Will Peterson Rejuvenates the SMA Bridge

Will Peterson, a former student of Stella Maris Academy, recently completed an ambitious bridge renovation project as part of his journey to becoming an Eagle Scout. The project, which transformed a trail bridge behind the high school campus, demonstrates Peterson's growing leadership abilities and dedication to community service. This accomplishment represents not only a significant milestone in his Scout career but also showcases the lasting impact of his time at Stella Maris Academy. Peterson's time at Stella Maris Academy was marked by formative experiences that helped shape his future path. Among his fondest memories was a transformative college tour at the end of eighth grade. "We went to tour Saint John's University... we stayed there for a night or two, and it was really fun. We got to hang out a lot outside, and it was just fun hanging out with my friends," he recalls. This early exposure to campus life would later influence his educational aspirations.

Several teachers left lasting impressions on Peterson during his time at the academy. "Mr. Cyr, who was my band teacher, helped me learn how to play the drums, which I had a ton of fun doing," Peterson shares. The musical skills he developed under Mr. Cyr's guidance continue to enrich his life, as he now plays both piano and drums.

Beyond music, Peterson found mentorship in other faculty members. Mr. Long and Mrs. Larson were particularly influential in encouraging his academic pursuits and future goals. These relationships proved crucial in building the confidence he would later need for his Eagle Scout project.

The renovation project emerged through a serendipitous conversation with Mr. Hilliker, the president of Stella Maris. "My mom had brought up that I was looking for an Eagle project, and Mr. Hilliker recommended that I could come over and we could talk about a project," Peterson explains. This initial discussion would lead to a months-long journey of planning, coordination, and execution. The scope of the project required extensive planning and multiple phases of development. "It took a few months to get the whole thing planned out," Peterson recalls. "I originally went over there with Mr. Hilliker and he showed me what it was. He showed me some of the things that they wanted to get done, or at least the minimal things that he wanted to see out of the project."

Peterson approached the project methodically, beginning with thorough documentation. "I took a few pictures and showed it to some people down in the cities. My dad helped me design some of the things for the project, especially the bottom setup." This collaborative approach to design ensured that the final product would meet both safety requirements and community needs. The material procurement phase demonstrated Peterson's resourcefulness and project management skills. "I ended up getting most of it from Menards," he notes. Additionally, he leveraged family connections to secure crucial donations: "My dad works at a molding company that does a lot with steel, and they were nice enough to donate a bunch of stuff for the bridge ramps and railing posts." Facing time constraints with winter approaching, Peterson had to make quick decisions about funding. "I knew I was kind of on a time crunch because I needed to get it done before December. I didn't want to do it in the snow," he explains. This led to a strategic decision to initially self-fund the project while simultaneously seeking donations for reimbursement.

The construction phase showcased Peterson's emerging leadership abilities. "I got a total of six people - four kids and two adults who came up," he recalls. Demonstrating consideration for his volunteers, who traveled 2.5 hours to help, Peterson arranged overnight accommodations: "I asked Mr. Hilliker if we could use the gym to sleep overnight... They drove up, did the work, slept in the gym, and went home the next day."

The task served as a comprehensive learning experience in project management and leadership. "I learned a ton about organizing not only my time but also the order process of how I need to get things done, reaching out to people, and overall leading my own projects," Peterson reflects. This experience taught him the delicate balance between independent leadership and collaborative effort: "Other people did help a ton, and I'm extremely grateful for that."

Beyond his Scout activities and academic pursuits, Peterson maintains diverse interests that contribute to his personal growth. "I like listening to music, playing games, hanging out with friends. Skateboarding is also one of my hobbies. I play piano and drums," he shares. These varied interests demonstrate his ability to balance serious responsibilities with recreational activities. Currently finishing his general studies, Peterson has already secured his next educational opportunity. His acceptance to the University of Wisconsin-Stout's computer science program represents a significant step toward his career goals. "They have a bunch of internships afterwards that I can go into," he says, expressing enthusiasm about the professional opportunities this path might present.

"This was one of the last things I had to do," Peterson says about the bridge project, noting its significance in his Scout journey. "I'm actually finishing up my Eagle Scout rank this weekend." The timing of this achievement perfectly positions him for his transition to university studies. Reflecting on his Eagle Scout experience, Peterson emphasizes its lasting impact: "It's taught me a bunch of life skills such as determination and not being fearful of a big project and a big commitment. I know I can get it done over time and persevere." These qualities will undoubtedly serve him well in his future academic and professional endeavors.

As Peterson completes his Eagle Scout requirements and prepares for university, his story exemplifies how early educational experiences at Stella Maris Academy, combined with community service and leadership opportunities through Scouting, can shape a young person's path toward future success. The bridge he helped renovate stands as a lasting testament to his commitment to community service and his growth as a leader.