SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: Kayla DeMaria

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: Kayla DeMaria — Hannan High School

by Delyssa Huffman, Point Pleasant Register

03.04.10 - 12:22 am

ASHTON — Kayla DeMaria, a senior at Hannan High School, has a passion to raise awareness about suicide and to help others.

DeMaria stated that she would love to someday work for the non-profit organization, “To Write Love On Her Arms.” Her interest in this organization stems from a friend’s suicide.

Another way in which DeMaria assists in her community is by volunteering her time in the summer to work at a golf course.


“All of the money raised during the summer goes to the American Heart Association,” DeMaria stated.

When she isn’t busy giving back or planning ways to change people’s lives, DeMaria is preparing for graduation along with the rest of the Class of 2010 and looking ahead to her future.


One of her favorite memories thus far during her senior year is Homecoming. That may be because DeMaria was chosen as one of the Homecoming attendants during her senior year, or possibly because of the fun and eventful “Spirit Week” that took place at HHS.

Either way, DeMaria is an student with an ambition to succeed in life.

For three years, this 18-year old worked hard to be a leader in the Student Council Organization. By being in charge during her junior year and assisting with fundraisers, she and other group members were able to raise money for prom and other activities to be enjoyed by the entire school.

“I enjoyed Student Council,” DeMaria explained. “But this year, I am just trying to focus on my schoolwork.”

And with four Marshall University classes, she has to dedicate much of her time to excel in the classes she takes at the Mid-Ohio Valley Center and at HHS.

“These classes are much more advanced than my normal high school classes,” DeMaria said.


DeMaria said that a psychology class has captured her interest and inspired her to pursue a career.

“I have always been interested in how the mind works,” DeMaria said.

Her future plans involve attending Marshall University to double major in forensic science and psychology.

“I think both of these areas of study are interesting and I want to mix the two up so I can pursue a career as a forensic psychologist,” DeMaria said.

DeMaria plans to live in the campus dorms in Huntington with her best friend and said she is looking forward to it. Her sister, Marissa, already is a student at Marshall.

“It’s a whole different ball game,” DeMaria said. “Your deciding your future, and it’s a big decision.”

Originally from Elmira, N.Y., one of her hobbies include traveling. DeMaria added that she also loves going to concerts.

She is the daughter of James and Brenda DeMaria of Milton.