there to see things through. Through the relationships she builds with her peers, she is able to lead, guide, and inspire students to work hard when I’m gone. One of my favorite moments with Chelsea is when she showed me the video she took of her father reading the letter for her acceptance to the Senator program. The sheer joy and pride her dad showed for Chelsea when reading that letter made me smile and look forward to sharing moments like that with my own children. My advice to Chelsea is don’t forget to have some fun and take time for yourself. We all know you will find success in your field of study, just have some fun along the way.”

Not only in physical education does Chelsea make an impact, but also in the classroom. Here is what some past and current teachers have to say about their experience as Chelsea’s teacher. Mrs. Edwards, AP Psychology: “In my class, Chelsea thinks of issues with a wide lens. She is constantly making connections to people of different cultures and backgrounds. She adds so much to the class by the questions she asks and the examples she gives. She has an incredible ability to understand those around her.  She is open to the views and opinions of others. She has such an inviting personality that you can’t help but want to be around her.” Some advice Mrs. Edwards has for Chelsea going into college is to “Keep dreaming big. Continue to take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities that come your way. You have worked so hard and I can’t wait to see what your future holds.  I am really glad I got your autograph!”

Ms. Pusinelli, Freshman Honors English: “Something unique about Chelsea that always stood out to me as her teacher was her unwavering dedication. Despite the circumstances we were in with remote learning, or constant shifts in schedule with hybrid learning, she showed up. She took her education seriously, and I could tell that she was grateful for the opportunity she had to still be in school. Chelsea has impacted my life because even though she always participated in class and engaged in conversation, I could tell that she was nervous. As the year progressed, I watched her confidence build, and I was aware of the woman she would become. It has been a blessing to see how far she has come since her freshman year, and it has re-taught me the importance of dedication and providing a supportive environment. One piece of advice that I would give Chelsea during college is to make sure that she takes every opportunity during college. She should take the internship, work with a professor, go to a poetry reading, join a club that helps improve her skill, etc. Colleges offer a lot that people often turn down. I would also tell her to study abroad, and travel. Essentially, make the most of her experience”

Mrs. Schmook, Compass: “Chelsea is one of the most open minded and driven individuals I have had the pleasure of working with for the past three years. I have enjoyed our time in Compass and just when we pass one another in the hallways. Chelsea strives to be the best she can and to be a role model for students around her and also for adults in our community. I have to say I was most moved when she was working hard to bring an equitable class at the AP level to our school that represented people of color. I do not normally see this type of commitment from students who care this deeply about their education as well as representation and educating others about cultures that might not be seen as equal in the educational world around us. I can see that conversation like it was yesterday and how excited Chelsea was at the idea of it even possibly becoming a reality. That was deep. As you go off to college, check out clubs, meet new people, and fall in love with learning. Find something you want to show up and do for the rest of your life because then it is not a job, but a passion. Do not be afraid to fail, make mistakes, and learn from not doing well on something. It is your teacher’s job to guide you and challenge you and at times, you are going to need to cry, regroup, and bring it back together to refocus. That is all part of the journey. Lastly, be impulsive. Order that midnight pizza with friends because well, why not? You will look back and smile at the random moments you have with people and meet lifelong friends in this next adventure. Be the bright shining light you want from the world around you and always find the good. It is easy to be negative, but finding good and those vibes will serve you well in life.”

Chelsea’s engagement at LTHS is seen forthright through her dedication to the clubs and organizations she is a part of. Here are some of the people who have worked closest with Chelsea for the past four years. Mr. Beach, S.E.A.C: “Chelsea is not afraid of the moment. She’s very assertive and takes the initiative on many things. She understands the importance of taking action, and she is the prime example of what leadership is and how it should look. Chelsea is an inspiration. Collaborating with her on many projects has been nothing short of amazing, and she has shown me how much students care about their school culture. I have watched her enter a room and completely change the environment in a positive way. In her presence, I have witnessed more thoughts being shared, problems being solved, and more people come together for a greater cause. Her energy is like no other, and as a parent of young children, I hope they will grow and mirror some of her qualities. Chelsea has taught me that no matter how challenging things may be, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Her positive attitude and outlook on life is remarkable, and she has worked very hard to get to where she is now. Her story in itself is an inspiration to all.” One piece of advice Mr. Beach has for Chelsea is to “Make time for you! College is going to keep you very busy, so make sure you dedicate time for self-care. Always take care of your mental and physical health!”

Mr. Hamilton, Speech Team Coach: “Chelsea is always striving not only to better herself but also to better those around her. She always has a smile on her face, even when she is struggling. Her work ethic is unlike any I have ever seen before. During our many conversations, she has inspired me to rethink some of my approaches to our team and Speech as a whole. One person can change the world, and I am pretty sure that person is Chelsea.” One piece of advice Mr. Hamilton had for Chelsea is “Have fun. College is far too important of a time to develop your personality as an adult to do things that you despise.”

For the first time, the District 205 Board of Education has added student members. Chelsea was one of two students to serve on the Board of Education alongside two other students that sit on their respective Board committees. This first time experience has created a close bond between the Student Board members and here are some kind things they had to say about their time working with Chelsea.

Tory DalPonte, Student Board of Education Member: “Something about Chelsea that I can say confidently is that she is going to change the world. She is one of the most hardworking, dedicated, and professional people I know. I look up to her in so many ways; she is my superman. One of my favorite things about Chels is that she listens with her whole self whenever you are talking to her. She makes a conscious effort to ask meaningful questions, make sure you feel heard and seen. She makes me want to be a better person entirely. Something I have learned from Chelsea is to keep busting my butt, even when I think I have done it all. There is always more to give. There is always something more you can do for your community. Her passion for civic involvement mixed with her drive makes her the ideal role-model for any little girl who wants to grow up to be in politics (and any little girl for that matter.) As Chelsea starts her college experience, I want her to know that she should get on a track to become the President. She needs to take time for herself, but I want her to know that I have full-faith that she has the capability of being elected into office. Keep making us proud Chelsea! We love, cherish, and appreciate you so much”

Akash Patel, Finance and Facilities Committee Member: “An example of a unique quality that Chesea has is her ambition. You know if she is going after some endeavor she will get the job done. Chelsea has shown me what persistence can do for someone, and has taught me that if you want something, then you can give with perseverance and hard work. A piece of advice I would give is to always be the person she is and not to change for other people as she moves onto the next stage in her life”

Chelsea’s impact is not strictly displayed through the testimonies of students and teachers. In his last year as acting principal of East Campus, Dr. Greenan says “Chelsea Osei is an elite student at Lockport Township High School. Through her academic accomplishments, involvement at school, community service, leadership, and most recent recognition as a delegate for the United States Senate Youth Program, Chelsea personifies what it means to be Porter. Her hard work, perseverance, service, and leadership are characteristics that will undoubtedly lead to success with her future goals. We are proud and lucky to have Chelsea Osei at LTHS!”

If you need any more testimony to see how truly one-of-a-kind Chelsea Osei is and how profound her impact on the LTHS community is, you will get to hear from probably her biggest fan, me. As I mentioned earlier, I have known Chelsea since Freshman year and can say for certain that I wouldn’t be half the person I am without her. She has opened my eyes to how much there is that needs remediation in the world and how we hold the power to create change. Her friendship is more valuable than anything, and I would not trade it for anything in the world. I am so proud of Chelsea and hope I can continue to support her as she goes onto college and beyond. One piece of advice I would have for Chelsea is to take time to reflect on all the good you do and give yourself the credit you deserve. You are one of the only people I would consider too humble, and you need to learn how to celebrate yourself and all the value you bring to the world. Thank you for everything, and I will always be a friendly face!