The future is full of promise for Questa High School graduate Delilah Rael, a member of the Class of 2025 who is set to begin an exciting new chapter rooted in service, leadership, and a deep connection to her hometown.
Rael, the daughter of Michael and Mariquita Rael, is known among her peers and teachers for her leadership and commitment to helping others—qualities shaped in part as the eldest sibling in her family. “Being the oldest comes with responsibility, but it also helped me become a good leader,” she said.

During her time at Questa High School, Rael was active in numerous activities, including basketball management, National Honor Society, community service projects, and volleyball—a sport she speaks about with genuine enthusiasm.

Raised in this tight-knit rural community, Rael says her childhood was filled with outdoor adventures and family traditions, many of which took place at the home of her maternal grandmother, Roxanne. “My family and I love to BBQ and ride horses together,” she said.

Her parents’ dedication to their professions—her mother as a teacher and her father in technology support at Holy Cross Hospital—instilled in her a strong work ethic. “I really learned to appreciate the work teachers put in when I saw how hard my mom worked during school and after hours,” Rael said. “My dad worked long hours at the hospital, too. It showed me what commitment looks like.”

This fall, Rael will attend the University of New Mexico-Taos, where she plans to pursue a pre-science degree before applying to the nursing program. “I really want to help people and give them a sense of comfort when they need it most,” she said.

In addition to her career goals, Rael hopes to remain involved in Questa’s volleyball program, this time as a coach. She has applied for a coaching position at the high school. “I’m hoping to use my skills and pass on my experience to younger students,” she said. With training in first aid and CPR, Rael also sees the coaching opportunity as a step toward her broader aspirations in healthcare.

Several Questa educators played a pivotal role in Rael’s academic journey. She credited Mrs. Cintas for encouraging her love of writing, Mr. McDonald for teaching valuable math and financial literacy skills, and Mrs. León for deepening her understanding of the Spanish language.

Her senior year efforts paid off, earning her several scholarships. “My parents really encouraged me to apply,” Rael said. “It was a lot of work, but it was worth it.” She received scholarships from Kit Carson Electric Cooperative, Questa Credit Union, Chevron, the Lawrence A. Ortega Memorial Scholarship and Velarde Brandt.
Reflecting upon graduation, Rael said she enjoyed the celebrations and found inspiration in the keynote speech by Johnny James. As she prepares for what comes next, she offers advice to those following in her footsteps: “Live in the moment and don’t take anything for granted.”

With her strong sense of purpose, commitment to community, and drive to serve others, Delilah Rael represents the promise of Questa’s future.