Delia Addo-Yobo

Coronado High School
Class of 2012

Soft spoken and full of boundless dreams, Coronado High School senior Delia Addo-Yobo takes nothing for granted, especially her education. Overwhelmed with pride at being Coronado’s first African-American valedictorian, Delia hopes to carry her passion for knowledge with her to Stanford University, intent on pursuing a career in the justice system like her idol Thurgood Marshall. With a dedication to volunteer work that emphasizes learning and opportunity, she hopes to always be an inspiration to others, both in her community and beyond, and that helps elevate Delia Addo-Yobo to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8
Activities

• Duke University Talent Identification Program (Pre-Law Institute), 2011
• National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, DC, 2009
• Stanford University Education Program for Gifted Youth, 2003-09
• Fern Adair Conservatory of the Arts, 2003-08
• New Crew Club, 2011-Present
• Black Student Union, 2009-Present; President, 2010-Present; Secretary, 2009-10
• Future Business Leaders of America Historian, 2009-10
• Key Club, 2008-09
• National Honor Society, 2007-Present

Awards/Community Service

• Valedictorian, 2012
• Full Merit Scholarship to Stanford University, 2012
• Outstanding Participant in National Achievement Program, 2011
• UNLV African-American Recognition Award, 2011
• Student of the Month, 2008 & 2010
• Straight “A” Honor Roll, 2000-Present
• Tutor at Glen Taylor Elementary School, 2011
• Dental Assistant Intern at Heavenly Smiles, 2008-09
• Volunteer at Children’s Choice Learning Center, 2007-09
• Volunteer at Make-A-Wish Foundation, 2005-07
• Volunteer at Student Decorators Inc., 2004-05

Delia Looks Up To: “My lovely grandmother is my source of inspiration. She was a beautiful, strong woman with a patient and nurturing soul. My grandmother participated in the march in Selma during an extremely oppressive time in America, which greatly instilled a deep sense of gratitude in me. I am always so humbled by how my grandmother overcame obstacles in her life.”

Delia is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Last year, my mother was unfortunately laid off of her job after eight years of service. I was devastated. However, we both pulled through and survived. Now she works for the federal government and is studying to get her master’s degree. Growing up in a single-parent household, I know that my mother made a lot of sacrifices. This event taught me to have faith and appreciate everything that I have in life. No one should take anything for granted.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults is disparity in education. Many students around the nation do not receive good educations and are afforded fewer opportunities in life due to this discrepancy. I think it is important to reach out to younger students to get them excited about their future. Through strong encouragement, they can actively pursue more opportunities, regardless of circumstance.”

Jordan Hart

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012

Being a champion takes more than just hard work and hours of practice. It takes the kind of personal commitment that Palo Verde High School senior Jordan Hart shows every day. An all star wrestler with numerous accolades, Jordan hopes to become a Division I college champion and one day compete in the Olympics. Off the mat, he enjoys being a positive influence for peers and giving back to those less fortunate through everything from charity drives to community renovation projects. With a passion for success that never lets him settle for less, Jordan Hart stands – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.2
Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Varsity Wrestling, 2008-12; Captain, 2009-12
• Vegas West Wrestling Club, 2008-12
• Team Nevada Wrestling Team, 2009-12
• K.Y.E. Wrestling Academy, 2008-12
• Head Chair of Youth Conference Committee Renovation of Bob Baskin Park, 2011
• Volunteer at Opportunity Village, 2010
• Sock Drive for Salvation Army, 2010
• Boulder City Memorial Landscaping Project, 2010

Awards

• National Wrestling All-American, 2011-12
• Individual Nevada Wrestling State Champion, 2011-12
• Individual Nevada Wrestling State Runner-Up, 2009-10
• Individual Nevada Wrestling State  3^rd Place, 2010-11
• Most Outstanding Palo Verde Varsity Wrestler, 2009-12
• Palo Verde Varsity Wrestling Coaches Award, 2010-11
• Two Time Holiday Classic Champion, 2010-11
• Two Time Sunset Region Champion, 2011-12
• Top of the Rockies Champion, 2011-12
• Dick Comley Invitational Champion, 2012
• Five Counties Champion, 2011-12
• Scholar Athlete, 2009-12
• Eagle Scout, 2012

Jordan is Stronger and Wiser Because: “A certain experience that made me a stronger person is wrestling. The amount of discipline, determination, work ethic, responsibility and passion that the sport requires is absolutely immense. It has given me these attributes and more to live my life by. It has been an extremely tough battle, but it really prepared me for absolutely anything I will come across.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults today is alcohol usage. Many young adults are influenced to partake in the substance because it is the ‘cool’ thing to do. I might be able to be a part of the solution because I am an excellent example of not partaking in the substance while still being able to have a strong and positive reputation with those around me.”

Cause for Concern: “If I could be the president of any nonprofit or charitable organization, it would be with the Salvation Army. They do so much for people that are underprivileged. I love doing things for people, and to be able to have the opportunity to see how happy I could make people would be even greater.”

Ryan Navarro

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012

A proud member of the Panther Nation, you can always find Palo Verde High School senior Ryan Navarro pouncing around the gym with boundless energy as the school mascot. When he’s not suiting up in panther garb, Ryan keeps busy with Air Force Junior ROTC and dedicates himself to academics, hoping to study pre-med at BYU. Strong values, leadership skills and a sense of community keep him involved in everything from charity walks to youth forum programs, strengthening ties with peers and people in the neighborhood. Reliable, determined and driven to succeed, Ryan Navarro always remains – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.45
Activities

• PVHS Panther Mascot, 2009-12
• AFJROTC, 2008-12
• Color Guard, 2008-12; Team Commander, 2009-11
• Wing Commander, 2011-12
• National Youth Leadership Forum Delegate, 2009
• Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum Delegate, 2011
• Academic Challenge Team, 2009-11; Regional Finalist, 2010-11
•  Interclub Committee, 2011-12
• Student 2 Student Club, 2008-12
• Pep Club/Panther Nation Member, 2009-12

Awards/Community Service

• Eagle Scout Award, 2011
• Presidential Service Award (Silver; 2011; (Bronze; 2008-10
• Military Order of World Wars Award, 2010
• Freedoms Foundation Award, 2008-12
• Nevada Boys State Diploma, 2011
• Cadet of the Month, 2009-11
• Academic Excellence Foundation Award, 2011
• Salvation Army Volunteer, 2008-12
• PVHS/ROTC Tutor, 2008-12
• Deseret Organization Volunteer, 2011-12
• Colors of Lupus Walk Participant/Volunteer, 2009-12

Ryan is Successful Because: “I credit my success to the values that I strive to live by each day. Respect, responsibility, integrity, courage, patriotism, competency, tenacity and service all have been a core part of my life, and anyone who hones them properly will be immensely successful in whatever endeavor they partake in.”

Ryan is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Summer Leadership School was a week long course mirrored to that of Basic Military Training (BMT). It was all sorts of exhausting; physically, mentally, emotionally, even spiritually. However, getting through this and graduating from the program taught me not only to accomplish my goals but how to endure through any trial and tribulation.”

Part of the Solution: “I think a very integral issue facing young adults is being too conformist. I don’t mean that they should go out and be disruptive, wreak havoc, lie, cheat or steal. The youth should know that each idea can create a bigger picture. Just because one’s opinion is different does not mean it’s not important.”

Max Asaf

The Meadows School
Class of 2012

Meadows School senior Max Asaf knows the true value of education lies not just in learning enough to get by but continually expanding your horizons.  With a host of AP and Honors awards, from history to science to Latin and more, there’s no challenge too large for this passionate and enterprising individual, yet Max is grounded enough to realize what’s truly important in life.  Whatever career path lies ahead, this dedicated scholar hopes to be an innovator and make a difference in more lives than his own, and that helps place Max Asaf – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.76
Sports/Activities

• Varsity Baseball, 2008-09
• Varsity Golf, 2010-11
• Varsity Bowling, 2010-12; JV, 2009-10
• Cum Laude Society, 2011-Present
• National Honor Society, 2010-Present
• National Latin Honor Society, 2009-Present
• Historian of Nevada Junior Classical League, 2009-11
• First Vice President of Nevada Junior Classical League, 2011-12
• Varsity Quiz, 2011-12
• Delegate of Nevada Boys’ State, 2011

Awards/Community Service

• Commended National Merit Scholar, 2011
• AP Scholar with Honor, 2011
• James Monroe Scholar, College of William and Mary, 2012
• University Scholar, University of Chicago, 2012
• University Scholar, Case Western Reserve University, 2012
• Bowdoin Faculty Scholar, Bowdoin College, 2012
• Roy and Diana Vagelos Scholars Program, University of Pennsylvania, 2012
• Head of Fundraising and Student Store for Meadows School Microbank, 2009-Present
• Meadows Environmental Consortium, 2008-10

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of my work with my school”s Microbank club. As a freshman, one of my classmates and I began a breakfast cart service every morning, selling breakfast and snacks to hungry students. The next year, we opened the Microbank Student Store in an abandoned classroom. For the past three years, I have worked at that store almost every single day, selling everything from chips to top ramen and raising over $45,000.”

Max Looks Up To: “Out of all of the people that have influenced my life and made me into the person I am today, ­­­­my mother has had the most profound impact on me. She has battled through cancer and a second cancer scare and faced both frightening situations with such immense resilience and strength. Her fortitude and determination make her someone that I look up to.”

Improving Student Life: “While I believe that it is incredibly important to teach students what needs to be taught in order to pass standardized tests, it is even more important for teachers to expose students to things beyond the lesson plan. Learning is something that should be done in order to open your mind and expose yourself to a world of ideas you never knew existed.”

Emma Benjamin

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2012

It’s difficult to know what tomorrow may bring, but Bishop Gorman High School senior Emma Benjamin faces the unknown with a sincere appreciation for all that she has in life. This competitive equestrian puts her heart and soul into horseback riding but still finds time off the field to explore interests in writing and politics. A strong desire to help others in the community has also led to volunteer work with Best Buddies and Opportunity Village, so keeping busy is never a problem. For always standing out while standing up for others, Emma Benjamin rises to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 3.9
Sports/Awards/Community Service

• Competitive Equestrian, 2006-Present
• Honor Thespian, 2010-Present
• World History Honors Student of the Year, 2010
• 5^th Place for Horse of the Year in Child/Adult Jumpers High, 2011
• Full & Mid-Circuit Champion at HITS Thermal in Children’s Jumpers High, 2011
• Best Buddies, 2009-Present; Historian, 2010-11
• Volunteer at Opportunity Village, 2009-Present
• Volunteer at Touch-A-Truck, 2009-Present

Activities

• National Honor Society, 2010-Present; Vice President, 2011-Present
• Historian of Gaels Theatre Guild, 2011-Present
• Photography Club, 2008-Present; President, 2010-Present
• Academic Society, 2008-10
• Science National Honor Society, 2011-Present
• Creative Writing Club, 2011-Present
• Link Leader, 2011-Present
• Choir, 2010-Present
• “Betty” in BGHS Production A Murdered Mystery, 2011
• “Ellen” in BGHS Production Oklahoma, 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of my various equestrian awards because horseback riding has had such a tremendous influence on me. My trainer Annette Spinetti has taught me the value of sportsmanship and the determination and hard work I now put into every aspect of my life. Without all the effort and love I put into horseback riding to get those achievements, I would not be the dedicated person I am today.”

Emma Looks Up To: “I look up to my two brothers, Alex and Reese. They are six and seven years older than me respectively. Because of this age gap, I’ve always wanted to grow up as quickly as possible so that I could be old and mature like them. However, they have taught me that while maturity is extremely important, it’s just as valuable to live every moment of my life to the fullest. They have always been my best teachers and my greatest inspiration.”

Cause for Concern: “I would be the president of Best Buddies. It creates friendships between people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and regular high school teenagers. This program has helped me grow in so many ways and I would love to share the joy it brought me with others in my community.”

Andrea Perea

Silverado High School
Class of 2012

Confidence, passion and hard work can take us to great heights, and Silverado High School senior Andrea Perea is aiming higher than many dare to dream. A lifelong dedication to competitive gymnastics has brought her much recognition and scholarship offers from all over the country, including the U.S. Air Force Academy. But realizing her full potential also means being a role model to peers and striving to inspire self assurance and strong values in all those around her. There’s nothing that can’t be conquered by a positive attitude, and knowing that helps place Andrea Perea – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.6
Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Competitive Gymnastics, 2005-Present
• Silverado Orchestra Ensemble, 2008-09
• Silverado Advanced Orchestra, 2009-Present
• Mu Alpha Theta (Math Tutoring Club; 2009-Present
• Member of Junior Class Committee, 2010-11
• Member of Senior Class Committee, 2011-Present
• St. Viator Youth Group and Core Team Member, 2011-Present
• St. Viator Confirmation Leader, 2011-Present
• Viatorian Youth Congress, August 2011
• Leader for 8^th Grade Retreat at St. Viator Middle School, 2011
• “Have a Nice Day Project” Founder and Leader, 2009-Present

Awards

• Nevada All Around State Gymnastics Champion, 2005-06 & 2008-10
• Regional All Around Gymnastics Champion, 2008 & 2011
• Western National Gymnastics Qualifier, 2010-11
• Western National Beam Champion, 2011
• Third All Around Western National Gymnastics Champion, 2011
• Student of the Month, 2008-10
• Academic Letter, 2008-11
• Straight A Honor Roll, 2006-Present

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “Part of the application process for the Air Force Academy is obtaining at least two Congressional Nominations. I applied for three and received all three. The fact that I demonstrated the confidence and qualities necessary to attend the prestigious Air Force Academy makes me exceedingly proud.”

Andrea is Successful Because: “The main reason I am successful is all the support I receive from everybody in my life, above all my family. My parents and my brothers have always been there to provide encouragement, love and advice. It is because of them and their examples that I am very goal oriented, I never quit and I always push myself to rise above expectations.”

Part of the Solution: “One key issue with teens is the ‘need’ for materialistic things, such as the latest iPods, phones, laptops, etc. I think kids need to appreciate what they have and demonstrate a more grateful attitude towards the things others are not so lucky to have. I wish people would take the time to read a good book or attend an incredible philharmonic orchestra concert.”

Cassidy McLean

Green Valley High School
Class of 2012

Life in the slow lane has never appealed to Green Valley High School senior Cassidy McLean. From a busy schedule on the soccer field to performing in choir, this diligent student and athlete follows a strong work ethic that has her on track for an advanced honors diploma and a demanding but eventful academic and athletic career at Northern Arizona University. Never one to dream small, she hopes to spend time traveling the globe and helping causes such as animal rights and protection. It’s those kinds of bold ambitions that elevate Cassidy McLean to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.214

Sports/Activities/Awards

• GVHS Women’s Soccer, 2008-12; Varsity Captain, 2011-12
• Club Soccer – LV Premier 94 White, 2006-12
• GVHS Bella Voce Choir, 2008-09
• GVHS Concert Choir, 2009-12
• Northern Arizona University Athletic Scholarship, 2012
• GVHS Athlete of the Month, February 2011
• Leading Goal Scorer (Team and Division; 2012
• All-Division Team, 2009-11
• All-Sunrise Conference & All-City Team, 2010-11
• Best Offensive Player, 2010
• Scholar Athlete Award, 2010-11
• Academic All-State Team, 2011-12
• State Champions, 2011
• Region Champions, 2011-12
• Nevada State Cup Champions (Club Soccer; 2011
• Players Showcase Champions (Club Soccer; 2011
• LV College Showcase Champions (Club Soccer; 2011
• Soccer at the Summit Champions (Club Soccer; 2011

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “One accomplishment that I am fairly proud of is when my high school soccer team and club soccer team each won state in the same year. I am proud to have been a part of all the hard work it took through the seasons to accomplish this.”

Cassidy Looks Up To: “Everyone, really; I am not very tall. On a serious note, though, I look up to my mother. She has always been there for me and had my back. My mom has instilled many great values in me that I cherish greatly. I hope that when I have a family of my own that I can be as good a mom as she has been for me.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults today is bullying. It is an unfortunate part of high school which I have experienced myself but no one should ever have to. I would help to minimize bullying by being kind to my fellow classmates and standing up to those being picked on. Everyone should be doing these things anyway so that high school can be a better experience for all kids.”

Kanani Espinoza

Coronado High School
Class of 2012

Even the best laid plans can sometimes go astray, but Coronado High School senior Kanani Espinoza has learned to embrace the opportunities that come with change. Possessing strong leadership skills and a keen sense of time management, this honor student focuses on accomplishing personal goals while participating in a variety of activities from student government to charity walks and volunteer work with local libraries. Drawing inspiration from family and friends, she’s reaching for her dreams while reaching out to others, and that helps set Kanani Espinoza – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.3
Activities

• Clark County Student Advisory Board Member, 2010-12
• Students for Soldiers, 2009-11
• Best Buddies, 2010
• French Club, 2011
• Multicultural Club, 2008-11; Secretary, 2010-11
• Coronado Student Council, 2008-12
• Student Body Second Vice President, 2011-12
• Junior Class President, 2010-11
• Sophomore Class Representative, 2009-10
• Freshman Class Vice President, 2008-09
• National Honor Society, 2010-12; President, 2011-12

Sports/Awards/Community Service

• Varsity Bowling, 2009-12; Captain, 2010-12
• Millennium Scholarship, 2012
• Athlete of the Month, January 2011 & January 2012
• FAAN Walk Volunteer, 2011
• Trick-or-Treat for Cans, 2008-11
• Cougars Care Chair, 2011; Co-Chair, 2008-10
• Mr. Coronado Chair, 2011; Co-Chair, 2008-11
• Church Festival Volunteer, 2009-10
• Junior Counselor at High School Student Council Conference, 2011-12
• Junior Counselor at Middle School Student Council Conference, 2010-11

Kanani Looks Up To: “I look up to my grandmothers, both of whom have passed away. I was always smothered with love by them, and even though my parents were divorced, they would both take me out to shop and have fun. I hope I can make them proud and show as much love one day as they had towards me. I have learned from them that love is infinite and that one day is all it takes to make an imprint on someone.”

Part of the Solution: “The key issue facing youth today is the lack of identity. Many kids don’t know who they want to be or become and begin searching through parties, friends and social experience to find themselves. I strive to be close to my family and know that they will always be here for me no matter what. I encourage my peers to take time and don’t be influenced by those surrounding you.”

Cause for Concern: “I would love to be part of any organization that deals with children. I am close with my siblings ranging in age from one year to ten years old. Any help that other kids could get just fills my heart and reminds me of the people close to me.”

Jacob Luna

Coronado High School

Class of 2012

Life can be a full time challenge when you’re juggling academics and athletics, but Coronado High School senior Jacob Luna knows that setting priorities will help keep him on the path to success. This avid swimmer hopes to one day compete in the Olympics while pursuing his education at Harvard and maybe even play guitar in a rock band. With such diverse goals, Jacob plans to take full advantage of every opportunity with continued dedication to hard work and perseverance. No matter what the future holds, Jacob Luna will continue to stand – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.75

Sports/Activities/Awards/Community Service

• Varsity Swimming, 2009-12; Captain, 2011-12
• Club Swimming on BCH Heatwave, 2002-12
• Coronado Guitar Ensemble, 2010-12
• Nevada State High School Champion (100 Butterfly), 2011
• MVP of Coronado High School Swim Team, 2009-11
• NIAA Scholar Athlete, 2009-11
• Varsity Letter in Swimming, 2009-11
• USA Swimming Scholastic All-American, 2010-11
• Nevada Club State Swim Meet High Point Winner, 2011-12
• Most Valued Chemist, 2011
• Most Improved Guitarist, 2011
• St. Thomas More Church Youth Group, 2007-10
• Book Cleaning for Kids to Kids Literacy Program, 2007-10

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “The accomplishments that I am most proud of are all of my swimming achievements because of the huge commitment that I have made to the sport and all the time that I have spent training. It is a great feeling to work toward a goal for so long and then finally reach that goal.”

Jacob Looks Up To: “A person that I look up to very much is my grandfather. He came to America with barely anything and no knowledge of the English language, but he was able to be successful through hard work and perseverance. I think that he is a perfect example of how anything is possible when you apply yourself to a situation.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue that is facing young adults today is a growing percentage of overweight people in America. The problem is not a simple one and can be attributed to many causes, but it can be reduced by advocating healthier eating and a more active lifestyle.”

Cause for Concern: “If I could be president of a nonprofit organization, I would choose to have an organization that teaches young children in the community how to swim. Not only would it prevent them from possibly drowning, but it would introduce them to the sport. I think it is important for young kids to have an interest in physical activity because they will be more likely to continue this habit throughout their life and be healthier as a result.”

Peyton Carter

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2015

A love of horses, a passion for excellence and dedication to her community are the things that drive Bishop Gorman High School student Peyton Carter to succeed. This young equestrian has distinguished herself as a competitive rider, a skill that she hopes to follow well into college and beyond with strong support from parents, teachers and coaches. Despite a busy athletic and academic schedule, Peyton makes time for community service as well, from volunteering at an assisted living facility to preparing dinner and participating in charity runs for Ronald McDonald House. For giving her all while always giving back, Peyton Carter stands – A Step Above.

Sports/Activities/Awards/Community Service

• Competitive Equestrian, 2007-present
• Powder Puff Football, 2011
• Kickball League, 2011
• Top 100 Equestrians for Zone 10, 2011
• Reserve Champion at Las Vegas National Horse Show, 2011
• Reserve Champion at Blenheim Equisports in Del Mar, California, 2011
• Speech and Debate, 2011-present
• National Forensic Honor Society, 2011-present
• Creative Writing Club, 2011-present
• Equestrian Club, 2011-present
• Founder of “Blue Ribbon Horseless Horse Show” Charity Event
• Volunteer at Ronald McDonald House, 2011-present
• Volunteer at Lakeview Terrace Assisted Living Facility, 2011-present

Goals and Aspirations: “After graduating from Bishop Gorman, I would like to attend a college where I can compete on a collegiate riding team. After college, I’d like to continue my riding in Europe and also be a journalist for equestrian-related magazines.”

Peyton Looks Up To: “Annette Spinetti, my riding coach at Blue Ribbon Hunters & Jumpers, because she believes in me and pushes me to do my best.”

Cause for Concern: “I would like to be the president of a horse rescue facility that saves horses from slaughter auctions and abusive families.”

Peyton is Successful Because: “My parents have been very supportive of my riding and any other interests I wish to pursue. My speech coach, Mrs. Chrissie Ramos, has been very encouraging during my first year of high school.”

Desert Island Necessities: “The three things I would take to a deserted island would be pen, paper and a boat so that I could record my adventures in trying to survive the island and getting back home. The only reason I wouldn’t bring my horse or my family would be because I would want them to be safe at home and not trying to fend for their lives on a desert island.”