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The Bellwood-Antis School District has  announced the graduation speaker for the Class of 2023, 2014 graduate Ellen Crook.

Commencement will take place on May 31 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Crook had many accomplishments in her athletic career at B-A, as a record-setter in cross country and track, but that success only continued into the collegiate level. 

“It is very humbling to be brought back as a graduation speaker,” said Crook. “There are so many amazing alumni from Bellwood and to be chosen to speak to the next wave of them is such an honor.” 

During her time at Bellwood-Antis, Crook was recognized as one of USA Today’s Top 20 Inspirational athletes, breaking the cross country course record, 1600m track record, and the 3200m track record. In addition to these accomplishments, she also placed 5th at the PIAA state track meet her senior year. She was also the last runner before Alexis Lovrich in 2022 to earn a medal at the PIAA cross country meet.

While attending the University of Pittsburgh with a major in Communications and minor in Legal Studies, she held a record on the Pitt track team for the 4x1500m relay. Additionally, Crook was nominated for captain of the track team and was secretary of the student athlete advisory committee, where she met with other student athletes within the ACC.  

Currently, Crook is employed as an Employee Benefits Producer at HUB International, and also owns an athletic performance gym. 

Crook feels confident that B-A prepared her well for the future. 

“The teachers at Bellwood didn’t just teach,” said Crook. “They invested in me as a person, and went out of their way to support me inside and outside of the classroom.”

During her speech, Crook aims to discuss how attitude can affect your success, as well as how to adapt to life after high school. 

Commencement is set to take place at Memorial Stadium.