By Taylor Peters ’15 | Staff Writer

Announced today at the Pep Assembly, Student Activities Director Maria Mitzel is this year’s Grand Marshal.

The Grand Marshal is decided by Student Association (SA). Individuals of SA nominate any staff member they believe is deserving of Grand Marshal, and students then vote to decide the final winner.

“Being Grand Marshal is an honor,” SA member Hannah Connors ’16 said. “It shows how appreciative students are of that staff member.”

Last year, science teacher James Adams was awarded Grand Marshal for the same reasons as this year’s: their dedication, passion and all the work they do for the school and its students, Connors said.

“Mitzel has helped SA so much throughout the years,” SA member Maddy Roeske ’16 said. “Not only is she extremely passionate about all the students, but she is such a genuine person who really deserves to be recognized for everything she does to make South a great place.”

Awarding Grand Marshal has been a long-standing tradition at South, Roeske said. Every Grand Marshal over the years has been someone who goes above and beyond for the entire school demonstrating the true characteristics of a Blue Devil.

“What a wonderful honor for me,” Mitzel said. “I always think I have the best job in the world because I get to be with these kids. They really made my day.”

This afternoon, Mitzel will ride in a car leading the Homecoming parade, as well as crown the Homecoming Queen during half time at tonight’s football game.