Faces of Catholic School: Colleen Coughlin

Colleen Coughlin is graduating from Father Lopez Catholic School with many titles, including senior class president, AP scholar, National Honor Society member and Salutatorian. She has always admired great leaders and wanted to become one herself, so she focused on making the most of her time in high school. Her next step is to attend Stetson University, where she’s been accepted to the Honors Program with a focus in mental health counseling. 

Coughlin grew up in Ormond Beach, not far from Father Lopez Catholic School. At Saint Brendan Catholic School, which she attended for kindergarten through eight grade, she started on the path to pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. Attending Catholic school has had a profound impact on Coughlin, shaping her into the person she is today. At Father Lopez Catholic School, she has learned that success comes from having meaning in your life, doing what you love and being passionate about what you do. 

“I have learned to strive for a future career that will positively impact others, to work toward a life with Christ-centered purpose…a life of significance,” Coughlin said.

Being senior class president is Coughlin's most valuable high school experience. This role taught her leadership skills she plans to take with her to college and beyond. Being involved in the Student Government and Ambassadors Club has also given Coughlin the opportunity to give back to the school that has given so much to her through the years.

While making the most of her time in high school meant studying hard, it also meant focusing on what mattered the most. Coughlin looks for the good in every day and focuses on the positive. Rather than letting the little things get her down, she focuses on what will matter in five years. One way she does this is by always having something to look forward to. 

During her time in high school, she has looked forward to spending time with her four-year-old sheltie Beau, who she adores, during her rare downtime. Between school years, she has enjoyed going to Bar Harbor, Maine, where she lives and works every summer. At the moment, she’s looking forward to the internship and study abroad opportunities at Stetson University. 

Before Coughlin attended Father Lopez Catholic School, her mother and older sister were students there. Her parents have been her main source of inspiration on her academic, social and spiritual path. They taught her the importance of hard work, faith and family. 

Another source of inspiration has been her teachers and administrators. Every day, she knew she had their support, as they continuously gave her positive reinforcement. They have not only helped her through her time at school; they’ve also built a foundation for lifelong connections.

“I know I will keep in contact with them throughout my life,” Coughlin said.

To any students who want to become more involved in the school community, Coughlin’s advice is to just do it. Being involved can open the door to amazing opportunities that don’t always exist between the classroom walls. Coughlin recommends picking the things that best fit your personality and skills, and if something doesn’t fit, to try something else. It’s all about making the most of the four years of high school. 

Now that she has graduated from high school, her next step is to attend Stetson University as an Honors Student with a focus on mental health counseling. After college, she plans to work for an established practice to acquire the experience and funds she needs, then opening a practice of her own. 

Get to Know Colleen Coughlin

Favorite TV Show: All 10 seasons of Friends

Favorite Books: The Harry Potter series

Hobbies: Travel and hiking

Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 139: 13-14 “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

Pick a Superpower: Have a “Google Brain,” where vast amounts of knowledge is stored

Our Volusia Catholic schools are blessed to have wonderful students like Colleen Coughlin who go on to do great things in the world. The schools are part of a vibrant community that provides a safe, nurturing environment for students to grow in their faith and prepare for the future. We are dedicated to academic excellence while ensuring students have a strong foundation of faith. To learn more about what makes us different, contact us at Volusia County Catholic Schools today.