Consistently ranked as Iowa’s top high school, Iowa City West’s true excellence lies beyond its awards. This podcast highlights the voices of alumni, students and families whose stories show how West High’s legacy continues to shape the community today and for generations to come. Former faculty member Shannon Sullivan-Channon shares memories from her time at West in the 1980s, when she served as head special education teacher and head cheer coach. Her legacy at West lives on through her granddaughter, Emma Lai ’28, the podcast’s host.

Current students also reflect on life at West today. Paisley Hamm-Weldon ’28 follows in her parents’ footsteps through business classes and on stage as part of the varsity show choir. Her parents were both involved in Business Professionals Associations when they attended the school, and Paisley’s mom, Gillian, took part in the school plays. To this day, the family has Trojan pride and cheers on all of the sports. Nathan Chen ’28 serves on the executive board of Cadenza, a music charity club co-founded by his older brother, Jonathan Chen ’22. Just like his brother, he is also involved in the Science Olympiad team.

These stories remind us that West High is more than just a school. West families show that it’s a community built on connection, tradition and the lasting impact of those who call it home.