Jenna Swaffer
Green Valley High School
Class of 2013
Work first, play later makes Green Valley High School junior Jenna Swaffer a bright and accomplished young lady. A four-year varsity volleyball champ and a dedicated team player, discipline, reliability and leadership are among her many amazing personal qualities. Yet, utilizing these strengths to train for and claim the big win is only part of her agenda. The remainder is about being a person of substance and compassion; someone that is willing to help others achieve their potential and treat all people with dignity and respect. Grateful for the opportunities she’s been blessed with, she’s gearing up to capitalize on each and every one of them, which elevates Jenna Swaffer to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.8
Sports/Awards/Community Service:
- Varsity Volleyball, 2009-Present
- Nevada Juniors Volleyball Club, 2007-10
- Complete Student Athlete Volleyball Club, 2011
- Sunrise Region Southeast Conference Second Team
- Southeast Sunrise Region Champions, 2009/10
- Las Vegas Invitational Tournament–3rd Place Finish, 2010/11
- Division 4A State Championship Runner-Up, 2010
- GVHS Varsity Outstanding Offensive Player, 2010
- Nevada Preps Player to Watch, 2011
- Scholar Athlete, 2009/10
- Honor Roll, 2009-Present
- Varsity Letter, 2009-11
- Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Participant and Volunteer, 2010/11
- Habitat for Humanity, 2011
Goals & Aspirations: “My present goal is to help lead the Women’s Varsity Gator Volleyball Team to win a state championship, then graduate with an advanced honors diploma and hopefully get recruited to play volleyball in college. Eventually, I would like to study kinesiology in hopes of becoming a physical therapist.”
Jenna is Successful Because: “I think some of the best qualities I have are being trustworthy and dedicated. That is what makes me successful. Parents, teachers, friends and teammates can count on me to do what I need to do in order to get the job done. I believe work comes before play, and that’s how I stay on top.”
Jenna Looks Up To: “My mom continues to inspire me day after day. She is one of the strongest women I know; truly a brave person and a fighter. She has been fighting breast cancer since November of 2009, but giving up has never been an option for her. I hope I can grow up one day to be just half the woman she is. Love you mom!”
Cause for Concern: “If I could be the president of any nonprofit organization, it would be the cancer research institute, because there are so many people who suffer from cancer and are in need of help. It would also benefit me because I would be learning about how to help people who are fighting this disease, and how to prevent it as well.”
Malia Civetz
Las Vegas Academy of the Performing Arts
Class of 2012
It’s always showtime for Las Vegas Academy senior Malia Civetz. In fact, to sum up her performance resume here is an impossible feat. Her National Anthem roster alone can fill up a page or two, and so we sum her up as this: remarkably talented, gifted musically and tirelessly committed to her craft. When she’s not hitting the books to sharpen her academic edge, she’s delighting audiences with her outstanding vocal stylings. And if you ask her, it’s all in the name of bringing joy to others and making the world a better place. For all that and more, Malia Civetz is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.7
Activities/Performances:
- National Anthem for President Barack Obama’s Economic Speech at UNLV, 2010
- Performances at House of Blues Sunset Strip and Universal Studios CityWalk, 2009
- Showtime at the Apollo featured Star of Tomorrow–Apollo Theater, 2007
- LV Academy Theatre Productions: Hairspray–Tracy Turnblad; It’s a Wonderful Life–Radio Star; The Crucible–Martha Corey & Sarah Goode; West Side Story–Rosalia; The Wiz–Ensemble
- Las Vegas Academy Vocal Jazz, 2008-Present
- International Thespian Society Member
- LVA Performance Choir
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Barry Manilow’s 15 Minutes of FAME Winner, 2011
- USC Summer Musical Theater Conservatory Scholarship, 2011
- Gateway Arts Foundation Scholarship, 2010
- FAME Talent Show Winner, 2009
- Henderson’s Got Talent–1st Place, 2008
- Las Vegas Motor Speedway Children’s Charities, 2004-Present
- American Cancer Society Relay for Life, 2005-Present
- Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk, 2007-Present
- Positively Kids Town Square Event, 2007-Present
- Toys for Tots, 2009-Present
- Public Education Foundation’s Hero Award Event, 2010/11
Goals & Aspirations: “My goals at the moment are to receive the Advanced Honors Diploma and become a valedictorian. After graduation, I wish to work toward a Bachelor’s Degree in vocal performance and musical theatre. As far as the future, it has always been my dream to receive a Grammy and Tony award!”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am extremely proud that I was selected to sing for President Obama, perform at the Apollo Theater and play Tracy in Hairspray, all while continuing to get straight A’s in all of my classes. I’ve been honored to share the stage with so many incredible performers and will soon sing in the Paris Showroom with Barry Manilow; I’m so excited!”
Malia is Successful Because: “To be successful as a student and singer/performer takes a lot of dedication. I have in the past and will continue to put in the time and training in order to be respected as a musician and artist. Hard work, perseverance and my amazing parents have gotten me to where I am today.”
Melanie Chambers
Coronado High School
Class of 2012
The combination of showmanship, athleticism and intelligence is not easy to find in just one person, yet Coronado High School senior Melanie Chambers manages to embody them all. A multi-talented individual with an outstanding work ethic, her dreams may be big, but her commitment to making them a reality is bigger. Surely, there will be no shortcuts for this rising star; it’s evident that she’s willing to put in every ounce of effort to succeed in all she endeavors. That kind of dedication is almost as rare as her well-rounded assortment of talents and gifts, and together they make Melanie Chambers – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.53
Sports/Activities/Clubs:
- CHS Golf Team, 2008-Present; Captain, 2009-11
- Concert Choir, 2008-Present
- Madrigal Singers, 2010-Present
- Piano, 2002-Present
- Cast of CHS Spring Musical Seussical, 2009; The Pajama Game, 2010
- Drama Club, 2008-Present
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist
- Honor Roll, 2008-11
- Player of the Year–CHS Golf Team, 2008-10
- Athlete of the Month, 2008/10
- Scholar Athlete, 2008-10
- Soprano Section Leader–Concert Choir, 2010-Present
- Soprano Section Leader–Madrigal Singers, 2010-Present
- Student Director–CHS Choir Department, 2011-Present
- Maestro Award–Heritage Festival, 2011
- National Charity League, 2007-Present
- Special Olympics, 2007-Present
- First Tee of Southern Nevada, 2009-Present
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “In 10 years, I hope to either be teaching chorus at the university level or travelling the world performing.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I”m so proud of the leadership positions I have achieved throughout my time in high school, including being section leader in choir and captain of the golf team.”
Part of the Solution: “Too much focus on other people”s opinions seems to be a major factor in the way young adults behave today. By being afraid of appearing ‘different,’ kids risk losing their sense of individuality and purpose. I do not let others influence or stifle my beliefs. I encourage my peers to branch out as well, and realize that it”s okay to be yourself.”
Cause for Concern: “I would love to be president of the VH1 Save the Music Foundation, because it recognizes the importance of the arts in students” lives. Save the Music is one of the few organizations fighting to keep music programs in schools, while almost everyone else is trying to cut them.”
Trent Philip Gneiting
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012
Palo Verde High School Student Body President Trent Gneiting is, like most high-achieving young adults, a student of life, learning each day to keep pushing forward through both thick and thin. What sets him apart is that he is also a teacher, of sorts, with a heart-felt intention to prove that life is not merely a series of action and reward; that true success comes from treating others fairly and giving selflessly for nothing more than the joy that it brings. Charging ahead of the game academically, athletically and in a role of leadership, Trent Gneiting can always be found in a place where hard work meets kindness and enthusiasm, and for that, he is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.350
Sports/Activities:
- Freshman Basketball, 2008/09; JV, 2009/10; Varsity, 2010-12
- Freshman Football, 2008-09; JV, 2009-10
- JV Men’s Volleyball, 2008/09; Varsity, 2009-12
- Freshman Class President, 2008/09
- Sophomore Class Representative, 2009/10
- Student Body Second Vice President, 2010/11
- Student Body President, 2011/12
- Pep Club, 2010-12
- ICC Founder and President, 2010-12
Awards/Community Service:
- Rotary Youth Leadership Award, 2011
- Nevada Boys State Delegate, 2011
- Boys Nation Nominee/Alternate, 2011
- American Legion Gold Medal of Leadership, 2011
- Scholar Athlete, 2010-12
- Sunset Region 2nd Team–Volleyball, 2011
- Eagle Scout
- Organized and Assembled 250 Health Kits for Salvation Army, 2010
- Lupus Foundation Volunteer, 2010/11
Goals & Aspirations: “I plan to attend Brigham Young University in Provo Utah then serve a two year mission for the LDS church. I will then major in business and minor in political science.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of being Student Body President for one of the most successful high schools in the state. Go Palo!”
Trent is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I lost my election for class president sophomore year. When this happened, I was inspired to work that much harder to accomplish my goal of becoming student body president.”
Part of the Solution: “Many young people expect much, but only want to give a little. There is much to be said about giving service without a reward. We can find true joy in life by serving our fellow man.”
Dominique Stewart
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012
Never give up, never give in. This is the philosophy that drives great movers and shakers; those that stop at nothing to obtain their goals. Palo Verde High School senior Dominique Stewart is one of them, and it is through no shortage of dedication and fortitude that everything seems to be going to plan for this young go-getter. Well-rounded and spirited, she sets out each day to make the most of her talents and abilities with a positive attitude and powerful work ethic that gets the job done. For all that and more, Dominique Stewart is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.25
Sports/Activities/Community Service:
- Cheer Squad, 2008-Present; Freshman Team Co-Captain, 2008/09
- Encore Dance Team, 2008-10; Team Captain, 2008-10
- Concert Choir, 2008-Present
- Palo Verde Fashion Show Core Model, 2009
- All Shook Up, 2009; Ain’t Misbehavin’, 2010; Little Shop of Horrors, 2011
- Trinity Church Band, 2010-Present
- Black History Club, 2008-10; Pep Club, 2009-Present
- Batteries Included, 2011
- Veterans Memorial & Mirabelli Leisure Center Volunteer, 2009-10
- Three Square Volunteer, 2011-Present
- Magical Forest & Breast Cancer Awareness Performer, 2007-10
Scholarships/Awards:
- UCA All-American Cheerleader & NDA All-American Dance, 2008-Present
- NDA All-American Dancer and Most Innovative Choreography, 2009
- Outstanding Concert Choir Soloist, 2010/11; 1st Place Soloist–PVHS Talent Show, 2010
- African American Scholar Award, 2011
- Anaheim Heritage Festival Choral Sweepstakes Award, 2011; Outstanding Choral Group, 2011; 1st Place Gold Concert Choir, 2010/11; Maestro Award, 2010/11
- UCA Camp Champion and Superior Performance Awards, 2009
Goals & Aspirations: “My everyday goal is to positively inspire and affect as many people as I possibly can. As for the future, I plan on completing college then going on to law school while still expanding my career in the music and entertainment field.”
Dominique is Stronger and Wiser Because: “In middle school, after working towards tryouts for both show choir and cheer squad, I didn’t make either group. I never gave up though, and turned out to be an award winning musician and a top athlete. The lesson learned was that no matter what, you should keep pushing towards what you want.”
Part of the Solution: “A lot of young adults today feel that they can’t individually make a difference in the world. But what they fail to realize is that if 500 people make that same small step, that is a huge difference made in our community. I could help by reaching out to those people by example and letting them know that they can help.”
Quinton Akeem Alexander
Cimarron-Memorial High School
Class of 2012
Charisma, resilience and courage. These are the qualities that boost the underdogs of the world to legendary status. They are also qualities that Cimarron-Memorial High School Student Body President Quinton Alexander admires and strives to apply to all that he endeavors. If his accomplishments thus far are any indication, he’s doing a fine job of it, adding a few of his own winning traits to the equation for success. With a positive outlook, humility and faith on his side, he’s putting everything he’s got toward attaining his high-reaching aspirations, and for that, Quinton Alexander is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.83
Sports/Activities:
- Freshman Football, 2009
- JV Football, 2010
- Varsity Football, 2011
- Varsity Track, 2009-Present
- Multi-Cultural Show/Talent Show, 2010
- Student Council, 2011/12
- Student Body President, 2011/12
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- MVP Offense–Freshman Football, 2009
- MVP Offense–JV Football, 2010
- Most Improved–Varsity Track, 2009
- Academic Achievements Wall–1st Quarter Social Studies, 2010
- Zappos Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon & ½ Marathon Volunteer, 2011
- Summerlin Independence Day Parade Volunteer, 2010/11
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of staying out of trouble and on the right track toward success. I’m proud to have been one of the few freshmen to make it to the NIAA Track and Field State Championship and place 2nd in the 4×400 meter relay.”
Quinton is Successful Because: “My optimism, motivation and faith in God help me to be successful. I like to see things from a brighter perspective no matter how bad a situation may look. In track, if someone is faster or more in shape than I am, it motivates me to get better. My faith in God guides me throughout life to make the right decisions.”
Quinton Looks Up To: “I look up to the people who are courageous enough to stand up for what they believe in; people who have suffered from addiction but found the strength to quit. I look up to the people who are deemed losers, ugly or incapable of success, but who become winners, beautiful in every aspect of living and successful in the end.”
Quinton is Stronger and Wiser Because: “So far, I haven’t had to overcome any major obstacles. Minor experiences such as losing and getting injured have taught me things. I overcame these simple problems by learning from my mistakes, re-evaluating my habits, and changing to better myself in the long run.”
Taylor Pori
Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2012
Life is what you make it, and Faith Lutheran High School Student Body President Taylor Pori is making it great. A force to be reckoned with on the field and in the classroom, she consistently keeps up a rigorous schedule that others might find intimidating. But she handles it with ease, taking responsibility for every action, capitalizing on her strengths and bounding forward from adversity. With a fiery zest for achieving her greatest potential while staying humble and kind, she’s climbing ever steadily toward a life she can be proud of, and for that, Taylor Pori is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.8
Sports/Activities:
- Club Soccer, 2005-09
- Varsity Soccer, 2008-Present
- Club Lacrosse, 2009-Present
- Varsity Lacrosse, 2008-Present
- Under Armour Underclassmen All American–Western Region, 2011
- Verbatim Leadership Council, 2011
- Class President, 2008-11
- Student Body President, 2011/12
Awards/Community Service:
- National Society of High School Scholars, 2009-Present
- Most Improved Player–Lacrosse, 2009; Best Offensive Player, 2011
- Homecoming Princess, 2008
- Congressional Youth Leader, 2008
- People to People Ambassador, 2009
- Opportunity Village Volunteer, 2007-Present
- Vacation Bible School Counselor at Faith Lutheran Community Church, 2011
- Peer Helper, 2009-Present
- Key Club, 2008-Present
- Investing Club, 2010-Present
- Teens Against Tobacco Use, 2008-Present
- National Junior Honor Society, 2008-09
Taylor is Successful Because: “I am successful because of my hard work, time management, the support I receive everyday from my family and loving what I do. If I put my mind to something I can almost always do it. The support I receive from my family, however, allows me to aim high and reminds me to never give up on something I truly want.”
Taylor is Stronger and Wiser Because: “An obstacle that has made me a stronger person was my parents’ divorce. It taught me patience, understanding, and gave me a way of looking at things more positively. It was my first real struggle, and I believe it has made me stronger, helped me to grow in my faith, and showed me that great things can come from the worst situations.”
Part of the Solution: “I believe a key issue facing young adults today is self-image. This breeds low self-esteem and can quickly turn into eating disorders, depression, use of steroids and the like. I hope to be a part of the solution by setting an example that correct diet and exercise go a long way. Also, it’s never terrible to splurge on dessert every once in a while.”
Joshua Hutapea
Silverado High School
Class of 2012
Succeeding in life is all about progression–trying new things, seeking knowledge, exploring talents and eventually finding your perfect niche. Through no shortage of determination, Silverado High School Student Body President Joshua Hutapea has certainly found his, and it seems to be in a place of leadership. A key member of student council throughout his high school career, he has consistently forged a path of positivity and righteous action for his classmates to follow. And as a student, mentor and tireless volunteer, he’s done more of the same. Ultimately, though, it is his soaring ambition, tempered by a grounded perspective that makes Joshua Hutapea such a high-achieving individual, and without question – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.2
Sports/Activities:
- Freshman Football, 2008
- Freshman Volleyball, 2009
- Tennis, 2010
- Chamber Choir, 2009-Present
- CCSD Honor Choir, 2009/10
- NMEA All-State Choir, 2010/11
- Freshman Class VP, 2008-09; Sophomore Class President, 2009-10; Junior Class President, 2010-11; Student Body President, 2011-Present
- National Honor Society, 2009-Present; Treasurer, 2010-11
- Peer Helpers, 2009-Present
- Student Mentor Program, 2010-11
Awards/Community Service:
- Freshman of the Year, 2008-09
- Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership, 2010
- Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum, 2010
- American Legion Award, 2008
- President’s Education Award, 2008
- Aggie Roberts and Charlotte Hill Elementary Schools Tutor/Volunteer, 2010-11
- Animal Foundation Volunteer, 2009-11
- Three Square Foundation Volunteer, 2009-11
- Las Vegas Rescue Mission Volunteer, 2009-11
- Relay for Life Participant, 2009-11
- Shade Tree Volunteer, 2008-10
- Make-a-Wish Foundation Volunteer, 2009-11
- Henderson Blue Ribbon Commission, 2009-10
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of being elected as Student Body President for my school. I have stood in admiration of the previous student body presidents, in hopes of one day earning the same position. This has been something I have been working towards throughout my entire high school career, and now having achieved it, I feel truly blessed.”
Joshua is Stronger and Wiser Because: “When I was eight years old, my father passed away. Although I could not fully understand everything that was happening at the time, I did understand that I had to become ‘man of the household’. Through it all, I learned to become independent and more self-reliant. My only wish is to make him and my mom proud.”
Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults today is the struggle with body image. Teens are becoming obsessed with the media’s perception of what “perfect” looks like. I can be a part of the solution by helping young teens accept themselves. By accepting yourself, you’ll learn to accept others.”
Melanie Robertson
Green Valley High School Class of 2012
All the world’s a stage, and Green Valley High School Student Body President Melanie Robertson is stepping confidently into the spotlight. It’s a scary thought for some…all those bright lights and big expectations. But Melanie handles it with ease, keeping Shakespeare’s advice close to her heart: “To thine own self be true.” Not content to mold herself into what others wish to see, she courageously chooses to show the world who she truly is and what she wants to become. Already talented and conscientious, fearless and proud, she’s finding a voice and a path all her own, on stage and in life, and for that, Melanie Robertson is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.5
Clubs/Activities:
- Bella Voce, 2008-Present; Madrigals, 2009-Present
- CCSD Honor Choir Member, 2010
- Nevada All-State Choir Member, 2011
- Choir Publicity Manager, 2009-11; President, 2012
- Camp Rock (Summer Musical; 2010
- GVHS Production of Thoroughly Modern Millie, 2011
- Solo and Ensemble, 2008-11
- Key Club, 2010/11
- Gator Reels Film Club, 2008/09
- Improv Team, 2009-Present
- Freshman Class President, 2008/09; Sophomore Class President, 2009/10; Junior Class President, 2010/11; Student Body President, 2011/12
- Class Committee, 2008-11
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Student Council Outstanding Underclassman, 2009; Most Spirited, 2009/11
- Student Representative–President Obama’s Town Hall Meeting at GVHS, 2010
- Most Outstanding Attitude–Choir, 2010; Section Leader, 2009-Present
- Biggest Choir Nerd, 2011
- Most Dedicated Soprano 1, 2010
- Dance Teacher at Thurman White MS, 2008-10
- Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Volunteer, 2008-11
- Student Council Annual Gators Give, 2008-10
- March of Dimes, 2011
- Student Council PB & J-a-Thon, 2008-10
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of earning the position as Student Body President. I have wanted this title since I was a freshman and have worked for it since I could remember. Now that I have this position, I’m determined to follow through with my duties and help create a great year.”
Melanie Looks Up To: “I look up to my mother, Bituin. She raised four children and three grandchildren all by herself. When I grow up, I hope to be just like her; strong, independent and loving. I love her so much, and I hope that she knows she is more than just a mother to me; she’s my best friend.”
Melanie is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My freshman year was a very difficult transition for me; all I wanted was to fit in. I wasn’t my true self at all. Towards the end of the year, I dropped the mask and became myself. I made new friends and did the things I wanted to do, and since then, I’ve had no regrets.”
Part of the Solution: “I feel as if young adults have a hard time being themselves. I believe I’m a part of the solution today. I was once a person who did things just to fit in, but I broke away from that. I think I can be a role model young adults can look up to.”
Luke Sanford
Coronado High School
Class of 2012
On any given day, you’re likely to find Coronado High School Student Body President Luke Sanford busy doing many things–scoring one for the team, acing a test or overseeing a meeting. What you won’t find him doing is sitting idly by or giving in to negativity. To the contrary, his accomplishments reflect the kind of positive, can-do attitude that turns dreams into reality. Indeed, he’s excelling all around, and it’s not by happenstance. With an impeccable work ethic, soaring ambition and a deep-seated sense of duty, he’s moving rather swiftly along the road to success, and for that, Luke Sanford is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8
Sports/Clubs/Activities:
- Junior Varsity Soccer, 2008/09; Defensive MVP
- Varsity Soccer, 2009-11; Defensive MVP, 2010/11; Sportsmanship Recipient, 2009/10
- Student Council, 2008-Present; Class Treasurer, 2008-11; Student Body President, 2011/12
- Mu Alpha Theta, 2009-12; Treasurer, 2009-11; President, 2011/12
- National Honor Society
- Varsity Quiz Captain, 2011-Present
- Conservative Rhapsodization
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Scholar Athlete, 2008-11
- All-State Academic Team, 2009-11
- NHS Foreign Relations Consultant, 2011/12
- Nevada Prize Exam Award Recipient, 2008-11
- Nevada Secondary Mathematics Competition Finalist, 2009/10; 5th Place, 2010/11
- National Merit Scholar Semi-Finalist, 2010/11
- Boys and Girls Club Mentor
- Math Tutor
- Coronado Cougar’s Care
- Trick or Treat for Cans–Three Square
- Del Webb MathCounts Instructor
- St. Timothy’s Feeding the Homeless
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “When I was 13, I underwent vast amounts of work to earn the honor of Eagle Scout. I designed a project in which I solicited the aid of USYSNV, the local soccer agency, to collect as much soccer equipment as possible for destitute children in Nigeria. Overall, I sent over 600 pieces of equipment to the children in Africa.”
Luke is Successful Because: “Success is defined by one’s attitude and ability to persevere in even the direst of situations. I apply this creed in my life so that no matter what hardship comes charging up the road, I am able to recover and move along, always learning from my mistakes.”
Luke Looks Up To: “I immensely admire Abraham Lincoln. He was ‘dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal,’ and he was willing to combat the South to emancipate a people that countless others considered inferior. He died a martyr for his cause and brought his nation ‘a new birth of freedom.’”
Luke is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Recently, I played on a team that I hoped to be exceptional but ended up falling short of my expectations. Our coach had business to tend to, my team completely lacked commitment and collapsed. I learned that sometimes failure is inevitable, but if one manages to shake it off, a greater success can be made available.”
