From highschool sweethearts to getting married, Kennady Carter and Darius Cooper got engaged last year. Both Carter and Cooper are Hazelwood West graduates and share their story from getting together in high school to their lives now and the people who impacted them on the way.  

Carter and Cooper met at Hazelwood Northwest Middle School in 6th grade but they began dating during their junior year of highschool. In their time at West they made memories that they will hold close to their hearts forever. They mentioned that the friendships they made with students and stuff will always be cherished. 

“Being at West helped develop our foundation for the hard work and passion that have carried us to the places we are today,” Carter shared.

There were many teachers that had a huge impact on them such as, Ms. Galbreath, Coach Harris, Mrs. Chappelle, Mr. Manker, and Coach Thomas. They also mentioned a few teachers that are no longer employed here such as, Mrs. Quain, Mr. and Ms. Borcherding and Mrs. Askew-Walker. Carter and Cooper still stay in touch with some of their teachers and they love and appreciate them so much.

Carter and Cooper were both very active during their time at West. Carter was Junior and Senior class president, along with playing tennis and winning prom queen. Cooper won prom king, graduated top of his class, won many academic and athletic awards, and also played sports. 

After graduating, they both attended universities and continued to stay involved and both will be graduating this year. Carter attends University of Missouri- St. Louis and is the president of the Alpha Omega City-Wide chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Vice president of the Student Nurses Association, President of UMSL’s NPHC and more. Cooper attends Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas and plays football along with being on the executive board for the Black Student Union.

Their advice to current highschoolers is to get involved, cherish the moment, be respectful, make memories, and take full advantage of the opportunities you have.