Your Name
Kylie Rich
What High School do you attend?
Mukwonago High School
Please highlight your accomplishments while in High School.
During my high school years, I was involved in a variety of extracurriculars and became very involved in my community. At Mukwonago, I’ve participated as a member of student government, HOSA Club, the Academy of Medical Professions, cross country and track, and more! My proudest accomplishment has been my time serving as the Students Against Violence Everywhere Club President for my junior and senior years while also serving as one of nine youth from across the country on the Sandy Hook Promise National Youth Advisory Board. One of my greatest honors happened recently, and that was winning Wisconsin Social Studies Student of the Year. I was nominated by my teachers Mr. Romo and Mrs. Cascio. Lastly, I was nominated as High School Superhero of the week by MHS Principal, Mr. Darin, and got to partake in a live radio interview!
Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I’m the baby of my family, and have two older siblings. My brother, Evan, who is also my Irish twin, is 19 and my sister, Brittany, is 35. My siblings have always made life fun and eventful. My parents are my biggest supporters and have been incredible mentors and inspirations during my entire life. My mom, Stacy, works for Kraft Heinz and her work ethic, along with her desire to always do her best is something that I’ve always looked up too. My dad, Michael, is a window and siding salesman and loves to be outside having a bonfire, boating, and spending time as a family!
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m going to be a Badger in the fall at UW-Madison! I’m very excited to pursue a major in Political Science, a minor in Legal Studies, and a Public Policy Certificate with the hope of pursuing a career in lobbying/legislative work. During my time on the Sandy Hook Promise Youth Advisory Board, I’ve gotten to knock on the doors of Congress, speak with elected officials, speak on panels, and more. This work has truly shown me a path that I want to continue to pursue, and that is being a changemaker!
What is your favorite meal?
One of my most favorite meals is the Blackened Chicken Chopped Salad and Old Bay French Fries from the Milwaukee Sail Loft restaurant in downtown Milwaukee.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Definitely somewhere in Europe, especially Italy and France. Two of my closest friends are from out of the country and I would love to visit them and travel around Europe.
What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I’m a huge Housewives fan! I especially love the Real Housewives of Miami and New York. I look forward to relaxing on the couch at the end of the day and watching these shows with my mom.
Who was/is your favorite teacher/coach from any grade? Why?
There are many teachers in my life who have made an impact, but the person who came to mind wasn’t necessarily a teacher but an amazing librarian. Mrs. Brannan, Library Technology Specialist at MHS. She has been someone who has become a mentor to me. She is someone who accepts any and all students, makes her office a safe space, and truly works everyday to be the best at her job. Whether it be hosting book club, ordering new books for the library, helping students and teachers with tech issues, and so much more, Mrs. Brannan has become one of my favorite teachers and people in my life!
What is your favorite thing to do in Mukwonago?
Recently, I’ve taken up the hobby of playing Pickleball with my friends in Field Park! Otherwise, I really love visiting our local coffee shops like Shanahan’s, Brew 52, and Espresso Love with my friends and trying all different kinds of fun coffee drinks.
If you were asked to give advice to your senior class and the younger students at your school, what would you say?
I would definitely say, “you do you.” Throughout the years, I’ve realized that it is a waste of time to worry about what other people think and it is important to do what makes you truly happy. For me, SAVE and Sandy Hook Promise have been outlets in my life and the work I do there is out of pure passion and provides so much fulfillment. It was never about what my friends were doing or what people thought I should do, but it was purely my own desire and that is what shaped my life for the better.
If you could choose anyone to have lunch with, who would you choose? Why? And where, locally, would you meet for this lunch?
While I’ve met him briefly before, I would love to sit down outside at Fork In The Road and have a conversation with Representative Maxwell Frost from Florida. Rep.Frost is currently the youngest Congress Member in the United States, which is not only inspiring but also interesting. I would love to chat about what his everyday life/job is like, how other members of my generation can make waves in our country, and his own journey in spearheading societal change.
What is your favorite thing about our community?
I love some of the amazing businesses in our community, especially the public library. The library is always having community events and opportunities, youth STEM activities, and it provides community members with really cool experience passes like tickets to the art museum, zoo, botanical gardens, and more which make new experiences accessible to our community.
What have you done to make Mukwonago a better place?
In the past 4 years, I’ve really stepped into a role of leadership to foster a better community. As SAVE President, I’ve continuously promoted both schoolwide and community events that focus on keeping our schools safe, while promoting kindness and inclusivity. Additionally, I’ve become really passionate about youth civic engagement and have hosted a voter registration drive at MHS to teach new voters how to register and learn more of what’s on the ballot. Lastly, I’ve stepped into the role of Student Representative on the Mukwonago School Board, and have been a continuous advocate for youth representation on the board. I present a monthly board report of district happenings and successful events and achievements in our schools.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I envision myself living in D.C., working either for an organization or the government and advocating for different bills and initiatives. Hopefully, I will have gone to law school and continued on a path of advocacy.
Have you ever had a nickname? What is it and why were you given it?
Growing up my parents have always called me Kooky and I’ve grown to love that funny nickname.
What are you passionate about?
I’m incredibly passionate about speaking up and being a leader while also mobilizing other youth to become leaders as well.
What is something on your bucket list?
I have always wanted to go to Cape Cod, and enjoy all the east coast activities like eating oysters, sailing, shopping, and just living that coastal lifestyle.
What is your go to band / singer when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Lately I have been really into the artist SZA, but Kacey Musgraves has always been a go-to artist for me! I’m really a mixed bag when it comes to music though; I love country, rock, pop, and more!
Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
I’m a really big fan of July, primarily because we are in the middle of summer. I don’t have to worry about homework and I’m usually up noth boating and enjoying the sun. As for best single day, I would definitely say May 29th because that is the last day of Senior year! I’m so excited for summer and am looking ahead to my new journey in college.
What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
I would rate traveling and sitting on a beach a solid 10 out of 10!
Who inspires you to be better?
My parents definitely inspire me to continuously be a better person, along with my friends and fellow peers. Being a part of something like the Sandy Hook Board has introduced me to a number of incredible youth from all over the country and I’ve stayed connected with each and every one of them. Seeing other youth take initiative to create change or better the world has been a constant inspiration in my life.
Who would you like to give a Shout Out to that contributed to your success?
I want to thank my parents for making me the person I am today along with my teachers who have helped me navigate high school. Specifically, Mr. Romo, Mrs. Peterson, Mrs. Cascio, and Mrs. Brannan. Additionally, I want to thank Kay Heine and all my dance teachers at Kay’s Academy of Dance who have been in my life since I was four. You’ve seen me grow up and have created a positive and empowering environment in all my years of dance. Lastly, I want to thank my SAVE + Sandy Hook Promise Family, who have really taught me how to be open to new perspectives, develop my public speaking skills, become a good leader, and so much more.
