Bethel Park High School has named senior Makayla O’Neill its January 2026 Rotary Student of the Month, recognizing her academic achievement, leadership and service to the school community.
O’Neill carries a 4.366 weighted grade-point average and is a member of the National Honor Society and the Quill & Scroll Society. She plans to major in environmental science or biology and is considering Allegheny College and Westminster College among others. She said her interest in science has been a longtime passion.
A standout student-athlete, O’Neill has earned seven varsity letters and serves as captain of the cross-country team. She also competes in track and field in the 800 meters, 4x800 relay, 100-meter hurdles and 300-meter hurdles, favoring distance events. She has been running since fourth grade.
“I try not to over-train, but I really love running,” she said.
O’Neill is also active in community service. She volunteers at Ave Maria Academy, assisting with concessions and the church’s fish fries, and previously served as a tutor through the NHS mentoring program.
Outside of school, O’Neill enjoys reading and is an avid fan of fiction. She is also a committed gamer who enjoys battle royale-style games such as Fortnite and My Hero Ultra Rumble.
“A lot of people think (gaming) is a waste of time,” O’Neill said. “I think it’s a fun way to spend time with friends and train your brain to problem-solve.”
O’Neill is the daughter of Michelle and Joseph O’Neill. She has a younger sister, Fiona, a sophomore, and a brother, Finn, who graduated in 2025.
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