Lainey Ryczek ’26, Varsity Volleyball

For Lainey Ryczek ’26, Loyola Academy has been a place of intellectual discovery, meaningful relationships, and faith-filled service. A varsity volleyball captain, Dumbach Scholars student leader, Kairos leader, and AP Scholar with Distinction, Lainey embraced opportunities that challenged her to grow both inside and outside the classroom. While AP Biology sparked her passion for neuroscience and inspired her future path in medicine, her involvement in the Dumbach Scholars Program encouraged her to think beyond her comfort zone and engage with new cultures, perspectives, and ideas. Together, these experiences taught her that intellectual curiosity flourishes when paired with openness to learning from others.

Rooted in Loyola’s Jesuit mission, Lainey’s commitment to service and leadership deepened through Arrupe, Summer Service, Campus Ministry, and Kairos. Her experiences working alongside individuals with disabilities, serving in diverse communities, and building lasting friendships through the L’Arche community helped her recognize the dignity of every person and the importance of accompaniment, compassion, and human connection. As a Kairos leader, she had the opportunity to guide fellow students through a transformative experience of faith and reflection, further strengthening her understanding of what it means to serve others with generosity and love. Grateful for the teachers, mentors, and friends who supported her throughout her Loyola journey, Lainey leaves prepared to lead with empathy, curiosity, and purpose. Next fall, she will attend Boston College to study Neuroscience on the pre-med track, carrying forward Loyola’s call to use her gifts in service of others.