In the graduating class of 2026, there are many achievements worth celebrating, especially those of our hardworking senior editors. Makenna Zimmer, a member of the Rocky Roar Newspaper since her freshman year, is worth recognizing before she says goodbye to Rocky. As a desk editor, it is her job to oversee the work of our journalists before its published so our stories can be the best quality. She’s an expert in the field. The Rocky Roar Newspaper will miss her talents and passion for writing. Not only is Makenna a crucial part of our team, she’s also a beloved cheerleader whose talents will soon be carried over to the Northwest Nazarene University stunt team. From a recent Instagram post highlighting the cheerleading seniors, the caption on a post read,

“Your cheer family is so proud and can’t wait to cheer you on in this next chapter.”

Not only is the cheer team proud to see Makenna signing with the NNU stunt team, the newspaper family also couldn’t be prouder of her achievements and more excited for her future. When Hailey Mejia, a good friend of Makenna’s and her teammate in cheer, was asked about what makes Makenna such a good friend and a crucial part of the Rocky community, she said,

“Well when my dog died I remember when she came to my house and bought me like flowers and donuts. She’s always been there for me too in cheer and boys. She also knows how to cheer me up and makes me feel so welcomed. She’s not the best editor but I think her staying for 4 years shows how loyal she is.”

Makenna isn’t only a loyal part of her cheer and newspaper families; she also is a loyal friend. She’s always there to support those close to her when they are in need, and she will surely carry these qualities to her new future at NNU. We hope that Northwest Nazarene University will love Makenna’s fun personality just as much as Rocky does

, and that she flourishes in their stunt team. After four years of cheerleading for Rocky, it’s time we cheer for Makenna as she steps on that stage to get her diploma.