Ashley Taylor Gord
Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2011
Life is too short to not make every moment count. Taking this truth to heart, Faith Lutheran High School Student Body President Ashley Gord is managing her time and utilizing her talents to be the most upstanding and accomplished individual she can be. As a leader, she focuses her goals on what’s best for the team. Academically, she works hard to reach the highest levels of achievement. Moreover, on a personal level, her audacity, practicality and confidence is what bolsters her simple approach to life; be fearless and focused, yet true to yourself and kind, and for that, Ashley Gord is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.96
Sports/Clubs:
- JV Softball, 2008-09
- Varsity Softball, 2010
- Freshman Volleyball, 2007
- JV Volleyball, 2008
- Freshman Class Treasurer, 2007/08
- Sophomore Class Secretary, 2008/09
- Student Body Historian, 2009/10
- Student Body President, 2010-Present
- National Junior Honor Society Member, 2006-08; Vice President, 2007/08
- National Honor Society Member, 2009-Present; Historian, 2010-Present
Awards/Community Service:
- Wendy”s High School Heisman Applicant, 2010
- Nevada All-State Academic Team with Recognition for Student Leadership, 2008
- Yearbook Academic Award, 2007
- National Youth Leadership Conference Nominee, 2009
- Softball Crusader Award, 2010
- Voted Volleyball Team Captain, 2007
- Academic Letter, 2008-09
- Varsity Softball Letter, 2010
- Las Vegas Relay for Life Volunteer, 2008-09
- Operation Christmas Child, 2004-10
- American Lung Association Teen Teacher, 2007-Present
Goals & Aspirations: “I strive to graduate in the spring with high honors, but before I leave Faith Lutheran I plan on making a few changes to help improve the school for the students. After high school I plan on obtaining a master’s degree, possibly in psychology, and one day getting married and starting a family of my own.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of my newly acquired position as the Student Body President at Faith Lutheran. Of all the people in the world there are only a select few who can say they have held this position, and I am honored to have been voted into this office.”
Ashley is Successful Because: “The qualities that make me most successful are my determination, perseverance and drive. When I put my mind to a task, I stick with it until the very end. I am not afraid of failure, which is why I am always willing to take risks.”
Ashley is Stronger and Wiser Because: “A valuable lesson that I have learned is to learn from my own mistakes as well as the mistakes that others make. This lesson has allowed me to move forward in life and pursue my dreams. I have also learned to cherish the time that I have and to show the people around me how much I really care. You never know how little or how much time you have with someone.”
Steaven Rojas
Class of 2011
The ballots have been cast and the results are in; Desert Oasis High School Student Body President Steaven Rojas is your brojas. That clever presidential campaign slogan speaks volumes of his character. He’s amiable, energetic and always willing to lend a hand or share his many talents. Even more evident is his appreciation of the true value of friendship and family, hard work and charity. With emphasis on building strong, interpersonal relationships, he seeks to attain his many goals by applying diligence, effort and a humble sense of pride in all that he does, and for that, Steaven Rojas is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.63
Sports/Activities:
- Sierra Vista JV Baseball, 2007-08
- Desert Oasis Varsity Volleyball, 2008-Present
- Bass Player Jazz Band, 2007-08
- National Honor Society, 2009-Present
- French Club President, 2009-10
Awards/Community Service:
- Diamondback of the Year, 2009/10
- Most Improved Player of the Year–Volleyball, 2008/09
- Defensive Player of the Year–Volleyball, 2009/10
- All-State Scholar Athlete, 2009-Present
- Southern Highlands Harvest Festival Volunteer, 2008-Present
- Las Vegas Santa Run, 2008-Present
- Holiday Adopt-a-Family, 2009/10
- American Cancer Society Relay for Life Logistics Chair, 2009-10; Event Chair, 2010-11
Steaven is Successful Because: “What makes me successful is my ability to interact with any audience, learn from my surroundings and, most importantly, challenge myself daily. I take pride in my work, in and outside of school, and believe confidence is the best asset to a triumphant individual.”
Steaven Looks Up To: “I am very fortunate to have parents who are so strong in character. My father is the strongest man on earth and not because of physical traits. He fights through life with the heart of a tiger but the gracefulness of an eagle. He has taught me that the unexamined life is not worth living, and that one always must strive to be better in all.”
Steaven is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I am Hispanic living in the wonderful States with amazing opportunities. Though I would not exchange that for the world, migrating from my birthplace in Colombia and growing up away from family is just plain difficult. There have been moments of weakness, but my family has taught me that our connections with people we care about are infinite and only controlled by our minds.”
Part of the Solution: “One of the nine basic human needs is acceptance. I always attempt to make a connection and interact with the people I meet. One might never know the issues a person is facing, and simple things like eye contact or a ‘Good morning, how are you?’ can be the difference between the young adult who feels invisible and the one who feels confident.”
Kim DeSario
Liberty High School
Class of 2011
On the playing field of life, Liberty High School Student Body President Kim DeSario is heading for the goal and poised to take a winning shot. Easy going in nature, yet full of competitive zeal, she’s on a mission to master the personal qualities and skills that will continue to bring success in the next school year and beyond. She’s dedicated and studious, athletic and kind, but above all she recognizes herself as an integral part of a bigger picture. Essentially, she’s willing to put her best foot forward and score one for the team, and for that, Kim DeSario is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.67
Sports/Clubs:
- Las Vegas Premier Soccer Club, 2002-Present
- Varsity Cross Country, 2007-09
- Varsity Soccer, 2007-Present
- Student Council, 2007-Present
- National Honor Society, 2010-11
- Advanced Placement Club, 2009-Present
Awards/Community Service:
- Scholar Athlete Award, 2007-Present
- Varsity Letter Soccer, 2007-Present
- Varsity Letter Cross Country, 2007-09
- Team Captain for Club Soccer, 2005-Present
- Team Captain for Varsity Soccer, 2008-Present
- Student of the Month, 2010
- Local Elementary School Volunteer
- Central Christian Church Volunteer
- Nevada Cancer Center Volunteer
Goals & Aspirations: “First I would like to graduate high school with an advanced honors diploma and an advanced placement seal. One day I hope to build a career in the field of biology and start a family.”
Kim is Successful Because: “My ability to accept everyone for who they are makes me successful. I am able to use this skill in everyday life through friends, student council, and sports. Many people open up to me because I am non-judgmental and I will listen and understand. I know that if I go into politics this will help me throughout my career.”
Kim is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My dad had cancer when I was going through middle school. He fought the odds and is currently in remission. I learned from this experience to cherish every second I am given.”
Cody Heath Johnson
Silverado High School
Class of 2011
Anything but tepid, Silverado High School Student Body President Cody Johnson is jumping, not easing, into life with both feet and a big splash. He takes his obligations seriously, from summer jobs to leadership and volunteerism. His initiative is undeniable, but a more telling characteristic is that he’s not afraid to deviate from the “norm” if the alternative leads to a higher purpose and a more complete sense of self. Best of all, underneath Cody’s hard working surface is a friendly and kind-hearted individual that is most certainly – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.7
Sports/Clubs:
- Rebel Dive Club, 2006-09
- Silverado Dive Team, 2009
- Silverado Freshman Volleyball, 2007
- Student Council, 2009-Present
- Student Body President, 2010-Present
- Junior Class Treasurer, 2009/10
- Class Committee, 2008-Present
- One Club, 2007/08
Awards/Community Service:
- Cactus Diving Invitational–1 meter 1st Place, 2008
- Cactus Diving Invitational–3 meter 1st Place, 2008
- National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine Nominee, 2008-10
- Rotary Youth Leadership Award, 2010
- Student Council Super Star, 2009
- Student Council Junior of the Year, 2009/10
- Nevada Association of Student Councils State Conference, 2010
- National Association of Student Councils National Conference, 2010
- Three Square Foundation Canned Food Volunteer, 2009
- United Services Blood Donor, 2009-Present
- Relay for Life, 2008/10
- PB & J-athon for Las Vegas Rescue Mission, 2009
- Battle of the Bands for Make a Wish Foundation, 2010
- Committee for Youth Conference, 2010
- Restoration of St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, 2010
- Holiday Party for Shade Tree Shelter, 2009
- Valentine’s Day Dance for Special Education Students, 2010
- Teachers vs. Student Basketball Game for Opportunity Village, 2010
- Southern Highlands Fall Festival 5k Run for Autism, 2008
Goals & Aspirations: “For now, my goal is to be a positive example for Silverado High School and set an impeccable tone for the student body while balancing my studies, work and my social life. For the future, I plan to attend Brigham Young University and begin my endless study of medicine in order to become a reconstructive surgeon.”
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “In ten years, I will probably still be on my incessant endeavor to complete medical school to begin my career. More importantly, I see myself having a family, guiding my children to greatness and teaching them to be leaders for their own generation.”
Cause for Concern: “Without a doubt in my mind I would choose to be president of Invisible Children, an organization that focuses on long-term development of war-affected areas in Africa. Essentially, Invisible Children provides water and sanitation to those in need as well as improving education by building schools and providing scholarships for underprivileged children.”
Casey Zachary
Coronado High School
Class of 2011
In the grand scheme of things, there are those that do, and those that don’t. Coronado High School Student Body President Casey Zachary is in all respects a doer. Goal-oriented and highly motivated, she makes no excuses to be idle and doesn’t wait for luck to strike. Rather, she invokes the words of Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” as a call to action. Whether cheerfully rallying her peers, excelling in academics or volunteering in the community, she exemplifies leadership, compassion and a positive, can-do attitude that makes great things possible, and for that, Casey Zachary is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.0
Sports/Clubs/Activities:
- Junior Varsity Cheerleader, 2008/09
- Varsity Cheerleader, 2009/10
- Student Body President, 2010-Present
- Student Council Representative, 2007-10
- National Honor Society, 2009-Present
- Key Club Historian, 2009/10
- Key Club Member, 2008-Present
- Peer Helpers, 2010-Present
- Clark County School Board Representative, 2009/10
- FBLA Secretary, 2007/08
- City of Henderson Lifeguard, 2009-Present
- Cheer Coach–Gymcats Gymnastics, 2010-Present
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Key Club Traditional Scrapbook 1st Place Division 28 S., 2009/10
- Key Club Traditional Scrapbook National Finalist, 2009/10
- RYLA Scholarship Winner, 2009/10
- CHS Scholar Athlete, 2008/09
- National Charity League
- Mission Bell Award–50 Volunteer Hours
- Yellow Rosebud Award–75 Volunteer Hours
- Yellow Rose Award–75 Service Hours
- Hourglass Award–100 Service Hours
- Community Service Award–154 Service Hours in One Year
- Mother Daughter Award–50 Volunteer Hours
- Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation–Camp Cartwheel, 2009/10
- Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center Junior Volunteer, 2007/08
- Danny Gans Champions Run For Life, 2007-09
- Make a Wish Run
- Henderson Parks & Recreational Center Junior Volunteer–40 Hours, 2007
- Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, 2007/08
- American Cancer Society Relay for Life, 2007/08
Goals & Aspirations: “I plan to graduate with high honors and continue my education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). My future goal is to obtain a degree where I can work to make a change in the world.”
Casey is Successful Because: “I have had a strong and moral work ethic in all that I do. I work hard to complete the goals I set and never give up. Even during the times where situations are not favorable I continue to work with a positive attitude towards a good outcome.”
Casey Looks Up To: “Two pillars of strength are my mother and my sister. My sister, Brittany, always stands by her convictions and works hard for everything she has. My mother encourages me to care about others and to give back to my community. She supported me and gave me the confidence to always do my best and believe in myself.”
Taylor John Ashton
Green Valley High School
Class of 2011
For Green Valley High School Student Body President Taylor Ashton, leadership entails many things, but above all, it means if you’re gonna talk the talk you gotta walk the walk. Tapping into reserves of discipline and respect, he sets an admirable example for others by maintaining high academic standards, setting attainable, yet challenging goals, and practicing and advocating acceptance of diversity. All the while, he finds a natural appreciation for those who’ve helped him along, and turns that gratefulness outwards in volunteering to help the community, and for that, Taylor Ashton is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.497
Clubs/Activities/Leadership:
- Student Council Class Treasurer, 2007/08
- Student Council Class Vice President, 2008/09
- Student Council Advisory Board Member, 2009/10
- Student Body President, 2010-Present
- NV Assoc. of Student Councils So. Region Representative, 2009/10
- NV Assoc. of Student Councils State Executive Board President, 2010-Present
- Band Board Member, 2008/09
- Principal’s Advisory Group, 2007-Present
- Nevada Boys’ State Delegate, 2010
- Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum Delegate, 2009
- Green Valley Northwest Accreditation Steering Committee Member, 2009
- City of Henderson “Leadership Day” Planning Member, 2008-10
- Student Liaison between Presidential Staff and School during President Obama’s Visit to Nevada, 2010
- GVHS Marching Band, 2007-Present
- GVHS Symphonic Band, 2007-Present
- GVHS Jazz Lab, 2007-09
- National Honor Society, 2009-Present
- Young Democrats Club, 2009-Present
Awards/Community Service:
- Boys Scouts of America Eagle Scout, 2007
- Marching Band Freshman of the Year, 2008
- Academic Honor Roll, 2007-Present
- Student of the Month, 2008
- “Every 15 Minutes” Program Participant, 2009
- Student Council Upperclassman of the Year, 2010
- City of Henderson Blue Ribbon Commission Member, 2007-10
- City of Henderson Election Advisory Committee Youth Representative
- Link Associates Volunteer (For Mentally Disabled Adults)
- City of Henderson Parks and Recreation Play Day
- Student Council Gators Give Campaign
- Student Council PB & J-a-thon
- National Honor Society PB & J-a-thon
- City of Henderson Police Department Student Volunteer
- Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) “Hope Gala” Volunteer
Goals & Aspirations: “I’m focusing on making a difference as Student Body President at Green Valley High School by leading the student body to embrace the diversity of our school and community and maintain Green Valley’s commitment to excellence.”
Taylor is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My family has moved a lot, with the most recent move being to Henderson during my 8th grade year. I’ve had to adjust to new schools and make new friends. I’ve learned that it is important to get involved, make a difference no matter where you are and make the most out of any situation.”
Taylor on Peer Pressure: “I try to stay true to my values and beliefs and associate with people who share those values. I believe that there are times when you have to take a stand for what you believe or to make the right decision. I believe it’s these times that separates the real leaders from the followers.”
Carlie Jane and Erica Ann Thompson
Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2010
Faith Lutheran High School graduates Carlie and Erica Thompson, valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, have more in common than just pretty faces. Gifted musically and academically, one might surmise that their talent is simply in their identical genes. It is true that together, they rely on hard work and dedication to meet the demands of hectic schedules. And yet the reality of this dynamic duo is far more distinct. Possessing of unique personal qualities and goals, they’ve each devised their own methods of achieving their highest potential, and for that, Carlie and Erica Thompson are – A Step Above.
Carlie Jane
G.P.A.: 4.9 Valedictorian
Activities/Community Service:
- FLHS Handbell Ensemble, 2006-10; Section Leader
- FLHS Mock Trial, 2006-09
- Tri-M Music Honor Society, 2007-10
- National Honor Society, 2008-10
- Junior Statesmen of America, 2009-10
- Varsity Quiz, 2009; Captain
- Peer Tutor, 2010
- Lip Sync, 2009
- Catholic Charities Volunteer, 2008-Present
- Canyon Ridge Church Volunteer, 2008-Present
- Operation Christmas Child, 2006-09
Awards:
- FLHS Valedictorian, 2010
- Grand National Champion Award for Handbell Ensemble–Dynamic Music Festivals, 2010
- Dynamic Music Festivals Sweepstakes Award, 2010
- Handbell Player of the Year, 2009
- Adjudicator’s Award for Handbell Ensemble, 2009
- Outstanding in Class Award for Handbell Ensemble, 2007
- FLHS Mock Trial MVP Witness Award–Regional Competition, 2009
- English Academic Award, 2010
- Social Sciences Academic Award, 2010
- Religion Academic Award, 2009
- National Youth Leadership Conference, 2008/09
- ROTC Award Nominee, 2009
- Music Letter, 2007-10
- Mock Trial Letter, 2007-09
- Academics Letter, 2007-10
Carlie’s Goals & Aspirations: “My future academic goals include gaining an internship with the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ, graduating with honors from Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State, and being accepted into medical school to become an oncologist. My future plans also include getting married and starting a family someday.”
Carlie is Successful Because: “What makes me successful is not taking shortcuts in school and in life. When a teacher assigns me a book to read, I actually read it, instead of going straight to Spark Notes or Cliffs Notes. The overall quality of your work will be better, no matter if it’s homework or a job, and you will be more productive and confident in your abilities.”
Erica Ann
G.P.A.: 4.4 Salutatorian
Activities/Community Service:
- FLHS Handbell Ensemble, 2006-10; Section Leader, 2008-10
- FLHS Mock Trial, 2007-09
- Tri-M Music Honor Society, 2007-10; Secretary, 2009-10
- National Honor Society, 2008-10
- National Society for High School Scholars, 2008-10
- Rock Climbing Club, 2007-08
- Student Senate, 2008-09
- Lip Sync, 2009
- National Junior Honor Society, 2005-07
- Catholic Charities Volunteer, 2008-Present
- Canyon Ridge Church Volunteer, 2008-Present
- Operation Christmas Child, 2006-09
Awards:
- Faith Lutheran Salutatorian, 2010
- Grand National Champion Award for Handbell Ensemble–Dynamic Music Festivals, 2010
- Dynamic Music Festivals Sweepstakes Award, 2010
- Handbell Player of the Year, 2010
- Adjudicator’s Award for Handbell Ensemble, 2009
- Outstanding in Class Award for Handbell Ensemble, 2007
- FLHS Mock Trial State Finalist, 2009
- FLHS Mock Trial MVP Attorney Award–Regional and State Competition, 2009
- National Youth Leadership Conference, 2008/09
- ROTC Award Nominee, 2009
- Music Letter, 2007-10
- Mock Trial Letter, 2007-09
- Academics Letter, 2007-10
Erica’s Goals & Aspirations: “I hope to earn a Master’s degree in architecture and interior design from Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University. I want to design energy efficient homes and buildings. I hope to be a leader in the industry of sustainable living. I also hope to marry the man of my dreams someday and start a family.”
Erica is Successful Because: “I am successful because I do not give up. I see challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities to make me a stronger person. When I struggle to learn something, I work at it until I know it by heart.”
Krysta & Nicole Levy
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2010
It’s girl power all the way for Palo Verde High School Valedictorians Krysta and Nicole Levy. Separately, their personalities and individuality shine; together, they’re a variable force times two, spurring each other to action with friendly rivalry, sisterly love and razor sharp competitive edge. They’re athletically charged and studious, willing to both lead the way and follow while offering support and assistance to one another and others. Each possessing a healthy mindset that enables them to see challenge as an opportunity for improvement, Krysta and Nicole Levy are – A Step Above.
Krysta
G.P.A.: 4.8 Valedictorian
Sports/Clubs:
- Junior Varsity Tennis, 2006/07
- Varsity Tennis, 2007-10; Co-Captain, 2010
- National Honor Society, 2007-10
- College Prep Club, 2008-10; Founder/President
- Broadcast Journalism, 2006-09
- Pep Club, 2009-10
- Photography Club, 2008-09
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- AP Scholar Award, 2009
- Scholar Athlete Award, 2007-10
- Nevada All-State Academic Team–Varsity Tennis, 2007-10
- High Honors Graduate
- Honors Diploma
- Palo Verde Athlete Award, 2006
- Panther Spirit Award, 2008
- Junior League of Las Vegas Student Helper, 1997-Present
- CCSD Avid Program Volunteer
- Nevada State Board of Education Volunteer
- Peer Tutoring, 2006-10
- Operation School Bell Volunteer, 2009
- Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation Volunteer, 2009
Krysta’s Goals & Aspirations: “I plan on attending the University of Southern California as a Biological Sciences major. My goals are to go to medical school and graduate as an orthopedic surgeon. I aspire to open a practice focused on sports medicine.”
Krysta Looks Up To: “I look up to my parents. They have taught me to believe in myself and to strive for perfection. After all, both of my sisters and I graduated as valedictorians, so they must be doing something right.”
Krysta is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I tried out for the varsity tennis team as a freshman and, sadly, only made the junior varsity team. Rather than being upset and quitting, I decided to practice 10 times harder and made the varsity team as a sophomore. I learned the valuable lesson that if at first you don’t succeed, work even harder and try again.”
Nicole
G.P.A.: 4.8 Valedictorian
Sports/Clubs/Community Service:
- Varsity Tennis, 2006-10; Co-Captain, 2010
- National Honor Society, 2007-10
- College Prep Club Founder/Vice President, 2008-10
- Broadcast Journalism, 2006-09
- Photography Club, 2008-09
- Junior League of Las Vegas Volunteer, 2006-10
- Peer Tutoring, 2007-10
- CCSD Avid Volunteer, 2008
Scholarships/Awards:
- High Honors Graduate
- Honors Diploma
- National Merit Scholarship Competition Finalist, 2010
- University of Southern California National Merit Scholarship Winner
- University of Southern California Presidential Scholar
- AP Scholar, 2009
- Scholar Athlete, 2006-10
- Nevada All-State Academic Team–Varsity Tennis, 2006-10
- Panther Spirit Award, 2008
Nicole’s Goals & Aspirations: “My goal for now is to find a course of study about which I feel truly passionate and graduate from college with as much success as I achieved in high school. I aspire to be in a position, regardless of what I am doing, in which I am able to help others and make the world a better place.”
Nicole Looks Up To: “Ever since I was little, I have always looked up to my older sister, Jacquie. She has always been a good role model, morally and academically. My twin and I are both following in her footsteps by becoming valedictorians and choosing to go to USC.”
Nicole is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Being an identical twin has made me a stronger person. I have had a best friend by my side all throughout my life. We have gone through everything together and have always been able to count on each other.”
Yonatan Barlev
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2010
With graduation out of the way and scholarships in hand, the journey is just beginning for Palo Verde High School Valedictorian Yonatan Barlev. He’s carefully crafted a map to success, envisioning a brighter future by utilizing equality, compassion and justice as driving factors. Along his path toward self fulfillment, he seeks knowledge and awareness–academically, socially and politically–in order to not only benefit himself, but to help others overcome their own challenging circumstances. Armed with these qualities and fiery determination, Yonatan Barlev is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8 Valedictorian
Sports/Clubs/Community Service:
- Future Business Leaders of America–Treasurer, 2008/09; President, 2009/10
- Varsity Quiz, 2007-10; Captain, 2009/10
- Science Bowl, 2010; Captain
- National Honor Society, 2007-10
- Crafts for Kids, 2009
- Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum, 2010
- Counselor for Camp K’Ton Ton at Temple Beth Sholom, 2005-08
- Lupus Walk, 2010
- Holiday Caroling at Retirement Home, 2009
- Obama Presidential Campaign Volunteer, 2008
- PVHS English Department Chair Volunteer, 2009/10
- National Honor Society Volunteer Tutor, 2007-10
- March of Dimes Volunteer, 2008-09
- Palo Verde Campus Clean-Up Volunteer, 2009
Scholarships/Awards:
- High Honors Graduate, 2010
- FBLA State Champion–Business Math, 2008/09
- FBLA State Champion–Sports Management & Economics, 2010
- FBLA State 3rd Place–Public Speaking I, 2008
- Regional Science Bowl–1st Place, 2010
- Regional Science Bowl–3rd Place, 2009
- Varsity Quiz Regional Champions, 2009
- National Merit Commended Student, 2009
- College Board AP Scholar with Distinction, 2009
- Presidential Scholars Program Candidate, 2010
- Robert C. Byrd Scholarship, 2010
- UNLV Future Scholar, 2006-08
- John M. Olin Scholarship–Washington University in St. Louis, 2010
- USC Dean’s Scholarship, 2010
- Senior Superlatives: Most Studious, 2010
- Homecoming Court, 2009
- Nevada Boys State Selectee, 2009
Goals & Aspirations: “I hope to take advantage of all the intellectually engaging opportunities that WashU has to offer and contribute to the school’s wonderfully diverse learning environment.”
Yonatan is Successful Because: “I take pride in the work I put my name on. The work I do is like a company’s product; it must pass a quality test before it can be distributed. My friends have also proven to be major factors in my success.”
Yonatan Looks Up To: “My hero is and always will be Kobe Bryant. Although his image has been tarnished by criminal accusations, he has always been a beacon of strength and determination. The passion he displays for the game is incredible. It is the sort of passion I wish to display for the work that I do in the future, for it will surely lead to success.”
Braxton Wardle
Sierra Vista High School
Class of 2011
For some people, the road to success is carefully paved and mapped out to a tee. Others, like Sierra Vista High School Student Body President Braxton Wardle, prefer to let a light heart and an open mind lead the way. Finishing off a productive high school experience with the same optimism and work ethic that propelled him this far, he’s prepared to leave future classes a legacy of effort and leadership. Moving into the future with ambition and faith, his desire to serve the community by spreading hope and compassion to all he meets is yet another motivating factor that elevates Braxton Wardle to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.425
Sports/Clubs:
- Varsity Tennis, 2007-Present
- JV Volleyball, 2009
- Varsity Volleyball, 2010-Present
- Student Council, 2007-Present
- Freshman Class President, 2007/08
- Sophomore Class President, 2008/09
- Student Body Representative, 2009/10
- Student Body President, 2010/11
- Teenage Republican Society, 2009-Present
- Southern Zone Student Council Conference, 2008-10
- Nevada State Student Council Conference, 2008-10
Awards/Community Service:
- Student of the Month, 2007/08
- Academic Letter, 2008
- Boys” State Delegate, 2010
- Senior Citizen Prom, 2009
- Graffiti Clean Up, 2008/09
- Donations to Shade Tree Shelter
- Donated PB & J and Turkey Sandwiches to Shade Tree Shelter
- Multiple Campus Clean Ups
Goals & Aspirations: “I would like to graduate high school with high honors and the AP seal. I want to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. In the future I want to be a successful physical therapist with a beautiful wife and a bunch of kids.”
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “I see myself in my living room with my kids climbing all over me.”
Braxton is Successful Because: “I am constantly striving to better myself and those around me. I have always taken a rigorous course schedule and take my education seriously. I challenge myself to see the good in others, to not judge them and serve them as best as I can. I want others to be as happy as I am. I”d feel ungrateful not to try to share this feeling.”
Part of the Solution: “Youths want to be older, rush into life without thinking, get into serious relationships and make choices we’re not ready for yet. I can do my part by trying to be an example. I love it when I can see someone happy because I said hello to them in the hallway or opened the door for them. I truly believe little things can make a difference.”
