A Step Above – Taylor Calmelat

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013

She’s played a princess, an orphan and a noble matriarch, but just about any role suits Palo Verde High School senior Taylor Calmelat. Her myriad talents range from singing to comedy to directing with a love of all things theatrical. Spirited, engaging and full of winning charm, Taylor puts a lot of heart into the characters she plays but also shows a lot of character in setting clear goals for herself. Whether it’s through the worlds she helps create on stage or the life she leads every day, she’s an inspiration. For all that and more, Taylor Calmelat stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.0

Activities/Community Service

• Concert Choir, 2011-12
• Annie in PVHS Theatre’s Annie, 2011
• Cinderella in PVHS Theatre’s Cinderella, 2012
• Lady Montague in PVHS Theatre’s Romeo & Juliet, 2012
• PVHS Theatre’s Student Directed One Acts (Director), 2012
• International Thespian Society (President), 2012
• Comedy Team Pun Intended, 2010-12
• Pep Club, 2012
• Lupus Walk, 2011
• Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat, 2012
• Creative Minds, 2012
• Tunes for Tots, 2012

Awards

• Shining Star Award, 2011-12
• Varsity Letter (Drama), 2012
• Hispanic Recognition Scholar, 2012
• 2^nd Place, Pun Intended, Shakespeare Festival, 2012
• 1^st Place Gold, Anaheim Heritage Festival Concert Choir, 2012
• Superior Rating, One Act Thespian State Conference, 2012
• Excellent Rating, Thespian State Conference Monologues, 2010
• Excellent Rating, Thespian State Conference Solo Musical, 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I’m most proud of being elected the Thespian President because it gives me the chance to change the way my community views the theatre, to encourage other students to participate, and to educate others on what being a thespian really means.”

Overcoming Peer Pressure: “Sometimes I get invited to parties that have illegal substances. I decline these invitations even though most of my friends will be there. I’m not going to put my future in jeopardy just to have a drink or two. I’m usually home with my mom memorizing scripts or doing homework so that I actually have somewhere to go after high school other than a party.”

Cause for Concern: “I would become president of an organization that I am actually already a part of called Tunes for Tots! It is a worldwide organization that gathers a group of young performers around the community and holds free concerts to raise money for children’s charities. It not only brings culture and music to the community, it also is for a great cause.”

A Step Above – Brianna Becker

Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2013

A winning golf game isn’t about sinking a hole in one every time. It’s about discipline, consistency and follow through, all qualities that are exemplified by Faith Lutheran High School senior and championship golfer Brianna Becker. With unbridled optimism, intensive practice and the most serious focus, she’s turned a passion for the game into a scholarship to the University of Hawaii, but her dreams don’t stop there. Brianna isn’t setting any limits, because she knows any achievement she can imagine is possible when she’s got faith, family and the will to succeed on her side. That kind of boundless ambition helps elevate Brianna Becker to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 3.9

Sports/Awards/Community Service

• Faith Lutheran Golf Team, 2009-Present
• University of Hawaii Golf Scholarship, 2013
• First Tee Most Improved, 2009
• First Tee Judgment Award, 2010
• Vee Massi Award, 2010
• Regional Individual Champion, 2009 & 2011-12
• Regional Team Champions, 2009-12
• NIAA State Team Champions (Division 1-A), 2012
• NIAA Individual State Champion (Division 1-A), 2012
• Sunset Player of the Year, 2010 & 2012
• Las Vegas City Junior Champion, 2007 & 2010-11
• Tournament of Champions Winner, 2012
• Volunteer with First Tee of Southern Nevada, 2008-Present

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of signing my national letter of intent to the University of Hawaii and winning the individual state championship. I have worked so hard for these past nine years to get a golf scholarship for college. After signing to go to Hawaii, it showed that all my hard work paid off! Winning the state championship was also a huge goal of mine. Since it was my senior year, my goal was to actually win a state tournament. I worked so hard for this state tournament and it was such a great feeling to actually win it!”

Brianna Looks Up To: “I look up to my mom and dad. They have always worked hard to give my sister and I the best things in life and they do so much for us. They always help me with golf, whether it’s taking me to lessons or driving me to tournaments. They have sent me to good schools and they have helped me a lot in life. I am very thankful for both of them.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults today is they don’t get involved in something productive like sports, theater, or other extracurricular activities. People who are involved in extracurricular activities usually do better in school and are less likely to get in trouble. I would encourage all students to get involved in something after school.”

A Step Above – Julie Borzage

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2013

All the world’s a stage, and Bishop Gorman High School senior Julie Borzage is happy to be one of the players. Whether she’s performing on stage or playing an instrument, this talented young woman’s exceptional and enthusiastic love for the arts shines through, no matter what role she’s taking on. From singing her heart out to helping improve the lives of others, her positive outlook has driven her to find strength within through dedication, faith and a clear moral compass. With resilience on her side and the future in her hands, Julie Borzage rises to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.13

Activities/Community Service

• Gorman Gaels Theatre Guild, 2009-Present; Membership Director, 2012-Present
• Gorman Worship Choir – Singer, 2009-11; Pianist, 2011-12; Flautist, 2012-Present
• Drama Ministry at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2009-Present
• Nevada Youth Legislature, 2011-Present
• National Honor Society, 2011-Present
• Mu Alpha Theta (Math Honor Society), 2011-Present; VP, 2012-Present
• We the People, 2012-Present
• Volunteer at Summerlin Hospital, 2011-12
• Baptism Coordinator at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2012-Present

Awards

• Placement Exam Scholarship, 2009-Present
• Honor Thespian, 2010
• National Honor Thespian, 2012
• International Honor Thespian, 2012
• Student of the Year: Scholars Geometry & Chemistry, Spanish 3 Honors, 2011
• Mainstage Showcase, International Thespian Festival – Godspell, 2011
• 1^st Place, Nevada Thespians Southern Nevada Regional Competition – Skid Row, 2012
• 1^st Place, Nevada Thespians State Competition – Skid Row, 2012
• Student of the Year: Honors Physics & AP English Language 2012
• AP Scholar with Honor, 2012
• National Merit Semi-Finalist, 2012
• We the People District Champions, 2012

Goals & Aspirations: “I want to go to a great college (Stanford, Yale, Notre Dame, and UCLA are my top choices) and double major in anthropology and mathematics with a minor in music. While I’m there, I hope to participate in theater and make a ton of new friends. I just want to be happy doing whatever I do and learn as much as I can before I find that dream occupation.”

Julie Looks Up To: “St. Gianna Beretta Molla, because she is the perfect combination of the modern and traditional woman. She was well-educated and became a pediatrician when most women were stay-at-home mothers, but she was still devoted to her family.”

Part of the Solution: “We have been raised where it is accepted for an individual to do whatever he or she wants, no matter how it may affect others or themselves in the long run. Some children grow up not even knowing where to draw the line between doing what makes you feel good and prudently acting with the future in mind.  I want to be a part of this solution by setting a good example for my peers and being honest about my commitment to be responsible for my actions.”

A Step Above – Ashton Martin

Silverado High School
Class of 2013

The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and with fearless guides such as Silverado High School senior Ashton Martin to lead them, they are destined for big things. With a passion for music, education and helping out in the community, Ashton brings an indomitable spirit and a daring optimism to everything she does, building a future for herself and her peers without letting anything get in her way. Hard work keeps her focused, charity keeps her humble and perseverance keeps her striving to achieve greatness, all of which combine to elevate Ashton Martin to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.5

Sports/Activities

• Volleyball, 2009-11; Captain, 2009
• Varsity Golf, 2011-12
• Madrigal Choir, 2009-12
• Honor Choir, 2009-12; Soprano I Section Leader, 2011-12
• All State Choir, 2009-12
• Student Council, 2011-Present; Student Body VP, 2012
• Youth Advisory Council for Water District, 2012
• British Memory Talent Show, 2012; Event Chair, 2012
• Senior Class Committee, 2012

Awards/Community Service

• State Runner Up in Solo & Ensemble, 2009-12
• Command Performance Winner (Women’s Ensemble), 2010
• Section Leader, CCSD Honor Choir, 2011-Present
• President of Choir, 2012
• National Honor Society, 2012
• Engineering Club VP, 2012
• Operation Smile Club, 2010-Present; Treasurer, 2010-Present
• AP Ambassador, 2012
• Church Choir, 2012
• Caroling for Nursing Homes, 2009-12
• PB&J-A-Thon, 2011-12
• “Put on Christmas” for Shade Tree, 2011-12

Goals & Aspirations: “I hope to acquire straight As as a senior, get in the college of my choice with scholarships, and continue to grow my knowledge of the world. I hope to one day become a doctor in neuroscience or have a career in the music field. I am not sure where life will lead me, but I know I see myself successful and happy in whatever I choose.”

Ashton Looks Up To: “My grandmother. She is who has supported me most in my music and always knows the right thing to say to me. I will constantly look up to her, not only because she’s 5’11” but because she is the most passionate, kind and loving woman I have ever met. My grandma is not just someone I look up to; she is someone I aspire to be.”

Part of the Solution: “I think a key issue facing young adults today is not having a future in the failing economy. I have applied to being part of the youth council for the school board of trustees and if chosen to be a participant I will have my voice heard. Young adults are the key to the future. If youth issues are never looked upon, progress will be difficult to achieve.”

A Step Above – Tyler Topham

Green Valley High School
Class of 2013

Some people may fold when life gets difficult, but Green Valley High School senior Tyler Topham has a knack for staying focused under pressure, leading to big results. As a star linebacker on the football field, he’s helped guide his team to a division championship through impressive athletic skill and a sharp mind for the game. Warm and welcoming, with a steadfast dedication to his fellow students, he’s got big dreams for the future to go along with the victories of today. He knows exactly where he’s going, and that helps Tyler Topham rise to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.80

Sports/Activities

• Varsity Football, 2011-Present; Captain, 2012
• JV Football, 2010-11; Captain, 2010-11
• JV Basketball, 2010-11
• Varsity Volleyball, 2011-Present; JV Volleyball, 2010-11
• Band (Trumpet), 2009-10
• Boy Scouts of America, 2006-Present
• Summer Basketball, 2011

Awards

• Varsity Football NE Division Champions, 2012
• Henderson Bowl Victors, Great American Rivalry Series, 2011-12
• 2^nd Team All SE Division End for Football, 2011-12
• Defensive MVP (JV Football), 2010-11
• Lineman MVP (B Team Football), 2009-10
• AP Scholar with Honors, 2011-12
• Scholar Athlete (Football & Volleyball), 2011-12
• Nevada All State Academic Team (Football), 2011-12
• Science Student of the Month, 2009-10
• American Legion Award, 2008-09
• Eagle Scout Award, 2012

Tyler Looks Up To: “My grandfather has sacrificed and worked hard his whole life. He had to drop out of high school to help his father on the farm. My grandfather is a man born with nothing who worked hard to gain everything. He never brags or gloats, but he will do anything for his family. He is a man of his word and a man of generosity. He is a hero.”

Part of the Solution: “A problem a lot of young adults I see have is a sense of purpose. Many young adults I have met don’t know what to do with their lives and get into trouble. I would like to help young people learn to find hobbies, careers and an education so that they can have every opportunity to control their own destiny.”

Cause for Concern: “If I could be president of any nonprofit charity, it would be an organization like QuestBridge because I believe every hardworking student deserves to go to the college of their choice. The students of today are tomorrow’s future and I believe people need to be more active in giving students better opportunities to go to college.”

A Step Above – Landon Hsieh

Coronado High School
Class of 2013

Creativity and innovation are two of the most powerful forces at work in society, both of which come together through the artistic expression of Coronado High School senior Landon Hsieh. Cordial, outgoing and diverse in his talents, he strives to challenge himself in everything from dancing to artwork to student council and beyond, leading the way in creating distinctive work that is certain to inspire others and help build a legacy for his generation. He’s expanding his own horizons while looking toward new ones, and that places Landon Hsieh – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.777

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Track & Field, 2010
• Varsity Quiz, 2010-12
• All Male Dance Team, 2009
• National Art Honor Society, 2010-Present
• Hip Hop Dance Club, 2010-Present
• Dance Club President, 2010 & 2012; Vice President, 2011
• Coronado Culture Shock Host, 2010-12
• Student Council, 2009-Present
• Junior Class President, 2011-12
• Nevada Boys’ State Delegate, 2012
• Landsman Learning Center Tutor, 2010
• Arturo Cambeiro Elementary School Dance Teacher, 2010-11

Awards

• Harvard Book Prize Award, 2012
• 1^st Place, Journalism Awards, Best Editorial Cartoon, 2012
• Varsity Quiz State Champions, 2011-12
• All Male Dance Team National Qualifier, 2010
• Anime Vegas Masquerade Best Performance (Dance), 2010
• Anime Vendor Fair Judge’s Choice Award (Dance), 2012
• 2^nd Place, En Masse Entertainment Art Competition, 2012
• Las Vegas Review Journal Art Spotlight, 2007
• Las Vegas Review Journal R-Jeneration Spotlight, 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of organizing prom as the Junior Class President. It was one of the first responsibilities where I had a large influence from start to finish, from planning to fundraising to contacting. My classmates depended on me for one of their major events. Knowing that I was able to do something set this accomplishment apart.”

Landon is Successful Because: “The way I handle life is with precision and efficiency. When I dance, it is my life. When I draw, it is my life. I completely engross myself in what I do. I tell myself every day that I can become better. Pushing for that perfection manages to get me to stand out.”

Landon is Stronger and Wiser Because: “When I first took up student council at Coronado, I was definitely rattled. I never did leadership in middle school, and the change into it had me pulling my hair out. I overcame this hurdle by discovering a key element to leadership – communication. I listened. I talked. I learned. I know now that I must be ready to take risks and try new techniques.”

A Step Above – Katie Monaco

Coronado High School
Class of 2013

Never fear, never settle. That’s the determined outlook that drives Coronado High School senior Katie Monaco to rise above the crowd. Fastidious and focused, born to be an athlete, Katie dedicates a wealth of energy to track, cross country and basketball. A humble attitude and strong family role models keep her grounded, but once the starter pistol fires, she flies out of the blocks with a competitive edge and a tireless commitment that push her toward the host of triumphs waiting just across the finish line. For all that and more, Katie Monaco stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 3.639

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Varsity Track, 2011-Present; JV Track, 2010
• Varsity Cross Country, 2010-Present
• Varsity Basketball, 2009-Present
• Desert Storm Club Basketball, 2009-11
• Nevada Elite Club Basketball, 2012
• Allegiance Sports Management & Training, 2012
• Broadcast – Channel 6 News, 2011-Present
  St. Thomas More, More Youth, 2010-11
• L.I.G.H.T. Retreat, 2010-12
• Sunrise Service Center, 2011
• Bob Miller Middle School Basketball Camp Volunteer, 2009-10

Awards

• State Champions (Cross Country), 2012
• Second Team All Region (Cross Country), 2012
• Sunrise Region Team Champions (Cross Country), 2010-12
• Scholar Athlete, 2009-10
• Honor Roll, 2009-10
• White Letter, 2011
• Outstanding Sophomore Award (Cross Country), 2010
• Distance Sportsmanship Award (Track), 2011
• Coaches Award (Cross Country), 2011
• Las Vegas Notch Run (3^rd Place for Age Group), 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I will never forget the day I received my white letter in 2010. I received this for being a varsity athlete in three sports in one school year. I have always dreamed of being a state champion in one of my three sports, and this dream was made reality when my cross country team won the state championship.”

Katie Looks Up To: “Two people I look up to are my grandma and grandpa. My grandmother has been through difficult times, but she is strong and will fight to the end. My grandfather was involved in education and has a huge heart. My grandparents will forever be my role models. Being remembered as loyal, faithful, hardworking and generous is what I aim to be.”

Part of the Solution: “One of the key issues that young adults are facing today is giving up on their dreams. Our generation is more frightened by the idea of growing up than doing what is best for them in the long run. In order to change this, I have helped inspire young female athletes at basketball camp and motivated young teens at my church to do more community service.”

A Step Above – Alex Blutman

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013

Palo Verde High School senior Alex Blutman loves a good debate. It’s no surprise, then, that he’s earned many awards of distinction and risen to prominence at the national level in speech and debate. Alex owes his success to setting goals, a firm resolve and a strong sense of personal responsibility. All those same qualities translate into success on the baseball field as well for this team captain and standout athlete. Still, his casual smile and winning personality let you know he doesn’t sweat the small stuff, and that’s just one of many reasons Alex Blutman rises to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Las Vegas Baseball Academy, 2007-12
• Varsity Baseball, 2011-Present; Captain, 2012
• JV Baseball, 2009-11; Captain, 2010-11
• JV Cross Country, 2010-12
• Forensics, 2009-Present; President, 2012-Present; 1^st VP, 2011-12
• Public Forum Debate Captain, 2011-Present
• National Honor Society, 2010-Present
• Diabetes Walk & Autism Walk Fundraisers, 2011
• Hometown Holidays, 2010-11
• Food Package Preparation, 2010-11
• The Nature Conservancy Fundraiser, 2008

Awards

• AP Scholar with Distinction 2012
• National Merit Semifinalist, 2012
• ACT Perfect Score, 2012
• Anthem Essay Contest Finalist, 2011
• Nevada All-State Academic Team (Baseball), 2011-12
• Scholar Athlete, 2011-12
• Varsity Debate Letter, 2009
• County Semi-Finalist, Public Forum Debate, 2010-11
• State Semi-Finalist, Public Forum Debate, 2010
• District Finalist, Public Forum Debate, 2011
• National Tournament Competitor, Public Forum Debate, 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “During my freshman year, I set a goal to qualify for the national debate tournament. Last year, my debate partner and I defeated the district’s top Public Forum Debate team to advance to the national tournament. It was our effort, skill, resolve and friendship that I believe carried us through.”

Alex Looks Up To: “There are two qualities in Tim Tebow that I highly admire and respect. The first is his work ethic. Whatever he lacks in talent, he makes up for in heart, determination and effort. Second, I admire the way he adheres to his own personal standards and responsibilities. No matter how much he is criticized, I respect him for the way he upholds his own morality.”

Part of the Solution: “Young adults today lack a sense of accountability. This deficiency in character has an immeasurable impact that goes beyond basic irresponsibility. I hope I can make a difference among my age group, guiding, advising and helping kids make intelligent, contemplated and careful choices in their lives.”

A Step Above – Miranda Lopez

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013

From cheerleading to student council and beyond, the indomitable spirit that Palo Verde High School senior Miranda Lopez shows for school (and for life) not only inspires others but unites them in camaraderie. Outgoing, engaging and always there to help those in need, Miranda sets out to make a difference in everything she does, whether it’s at Palo Verde or in the community with local charities. While she treasures her independence, she knows that we can accomplish great things together, and she’s happy to lead the way. For that, Miranda Lopez stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Activities

• Cheerleading, 2009-12
• Serenade Choir, 2009-Present
• Camp Broadway, 2012
• Pep Club, 2010-Present
• Interact, 2011-Present
• Junior Class Representative, 2011-12
• Senior Class President, 2012

Awards/Community Service

• All-American Cheerleader, 2011
• Most Dedicated (Cheerleading), 2011
• Most Studious (Cheerleading), 2012
• Student of the Month, 2012
• Junior of the Year (Choir), 2012
• AP Scholar, 2012
• Positively Kids, 2009-12
• Lupus Walk, 2009-12
• Three Square Food Bank, 2011
• Ronald McDonald House, 2011
• Willow Creek, 2009-12
• J.T. McWilliams, 2012

Goals & Aspirations: “For the remainder of my senior year, I would like to help raise school spirit and improve school unity. After graduating high school, I plan to graduate from a four year university and set out to inspire others and make a difference.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of writing and performing an original oratory for the Martin Luther King Jr. Oratorical Competition. After winning first place in my class, school, and then the state, I realized that performing motivational speeches was something I was meant to do.”

Miranda is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Being just barely four feet, eleven inches, I have had to endure taunting and teasing for as long as I can remember. After deciding to embrace my height, I have realized that being tiny has given me the ability to play certain characters, wear extremely high heels, and prove that good things come in small packages.”

Improving Student Life: “In order to improve the conditions at my school, I would make it required that students are exposed to the harmful outcomes of bullying. There is nothing that bothers me more than seeing a student upset because of what another student has said or done.”

A Step Above – Kallyse Duddlesten

The Meadows School
Class of 2013

Aut viam inveniam aut faciam. The Meadows School senior Kallyse Duddlesten could tell you that’s Latin for, “I’ll either find a way or make one,” a philosophy that definitely defines this motivated young woman’s life. While quite adept at language arts and other academics, Kallyse takes a strong leadership role outside the classroom in everything from student council to service with the National Charity League. Warm, soft spoken, and fiercely independent, her strong moral ethics guide her on a daily quest toward personal growth and success, and that sets Kallyse Duddlesten – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.71

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Varsity Bowling, 2010-12; JV Bowling, 2009
• Cum Laude Society, 2012
• Latin Honor Society, 2009-Present
• National Honor Society, 2011-Present
• Honor Code Committee, 2013
• Young Conservatives Club, 2010
• Food for Friends Club (Founder), 2011
• National Junior Classical League, 2007-Present
• Environmental Conservation Club, 2010
• Sober Grads (Founding Secretary), 2012
• National Charity League (Las Vegas Chapter), 2007-Present
• Junior Class VP, 2012; Sophomore Class VP, 2011

Awards

• Cum Laude Society, 2012-Present
• Coach’s Award (Bowling), 2011
• Honors Academic Awards, 2010-11
• Student of the Year, 2008
• National Spanish Exam, 1^st Place, Nevada Chapter, 2012
• All State Choir, 2008-09
• National Latin Exam, Cum Laude, 2012; Summa Cum Laude, 2011
• Classical Literacy Exam, Silver Award, 2011
• Pearson Scholarship, National Jr. Classical League Convention, 2011-12

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “My biggest obstacle that I have overcome would be the shyness that hindered my potential as a leader. Throughout my high school career, I’ve come out of my shell and built confidence, which has allowed me to become a leader of multiple clubs, both inside and out of school.”

Kallyse is Stronger and Wiser Because: “In my freshman year of high school, I was an extremely isolated person. However, the Junior Classical League truly changed my outlook. I gained so much more confidence. Without the JCL, I would never have devoted myself to so many other things that have also changed my life. I have learned that when some kind of hardship or isolation threatens to overcome me, I cannot just shut life out.”

Part of the Solution: “Many young adults face the pressure to act immorally or recklessly, simply because popular young adult society tells them it is acceptable. I intend to encourage people, through my own ability to stay above the influence, to not give in to the social or cultural mainstream, but to determine for themselves what is right or wrong.”