Abington Heights Senior Lights the Way for Others

by Gia Vachino | November 2023

In the bustling halls of Abington Heights High School, senior Ryanna Avvisato stands tall amidst the whirlwinds of responsibilities and chaos that make up her daily life. 

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Avvisato to discuss her prominent role here at Abington Heights and her drive toward her goals and cooperation with the student body. 

Avvisato’s journey into involvement at Abington Heights started with a passion for planning, a trait she has possessed ever since she was a little kid. 

“I’ve always just liked planning things,” Avvisato shared. 

“Ever since I was little, our  family has always hosted Easter,” she goes on. “When I was maybe 6 or 7, I would plan elaborate Easter egg hunts for my family and cousins to participate in. I’ve been planning them forever, even now I still plan them. My parents tell me that they should have known that this was me, like this is what I have been doing ever since I was little.”

Avvisato’s passion for planning has extended into involvement with many clubs at Abington, including Student Council, Student Government,, Interact Club, National Honors Society (NHS), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Environmental Club, Period Club, Transition Team, and HELP Club. 

Along with these clubs she also holds many notable roles within them. Avvisato is president of the 2024 senior class, vice president of Student Council, and the former secretary of HELP Club. 

Reflecting on some of her notable leadership roles, Avvisato outlined her progression. 

“Freshman year I was class historian, sophomore year I was secretary, and these past two years, my junior and senior year, I have been class president.”

When I asked about her motivation to seek leadership positions each year, Avvisato emphasized her genuine interest in connecting with her classmates.  

“I don't know. I feel like me, more than the other candidates, I talk to everybody,” she says. “I want to hear what people have to say. I don’t really care who you are, I just want to hear your opinion and I want your voice to be heard.” 

Looking ahead to her post-graduation plans, Avvisato expressed, “I want to major psychology… I would really like to work in a mental hospital or even a prison and someday I would love to own my own business like a clothing store or makeup store or even just a side event planning business.” 

As we wrapped up the interview, Avvisato fondly recalled her most cherished memory at Abington Heights High School. 

“I think Gym Class Heroes would have to be one of my most favorite memories. I think just planning that whole week like spirit week, Gym Class Heroes, the homecoming game, homecoming court, and the homecoming dance, it’s just all my favorite part and my favorite memory.”