08/28/2026
Lempea graduated as valedictorian from Knappa High School, located in Astoria, Oregon. Her athletic administrator is Jenny Smith, RAA, and Lempea’s parents are Bryan and Tonya Lempea.
As a multi-sport athlete at Knappa, Lempea participated on a wide array of teams. She was a cross country runner, where she earned three varsity letters. In addition, she was a Northwest League Champion, made the Northwest League First Team three times, and participated at the State level.
On the softball team, Lempea was highly successful as well. She lettered four times, captained the team, and made the Northwest League First Team. In her essay written for the scholarship, “How High School Athletics Has Impacted My Life,” Lempea noted the responsibility attached to being a high school athlete.
“Leadership in a small community carries visibility. All eyes are on you, not just from the stands, but from younger athletes who hope to stand where you stand someday,” Lempea wrote. “That pressure could have been intimidating, but instead it built resilience. In moments of adversity such as a tough loss, a costly mistake, or simple exhaustion, I learned that composure matters.”
Lempea excelled on the girls basketball team as well, gaining four varsity letters. She captained the team three times, made the Northwest League First Team four times, was named League Player of the Year three times, Defensive Player of the Year once, and made First Team for All-State twice. On the girls soccer team, Lempea lettered once and was named a First Team All-League forward.
As a leader in her school, Lempea was involved in several areas. She was a member of the Student Council, acting as President her junior and senior year. Furthermore, Lempea served as a Knappa School Board student representative.
On an international scale, Lempea was a Global TikTok Youth Council U.S. representative, advising on safety, inclusion, and well-being for TikTok.
Lempea served her community in more than one way, as she volunteered at the Knappa High School Foundation Dinner, coached with Knappa Youth Hoops, and gave her time at a local senior center.
Lempea plans to attend Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon this fall with a double major in mathematics and business administration. She will continue playing basketball as well.
