Thalia
Jackson
2025 High School Graduate
We’re so glad you’re here to celebrate an incredible milestone for an incredible young woman.
Thalia Marian Jackson — Class of 2025, Grand Rapids Museum High School — has worked hard, stayed true to herself, and inspired all of us along the way. While we wish we could gather in person, this virtual space was created to share her story, her accomplishments, and her bright future with the people who’ve meant the most to her.
Take a look around, relive some memories, and leave a note of love or encouragement as Thalia steps into her next chapter.
Thanks for being part of her journey!
a joy from the start
Born on June 9, 2007, Thalia arrived with a head full of beautiful dark curls and an even bigger place in our hearts. We chose to let her gender be a surprise — and what a perfect surprise she was while weighing in at 8lbs 4oz. and 20” long.
From day one, Thalia brought joy, wonder, and laughter into our lives. Eion wasn’t sure about adding another sister to the mix, but Samaria was over the moon to welcome her new baby sister.
And just like that, the Jackson crew became a family of five — and it couldn’t have felt more perfect.
Creative Soul — A Girl of Many Talents
Creativity and curiosity have always been part of Thalia’s story. Whether through music, art, or baking, her passion for learning and creating shines in everything she does.
From piano, violin, and painting to pottery and crochet — and especially her delicious baked goods — Thalia has explored it all. Over time, her hobby blossomed into a side business called “Thalia’s Treats,” where friends and family (and lucky customers) enjoyed her homemade delights.
And in a touching family connection, Thalia was named after her great-grandmother Marian, who also loved baking and crochet. We know her Grandma-Great would be incredibly proud.
Determined. Dedicated. Valedictorian.
Academic excellence didn’t happen by accident. Thalia worked for it — and her focus, discipline, and commitment have been inspiring to watch.
While many chose comfort, Thalia chose growth. Late-night study sessions, early mornings, and hard choices were all part of her path — and she walked it with purpose.
By 5th grade, she was already distinguishing herself as a standout student, winning statewide statistical competition. Throughout her school years, her consistent effort earned her Student of the Month in every district she attended.
Now, as she graduates, her efforts have earned her the highest honor: Valedictorian of her class. Our pride is beyond words.
Athletics — Grit, Growth, and Heart
Golf
Her freshman year at Hudsonville, Thalia made a spontaneous decision to try out for the JV golf team — with just days to prepare and secondhand clubs in hand. She not only made the team, she became one of its top contributors.
Track
That same year, she joined the track team, sprinting and long-jumping her way through the season, and creating special memories running alongside her sister. Though track wasn’t her long-term sport, it was another example of her fearless spirit.
Basketball
After transferring to Museum High her sophomore year, Thalia was recruited by an Ottawa Hills assistant coach who saw her potential. Despite not playing since middle school, she made the JV team and quickly became a key player.
One standout memory: during a game where the team was left with just three players on the court (after everyone else fouled out), Thalia and her teammates held off a full-strength opponent for nearly an entire quarter.
She returned for her senior season, this time playing Varsity and earning the Coach’s Award, along with a framed quote:
“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”
— Dr. Mae Jemison
A perfect reminder of the way she approaches life.
A Working Girl — Kindness in Action
For nearly three years, Thalia balanced academics and athletics with part-time work at Sunset Manor, a senior living community in Jenison.
A sweet family full-circle moment: her Great-Grandma worked there as an aide for most of her life. Who would’ve guessed her great-granddaughter would someday walk the same halls for her first job?
At Sunset, Thalia found joy in the relationships she built with residents and the independence that came with the work.
Beyond that, she also spent afternoons helping her Aunt and Uncle — ensuring homework was finished, music lessons practiced, rides were covered, meals were prepped, and fun was always part of the plan.
And, of course, she still found time for her side business, Thalia’s Treats.
Academic excellence. Athletics. Jobs. Entrepreneurship. Family. And still — Valedictorian.
If that doesn’t say it all, we don’t know what does.
The Road Ahead — Biomedical Engineering
With a love for math, creativity, and a passion for the medical world, Thalia has chosen a path that blends all three: Biomedical Engineering.
Accepted into some of the country’s top programs, she ultimately made a choice that reflects both wisdom and independence — selecting Grand Valley State University, where her hard work earned her extensive scholarships.
Debt-free, focused, and ready to build a future where science and compassion meet. We cannot wait to see where this road leads.
Senior Pictures — A Beautiful Moment, Captured
A heartfelt thank you to the gifted Laura Hoeksema for capturing Thalia’s senior portraits around Ada Village and Roselle Park.
Laura’s talent and eye for beauty perfectly captured who Thalia is in this moment — strong, kind, creative, and ready for her next adventure.
Celebrate & Support Thalia’s Next Chapter
One of the best parts of graduation season is the chance to show love, encouragement, and support as a new chapter begins.
While we’ve chosen to celebrate Thalia’s milestone virtually, we didn’t want her to miss out on this tradition — or for any of you to miss the chance to share your pride and well wishes!
If you’d like to send a gift, simply click the “Send Thalia A Gift” button below.
Prefer Venmo? You can find her at @ThaliaJackson543 or scan the QR code provided.
And please don’t leave without adding a message of encouragement in the comment section — your words will mean so much as she steps boldly into her future.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of Thalia’s story. If you’ve found your way here, it’s because you’ve made an impact on her life — and for that, we are forever grateful.
