Madelyn Yake

By DAWN SMITH

For the Daily News

IRON MOUNTAIN — In a town where everyone knows your name, Madelyn Yake is a shining example of Mountaineer pride.

The 2020 Iron Mountain High School alumna graduated this spring from the University of Michigan with a bachelor of arts in political science with highest distinction — summa cum laude, top 3% of the class — and high honors for the successful defense of her senior thesis.

The recent graduate has achieved what many students across the country aspire to — acceptance into Harvard Law School, one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. For a school as small as IMHS, this is not just a personal victory for her but a beacon of inspiration for the entire community.

The journey begins

Growing up in Iron Mountain, Yake stood out, not just for her academic prowess but also for her leadership and dedication. From early mornings spent on academic challenges to late nights balancing extracurricular activities, she embraced every opportunity to excel.

“Maddy was always top of her class academically, but what stood out was her humble manner. She had an amazing aptitude for science but was equally strong in her liberal arts classes,” said Rhonda Carey, IMHS science teacher. “Her wide ranging interests in science, art, math and communication benefited her move to her current trajectory in law.”

Rising above challenges

Attending a small high school like IMHS has its unique set of challenges. With limited resources and fewer extracurricular options than students in big cities, students often have to work harder to gain the same opportunities as those from larger schools. But Yake never saw this as a disadvantage. Instead, she made the most of every chance to learn and grow.

“Looking back at my time at IMHS, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the high quality of instruction that I received. Every one of my teachers offered unwavering support in my academic career, and I know with certainty that I am the student — and person — I am today as a direct result of their encouragement,” Yake said. “In fact, one of the first people I texted after I committed to Harvard was my high school civics teacher, Mr. (John) Hogberg. He provided me with an early introduction to the study of American political institutions, and he nurtured a passion for politics that would go on to become the cornerstone of my career. Of course, I can’t forget to give a shout out to my wonderful mother, Mrs. (Renee) Yake (IMHS math teacher). Though it’s possible I’m biased, I believe that she is a world-class educator, mentor, and cheerleader, and her students are unbelievably fortunate to have her.”

At University of Michigan, Yake continued to participate in campus clubs and activities including PI Sigma Alpha (the Political Science Honors Society); the LSA Honors Society; Best Buddies International — a nonprofit student organization connecting undergraduates with individuals in the community who have intellectual and developmental disabilities; Women in Law, a professional organization for pre-law women; and the Public Service Intern Program — a preparatory program for those aspiring to hold internships in politics and the public sector.

Over the course of her four years at Michigan, she had two different research positions, worked for a congressional campaign, interned for a voting rights organization/PAC and worked for a judge in Ann Arbor.

During her academic career at Michigan, Yake was recognized with these awards and honors:

— The William Jennings Bryan prize for political science, which is awarded to the most promising students in the political science department each year.

— Sophomore Honors award with distinction, which “recognizes outstanding student achievement and engagement within the LSA honors program in one’s first two years as an undergraduate.”

–A five-time James B. Angell scholar and two-time University Honors designee.

Looking ahead

As Yake begins her journey at Harvard Law School, she said she does so with a sense of gratitude for her hometown and high school. She hopes to one day use her law degree to pursue a career in civil rights law.

“I stand on the shoulders of giants and I am living proof that the educational and emotional support at IMHS can propel students all the way to the steps of the Ivy League,” Yake said. “I am so thankful to be among the lucky few to call myself a lifelong Mountaineer.”

Yake’s story is a powerful reminder that no dream is too big, no goal unreachable, and no town too small to nurture extraordinary achievement.