EPHRATA — Ephrata High School senior Erika Morford has been named one of the February Students of the Month, a recognition that the teacher who nominated her said highlights her significant contributions as treasurer of the Associated Student Body and vice president of the National Honor Society, among other activities. 

Sheila Massey, a co-advisor for both ASB and NHS, nominated Morford for her outstanding efforts this year.  

“She has been working hard all year,” Massey said. “Erika is dedicated; if she says she’s going to do something, I know it’s going to happen. Her responsibility and communication skills have made her an invaluable member of our team.” 

Morford's leadership was evident during the NHS Oscar Night, an event that brought together various clubs within the school for a night of celebration, according to Massey. 

“We were a little behind schedule, and during a meeting, Erika got most of the officers together, created several questions, and got the ball rolling,” Massey said. “That meeting set things in motion. Her organization was crucial to making the event a success.” 

Morford said she is involved in ASB, NHS, Key Club, Orange “E” club, Hope Squad and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.  

“I like to consider myself as somebody who’s really involved in the school,” Morford said.   

Morford balances these roles with academic demands, enrolling in advanced courses and accumulating over 400 hours of community service. 

Massey praised Morford’s ability to foster connections. 

“What stands out is her ability to fill in gaps without overshadowing others,” Massey said. “Erika has a knack for leading without coming across as bossy, which can be a fine line to walk.” 

This sentiment resonates with Morford, who approaches her leadership with empathy and inclusivity.  

“I really care a lot about people’s feelings,” she said. “I try to be as aware of others as I can be. I’ve always had a role where I’ve taken the lead, from sports to clubs.” 

As a senior, Morford is now looking toward her academic future.  

“I plan to go to university. I’m still narrowing down my options,” she said. “I’m excited because I recently got accepted into the University of Oregon and the University of Hawaii at Mānoa. The University of Washington decisions come out this week, so I'm looking forward to that as well.”  

Morford aspires to study marine biology, a passion that she has nurtured since childhood.  

“Since I was little, I’ve been infatuated with marine biology,” she said. “There was this program in grade school where we got to grow trout in our classrooms and then release them into lakes. It opened my eyes to how cool and diverse different ecosystems are.” 

Morford’s interests extend beyond academics. She participates in sports, particularly tennis and volleyball.  

“I’ve been looking forward to the tennis season all year. It’s become one of my favorite sports,” she said. “I just love getting out on the sunny courts.”  

As her high school journey nears its end, Morford said she recognizes the value of the support she has received from teachers and advisors.  

“The people at EHS are amazing,” Morford said. “The one-on-one time students get from teachers, especially in my college courses, makes a huge difference.”  

Looking ahead, Massey said she anticipates Morford’s future endeavors with optimism. 

“Erika will be missed when she goes off to college; she has been a very helpful part of both clubs,” Massey said. “I’m sure she will be successful in her future, and it will be fun to watch.” 

    Erika Morford
  

    Sheila Massey