A Step Above 89117 – Carly Oberdieck
Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2012
Change can be a difficult thing for any person to handle, but Faith Lutheran High School senior Carly Oberdieck has a knack for adapting to all situations. Ever the optimist, she surrounds herself with positive people, sharing a sense of compassion and perseverance that inspires all those around her. Whether she’s tutoring peers or dedicating herself to academic excellence, it’s genuine faith in God and close ties to family that allow her to overcome life’s challenges. This optimistic outlook and unyielding dedication makes Carly Oberdieck – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.01
Sports/Activities
- B-Team Volleyball, 2008-09
- JV Volleyball, 2009-10
- Club Volleyball, 2007-10
- Private School Honor Band, 2008-11
- Pep Band, 2008-12; Conductor, 2011-12
- Wind Ensemble, 2008-12; Flute Section Leader, 2010-12; Band President, 2011-12
- Varsity Quiz, 2010-12
- National Junior Honor Society, 2008-09
- National Honor Society, 2010-12; Vice-President, 2011-12
- Science Bowl, 2008-12; Captain, 2010-11
- Mandelbrot Math Club, 2011-12
- Tri-M Music Honor Society, 2009-12; Treasurer, 2011-12
Awards/Community Service
- Student of the Month, 2011
- Band Student of the Year, 2008-11
- English Student of the Year, 2008-09
- Religion Student of the Year, 2008-10
- Science Student of the Year, 2008-10
- Crusader Award (Volleyball; 2008-10
- Best Offensive Player (Volleyball; 2010-11
- Faith Scholar Honor Roll, 2008-12
- Pearl Bucklen Bentel Award for Young Writers, 2011
- Sun Youth Forum, 2011
- FLHS Peer Tutor, 2008-12
- First Good Shepherd Sunday School Secretary, 2008-12
- Vacation Bible School Arts & Crafts Leader, 2008-10
- Music is Our Heart, 2010-12; Secretary 2010-12
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of being added to the “Chemistry Wall of Fame” in my chemistry class after making perfect scores on semester finals. This class made me realize how much I love chemistry. It has become my inspiration for majoring in chemistry in college.”
Carly is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Throughout my years in preschool and elementary school, my family moved regularly because my dad was a pilot in the Air Force. I did not enjoy leaving my friends and teachers behind, but I did become closer to my family. From these relocations, I learned how to adapt to new situations.”
Part of the Solution: “I believe a key issue facing young adults today is the tendency to follow the crowd, even when this means sacrificing morals and ethics in the process. Too often, people bully and persecute those who do not fit the mold. As the saying goes, treat everyone as you would like to be treated. A simple smile and greeting can go a long way.”
Wyatt Reid
Silverado High School
Class of 2012
It’s no secret that hard work pays off, and it’s been paying off many times over for Silverado High School senior Wyatt Reid. While he’s made a name for himself on the baseball field, he credits much of his athletic success to his dedication to academics and his passion and appreciation for everything about school. With great role models, strong faith and a commitment to achieving his goals, he doesn’t let any challenge stand in his way. He’s got his feet firmly on the ground, but he’s still reaching for his dreams, and that makes Wyatt Reid – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.49
Sports/Activities/Community Service:
- Varsity Baseball, 2009-Present
- Varsity Tennis, 2011
- Boy Scouts of America, 2006-Present
- Interact Club, 2010
- Eagle Scout Project, 2011
- Gene Ward Elementary Toy Donation Volunteer, 2010
Awards:
- Varsity Letter in Baseball, 2009-Present
- Varsity Letter in Tennis, 2011
- Scholar Athlete, 2009-Present
- Athlete of the Month, 2011
- Student of the Month, 2010
- Academic Letter, 2010
- Nevada All-State Academic Team for Baseball, 2010
- Skyhawk Award in Baseball, 2010
Wyatt is Successful Because: “The reason I am successful is hard work. As a young boy, my parents’ expectations were high. I set out to reach those goals through hard work and dedication.”
Wyatt Looks Up To: “I look up to my father because he is the greatest human being I have ever known. He risks his life on a daily basis for his work as a Fireman for the Clark County Fire Department. He is a loving father and grandfather, and he is the person that taught me all about hard work. All his life, he has been teaching me to go after my dreams.”
Part of the Solution: “The key issue facing young adults is their lack of things to do. The reason most kids get into trouble is that they don’t have uplifting activities or wholesome places to spend their time. A way to fix this is to encourage young adults to participate more in school clubs and sports. If students reach out and ask fellow classmates to participate in these activities, then this problem can be greatly changed.”
Wyatt is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Two summers ago, my scout group went on a 50-mile hike, which was done in six days. It was a mental and physical battle. We would wake up in the mornings and hike our nine or so miles and then eat dinner. I learned that with help from others and a drive to complete a task, anything can be accomplished.”
Jordan Orris
Green Valley High School
Class of 2012
With an emphasis on perseverance, creativity and strong values, Green Valley High School senior Jordan Orris is dreaming big and making those dreams come true. Her interests cover everything from music to politics to the literary world, but she doesn’t stop there. Drawing inspiration and support from her family, she’s constantly opening new doors and perfecting her strong work ethic. She hopes to take her future career from journalism and marketing to the halls of Congress and beyond, blazing a trail for others to follow. Her limitless energy and enthusiasm help keep her primed for success, and that places Jordan Orris – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.7
Sports/Activities:
- Track and Field, 2009-10
- GVHS Band (Marching, Concert and Jazz Lab Bands; 2008-09
- Alto Saxophone, 2006-Present; Classical Piano, 1999-Present
- Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief of GVoice Literary Blog
- Miss Nevada’s Outstanding Teen, 2009
- Green Valley High School Forensics, 2008-Present; Forensics Board, 2011-12
- Congressional Debate Captain, 2011-12
- Class of 2012 Class Committee (Class Representative; 2010-Present
- Girl Scouts of America, 2011-Present; Bronze and Silver Award Winner
Awards/Community Service:
- U.S. Senate Page, Summer 2011
- National AP Scholar, 2011
- National Forensic League Academic All-American, 2011
- Nevada Girls State Delegate, Summer 2011
- National Honor Society, 2010-Present; Spanish Honors Club, 2009-Present
- National Youth Advisory Board for Washington Scholars Program, 2010
- National Youth Correspondent, Washington Journalism & Media Conference, 2011
- National Charity League, 2006-Present; President, 2011-12
- 95th National Percentile on 2010 PSAT Test
- Qualifier to the National Forensics League Tournament, 2010
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am extremely proud of the legacy I left during my years of service as Miss Nevada’s Outstanding Teen. I hope that my platform work with SERVE (Sacrifice, Empathy, Relationships, Values and Empowerment) was meaningful. I live out my platform each day, as I believe that all young adults should develop a servant’s heart for the world.”
Jordan is Successful Because: “My drive and passion for everything I am involved in keeps me motivated, and the hard work and follow through that I put in helps me to succeed. I also have to thank my wonderful family for always believing in me. Without their support, I don’t think I would be able to do as many activities as I do.”
Jordan Looks Up To: “My grandmother – MeMe, as I call her – leads a wholesome life. One of her principal qualities is her willingness to give to others. She has instilled that core value in me and has inspired me with so much more. She encourages me to be happy, positive and to let my light shine for the world.”
Breanna Robinson
Coronado High School
Class of 2012
Finding the right balance in life can be difficult, but Coronado High School senior Breanna Robinson seems to have found hers. With a drive for success both on the soccer field and in the classroom, this aspiring medical student dedicates herself to rigorous study and intensive practice, juggling academic and athletic pursuits with confidence. She’s got a lot on her plate, but she still makes time to help her fellow students and her community, whether it’s tutoring her peers or working with Habitat for Humanity. It’s that selfless attitude and tireless commitment that help make Breanna Robinson – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8
Sports/Activities:
- JV Women’s Soccer, 2008-09
- Varsity Women’s Soccer, 2009-Present; Team Captain, 2011
- Varsity Track and Field, 2008-Present
- Club Soccer on Heat FC, 2008-Present
- Sprint and Hurdle Captain for Women’s Track and Field, 2010-Present
- Theatre, 2008-09
Awards/Community Service
- Scholar Athlete Award, 2008-Present
- Nevada All-State Academic Team, 2008-Present
- Student of the Month, 2011
- Athlete of the Month, December 2010
- JV Soccer MVP, 2009; Varsity Soccer MVP, 2010 and 2011
- First Team All-Sunrise Conference, 2011
- First Team All-City, 2011
- First Team All-Southeast Division, 2011
- Varsity Track and Field Sprinter MVP, 2009 and 2010; Team MVP, 2011
- Habitat for Humanity Club, 2011-Present
- Math Tutor, 2008-09
- DECA Run for Opportunity, 2010
- Broadway Memories, 2009
Goals & Aspirations: “My goals are to keep straight A’s this year and to be Valedictorian for the Class of 2012. Another goal is to be able to play soccer or run track in college and to hopefully receive scholarships for my achievements. In the future, my goal is to successfully complete college and go into medical school to become a doctor.”
Breanna Looks Up To: “One person I look up to would be my mom. She is such a strong woman and every day she encourages me to keep my head up and never let anyone or anything get me down. My mom wants me to be successful, so she always makes sure I work hard in everything that I do.”
School District Policies: “If I could make a change to Clark County School District Policies, I would want to make our anti-bullying policies stricter. Bullying has become such a problem in school, and I believe something needs to be done. Children who bully other children need to be more harshly punished or else bullying will never end. Children also need to be able to report to their teachers or other adults if they see other children being bullied.”
Kimberly Sandusky
Foothill High School
Class of 2012
If you asked Foothill High School senior Kimberly Sandusky how she maintains such a positive outlook on life, she’d tell you it comes from trying to see the good in everything and being confident in her beliefs. For her, the key to success is learning to embrace both strengths and weaknesses and to have no regrets. She’s not just setting out to be a role model; she’s living it, both in school and out in the world. Working with the less fortunate has helped her to take nothing for granted and embrace all life has to offer, which puts Kimberly Sandusky – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8
Sports/Awards/Community Service
- Junior Varsity Basketball, 2008-09
- Junior Varsity Volleyball, 2009-10
- Varsity Basketball, 2009-Present
- Scholar Athlete, 2009-Present
- Student of the Quarter, 2008-11
- Volunteer for Salvation Army, 2008-Present
- Souper Bowl of Caring, 2008-Present
- Crop Walk, 2010-11
- Spread the Word Nevada, 2010-Present
Activities:
- Vocal Ensemble, 2008-09
- Chamber Singers, 2009-Present; President/Alto Section Leader, 2011-Present
- Harmonic Intensity, 2010-Present
- Legacy, 2011-Present
- CCSD District Honor Choir, 2010
- Nevada All-State Choir, 2011
- National Honor Society, 2009-Present
- Spanish Club, 2010-11; Vice-President, 2010-11
- Mu Alpha Theta, 2011-Present
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of the fact that I have earned straight A’s throughout my entire school career. I have worked very hard to balance my extracurricular schedule with my school work. Even though my free time is limited, I would not trade my busy life for anything in the world.”
Kimberly Looks Up To: “I look up to my parents. They have been so supportive of me in everything that I have done and the choices I have made. They have always encouraged me to follow my dreams. Even though we may not always agree, I know that they will be there for me and love me unconditionally. They have helped mold me into the person I am today, and I am forever grateful.”
Kimberly is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I attended a mission trip to Jamaica, where I experienced first-hand the poverty in which some people live. While visiting an overcrowded orphanage in Montego Bay, I was humbled and amazed to see how happy the children were even though they had virtually nothing. They taught me that it shouldn’t take material things to make me happy, and I shouldn’t take anything in life for granted.”
Breck Naylor
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012
In the words of Palo Verde High School senior Breck Naylor, “There is power in just one,” and her accomplishments thus far can certainly attest to that truth. Already a small business owner, she’s provided youth in her Pee Wee Cheerleading and Craft Camp the opportunity to inch a little closer to their aspirations. All the while, she’s acted as a tireless volunteer, donating time to assist those in need. For her desire to be that one person who makes a positive impact on the lives of others, while finding the courage to stand behind her convictions and reach for the stars, Breck Naylor is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.1
Sports/Activities/Clubs:
- Freshman Cheer Squad, 2008-09; JV Cheer Squad, 2009-10, Co-Captain
- Varsity Cheer Squad, 2010-12; Captain, 2011-12
- Summerlin Dance Academy Team, 2008
- Church Youth Choir, 2008-Present
- Youth Dance Festival, 2008
- National Honor Society, 2008
- Nevada State Student Council Representative, 2009-11
- Church Youth Group Member and Leader, 2008-Present
- Freshman Class VP, 2008-09; Sophomore Class VP, 2009-10; Student Body 1st VP, 2011-12
- Student Body Historian, 2010-11
Awards/Community Service:
- National Junior Leader Award Recipient, 2008
- Cheerleading Competition Champion, 2009-Present
- UCA All American Cheerleading Team, 2009-Present
- LDS Young Women’s Recognition Award, 2008
- State Student Government Conference, 2009-11
- Volunteer Work: Opportunity Village, Three Square, Fight for Diabetes Walk, Salvation Army Food Drive, Toys for Tots, Little Sisters
- Hats for ICU Infant Care, 2008-09
- Prom Dresses for the Needy Fashion Show, 2011
- Ronald McDonald House Quilts, 2008
- Hygiene Kits for Tsunami Victims, 2010
- Church Youth Camp Leader, 2010-11
- Lupus Walk for a Cure, 2009
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “Ten years really isn’t that long from now, so I hope to be working in a successful career, but more importantly, supporting my husband and caring for my family. I would also like to be involved in some type of community service so that I can make a difference in others’ lives.”
Breck is Successful Because: “I think the self-worth my parents have instilled in me gives me the drive to be successful. I also rely on good friends and my church to help me stay true to my moral values. In addition, I never forget that true success means setting goals, working hard, staying positive and never giving up!”
Breck Looks Up To: “I look up to anyone who works hard at being successful, lives life to the fullest and doesn’t let others pressure them to be something or someone other than what they want to be. To me, that is true courage!”
Madison Taylor Blau
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012
Palo Verde High School senior Madison Blau is one busy young lady. Between studying hard to maintain excellent grades and running her own business, it’s a wonder she has time for anything else. But she does, and that time has been well-spent on her own creation: the What’s in Your Closet Project. Through the initiative, Madison helps collect lightly used shoes and handbags from women in the community to be sold on eBay. The profits are then shared between the nonprofits Best Buddies and Opportunity Village. It’s not your average teenage activity, but we wouldn’t expect anything less from this above average achiever, whose commitment to helping others while staying true to her upstanding core values elevates her to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.74
Clubs/Activities/Awards:
- Best Buddies
- PVHS Yearbook
- National Honors Society
- 2011 Best Buddies Nevada Outstanding Chapter Award
- Best Buddies and Opportunity Village “What’s in Your Closet?” Project
- The One Yellow Rose eBay Business Founder
Goals & Aspirations: “I hope to attend a top university where I will major in marketing and communications design. I hope to develop my entrepreneurial skills and maybe someday run my own magazine.”
Madison is Successful Because: “I have an excellent work ethic and vision for perfection. My creative ability to think outside of the box and my unwavering dedication enable me to achieve my ultimate success.”
Madison Looks Up To: “I look up to my big brother and best friend, Justin. He epitomizes what it means to have ‘everything.’ Justin manages to balance his rigorous finance major at Washington University in St. Louis with his thriving music career as the mash-up artist 3LAU. Even with his busy schedule, he still makes it his priority to spend quality time with his family.”
Madison is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Through Best Buddies and Opportunity Village, working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has been an eye-opening experience for me. It has given me life perspective and has taught me to never take anything in life for granted.”
Part of the Solution: “Young adults today sometimes have a hard time accepting people who are different. Whether it’s discrimination based on skin color, religion or an intellectual disability, young adults tend to see the world in a very narrow view. I hope to be a part of the solution by promoting inclusion and educating those around me.”
Megan Alexander
The Meadows School
Class of 2012
Meadows School senior Megan Alexander has a vision of the future; a place where success is not measured by awards and notoriety, but by how great it makes one feel. As an outstanding runner and student, she’s acting out that vision, showing all her peers the joy that comes from hard work and dedication. As the leader of her school’s Create a Change Now chapter, she’s also demonstrating that she isn’t afraid to get a little dirt under her nails to make the world a better place. For her philanthropic efforts, fortitude and positivity, Megan Alexander is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.75
Sports/Clubs/Community Service:
- Varsity Cross Country, 2010-Present; Team Captain, 2011/12
- Varsity Track, 2009-Present
- Volleyball, 2008; Captain, 2009
- Technical Theater, 2007-11
- Recycling Club–Meadows Environmental Consortium, 2008-Present
- Mock Trial, 2010-Present
- Create a Change Now, 2010-Present; President, 2011/12
- Club Cure, 2010-Present; President, 2011/12
- Rock the Walk Volunteer, 2008-10
- Relay for Life, 2011
- Youth Advisory Council, 2011
- St. Elizabeth Catholic Church Volunteer, 2008-11
- Catholic Charities Volunteer, 2009
- Three Square, 2009
Awards:
- Cum Laude Society, 2011/12
- National Honor Society & National Spanish Honor Society, 2010-12
- National Merit Semifinalist, 2011
- National Spanish Exam–Nevada Chapter 2nd Place 4 OE, 2011
- Student of the Year, 2007/09/10
- MVP–Cross Country, 2011
- 1st Place in Regional Competition & State Competition Medal–Cross Country, 2010
- 2nd Place 800m–Cross Country Regional Competition
- Academic Awards: AP European History, 2011; Honors Algebra II/Trig, 2010; AP US History, 2010; Honors American Literature and Composition, 2010; Honors Intro to English Literature and Composition, 2009; Honors Spanish II, 2009; Honors Ancient History, 2009
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “My induction into the Cum Laude Society was an important moment for me. Knowing that many of my teachers had come together to choose me from among my entire grade was gratifying.”
Megan Looks Up To: “I recently read a book called Born to Run about a tribe of runners called the Tarahumaras. Their reason for running has nothing to do with competition; they push themselves solely for the pleasure. I have internalized this outlook, trying to always look past tangible payoffs and instead focus upon how much fun I have in the process.”
Part of the Solution: “Childhood obesity has become a matter of global concern. When one in three kids are considered obese within our own nation, I cannot help but feel impelled to act. It is this passion that has driven me to lead my school’s chapter of the club Create a Change Now.”
Gabriella Quarantello
Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2012
What’s behind a beautiful smile? A lot more than teeth and gums, if you ask Bishop Gorman High School senior Gabriella Quarantello. There’s certainly much behind her own. Confidence, for one. Charisma, for another. Intelligence and talent are present and accounted for as well. But even more evident is a kind-hearted disposition; one rooted in a desire to achieve her highest potential while doing what she can to lift the spirits of others. Whether performing on the stage, speaking behind a podium, volunteering her time or working steadfastly toward her goals, she’s making the grade and making a difference, and for that, Gabriella Quarantello is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.98
Activities/Clubs:
- Worship Choir, 2009-Present
- Theatre, 2009-Present
- Dancer–Production of The Tree, 2009; Dancer, Speaker and Co-Dance Captain–The Reflections in the Mirror, 2010
- House Management/Guest Services–Peter Pan, The Importance of Being Earnest and Charley”s Aunt
- Gaels on Broadway JV, 2009-10; Varsity, 2010-11; Varsity w/ Directing Practicum, 2011-12
- · An Actor”s Ballet: Peter and the Wolf as the Duck, 2011
- National Honor Society Secretary and Member, 2011-Present
- International Thespian Society Troupe #4347, 2009-Present
- Spanish Honor Society, 2010-Present
- Mu Alpa Theta, 2011-Present
- Speech and Debate Team, 2009-Present; Secretary, 2010-11; Captain, 2011-Present
- BGHS Academic Society Secretary and Member, 2009-10
- Student Government, 2007-Present
Awards:
- Student of the Year: Forensics, 2011; Church History, 2010; New Testament, 2009; English I, 2009; Health, 2009
- Certificate of Honor: Chemistry, 2011; Biology, 2010; Algebra I Honors, 2009; Spanish I, 2009
- Speech and Debate: NV State Tournament 3rdPlace Congressional Debate, 2011; Degree of Excellence, 2011; Rookie of the Year, 2010; Degree of Honor, 2010
- Lion”s Club Student Speaker Contest–Club, Zone and District Level Winner, 2010; State Level Runner-Up
- Sunrise Hospital and Sunrise Children’s Hospital Junior Volunteer, 2009-Present
Goals and Aspirations: “My goals are to graduate from high school and attend UNLV to obtain my bachelor’s degree in biology with a professional concept, then attend dental school. Eventually, I would love to become an oral surgeon, because when people feel good about their teeth, they will smile more, therefore, bringing happiness to all.”
Gabriella Looks Up To: “I look up to my parents because they are so strong in every aspect. I look up to them in so many ways, because I admire their love for their family so much. They will drop anything to spend time with me.”
Cause for Concern: “If I could, I would be president of the American Heart Association, because in 2010 my dad had six-coronary bypass open heart surgery. Two weeks later, he was discharged; truly one of the happiest days of my life. I want to help other families who are going through this situation, because having my dad’s life given back to me is priceless.”
Nicole Pisarczyk
Liberty High School
Class of 2012
If Charlie’s Angels were a reality TV show for teens, Liberty High School Student Body President Nicole Pisarczyk might easily snag a lead role. A super mash-up of intelligence, pep, toughness and a warm smile, she’s just one of those rare individuals that seems to have it all. Not that it comes effortlessly. Everything that she’s accomplished so far is a result of her hard work and commitment, discipline and a never surrender mentality that’s all part of her winning charm. With all these qualities in her corner, she’s not just imagining possibilities; she’s going for them with gusto, and for that, Nicole Pisarczyk is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.287
Sports:
- Chun Kuk Do Martial Arts, 2001-09
- LHS Varsity Cheer Squad Co-Captain, 2010-11; Junior Varsity Squad Member, 2009-10; Freshman Squad Captain, 2008-09
- LHS Student Body President, 2011-Present; Student Body 2nd Vice President, 2010-11; Sophomore Class Vice President, 2009-10; Freshman Class President, 2008-09
- St. Thomas More Life Teen Youth Group Member, 2008-Present; Leader, 2010-Present; Eucharistic Minister
Awards/Community Service:
- America’s Congressional Award Bronze Medal, 2010; Gold & Silver Certificates, 2009; Bronze Certificate, 2008
- LHS Cheerleading Athletic Award, 2011; Captain’s Award, 2009
- Shade Tree Shelter, 2011-Present
- Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada Volunteer, 2011
- Boys & Girls’ Clubs of America Volunteer, 2010
- Silvestri Junior High School Volunteer Assistant Cheer Coach, 2008-10
- Lied Discovery Children’s Museum Volunteer, 2008-10
- L.I.G.H.T. Summer Work Camp Volunteer, 2008/10
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “In 10 years, I see myself either starting my own law firm or working hard as an FBI Special Agent, having a family and living life to the fullest extent.”
Accomplishment Most Proud Of: “The accomplishment I am most proud of is earning my black belt in Chun Kuk Do. I worked extremely hard for 8 years to reach my goal. It is not just a belt; it shows that I can defend myself, but also represents my discipline, integrity, loyalty and respect.”
Part of the Solution: “Being involved in the Every 15 Minutes program made me realize that a huge problem facing teens today is driving while impaired. Awareness is a key defense against this issue; making sure my friends and family don’t get behind the wheel impaired is something I firmly enforce.”
Cause for Concern: “If I could be the president of any nonprofit organization, it would be one that helps the victims of child abuse. Kids who are abused don’t have a voice; a strong organization can speak for them, teach people about the signs of abuse, help victims overcome the damage, and put away the criminals that commit these crimes.”
