Pacelli Catholic Schools meant a lot to Abby Leif.

The 2012 Salutatorian and Shamrock Girl exemplified Pacelli values throughout her high school career, whether it was serving as class president this past year, earning accolades in choir contests, or being part of more than her fair share of school activities.

“I’m really proud of being through Pacelli,” she said. “I’m really glad about having religion all the way through. It’s really helped me.”

Leif graduated from Pacelli Wednesday after spending her entire education there, from preschool on. She participated in many extracurriculars, from tennis, basketball and golf, to student council, choir and yearbook. She’ll go on to the University of Minnesota-Duluth this fall, where she plans to major in elementary education so she can one day become a kindergarten teacher. She may even return to Austin or nearby when she’s done.

“I kind of like small towns,” she said.

Of the many memorable experiences at Pacelli, her most recent achievement was giving a heartfelt commencement speech at Pacelli’s graduation ceremony.

“It was exciting and nerve-wracking, but it was an honor,” she said.

Though she’ll start a new life in college this fall, she’s proud of her Pacelli roots.

“I love Pacelli, and I’m proud to be a graduate from there,” she said.