Junior Vivian Baker has been involved in her community since middle school. One of her biggest passions is caring for animals.
“I’ve been volunteering at IndyHumane since I was in the eighth grade,” Baker said.
Her love for animals started early; helping shelters is her way of turning that passion into action.
One memory that stayed with her is a dog named Arabella.
“She was one of the dogs at IndyHumane that had a harder time before coming to the shelter,” Baker said.
Arabella had her ears cut and struggled to get along with other dogs, but she was gentle with people.
“She was so sweet with humans, and I had so much fun with her,” Baker said.
Over time, Baker noticed Arabella becoming more withdrawn.
“The more time she spent there, the more nervous and less excited she got, which broke my heart,” Baker said. “Thankfully, she is now adopted and living happily ever after.”
Baker is active in the school’s student council. Student council advisor Lynn Schopp believes Baker’s leadership is a massive part of the group’s success.
“Vivian is very special. She’s always putting others first,” Schopp said.
She mentioned events like the homecoming teddy bear toss and Teacher Appreciation Week that Baker helps organize.
Student council gave Baker a better understanding of how school events come together.
“It gives you a taste for how events are run,” Baker said.
What makes Baker stand out to Schopp is her consistency and calm energy.
“Her reliability stands out for me,” Schopp said. “If Vivian says she’s going to do something, you can count on it getting done well.”
Baker helps with everything from tailgates to flower sales without ever seeming overwhelmed.
Baker is also president of earth club and books by girls. Despite her workload, she manages both.
“My clubs are very different, but they don’t operate on the same timeline,” Baker said.
Books by girls runs its most significant event, a book drive, in the fall, while earth club’s big project happens in the spring.
“I’m sure you’ve heard that The Earth Club garden is a spring project and is still in progress,” Baker said. “Most of the garden work is behind the scenes right now, but it’s super exciting,
The garden will be open soon, and Baker’s is proud of what the club has accomplished.
