Olivia Yamamoto
Olivia Yamamoto
Coronado High School
Class of 2019
Politics are among the many interests of Coronado High School Valedictorian Olivia Yamamoto. Even before she was legally allowed to vote she began making big political waves affecting the lives of Nevada’s youth through bills that she confidently presented in front of state lawmakers. That she had the courage and confidence to do so speaks volumes about her character, while the substance of the bills–protecting equal rights for girls and the LGBTQ+ community–reflects a nature that is compassionate, inclusive and powerful. With plans to study science, technology and international relations at Georgetown University, it’s clear that she is committed to continuing her work and determined to make the world a better place for all, and for that, Olivia Yamamoto is– A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8
Sports/Clubs/Activities:
- Varsity Golf, 2015-2016
- Orchestra, 2015-2016
- Mu Alpha Theta, 2015-2018
- Unicef Club, 2017-2018
- AP Executive Council, 2016-Present
- Mock Trial, 2016-2017
- Every Fifteen Minutes, 2018
- Coronado High School Homework Committee, 2017
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Nevada Youth Legislature Scholarship, 2019
- School Board Student Advisory Committee Scholarship, 2019; Clark County Education Association Scholarship, 2019; Clark County School District Retired Teachers’ Association Scholarship, 2019; Georgetown Scholarship, 2019
- -Rotary Youth Leadership Award, 2018
- AP Capstone Diploma & Scholar with Distinction, 2018
- Nevada Youth Legislature Chair, 2015-Present
- Trial By Peers, 2016-Present
- Clark County School Board Student Advisory Committee, 2016-Present
- YMCA Conference on National Affairs, 2017-2019
- Female Wave of Change, 2018
- My Brother’s Keeper Conference Panelist, 2019
- Muscular Dystrophy Association Camp Counselor, 2017 & 2018
- Three Square Food Bank, 2015-Present
- Christ Church Episcopal Homeless Outreach, 2017-Present
- MDA Muscle Walk, 2017 & 2018
- Anti-Defamation League Walk Against Hate, 2017
Why is environmentalism such a hot button for you? “We, as humans, are causing too much detriment to our earth and now we must act to minimize our harmful impacts. I want to encourage peaceful, diplomatic relations between nations that will foster a plan of action to reverse the course of environmental degradation.”
You’ve had some great accomplishments with Nevada Youth Legislature. Can you tell us about the bills you shaped? “In my last term, I presented my bill idea to form curricula teaching high schoolers on topics such as sexual consent, sexual assault and rape to the Nevada Legislature. In 2017, it was signed into law by the governor. In my second term, my bill (SB97) on eliminating the gay and trans panic defense was just recently passed by both the Senate and the Assembly and is now awaiting the governor’s signature.”
Who is someone you look up to and why? “Laverne Cox is my inspiration. Laverne is a beautiful, talented woman who never compromises any part of her identity for anyone. She is the epitome of self-confidence and grace, and remains a role model for unapologetically being herself, always.”
Tell us why you enjoy volunteering at the Muscular Dystrophy Camp? “My experience there has been life changing, emotional and transformative. From playing football, singing campfire songs with s’mores, and, of course, wheelchair Mario Kart, I loved every second of my time at camp. These children have the biggest hearts, and I cannot wait to see what waves they make in the world someday.”
Jackie Smith
Jackie Smith
Foothill High School
Class of 2019
Foothill High School Valedictorian Jackie Smith is a firm believer that hard work trumps talent any day. And while she does possess a range of natural ability, she has relied strongly on perseverance and tenacity to earn her stripes and accolades. Academics is where she’s exerted the most effort, always striving for straight A’s and willing to go the extra mile to achieve it. Outside the classroom she is persistent in improving herself as a dancer and dance teacher with a passion that’s earned her a coveted spot on the University of Utah dance team. Proving her own philosophy that, “You become unstoppable once you learn to never give up,” Jackie Smith is– A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8
Sports/Activities/Clubs:
- -JV Dance Team, 2015-2016
- -Varsity Dance Team, 2016-Present
- -Marching Band Member, 2015-2016
- -Wind Ensemble Top band 2nd Chair–Flute, 2015-2016
- -National Honor Society, 2016-Present
- -Link Crew, 2017-Present
- -Mu Alpha Theta, 2018-2019
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- -University of Utah Freshman Academic Achievement Scholarship, 2019-2023
- -Principal’s Award, 2019
- -English Department Award, 2019
- -High Honors Graduate Award, 2019
- -Falcon Staff Scholarship Recipient, 2019
- -National Hip Hop UDA Nationals–2nd Place, 2019
- -National Game Day UDA Nationals–4th Place, 2019
- -National Pom UDA Nationals–5th Place, 2019
- -JV Dance Team Jazz Excellence Award, 2016
- -Varsity Dance Team 110% Award, 2018; Excellence Award, 2019
- -Nevada All-State Academic Team, 2019
- -Smalley Elementary Harvest Festival Volunteer, 2017 & 2018
- -Spread the Word Nevada Volunteer, 2016-2019
- -Mardi Gras Marathon Volunteer, 2017-2019
- -Las Vegas Catholic Mission Volunteer, 2015
What are your plans for after high school? “I plan on attending the University of Utah to study cellular and molecular biology. As a pre-med student, my goal is to study as hard as possible in order to be accepted into medical school so I may pursue a career as a dermatologist. I am also so excited to dance on the University of Utah Dance Team.”
How big of a role does natural talent play in your success? “I would consider myself a fairly successful person, but this is due to my hard work rather than my natural talent or intelligence. I believe that someone that works 10x harder than someone who has raw talent will be just as successful, if not more.”
You really put yourself out there to audition for the University of Utah dance team. What did you gain from that experience? “I drove 6 hours to a brand-new city to try out for a dance team of a university where I know no one. From that experience, I’ve gained confidence, mental strength, and the ability to be independent and focus on bettering myself.”
Who is someone you look up to and why? “I’ve been lucky to have many role models, but there is no one I look up to more than my parents. My mom has been the best example of an independent woman, going through life with the strength and grace I hope to attain. My dad is the most hard-working man I have ever met, and his sense of humor and strong moral values are something I also hope to carry within myself.”
Erika Sagum
Erika Sagum
Liberty High School
Class of 2019
Liberty High School Valedictorian Erika Sagum believes that a positive mindset is important, no matter the situation and despite all odds. As someone with great aspirations, she’s experienced the clouds of self-doubt, but rather than giving up when a challenge presents itself, she chooses to persevere. Driven by a strong work ethic, she is diligent, organized and collaborative, always willing to go that extra mile to pursue her passions, sharpen her skills and make the most out of any given situation. Above all else, she seeks to set a positive example for others, believing strongly that “the tools for changing the world are in our hands,” and for that, Erika Sagum is– A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.75
Sports/Clubs:
- Track and Field, 2015-2016
- Student Council, 2017-Present; Junior Class Secretary, 2017-2018; Student Body Second Vice President, 2018-Present
- Class Committee, 2016-Present
- National Honors Society, 2017-Present
- Poetry Club, 2018-Present; Treasurer, 2018-Present
- Key Club, 2015-2017
Awards/Community Service:
- Academic Scholar, 2016-2018
- Advance Placement Award–AP Language and Composition, 2017-2018
- Nevada All-State Academic Team, 2018-2019
- Guinn Millennium Scholarship
- Nevada Association of Student Councils (NASC), 2018-2019
- NASC Southern Region Zone Workshop Presenter & Junior Counselor, 2018
- NASC State Workshop Presenter, 2018
- NASC Southern Region Midlevel Junior Counselor, 2019
- NASC State Junior Counselor, 2019
- Spring Valley Hospital Volunteer, 2016-2017
- Clean the World, 2016
- Three Square Food Bank of Nevada, 2017
- The Shade Tree, 2018
- Spread the Word Nevada, 2018-Present
How did you settle on nursing as a career path? “Nursing is a career that will allow me to be of service to others while working through new challenges each day. I chose nursing as a profession because it is an occupation where you never stop learning, and I aspire to continue my education after working as a registered nurse by earning a doctorate. Furthering my education will allow me to take on leadership roles in the health services field.”
You weren’t initially accepted into student council. How did you turn that around and what did you learn from the experience? “When I entered high school, I was shy and lacked confidence. This reflected in my student council interview, and I was not accepted. Despite my devastation, I chose to work hard, make my presence known, and continued to support student council as a class committee member. Since then, I have become more sociable and have grown as a leader. I have learned that I must work to overcome any obstacles that are preventing me from achieving my ambitions.”
What are some of your major student council accomplishments? “With my position, I am able to help create a positive school culture for my peers and impact lives around me. One of my notable accomplishments was being selected to present a leadership workshop at student council regional and state conferences, as well as serve as a Junior Counselor to underclassmen.”
Why does the mission of Spread the Word Nevada resonate with you so strongly? “Growing up, I lived in a low-income community and attended Rex Bell Elementary School–one of the schools that was adopted by the organization. By far, it’s been my favorite community service organization to work with. I have been positively impacted by Spread the Word Nevada, as a recipient of their services and as a volunteer to their organization.”
Antonia Rose Librizzi
Antonia Rose Librizzi
Green Valley High School
Class of 2019
Green Valley High School Valedictorian Antonia Librizzi is, by nature, an extremely persistent person. When she decides to do something, she’ll “do that thing no matter how hard it is.” This characteristic is a point of pride and one that has resulted in numerous successes on the stage and in the classroom, the penultimate being her status as the only female valedictorian of her class. Along the way, she’s encountered set-backs and naysayers, but pushing past the hard parts is all a matter of “believing you can and visualizing success.” For following through with her vision, persevering through the tough times, and always staying true to herself, Antonia Librizzi is– A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8
Activities:
- Theatre, 2015-Present
- Ensemble: An Evening with Will, 2015-2018; Broadway and Beyond, 2015-2018; Project Center Stage, 2016; Sister Act, 2016; That’s Not How I Remember It, 2017; Mamma Mia!, 2018; The Weight of Words, 2018 (“Save Me” Soloist)
- Roles: Nunsense–Sister Mary Hubert, 2017; Quilters–Sarah Bonham, 2017; From the Mouths of Babes–Ms. Havisham, 2018; The Funeral Parlor–Susan, 2018; The Miracle Worker–Aunt Ev, 2018; Next to Normal–Natalie, 2018; Matilda–Mrs. Phelps, 2019; Murder’s in the Heir–Fiona Starkweather, 2019; Seven Nuns in Las Vegas Mother Superior, 2019
- Make-Up Artist: The Lion King Jr., 2016
- Director: 13 Ways to Screw Up Your College Interview, 2019
- Junior Representative, 2017-2018
- Theatre Awards Night Organization Committee Chair, 2018
- Social Committee Chairperson, 2018-Present
- National Honor Society, 2016-Present
- International Thespian Society, 2016-Present
- Smith Center’s Young Ambassadors Program, 2016-Present
- Interact Club, 2015-2017; Vice President, 2016-2017
- C.H.A.N.C.E. Club, 2015-2017; President, 2016-2017
- Teens Making a Difference, 2012-2018
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Most Improved Award–Theatre II, 2016
- Outstanding Showcase Performance, 2016
- Best Actor/Actress in Quilters, 2018
- Best Actress Superlative, 2019
- Valedictorian Candidate, 2019
- Rotary Student of the Month, 2019
- 1st Place in Henderson Library Teen Writing Contest, 2019
- AP Scholar with Distinction Award, 2018
- Runner up for Scholastic Essay Contest, 2015
- Student of the Month–AP Spanish Language and Culture, 2017
- Thurman White Award, 2015
- UNLV’s Provost Scholarship, 2019; Honors Access Scholarship, 2019
- CCEA Scholarship, 2019
- SUU and PLU Presidential Scholarships, 2019
- National Honor Society
How does it feel to have achieved valedictorian status? “This is something I have been working towards my entire life. There have been a lot of people who didn’t believe in me. I’m often times underestimated, but I use that to my advantage, taking their criticism and using it to push myself to prove them wrong.”
What fuels your passion for theatre? “I’ve been doing theatre since I was 5 years old. Every time I walk on stage I feel like a different person, and knowing that I have the ability to change opinions and the way people feel after a performance is inspirational. Theatre has given me so much confidence and taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to.”
Why do you want to pursue an education and career in psychology and criminology? “From the second I walked into my first psychology class I knew this was what I wanted to do with my life. Every second of the class was captivating. I chose criminology specifically because I’ve always been intrigued by murder mysteries and shows like ‘How it Really Happened’, and I want to be able to actually understand why people do the things that they do.”
Do you have a favorite quote? How does it apply to your life? “I like to live by the quote, ‘No matter how many times I fall down, I always get back up,’ from the film, Spiderman: Into the Spider-Verse. Life is not easy and sometimes it throws a curveball at you that you weren’t quite ready for, but you can’t give up or stop trying to rise above the challenge.”
Tony Lang
Tony Lang
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2019
“Experience is the best teacher”, says Palo Verde High School senior Tony Lang, for whom success and failure carry equal weight. The former is to be celebrated as a hard-fought-for achievement, while the latter is absorbed as a lesson in resilience and perseverance. When faced with a challenging scenario, whether it’s on the field, at home, in the classroom or in student government, he tackles it head on with resolve to never back down, knowing that regardless of the outcome, he’ll walk forward in life a better person because of it. Taking nothing for granted, and every day as an opportunity to be better, faster and stronger than before, Tony Lang is– A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.2
Sports/Clubs:
- Varsity Football, 2015-2016/2018-2019
- Varsity Basketball, 2015-2019
- Varsity Track, 2018-2019
- Student Body Vice President, 2018-2019
- Black Student Union, 2018-2019
Awards/Community Service:
- Nevada State Champion for Basketball, 2015-2016
- State Runner-Up–Clark High School Basketball, 2016-2017
- Cornerstone Church Mexico Mission, 2017/2018
- Cornerstone Church Panama Mission, 2018
- Student of the Quarter, 2019
How did it feel to win the state championship for basketball? “It’s always nice to win a state championship, but being able to win it freshman year was extraordinary. It showed me the work I’d have to put in if I wanted to get another one and allowed me to meet so many people throughout that whole season.”
What is your strongest personal quality? “I believe I’m a pretty optimistic and outgoing person. I’ve developed relationships with classmates who never thought they’d have a consistent friendship with someone like me, and those relationships helped with certain projects or even events I’ve had to run for student council.”
You have a habit of going “above and beyond”. What sparked this winning approach? “Growing up in a single working mother household alongside three older siblings, I developed an early sense of responsibility. I’ve had to wake myself up, get ready, and walk (or catch the bus) since the 2nd grade. With that responsibility came a strong sense of determination to not just be another statistic in terms of fatherless African-American males who go on to be average.”
You are definitely not one to quit. What’s your secret to staying on course? “As someone who has 8 classes (5 AP periods), the responsibilities of student council, the challenge of trying to be good in sports, and the desire to be a good friend, life is challenging, but never enough to make me quit. I remind myself that the valuable things in life don’t come easy, and the best ideas don’t come out of the blue. I have to take everything for what it’s worth and use that experience to help myself out in the future.”
Tanner Rubeli
Tanner Rubeli
The Meadows School
Class of 2019
If there is one thing The Meadows School senior Tanner Rubeli prioritizes as much or more than being an outstanding student, committed athlete and exuberant entertainer, it’s spreading kindness. “These days,” he says, “people are always so concerned with how different everyone is from one another. Yet, I find that this is not the case.” To prove his case, he makes a determined effort every day to connect with others through small, yet impactful actions. It might be as simple as telling a joke, offering encouragement or smiling at someone, but the intention–to make his peers feel like they’re all on the same team, united in an effort to live life to the fullest–is a noble one. For this positive, inclusive and enthusiastic approach, Tanner Rubeli is– A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.58
Drama/Sports/Clubs:
- The Meadows School Theatre, 2016-2018
- Suite Surrender–Otis, 2016
- Love’s Labour’s Lost: The Musical–Ensemble, 2016
- Macbeth–Donalbain, 2016
- Seussical The Musical–Wickersham Brother, 2016
- Almost, Maine–Steve 2017
- The Birds–Ensemble, Priest, Oracle & Inspector, 2017
- Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat–Benjamin, 2017
- Blithe Spirit– Bradman, 2018
- Romeo & Juliet–Friar Laurence, 2018
- The Meadows School Tech Theatre, 2016-2018; Greek Mythology (lights), 2016; Little Women (set), 2016; Legally Blonde (sound), 2017; Still Life with Iris (stage —manager), 2017; Wizard of Oz (set & backstage manager), 2018
- Varsity Cross Country, 2015-2018
- Varsity Wrestling, 2018-2019; Co-Captain, 2019
- Swing Dance Club Founder/President, 2016-2019
- Theatre Club Co-President, 2018-2019; Historian, 2016-2018
- Honor Code Committee Co-President, 2016-2019
- French Club Member, 2015-2019
- National Honor Society, 2017-2019; National French Honor Society, 2016-2019
Awards/Community Service:
- Academic Award–H French III, 2017
- Academic Award–H English Literature & Composition, 2018
- Academic Award– Acting I, 2017
- National French Contest Bronze Medal, 2016; Silver Medal, 2017/2018
- Cross Country 2A Regional Champions, 2015/2017/2018
- Cross Country 2A State Runner-Up, 2017
- National Honor Society 2017-2019
- Beyond Limits Running 2013-2019
- Boys & Girls Club, 2015-2019
- Pali Adventures Summer Camp Counselor, 2018
What accomplishment are you most proud of? “I am most proud of inspiring campers and co-workers alike to be the best version of themselves at Pali Adventures Summer Camp. Pali is a sleepaway camp that I attended as a kid. As soon as I could, I applied to be a camp counselor so that I could play the role that I had always wanted to. I inspire and encourage campers to take leaps of faith, have fun and never give up.”
Is it difficult or scary for you to be in the spotlight? How do you prepare? “To be honest, it is not scary for me to be in the spotlight. I love it. It’s fun. It’s crazy. It’s who I am! And the wonderful camaraderie of cast members is exhilarating. To get out there and give a good show, I get myself as hyped as I can with some dancing, warm-ups, and maybe some shadowboxing, of course.”
What is your strongest personal quality? “I believe that my strongest personal quality is that I am brave. This has inspired me to not only ask bold questions in the classroom, but take grand leaps of faith in my life that bring me to new heights.”
It seems like you just sort of fell into wrestling. How did that happen? “I’ll admit, I became involved with Varsity Wrestling on a dare, but I instantly loved it! Starting it as a senior was extraordinarily challenging, but by working as hard as I could, I ended up having a wonderful and successful year in it! The intensity, difficulty, and adrenaline-inducing nature of the sport is addictive and enthralling!”
Karsonne Winters
Karsonne Winters
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2019
Football, it seems, is in Palo Verde High School senior Karsonne Winters’ blood. He’s been a “baller” since he could walk, and his lifelong love and dedication to the game is clear. Arduous training, long hours studying and emulating the greats have paid off for this young athlete, who recently accepted a full-ride scholarship to Portland State University. Rightfully proud of his accomplishments, he remains grateful for the “village” that raised him, those who’ve coached him, and the heroes that have inspired him, while humbly taking on a sense of responsibility to lead his peers by example. Charismatic, competitive and driven to succeed, Karsonne Winters is– A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.62
Sports/Clubs:
- -LVR Club Baseball, 2015-2018
- -JV Football, 2016-2017
- -Varsity Football, 2017-2019; Captain 2018-2019
- -Varsity Baseball, 2017-2018
- -All American Pride 7v7 Team, 2017-2018
- -Panther Pageant Contestant, 2019
- -Student Council Representative, 2017-2018
- -Student Body Vice President, 2018-2019
- -Spiderman Fan Club President, 2015-2019
Awards/Community Service:
- -Portland State University (PSU) Commitment and Full Ride Athletic Scholarship, 2019
- -Region Champion–Varsity Baseball, 2017-2018
- -State Champion–Varsity Baseball, 2017-2018
- -2x Varsity Football First Team All-League Punter, 2017-2019
- -First Team All-League Safety–Varsity Football, 2018-2019
- -Second Team All-State Safety–Varsity Football, 2018-2019
- -Make-A-Wish Walk, 2015
Who is someone you look up to and why? “Honestly, my brother Grey and his pops, Ed. Those two men have kept it real since the day they came into my life. I have always strived to be as wise and caring as those men. They have made me the man I am today, and I couldn’t thank them enough for that.”
Why is playing football such a big part of your life? “Football has been ingrained within my membrane since I could walk. My father instilled that love for the game within me, and I appreciate him for that. I have put everything I’ve got into this sport just hoping for a shot. Idolizing the greats such as Ed Reed, Barry Sanders and Eric Berry, I have dreamt of making it to the next level. Fortunately, I did.”
What pressures do you deal with as an athlete and how do you approach them? “There’s pressure every day as an athlete. We are the examples at school. Our peers see us on the main stage more than anyone, so our choices impact more people than we know. Having to lead yourself while in turn leading others is rough. I have to stay on my game at all times, because I want to see improvement in myself and the world.”
What was it like being Varsity Football Captain? “It was an amazing experience. I learned a lot about leadership and how to interact with my teammates. Day in and day out, I had to set an example for those guys, because we were so young as a team. I’m proud of my boys.”
Arthur Acuna
Arthur Acuna
Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2019
Bishop Gorman High School senior Arthur Acuna attributes his goal-oriented, high-achieving nature to his “single-minded determination to keep putting one foot in front of the other, despite challenges.” He fuels this forward momentum with a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done and a positive mindset, whether he’s working on an Eagle Scout project, powering through a difficult English paper, or tackling a grueling hike at the Grand Canyon. Some have called him “stubborn”, he prefers “tenacious”; either way, he’s capitalizing on his strengths to make his education and career dreams come true, elevating Arthur Acuna to– A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.15
Clubs/Community Service:
- National Honor Society (NHS)–English, Science & French, 2017-2019
- Math Club, 2016-2017
- Mu Alpha Theta, 2017-2019
- Best Buddies, 2015-2018
- Speech and Debate, 2015-2016
- Robotics Club, 2015-2019
- Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada, 2016-2019
- Best Buddies, 2015-2018
- Alzheimer’s Association, 2015-2018
- Arthritis Foundation, 2015-2018
- Boy Scouts of America, 2006-2019
Scholarships/Awards:
- QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship to Princeton University, 2019
- Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation Scholarship Semifinalist, 2018
- S. Presidential Scholars Program Candidate, 2019
- Coolidge Senator, 2018
- National Merit Semifinalist, 2018-2019
- VEX Robotics “Judges’ Award”, 2018-2019
- AP Scholar with Distinction, 2018
- Le Grand Concours Silver Medal, 2016-2018
- Le Grand Concours Bronze Medal, 2015-2016
- Scholastic Art and Writing Award–Gold Key Winner, 2018-2019
- BGHS Student of the Year Academic Plaque, 2015-2018
- Eagle Scout Rank, 2016
What interests you about robotics? “Robotics involves aspects of computer science, physics, human anatomy, biology, and even math—all subjects that I enjoy. Working on robots can be extremely exciting, challenging, and frustrating at the same time. It involves a tedious process of discovery and experimentation, trial and error. Its greatest reward is, of course, getting the cursed thing do what it’s supposed to do and then some.”
Do you see engineering in your future? “I want to pursue engineering, but I’m not sure what branch. At the moment, I’m fascinated by biochemical and electrical engineering. Regardless of what path I choose, I want to innovate to improve another’s quality of life, whether it’s through medicinal resources, prosthetic limb technology or artificial intelligence.”
Your Eagle Scout designation has been over a decade in the making. What have you gained from the journey? “Being a member of Boy Scout Troop 143 has given me unique service opportunities at a very young age. Looking back, I’m astonished that I was able to be part of so many worthwhile projects. It has shaped me into a person able to contribute to his school, parish and community.”
Have you had to rely on anyone for support to get through the tough times? “I’ve been very lucky to be part of a group of friends who not only challenge me to do well academically but also provide the encouragement I need during times of extreme pressure and heavy workload. We’ve organized a casual support group for anyone who needed help with homework, or just wanted to take a break, play video games, and chat. For me, this group of reliable friends absolutely made the difference between surviving and thriving in high school.”
Lacey M. Huszcza
Lacey M. Huszcza
By Callie Thomas
Las Vegas entertains in so many ways, but it’s the music that conjures that feeling of excitement in the millions of people that visit our city, as well as those that are proud to call it home. From the breathtaking synchronized playlist of the Bellagio Fountains and the adventurous and inspirational soundtracks of Cirque Du Soleil, to must-see headliner concerts and our very own Philharmonic, music is the heartbeat of Vegas. Nobody knows that better than Lacey Huszcza, pronounced (HOO-shuh). “I’m thrilled to be in my first six months as Executive Director of the Las Vegas Philharmonic. The best thing is that I get to work with fantastic musicians and a wonderful artistic mind in Music Director Donato Cabrera and with so many Las Vegans,” she beamed. “I have the joy of collaborating with other arts and community leaders, as well as talking with donors and subscribers that are moved by the music. So often I get to help awaken possibility in other people. That is where the magic really happens.”
Music has always been a part of Huszcza’s life, so it was inevitable that she would gravitate to a career where she could nurture her passion. “I grew up in Colorado, and like a lot of people, played piano and then started playing in my school band. I was a French Horn player, and I loved participating in music of every kind. I played in youth orchestra, in my high school jazz band, and in our wind ensemble.” One of her favorite activities was to help coordinate the annual Music & Blossom Festival in her community. “I was in high school, so my coordination related primarily to the band competitions, but the festival had a parade, jazz band competitions, an arts and crafts fair, a carnival—it had everything! I loved how the whole community was a part of it. It brought people together, drove tourists to town and highlighted what made our city special.” Several years later when Huszcza was about to graduate from college and had determined that a career as a professional musician wasn’t for her, she found an internship at the Arvada Center for the Arts & Humanities, which is where her career path was solidified. “I worked with the fundraising team and learned the importance of donations and improved my skills in that area,” she said. From there Huszcza moved to L.A. and began working with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and helped fundraise, create events and put a spotlight on the artists, all while getting her MBA at Pepperdine University to ensure she had the business background to one day run an orchestra. She and her husband Dan, a freelance trumpet player whom she met while at the University of Colorado Boulder, moved to Vegas last year to begin her adventure with the Las Vegas Philharmonic.
The LV Phil’s mission is to inspire a lifelong appreciation of music through performances and educational experiences that will enhance the lives of residents and the culture of the city. Over the last twenty years, the LV Phil has performed more than 150 concerts and youth concert series and has served over 250,000 students. This May, the Philharmonic will present the Season Finale concert, “Ode to Joy”, performing Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 (which drew inspiration from the French poem titled Ode to Joy) & Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto. “I am excited that I get to lead the Las Vegas Philharmonic into the future and contribute new dimensions to its legacy,” says Lacey. “I believe that art done well creates a space for emotion and expression of that emotion. Art can lift us up or help us sit back in thought. Art can provide clarity or create questions that make us think deeply about ourselves and our surroundings. My good friend and conductor Jeffrey Kahane once said that for an orchestra to truly fulfill its highest potential, it must be an ‘instrument of the community’, and that is my hope for the Philharmonic in Las Vegas.”
Dr. Jeannette Nee
Dr. Jeannette Nee
By Callie Thomas
In life, each decision leads one toward a specific path, and as those decisions gain momentum, they create a fabric of adventures, challenges, loss and love. For Dr. Jeannette Nee, the heart of the matter has always been about making a difference. Whether that’s improving the lives of others as an interventional cardiologist with Cardiovascular Consultants of Nevada, now a division of Healthcare Partners, or fostering and caring for animals through The Animal Foundation.
Dr. Nee received her degree in molecular biochemistry and biophysics from Yale and did her cardiology fellowship at Stanford, which places a heavy emphasis on research. Her decision to move toward the research side extended her stay at Stanford by two years doing laboratory research, but a desire to work directly with patients moved her to Henderson in 1997 where she became part of the cardiovascular team at Cardiovascular Consultants of Nevada. “For nearly twenty years I had the privilege of improving the health of my community, one patient at a time,” says Nee. “I retired at the end of 2016 and looked for rewarding volunteer opportunities that involved physical activities, but were low stress, especially after having been in a high stress profession for decades.” Over her career, Nee has volunteered in emergency rooms, rape crisis programs and battered women’s shelters. She and her husband, also a physician, had even volunteered for six months at a medical clinic in Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea and wanted a change. “I’ve always had a love for animals and looked for opportunities to work with them.”
That decision led to volunteering at Spirit Therapies, which uses therapy horses to help people with physical or mental challenges, but it was thirty miles one way from her home. Although it was an active and highly rewarding experience, she eventually transitioned to volunteering at the Nevada SPCA. After socializing with the shelter dogs and cats and walking their dogs, Nee’s desire to foster animals led her to The Animal Foundation. “Fostering promotes effective socialization and improves an animal’s chance of getting adopted,” she said. “I realized I could help, not to mention the sheer fun of interacting with kittens and puppies!” The Nee family started by fostering a puppy for The Animal Foundation’s Best in Show fundraiser last year and became hooked. This year’s Best in Show event takes place later this month and involves over 100 volunteers. “After my first foster experience, I became one of the many volunteers and, so far, have fostered two puppies and twenty-two kittens!”
Nee’s entire family have enjoyed fostering animals for the foundation, and even their yellow lab, Max has gotten into the act, being a very kind and patient big brother to the other animals. “Some of our funniest laugh ‘til it hurts moments have been with the foster pets. I believe that caring for them has helped bring my family even closer together.” The Animal Foundation’s mission is to provide a humane and compassionate community for all animals and to save the lives of all healthy and treatable animals in the Las Vegas Valley. “Like people, each animal has their own personality, problems and issues but communicates differently. It can be very fulfilling to figure out how to help one particular animal and see them improve with each visit.” As a doctor, Nee also acknowledges the health benefits of fostering. “Interacting with animals lowers blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides and provides opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities and socialization.”
Dr. Nee has led a very successful life and is proud of her career and her two daughters. Although her life has not been without its challenges and losses, she attributes her accomplishments to being very focused, determined and independent, and having a strong work ethic that she learned from her parents. “You can never work too hard. Always do your best and never give up a struggle worth fighting for.”
