Dean Johnson ’25 takes the phrase carpe diem seriously. By his own admission he tries to say yes to every opportunity that comes his way.

AS PROOF, in his first two years at Prep he has been involved with lacrosse, basketball, business club, service club, a trip to Washington, D.C. and the school newspaper.

Freshman year Dean didn’t make the basketball team. But he quickly turned this disappointment into opportunity. With help from Mr. Liu, Assistant Principal for Student Life, and Coach Max Bayern he became the team manager. “I was the ‘hype’ man. I created energy with the guys, assisted with practices and scored games. I was able to turn my loss into something positive and exercise leadership in a different way,” he says.

Dean’s dedication in making the daily 6am practices also garnered respect. “I showed up,” Dean says, “I love basketball and I love being around those guys and having those relationships.”

Sophomore year Dean joined the staff of The Seattle Prep Panther newspaper. His favorite story was a collaboration with Ryan Mah ’25 featuring classmate Nat Menbere’s ’25 selection to the US Lacrosse Team. Dean says, “The story highlighted a student who is doing something significant, and we think people should know about that.”

This year Dean will step into a new role as junior class president, yet another evolution of his leadership. “I want to serve my class by taking ideas and turning them into action,” he says.

“I’ve always thought I was lucky to be at Prep,” Dean says. “So, I believe in making the most of the opportunities I have been given. I am thankful and want to participate in any way.”

It’s more than a “seize the day” philosophy for Dean. His actions also reflect gratitude and service, the true sign of a Jesuit leader.