Mitchell Clingo

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012

A passion for fine arts has always inspired Palo Verde High School senior Mitchell Clingo. As a participant in numerous choirs and stage productions, this music lover has performed all over the world, including Italy and the Netherlands. That same dedication shows in his community service efforts, from volunteering at an at-risk elementary school to organizing a program to send toys to orphans in Iraq. With a career in medicine on the horizon, many challenges lie ahead, but his selfless attitude and strong values are sure to help see him succeed. It’s that measure of commitment that elevates Mitchell Clingo to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.44
Activities

• Palo Verde Concert Choir, 2009-present
• HeartBreakers Men’s Ensemble, 2010-present
• Vocal Infinity Advanced Ensemble, 2010-present
• Choir Board Member, 2010
• Choir Vice President, 2012
• Bass Section Leader, 2011
• CCSD Honor Choir, 2010-12
• All-State Choir, 2010-12
• Performed “Scarecrow” in The Wicked Wiz of Oz, 2012
• Performed “Yankee Doodle” in 100 Years of Broadway, 2009

Awards/Community Service

• Top Score in Regional Solo and Ensemble Competitions, 2010-12
• Rocky Mountain Academic Talent Search, Highest Scores in Nevada, 2005-09
• University of Denver Talent Search, Highest Honors, 2005-09
• UNLV Academic Summer Scholarship, 2011
• University Dean’s Scholarship, 2012-14
• Eagle Scout, 2012
• Volunteer at Rescue Mission, 2012
• Volunteer at JT McWilliams Elementary School, 2008-12

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of earning my Eagle Scout rank. This award reflects my skills and abilities as a good citizen, a committed family member and a caring friend. It also shows that I am prepared to help myself and others, and I have defined values I try to apply in my life.”

Mitchell is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Skipping a grade in middle school and being the youngest student in my class has been a challenge. I have learned to look on the bright side of life and realize the many benefits of this obstacle. I now have twice the number of peers – those who are my age and those who are in my class.”

Cause for Concern: “I would be the president of a nonprofit organization that promotes and encourages the development of fine arts programs. I have seen how fine arts have changed my life and I would like everyone to have the opportunity to experience the benefits of being actively involved in a fine arts program.”

Adie Quackenbush

Cimarron-Memorial High School
Class of 2012

From cheerleading to student council and beyond, Cimarron-Memorial High School senior Adie Quackenbush takes great pride in staying active and involved, both in school and in the community. When she’s not helping out in the neighborhood with everything from charity walks to food drives, this aspiring special education teacher keeps busy by taking a dedicated leadership role in a wide range of academic and athletic activities. Well-rounded yet humbly aware of both her strengths and weaknesses, Adie excels by facing any physical or mental roadblock with a headstrong attitude that never wavers. For all that and more, Adie Quackenbush is – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.63
Sports/Activities

• Varsity Cheerleading, 2008-12
• Varsity Swimming, 2011-12
• Anti-Defamation League, 2010-11
• Laurel President, 2011
• National Honor Society Secretary, 2011-12
• Student Council Secretary, 2011-12
• Youth Formal Committee, 2011-12
• Seminary Council, 2011-12

Awards/Community Service

• USA Cheerleading Nationals, 2008
• Principal’s Leadership Award, 2012
• Academic Letter and Lamp, 2008-11
• Cheerleading State Champion, 2009
• Swim Regional Qualifier, 2011
• We R Community, 2010-12
• Rock and Roll Marathon, 2009-10
• Cimarron-Memorial Showcase, 2012
• Candlelighters Walk for the Cure, 2011
• Senior Citizen Prom, 2011
• Youth Conference Clean Park, 2011
• Cheyenne High School Showcase Canned Food Drive, 2011

Adie Looks Up To: “My hero is my aunt Laura for her strength in battling breast cancer and always prevailing with a positive outlook on life. She is always looking for the healthiest form of treatment as a pediatrician and is always open to different cultures and ideas. She has the privilege to travel to foreign countries to help children undergoing surgeries in third world countries.”

Adie is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I used to be deathly afraid of tumbling, which turned rapidly into a fear of things I had been doing and loving my entire life such as cliff jumping and riding go carts. Some mental block kept me from excelling. Finally, I realized that if this was what I loved then I needed to push myself and become determined not to run away and quit.”

Part of the Solution: “One issue I have considered confronting lately was to prepare a petition banning smoking and driving. This takes away your mind, hands and eyes just like cell phones and can be even more dangerous with the negative effects this causes the brain.”

Renee Vogel

Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2012

Fear can hold us back, but Faith Lutheran High School senior Renee Vogel has learned to conquer uncertainty and self doubt with a strong work ethic, unyielding faith and the constant support of family and friends. This pole vault champion puts in hours of hard work on and off the track, staying strong both mentally and physically but always stopping to take a breath and enjoy life. With sights set on a career in the Air Force, she’s aiming high but still makes time to help families of deployed and wounded soldiers through her non-profit group Teens for Vets. No obstacle is big enough to slow her down, and that helps place Renee Vogel – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.01

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Varsity Tennis, 2009-12; Team Captain, 2012; Most Improved Player, 2010-11
• Varsity Track and Field, 2009-12; Most Improved Athlete, 2009-10
• JV Basketball, 2009; MVP, 2009
• Pure Sky Vault Club, 2009-12; Team Captain, 2011-12
• National Honor Society, 2011-12; Sergeant at Arms, 2012
• Key Club, 2009-12
• Teens for Vets, 2010-12
• Creator of 9/11 Remembrance Project, 2012
• Student Council Pep Rally Chairperson, 2011
• Student Council Spiritual Life Commissioner, 2012
• Peer Tutor, 2012
• T.A.T.U. (Teens Against Tobacco Use) Leader, 2011-12
• Air Force Leadership and Aviation Camp, 2010
• Intern for Senator Dean Heller, 2012

Awards

• Full Tuition Air Force ROTC Scholarship to Yale University, 2012
• Regional and State Champions (Girls Track and Field; 2009
• Academic All State Team Champions (Track and Field; 2011
• Regional Runner-Up (Pole Vault; 2009-11
• All State Academic Team Award (Tennis; 2009-11
• All State Academic Team Award (Track and Field; 2009-11
• School Pole Vault Record Holder (10’6”)
• Girls Pole Vault Record Holder (Skyhawk Invitational, Del Sol Invitational)
• Scholar Honor Roll, 2009-12
• Wendy’s Heisman State Winner, 2012

Renee is Successful Because: “I would not be successful without my family’s constant support, teachers who believed in me, friends who kept me sane through the process of standardized tests and applying to Ivy League colleges, and most of all my faith in God. All credit for my success goes to Him.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of the non-profit organization Teens for Vets (www.teensforvets.org; which I created with help from my family. I have seen veterans touched by a few helping hands from my generation, and I believe it is a great cause to get young people aware of military service and the sacrifice it entails.”

Renee Looks Up To: “I look up to my father for his constant grace and love. He cares for my family so much and never stopped believing in the fact that I could go anywhere in my life as long as I worked hard. His encouragement and example has helped lead me to a bright future.”

Brendan Villhardt

Liberty High School
Class of 2012

“Be prepared” is the motto of the Boy Scouts of America, and those are two words that Liberty High School senior and Eagle Scout Brendan Villhardt takes to heart. As someone who favors structure and diligence, Brendan takes a serious approach to academics but always finds time to help out in the community. Whether it’s recycling at school, helping close down abandoned mines or running a food drive with his fellow Scouts, no project is too big or small. With his sights set on a career in the aeronautics industry, the future is as wide open as the wild blue yonder. He’ll be working hard to get there, and that puts Brendan Villhardt – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.75
Activities/Awards/Community Service

• Boy Scouts of America, 2000-Present
• Eagle Scout Award, 2011
• Scouting for Food Program, 2004-Present
• Scholastic Clay Target Program, 2008-Present; 2^nd Place, B Class, 2011
• Environmental Awareness Club, 2009-Present; Secretary, 2010-11
• AP Club, 2011-Present
• Liberty High School Website Designer, 2011-Present
• Student of the Month, 2009 & 2011
• Straight “A” Award, 2008-Present
• Perfect Attendance Award, 2008-Present

Goals & Aspirations: “My biggest goal right now is to get all straight A’s my senior year of high school, which will make me one of the valedictorians of my graduating class. I hope to go to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona, where I have already been accepted. I want to study aerospace engineering so that I can design and build the aircraft of tomorrow.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am, by far, most proud of my accomplishment of attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. It takes years of dedication to scouting and hard work to get to Eagle, and not many people do, so that’s why I’m proud of it.”

Brendan is Successful Because: “I would have to say that being very organized and punctual makes me successful. I have a place for everything, and everything is always in its place. I also get things done on time, and I never procrastinate.”

Part of the Solution: “I think that a key issue for young adults today is using a cell phone while driving. Too many kids use their phone while driving, and it leads to very unsafe driving conditions. I can be part of the solution by setting an example by turning off my phone before I get in my car.”

Cause for Concern: “I would want to be president of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. They are a nonprofit group whose goal is to protect wildlife around the world. They are most noted for their efforts to stop the illegal whaling in the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary near Antarctica. I feel they have a very noble cause and the senseless slaughter of whales must be stopped.”

Erika Hanuscin

Green Valley High School
Class of 2012

Keeping up with school and sports is always difficult, but Green Valley High School senior Erika Hanuscin has got the dedication it takes to excel at both. Committed to excellence both in the classroom and on the soccer field, she strives to do her best every day, and in return has reaped the benefits of continued success. Grounded and hardworking, Erika realizes the importance of positive relationships and surrounds herself with a reliable support system of family, friends and teammates to help her along the way. With dreams that have no limits and strong role models to keep her inspired, Erika Hanuscin rises to – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Community Service/Awards

• Varsity Soccer, 2008-12; Captain, 2010-12
• C.H.A.N.C.E., 2010-12
• Usher at Holy Family Catholic Church, 2002-10
• Varsity Letter, 2008-12
• All State, 2009-10; All Region, 2009-11; All League, 2009-11
• Scholar Athlete, 2008-12
• Nevada All State Academic Team, 2008-12
• All American Scholar Athlete, 2011-12
• All Region Scholar Athlete, 2011-12
• Athlete of the Month, 2012
• Nevada State Champions (Soccer; 2010-11
• Most Valuable Defensive Player, 2010-11
• AP Scholar Award, 2010-11

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “One of my accomplishments I am most proud of is winning a Nevada State Championship with my Green Valley High School soccer team. That is one of the highlights of my high school years. I am also proud of maintaining a perfect GPA through high school. I am a student athlete and I take both parts of that very seriously.”

Erika is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Dealing with the death of my grandpa, my cousin and my aunt has definitely made me the strong person I am today. Family death is definitely something that makes you appreciate the life that you are given because you never know what will happen. Life can be taken away from you as easy as it was given to you.”

Improving Student Life: “I think that more kids should be involved in some club, sport or activity at high school. It would be a great idea to make it mandatory for at least one year, and if they didn’t like it, then they would not have to participate again. This would help kids meet new people and make new friends.”

Erika is Successful Because: “I believe the fact that I have a drive and determination to be the best student, athlete, friend and person is what makes me successful. I will work hard to achieve something that I know I can. I like to strive for greatness and working hard is how I get there.”

Jaime Lemcke

Coronado High School
Class of 2012

Strength of character and independence are not just born out of overcoming adversity but from years of supportive encouragement, a notion that Coronado High School senior Jaime Lemcke represents with superb poise and grace. Devoted friendships play a key role in this volleyball superstar’s world, whether it’s depending on fellow students or admiration from teammates. While high school may be a priority, it’s the connections of family that have formed the strongest bonds and helped instill a sense of will power, leadership and integrity that others hope to emulate. It’s these admirable qualities and more that place Jaime Lemcke – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Freshman Volleyball, 2008
• JV Volleyball, 2009; Team Captain, 2009
• Varsity Volleyball, 2010-11
• Club Volleyball, 2008-10
• Track, 2010
• Habitat for Humanity, 2009
• Free to Be You and Me, 2012
• Student Council Commission, 2009
• Physical Therapy Office Volunteer, 2011-12

Awards

• Rising Star Award, 2008
• MVP Players Award, 2009
• MVP Coach’s Award, 2009
• Sportsmanship Award, 2011
• Nevada All State Academic Team, 2011
• Scholar Athlete, 2008-11
• AP Scholar Award, 2011

Jaime Looks Up To: “I look up to Diana Hunter, a beautiful woman I have known since I was born. She radiates happiness, helps others before she helps herself and, more than anything, she loves stronger than anyone I know.”

Jaime is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My mother passed away when I was three years old. I struggled for a long time with the idea that my mom wouldn’t be around to see me grow up and guide me through life’s obstacles, but with the help of my family and friends, I stayed strong.”

Part of the Solution: “A big issue facing young adults today is low self esteem and body image. An easy way to be a part of the solution is to be nice to everyone and tell them how awesome they are. Show them that they are important and perfect just the way they are.”

Cause for Concern: “I would like to be the president of an organization that aids underprivileged children. There are many evils in the world – poverty, hunger, disease – but children should never be subject to suffering. Kids should be able to play, laugh and enjoy life without worry.”

Barry S. MacNeill Jr.

Coronado High School

Class of 2012

Coronado High School senior Barry S. MacNeill Jr. always sets the bar high, whether it’s the literal bar at the top of the pole vault or the bar for success that he strives to reach every day. This dedicated athlete and future fighter pilot makes the most of any opportunity, attacking each new challenge with a combination of strength, leadership and accomplished skills. From football to marching band to charity work in the community, Barry understands the importance of being well rounded and never settles for the bare minimum. He’s constantly soaring to new heights but looking to soar even higher, and that helps Barry S. MacNeill Jr. to be – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.2

Sports/Activities/Awards/Community Service

• Freshman & JV Football, 2008-09
• Varsity Football, 2010-11
• JV Track and Field, 2009
• Varsity Track and Field, 2010-12; Captain, 2011-12
• JV Marching/Concert Band, 2008-09
• Varsity Marching/Concert Band, 2009-12; Drum Major, 2011-12
• Scholar Athlete Award (Football), 2010
• 4^th Place Regional Finalist (Pole Vaulting/Track and Field), 2011
• Pure Sky Vault Club, 2010-12
• Three Square Food Drive Volunteer, 2009-11

Goals & Aspirations: “My current goal for the upcoming track season is to break the school pole vault record and qualify for the state meet. I have practiced and trained diligently for the past four years and believe this goal is well within my grasp. My future goals include gaining admittance into the U.S. Air Force and earning a commission to serve as a fighter pilot.”

Barry is Successful Because: “I believe the reason for my success lies in my ambition and desire to always get the most out of everything I do. By always giving 100% and having high expectations for myself, I feel this gives me the best chance for success.”

Cause for Concern: “Growing up in a military family, I have visited Nellis Air Force Base, where my parents work. On many of my trips, I noticed a group of soldiers who were collecting gifts for the Toys for Tots program. My mother informed me that the soldiers gather toys during the holidays and then deliver them to less fortunate children. I would be honored to be the president of this type of program due to its direct relationship with its recipients.”

Improving Student Life: “In our school, as well as others across the valley, many teachers have been cut from the staff due to the budget. School class sizes are growing, giving students less one on one time with their teachers. By increasing the number of teachers on staff, I believe each student will have more individual time with their teacher and have a better chance for success.”

Barry is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Being in the marching band as well as on the football team has been a tough challenge for me. These two groups don’t usually get along too well. However, as a key member of both groups, I have been able to mediate disputes and help ease the drama between them. This effort has led to making both programs stronger. Being able to solve conflicts between multiple groups is a great skill that will help me in the future.”

A Step Above 89144 – Cody Schuster

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012

Dedication and hard work make all the difference for Palo Verde High School senior Cody Schuster. A firm believer in learning by example, he seeks to apply the best qualities of others to his own life while viewing any misstep as an opportunity for personal growth. This all-star athlete excels on the baseball field, but never at the expense of school work, and he always takes time to help the less fortunate with hopes of encouraging others to do the same. Life moves fast when you’re this busy, but he’s keeping up just fine, which sets Cody Schuster – A Step Above.   

G.P.A.: 4.75
Sports/Community Service

• Varsity Baseball, 2009-12; Captain, 2011-12
• ABD Baseball Fan Club Team, 2011
• Southern California Elite Baseball Club Team, Summer 2011
• Nevada Junior Olympic Team, 2010
• Southern Nevada A’s Baseball Club Team, 2008-09
• American Legion Palo Verde Summer League, 2008 & 2011
• Southern Nevada Coaches League Panther’s Summer League, 2009-10
• Mountain View Hospital Junior Volunteer, 2011
• Miracle League Volunteer, 2010

Awards

• Wendy’s Heisman School Winner, 2011
• All Northwest Conference 2^nd Team Catcher, 2011
• Under Armour Preseason All American, 2010-12
• Palo Verde’s Offensive Player of the Year, 2011
• Panther Award, 2011
• Athlete of the Month for Spring Sports, April 2011
• Palo Verde’s Rookie of the Year, 2009
• All State Academic Team in Baseball, 2009-12
• Scholar Athlete, 2009-12
• National Society of High School Scholars, 2010-12
• Harvard Prize Book Nominee, 2011
• Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) Nominee, 2009
• USAA All American Scholar, 2008-09
• Who’s Who in Math, 2008-09

Cody Looks Up To: “I look up to my mom and dad because they are some of the hardest workers that I know. When they are faced with a task at their jobs and in life, they always find a way to get it done. They never take the easy route, and this is the philosophy that I want to have when I am on my own and starting my career.”

Cody is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I have become a stronger person after my traumatizing experience in baseball my freshman year. During a game, I collided with the outfield fence and injured myself pretty badly. Luckily, I was able to make a full recovery, and that experience helped me realize that I need to be more thankful that I can still play the sport each day.”

Improving Student Life: “I think having more online interactive textbooks would benefit the students and their education. I find it easier to learn if I can see, for instance, what I did wrong on a problem or see how a body system in Anatomy works. This could help with the cost and maintenance of regular textbooks.”

A Step Above 89135 – Sarah Sanders

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012

The difference between a dream and a goal is a plan, and Palo Verde High School senior Sarah Sanders has more than just a strategy for life, she’s got the drive and dedication to make it happen. With a firm commitment to school, athletics and family, she’s determined to tackle whatever the future holds on her path to becoming a physician. Sarah’s diligent work with the community has given her a strong appreciation of the advantages she’s had and a desire to give back to those who haven’t been so fortunate. She’s going above and beyond, both in her own academic career and to help those in need, and that’s what places Sarah Sanders – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.78

Sports/Activities/Community Service

• Women’s Varsity Tennis, 2008-12; Captain, 2011-12
• Junior Class Historian, 2010-11
• Student Body Historian, 2011-12
• National Honor Society, 2009-12
• Broadcast Journalism, 2008-11
• Best Buddies Organization, 2009-12
• Helping Hands Club, 2011-12
• United Synagogue Youth Member, 2009-11
• Jewish Family Service Agency (JFSA) Volunteer, 2008-12
• JFSA Junior Board Vice-President, 2008-10; President, 2011-12
• Rain Dance-a-Thon Co-Chairman, 2009
• TPC Tennis Instructor Volunteer, 2010-11

Awards

• Scholar Athlete Award, 2008-12
• Nevada All-State Academic Team – Tennis, 2008-12
• Varsity Tennis Sunset Regional 2^nd Place (Team & Individual Doubles; 2012
• Varsity Tennis Sunset Regional Finalist (Team; 2009-10
• Varsity Tennis Sunset Regional Quarter-Finalists (Individual Doubles; 2010
• State Championship 2^nd Place – Women’s Varsity Tennis, 2012
• Las Vegas’ Athlete of the Week, 2011
• CCSD “Best in Show” – Broadcast Journalism 3^rd Place, 2011
• CrEATive Challenge Contest, Broadcast Journalism 3^rd Place, 2010
• Outstanding Achievement, People to People Women’s Leadership Program, 2009
• Junior Fundraiser of the Year, Jewish Family Services Agency, 2009

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “This year, I founded a new club, Helping Hands, which is dedicated to helping a different charity every month. Our first drive collected over 800 books to be donated to Whitney Elementary School. For a brand new club, this was an amazing turnout, and I hope to have just as much success with our future events.”

Sarah Looks Up To: “My parents are my role models. They have always been there to teach me right from wrong and have always supported me, especially during the stressful college application process. I hope to be just as good a parent when I’m older.”

Part of the Solution: “Many young adults are faced with the threat of bullying, both on the Internet and in school. To help educate others of the consequences and side effects that bullying can have, I think it would be beneficial to bring in a program that would highlight the importance of tolerance and anti-bullying.”

A Step Above 89128 – Paige Pensivy

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2012

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “It is not length of life, but depth of life,” and Bishop Gorman High School senior Paige Pensivy is living that philosophy every day. Her passion, dedication and strong work ethic have her on track for an Honors Diploma. And with over 300 hours of community service and her own nonprofit dance program for kids called Ribbons & Rainbows, she’s sharing her selflessness and compassion with others in the community and cherishing every moment of it. She believes in the importance of positivity, the simple power of a smile and always striving to see the best in people. For all that and more, Paige Pensivy is – A Step Above.     

Activities

• BGHS Productions – Oklahoma, 2012; Godspell, 2011; Charley’s Aunt, 2010; Peter Pan, 2010; Anything Goes, 2009
• BGHS Dance Company – Viva Las Vegas, 2011; Peter & the Wolf, 2011; The Tree, 2010; Outside the Box, 2008
• Community Theatre – My Fair Lady, 2009; Will Rogers Follies, 2009
• Summerlin Dance Academy Competitions – Tap, Jazz and Lyrical, 2008
• National Society of High School Scholars, 2010
• National Honor Society, 2010
• International Thespian Society, 2009
• Academic Society, 2009
• Science Club, 2009
• Worship Choir, 2009
• GAELS Drama Club, 2009
• Art Club, 2011

Awards/Community Service

• Beale Science Fair Winner, 2007
• Young American Poets, 2007
• The American Library of Poetry, 2007
• Youth Ministry Scholarship, 2007
• Math High Honors Recipient, 2010
• GAELS Honors Achievement, 2010
• Link Leader, 2010
• Core Team Leader, 2011
• GAELS Theatre Guild Activities Director, 2011
• Kairos Retreat Leader, 2011
• Vacation Bible School, 2008-10
• Youth Ministry, 2008-12
• Ribbons & Rainbows Nonprofit Dance Program, 2010

Goals & Aspirations: “I want to attend college and ultimately get my doctorate. I would also like to become a psychologist and open my own practice or become a professor/counselor at the college level. I think it would be a dream come true to star in a musical, movie or TV series.”

Paige is Successful Because: “I am successful because of the guidance and the amazing opportunities my parents have given me. I think I continue to be successful because I am able to accept defeat or situations that may not be what I had planned and grow from them. I am extremely dedicated and willing to go the extra mile in everything I do.”

Improving Student Life: “I would want to see more funds given to theatre instead of cutting the programs. I feel that theatre is so influential to so many people. There are many students that may not have the best grades or even like school and theatre is a way for them to learn and grow.”