By Matt Browning

Maddie Cantu of Winfield was chosen as the Driving Change Athlete of the Month for May. Cantu is a swimmer for the Vikings, as well as being on STUCO and singing in the choir.

“My main inspiration to make a difference in Winfield is to provide better opportunities for our youth to get involved in our community,” Cantu said. “Many of the clubs and organizations that I have been a part of have given me those opportunities, and I want those younger than me to have those same chances.”

Cantu takes the responsibility of being a role model seriously.

“Whether it’s on my swim team, in a STUCO meeting, or in the choir room, I try to set a good example to those around me while still being someone they can rely on as a friend,” Cantu said.

Being so involved at Winfield has its challenges for Cantu. Trying to find appropriate time for each activity is difficult.

“At one point, I came to realize that I didn’t really enjoy some of the extra activities I was doing because I was so stressed out,” Cantu said. “So I prioritized the activities and clubs that I found most important and most enjoyable, and I’ve been able to manage my schedule since.”

Cantu is going to attend Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland next year on a pre-med track. She wants to major in either chemistry or biology.