Senior Spotlight Interviews - Cleo Gikas

Cleo Gikas, Pinewood Class of 2025, is a resilient, focused, and deeply compassionate IB student who turned personal adversity into purpose. At Pinewood, she found more than just an education—she found community, confidence, and the space to grow into a powerful voice for change. With a passion for environmental science and a talent for leadership, Cleo became a driving force in science collaborations, tutoring, and public speaking, while also captaining the Pinewood volleyball team and balancing one of the school’s most demanding academic paths. Known for her sharp organization skills and unwavering empathy, she is a student who lifts others as she rises. This fall, she will begin her studies in Sustainability Management at SUMAS in Milan, determined to lead in one of the world’s most vital fields.

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Pinewood gave me comfort, confidence, and a sense of belonging. It helped me grow from someone who wanted control into someone who values teamwork, discussion, and leading with care.

CLEO GIKAS

FULL INTERVIEW TEXT HERE