Driven to Serve: BeNea’s Pursuit of Purpose and Impact

When senior BeNea Daniels thinks about her four years at Providence Cristo Rey High School, one word comes to mind: growth. From leading on the basketball court to inspiring younger students as a shadow host, BeNea has spent her time at PCR learning how to step forward with confidence and helping others do the same.

“There can be multiple leaders in a small community,” she said. “And we can all learn from each other.”

A Leader On and Off the Court

BeNea has been involved in nearly every corner of the school community: girls’ basketball, student ambassadors, student council, chess club, service clubs, and the National Honor Society, where she serves as Historian. She’s also the co-president of Student Council and captain and MVP of the girls’ basketball team.

Through it all, she’s learned that leadership isn’t about being in charge–it’s about showing up for others.

“Service Day taught me so much,” she said. “Going out into the community, being exposed to different circumstances… It opened my eyes to other people’s perspectives. It reminded me how important it is to appreciate what you have.”

Finding Community and Confidence

When BeNea first came to Providence, the close-knit size of the school took some getting used to. But soon, she found that intimacy to be one of its greatest strengths.

“I’ve grown to appreciate the closeness here,” she said. “It’s different from larger schools, but it gives you space to really connect with your classmates, teachers, and mentors.”

That sense of connection carried into her community involvement outside of school. A lifelong member of her church youth choir, BeNea also stepped into a new spotlight this year through the Circle City Classic program, an experience that ultimately led her to be crowned Miss Circle City Classic 2025.

“I had always gone to the Classic as an attendee,” she said. “But when my mom encouraged me to apply, I was accepted and recommended by a member. It was amazing.”

Through the experience, she gained hands-on exposure to teamwork, professional development, and cultural pride.

“It taught me how to carry myself as a young woman transitioning into the next phase of life, and it gave me a stronger appreciation for Black culture,” she reflected.

“It taught me how to carry myself as a young woman transitioning into the next phase of life, and it gave me a stronger appreciation for Black culture,” she reflected.

Building Something Sweet

Outside of school, BeNea helps run a family business that began in her mother’s kitchen. Alongside her two sisters, she operates Sammie’s Angels, the dessert branch of Sammie’s Weekend Kitchen.

“We started when I was about 10 or 11, just dipping strawberries and rice krispie treats,” she laughed. “Now we make cupcakes, cakes, pies–you name it.”

Running a business taught her lessons that no classroom could replicate.

“Time management is everything,” she said. “You learn about money, leadership, and how to handle responsibilities, especially when you’re working with your siblings.”

The business, which began as an LLC, is now applying to become a nonprofit organization, expanding its reach and community impact.

Learning, Leading, and Looking Ahead

At school, BeNea’s academic curiosity shines brightest in Anatomy, taught by Ms. Heinrichs.

“It was the first class that really aligned with my future,” she said. “I love learning about the human body. It confirmed that I want to go into medicine.”

She’s also found challenge and excitement in AP Pre-Calculus, balancing the rigor of her coursework with athletics, leadership roles, and self-care.

“My mom always tells me that the best relationship you can have is with yourself,” BeNea said. “Taking care of yourself helps you show up better for others.”

“My mom always tells me that the best relationship you can have is with yourself,” BeNea said. “Taking care of yourself helps you show up better for others.”

Her Corporate Work Study placement at CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen) in Carmel has given her a glimpse into the professional world, particularly accounting and business auditing.

“CWS taught me it’s okay to step outside your comfort zone,” she said. “It helped me build confidence, connect with colleagues, and learn how to work with people I never would’ve met otherwise.”

A Future of Service

Looking ahead, BeNea plans to attend Spelman College to study chemistry on a pre-med track. Her dream is to become a pediatrician, traveling internationally and partnering with organizations to expand healthcare access for children. “PCR has opened so many doors for me,” she said. “From mentors helping me find medical internships to the friendships I’ve built here, it’s all helped me prepare for what’s next.”

She credits several staff members for making a lasting impact on her experience including Mr. Dishman, Mr. Hood, Mrs. Pasotti, and Coach AJ. “Each of them has supported me in different ways,” she said. “They’ve really made my time here special.”

From the court to the classroom, from choir rehearsals to community service, BeNea embodies the spirit of Providence Cristo Rey: leadership through faith, service, and resilience.

“This school has taught me that leadership doesn’t look just one way,” she said with a smile. “It’s about learning, growing, and helping others do the same.”

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