Kathleen Insigne
Liberty High School
Class of 2010
In many ways, Liberty High School senior Kathleen Insigne has the tools it takes to fly up and over any obstacle in her path. With a sturdy pole for vaulting, athleticism and stamina, she’s proven herself to be a track and field ace. But with intelligence, commitment, adaptability, and confidence, she’s also a high flying success in all that she endeavors. Compassionate, aware, and willing to stand up for her beliefs, she sets the achievement bar high for athletics and her peers, which makes Kathleen Insigne – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.158
Sports/Awards/Clubs/Community Service:
- Track & Field, 2006-10
- 2nd Place Freshman/Sophomore Championships–Track & Field, 2008
- Millennium Scholarship Recipient, 2010
- Classical Scholar, 2010
- School Record Holder–Pole Vault, 2008-10
- Junior Varsity Track & Field, 2006
- Regional Qualifier for Pole Vault, 2008-10
- Athletic Award–Varsity Women”s Track & Field, 2007-10
- State Qualifier–Pole Vault, 2010
- Most Improved Field Athlete, 2007-08
- Third Place in Sunrise-Regional Finals, 2010
- Scholar Athlete, 2009-10
- High Honors Diploma, 2010
- Perfect Attendance, 2007-10
- Gawad Kalinga Club Member, 2009-10
- Multi-Cultural Club Historian, 2009-10
- Gawad Kalinga Café Volunteer, 2009
Goals & Aspirations: “I plan to graduate Liberty High School with high honors and enroll in the nursing program at the University of Nevada Las Vegas.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of being the first pole vaulter in Liberty High School to qualify for state. Being able to represent my school is an honor and it shows that all my hard work and dedication for the past four years have paid off. To have the opportunity to go to state and come this far in my track season is an indescribable feeling.”
Kathleen on Peer Pressure: “I encountered a situation where my friends tried to influence me to compromise my own sense of style to fit into the typical mold of the contemporary teenage female. In the end, I resisted the peer pressure to change myself just to fit in because I know who I am, and I realized that it was not worth it. My own self respect is worth more than a secondhand opinion.”
Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing adults today is using their cell phones while driving. It is not that urgent to pick up a text while you are driving because it will still be there when you reach your destination. I will encourage teens to stay focused on the road and not drive inTEXTicated.”
Nicholas John Veslany
Class of 2010
Music is more than just a great background distraction for Coronado High School senior Nick Veslany; it has a rhythm and a philosophy he sets his life to. Like notes that dance across a page of sheet music, Nick marches toward the future proudly, baton waving in sync with the beat, confident in his ability to lead his peers and move his listeners. He is vigilant in his stance to be an individual; to earn respect, rather than feel entitled to it; and to follow his passion wherever it may lead, and for these qualities, Nick Veslany is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.73
Activities/Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Marching Band, 2006-10
- Wind Symphony, 2006-10
- First Chair, 2006-10
- Jazz Band, 2006-10
- Musical Pit, 2007-08/10
- Head Drum Major, 2008/09
- All-State Band, 2007/08; 1st Chair, 2008
- All-State Orchestra, 2009; 1st Chair
- All-State Jazz Band, 2010; Solo Chair
- U.S. Army All-American Marching Band Member, 2010
- Solo and Ensemble State Finalist, 2008/10
- UNLV Music Scholarship
- President’s Award for Academic Excellence, 2010
- Varsity Quiz
- St. Thomas Moore Church Volunteer
- Sandwich Making for Homeless
- Boulder City Church Rebuilding Project
Goals & Aspirations: “I aspire to become a great trombone player with well paying gigs here in Las Vegas or in Southern California.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of being a member of the 2010 U.S. Army All-American Marching Band, a member of the Nevada All-State Jazz Band, All-State Band, and All-State Orchestra.”
Nick is Stronger and Wiser Because: “As a Drum Major for two years, I was in charge of about 150 kids in the marching band and responsible for leading the band to success. I learned that one must always try his hardest to earn the respect of others in a working role.”
Makayla DeBry
Coronado High School
Class of 2010
Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest differences; that extra umph to power through the last five miles of a marathon, or the simple act of smiling at a stranger. This philosophy is no mystery to Coronado High School senior Makayla DeBry, who lets her genuine compassion for others and a positive attitude lead her to a path of service and high achievement. More than just an A student and all-star athlete, she’s also a leader, a uniquely open individual and a faithful friend, all of which make Makayla DeBry – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8
Sports/Activities/Clubs:
- Cross Country, 2006-07/09
- Track, 2007-10
- Pole Vault, 2010; Captain
- Bologinini Piano Competition, 2006
- Senior Class President, 2009-10
- Junior Class Representative, 2008-09
- Sophomore Class Vice President, 2007-08
- Between the Lines Literary Magazine
- Students for Soldiers
- National Honors Society
- Student Council
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- AP Scholar, 2009
- Byrd Scholarship Recipient
- BYU Heritage Scholarship Recipient
- Pole Vaulting Sportsmanship Award, 2010
- XC Senior Award, 2009
- Scholar Athlete
- All-State Academic Team
- 2nd Place in Age Group–Salt Lake City Marathon
- DeBry Family Free Eye Clinic Volunteer
- Medical Service Mission to Quito Ecuador Volunteer
Goals & Aspirations: “My biggest aspiration in life is to have a positive influence on everyone that I meet and to help change lives through service, love, and my own example. When I die, I want to know that I made a difference in someone’s life.”
Makayla is Successful Because: “What makes me successful has everything to do with the people that have influenced my life and been an example to me. I would not be anywhere near where I am today without wonderful parents, teachers, church leaders and friends who have built me up and taught me how to succeed. I owe all of my success to God and the people that show me what it means to be a leader.”
Makayla is Stronger and Wiser Because: “As a child I had to move a lot, and though it was always hard to leave my home and friends behind, it taught me to be outgoing and friendly. Now I can walk into a room full of strangers and leave with a room full of friends.”
Sarah Carl
Coronado High School
Class of 2010
Coronado High School senior Sarah Carl is a determined young lady who maintains the belief that if you have a dream you should stop at nothing to make it a reality. Full of practical solutions for achievement, she makes no excuses to fail and isn’t afraid to take on daunting challenges in order to reach her highest potential. Beyond her goal-driven determination and strong will to succeed, there also lies a person with gratitude and a selfless desire to serve her family and country, and for that, Sarah Carl is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.800 (Valedictorian Candidate)
Sports/Scholarships/Awards:
- Band, 2006-08
- Symphonic Band, 2006-07
- Wind Symphony, 2007-08
- Marching Band, 2006-07
- AP Scholar with Distinction Award, 2009
- Nevada Prize Examination Honorable Mention, 2009
- Presidential Scholarship, 2010
- Nevada Power Energy Scholarship, 2010
- CHS Academic Award of Excellence in Science, 2010
- Air Force Academy Appointment, 2010
Clubs/Community Service:
- National Honor Society, 2008-10
- Library Volunteer, 2008-10
- Green Valley and Paseo Verde Library Volunteer, 2008-10
- Teen Advisory Group Member–Paseo Verde Library, 2009-10
- Step Out to Fight Diabetes Walk, 2008
- Silverman Triathlon, 2008
- Burn Victims Event, 2008
- Forensic Tournament, 2009
Goals & Aspirations: “I would like to graduate high school with high honors and as one of the valedictorians. I desire to pursue a degree in Chemical Engineering with Biomedical emphasis. I also might obtain a minor in nanotechnology. With my degree, I would like to contribute by enhancing technology in the medical world.”
Sarah is Successful Because: “I am successful because of the support and encouragement from my family and friends, especially my mom. Without my mom always there staying up late with me and cheering me up, I would not be the person I am today.”
Sarah is Stronger and Wiser Because: “When I applied for the Air Force Academy, I was technically behind other competitors because I should have started to prepare in my sophomore year. However, with encouragement from my family, I trained and prepared. This experience taught me that hard work does eventually pay off and that support from my family eases the burden of difficult tasks.”
Joshua Nadler
Class of 2010
And the award for distinction goes to Durango High School senior Josh Nadler. He’s expressive, he’s talented, and he’s not afraid to stand in the spotlight and lay it all on the line. A champion of individuality, his own luminous character shines in all that he does. Whether he’s gracing the stage, arguing for the sake and future of the arts, or standing up for what is right by himself and others, his stellar performance reflects the true inner workings of a leader, an artist and a progressive thinker. Striving for perfection with each thoughtful action, Josh Nadler is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.124
Activities/Clubs:
- DHS Theatre, 2006-10, 11 Productions
- Starring Role–DHS Production of Grease, 2009/10
- Starring Role–DHS Production of Alice in Wonderland, 2009/10
- Starring Role–DHS Production of A Mid Summer Night”s Dream, 2008/09
- Director–DHS Production of Cinderella ”89, 2008/09
- Drama Club President, 2009-Present
- Student Council, 2006-Present
- Student Body Publicist, 2009/10
- Junior Class Representative, 2008/09
- Freshman Vice President, 2006/07
- Gay-Straight Unity–President, 2007-Present
- Broadcast Journalism, 2006-Present
- Invisible Children United–Vice President, 2009-Present
- National Honor Society, 2008-Present
- Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum, 2009
- Young Democrats, 2008-09
- Principal”s Advisory Committee, 2008-09
- Junior Counselor–S. Mid Level Conference, 2009
Awards/Community Service:
- Best Actor–DHS Theatre, 2008/09
- Best Junior–DHS Theatre, 2008/09
- Best Supporting Actor–DHS Theatre, 2006/07
- Nevada State Thespian of the Year, 2006
- Aids Walk, 2010
- Community Beautification, 2009-10
- Three Square Foundation Canned Food Volunteer, 2009
- School Clean Up, 2008-10
- Grant Sawyer Middle School Carnival Volunteer, 2008-10
- Grappler”s Quest Volunteer, 2008
Goals & Aspirations: “I intend to move to Los Angeles after graduation. My goal would be to continue with my education as well as to work towards pursuing my acting career. I aspire to one day walk the red carpet and receive an Academy Award.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of saving the theatre program at Durango. Theatre has always been an important part of my life, and my fellow peers and I truly restored a lot of what was taken away due to the budget cuts of last year.”
Josh Looks Up To: “I look up to three strong females. My mom, my sister and Lady Gaga. My mom truly raised and molded me into what I am today. My sister has always been the person to push me and stand by my side. Lady Gaga, although a strange choice, truly is a beacon of individuality and uses her voice to spread tolerance and acceptance.”
Kylie Cassandra Lawrence
Durango High School
Class of 2010
Amidst a generation easily influenced by pop culture icons of questionable integrity, meeting a strong-minded student like Durango High School senior Kylie Lawrence is a rarity. Standing firmly behind her convictions, success for Kylie is about making choices and sticking with them. Sometimes that choice is a personal promise of faith, other times it is to excel in academics or athletics, or put all her enthusiasm into dazzling feats of dance, leadership or volunteerism. No matter the course of action at hand, Kylie’s choice to be the best she can be, and still go the distance to help others, is what guides her to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.123
Sports/Clubs:
- Volleyball, 2006-09
- Varsity Dance, 2008-10
- Varsity Swim, 2007-Present
- Swimming Sunset Regionals, 2007-10; State Championships, 2009
- National Honor Society, 2009/10
- College Club, 2010
- Student Council, 2006-10
- Freshman Representative, 2006-07
- Sophomore Representative, 2007-08
- Junior Vice President, 2008-09
- Senior Representative, 2009-10
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Channel 8 News Outstanding Student Award, 2010
- Scholar Athlete Award, 2008-10
- Aaron Harvey Scholarship Recipient
- Prom Court, 2010
- Fellowship and Beautification Missions–Tijuana, Rosarito and Ensenada, Mexico, 2005-08; Philippines, 2009
- Calvary Downtown Outreach Volunteer–Feeding the Homeless
- Voice Foundation Volunteer–Feeding the Homeless
- McCain Campaign Volunteer, 2008
- Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Volunteer
- Make-a-Wish Volunteer
- Project Playhouse Volunteer–HomeAid of Southern Nevada, 2010
- Blood Drive Volunteer, 2006-09
Goals & Aspirations: “A goal of mine would be to make it to the state championships for swimming this year. Along with that, I want to complete four years of college at Biola University majoring in business. This is going to help me reach my number one goal of becoming an event planner.”
Kylie is Successful Because: “The most important thing would be my family. With family support, I’ve gained confidence. Confidence is key in succeeding because it enables you to be outgoing and reach for the stars without worrying about what others think of you. One last thing that makes me successful is my faith in God. Through faith, I can accomplish all.”
Kylie is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My first mission trip in the seventh grade changed my life. It was during spring break, and my dad decided that our family should go to Mexico with part of our church. It made me realize how good I have it. I have a loving family, a roof over my head, and the ability to have three meals a day. It made me more grateful for what I have and made me want to help out my community more.”
Evan Louis Salcido
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2010
Palo Verde High School senior Evan Salcido is nothing if not disciplined. Having learned the lessons of responsibility early on, through scouting and emulating those he admires most, his determination to get maximum results from maximum effort ensures that all he strives for is easily within his reach. With all the integral aspects and qualities in place–academia, creativity, prowess–Evan’s well-intentioned plan for the future is in full effect. For choosing a path of hard work, honor and respect over mediocrity, Evan Salcido is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.6
Sports/Clubs/Activities:
- Football & Wrestling, 2006-08
- Air Force Junior ROTC, 2006-Present
- National Honor Society, 2007-Present
- Mentoring Club, 2010
- National Hispanic Youth Initiative Medical Seminar, 2009
- Gifted and Talented Education/Highly Gifted Program, 2002-Present
- Boy Scouts/Eagle Scout, 2005-Present
- Order of the Arrow Inductee–Boy Scouts, 2007-Present
- Junior Assistant Scoutmaster–Boy Scouts, 2007-Present
- Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference & World Congress, 2008
- United States Naval Academy Summer Seminar, 2009
- Nevada Boys State Selectee, 2009
- AFJROTC Honors Camp–Joint Operation: Navy Sail Academy, 2009
Awards/Community Service:
- National Merit Scholarship Program Finalist, 2009
- National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar, 2009
- AP Scholar, 2009
- Three Congressional Nominations for U.S. Service Academies, 2009
- Offer of Appointment to United States Naval Academy, 2010
- 2-Time PVHS Student of the Month, 2007
- 3-Time Cadet of the Month–PVHS AFJROTC, 2006/07/08
- Cadet of the Quarter–PVHS AFJROTC, 2008
- Outstanding Citizenship Award–PVHS AFJROTC, 2007-09
- Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War Medal, 2007
- American Legion Scholastic Award, 2008
- Air Force Association Award, 2009
- Aerospace Science Instructor Leadership Award, 2009
- Catholic Charities Soup Kitchen Volunteer & Thrift Store Clerk
- Summerlin Library Aide
- Walk for Life Annual Walk
Goals & Aspirations: “I aim to graduate high school with an honors diploma, graduate college in four years with a double major in Chemistry and English Literature, and obtain a Ph.D. to become a professor of chemistry while writing fiction on the side.”
Evan is Successful Because: “I keep my eyes on the big picture, and when I suffer a minor setback, I simply take the hand I’ve been dealt and move on with life. I’m also very tenacious; when I see something that I really want, I don’t give up until it’s mine.”
Evan Looks Up To: “I look up to my parents. They grew up with next to nothing in a small New Mexico mining town with very few prospects in life. Through hard work, boundless self-discipline, and each other’s support, they overcame adversity to become successful. Their story has taught me the value of an education and the importance of relentlessly following my dreams; I am very proud to be my parents’ son.”
Ryan Alexander Bartholomew
Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2010
Faith Lutheran High School valedictorian Ryan Bartholomew’s list of accolades point out a certain truth; that he’s a young man of high intelligence and outstanding athletic ability. But a closer look reveals there is much more to discover. Ryan harnesses power from within to create and pursue original paths of study to excel, rather than simply achieve. At the top of his class and bookin’ it to the finish, Ryan Bartholomew is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.9
Sports/Clubs/Activities:
- Varsity Track, 2006-Present
- Varsity Cross Country, 2006-08
- National Honor Society President, 2007-Present
- Senior Class President, 2009-Present
- National Student Council Leadership Conference Delegate, 2009
- Sun Youth Forum Delegate, 2009
- Varsity Mock Trial, 2007-Present
- Junior Statesman of America President, 2009-Present
- Varsity Quiz, 2009; Captain
- Key Club, 2006-Present
- Drama, 2009; Starred as Lord Arthur Godalming in Dracula
- Mellow Dramatists, 2004-08
- Lip Sync, 2006-09; Director, 2009
Awards/Community Service:
- 3A 800 Meter State Champion, 2009
- 3A 4×400 Meter Relay State Champion, 2008
- MVP Witness Award–Mock Trial, 2008/10
- National Merit Scholar Finalist, 2009/10
- National Hispanic Scholar, 2009/10
- Wendy’s Heisman Award State Winner, 2009/10
- AP Scholar, 2009/10
- United States Achievement National Mathematics Award, 2009-10
- Nevada All-State Academic Team–Track & Cross Country, 2006-10
- Summerlin Hospital Teen Volunteer 100 Hour Award, 2007-08
- Helen J. Stewart School Peer Tutor, 2009
- Operation Christmas Child, 2006-09
- American Lung Association Teen Teacher, 2010
Goals & Aspirations: “I will probably attend Duke in the coming fall. I am looking into molding my own major, blending neuroscience, psychology and philosophy. I plan on either entering the realm of research of the mind or medicine. I plan on working towards a successful and happy career coupled with a family someday.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “Last year I found myself at the Nevada State Track Meet. I edged out the returning state champ and took 1st in the 800m state race. Unlike other accomplishments which came about through the efforts of many, winning state in the 800m came about as a result of self motivation and perseverance.”
Part of the Solution: “With so many technological conveniences, it seems as if there is little motivation for young adults to make strides to go farther than their parents did. By helping to find ways to motivate and push our generation to greater heights, I can help to be part of the movement to improve our world.”
Michelle Calica
Liberty High School
Class of 2010
“Just because you are a character doesn’t mean you have character.” –Winston Wolfe, Pulp Fiction
That quote may be true in the movie, but it’s simply not the case with Liberty High School senior Michelle Calica. Possessing character in spades, she’s one very unique individual, on paper, live and in color. A jack of all trades, master of many, her ability to balance activities from reel to reel is the secret to her success, but not the only reason for her award-winning performance in school and in life. With a style and presence all her own, she’s got the fortitude, intelligence and passion to follow her dreams, and for that, Michelle Calica is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.72
Sports/Activities:
- Varsity Tennis, 2006-07
- LHS Theatre, 2006-10
- Starring Role–Steel Magnolias (Truvy; 2010
- Starring Role–The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Marcy Park; 2010
- Cast Member–7 LHS Productions, 9 Shows
- Nevada State Opening Number Performer, 2009
- Thespian Club, 2006-Present
- LHS Varsity Band, 2006-10 & Jazz Band, 2006-08
- LHS Marching Band, 2006/07/09; Section Leader, 2007
- Las Vegas Academy Varsity Band & Symphony Orchestra, 2008-09
- All-State Orchestra Principal Trumpet First Chair, 2010
- Clark County All-District Honor Band, 2007-10
- Las Vegas Youth Philharmonic, 2007-10; Principal Trumpet First Chair, 2009-10
- Varsity Quiz, 2006-08
- AP Biology Club, 2008-09; Vice President
- University of New South Wales Study Abroad Program–Sydney, Australia, 2009
- National Institute of Dramatic Art Study Abroad Program–Sydney, Australia, 2009
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Duet Musical Superior Rating–Nevada State/Regional Theatre Conference, 2010
- Group Musical Superior Rating–Nevada State/Regional Theatre Conference, 2010
- Ensemble Superior Rating–Clark County Regional/District Solo and Ensemble, 2009
- Solo Superior Rating–Clark County District Solo and Ensemble, 2007-08
- Honorary Thespian, 2007/08/10
- Most Improved Player–Tennis, 2006
- Academic All-State Tennis, 2007-08St.
- Lucy’s Specialist Catholic School for Autistic Children in Sydney, Australia Volunteer, 2009
- CineVegas Film Festival Volunteer, 2009
- Shade Tree Volunteer, 2008
- Clean a Park Volunteer, 2007
- Trick-or-Treat So Tots Can Eat, 2006/08
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am proud of my accomplishments in instrumental playing, acting and singing. They have given me the confidence to be able to express myself not only on stage, but among my peers and family.”
Part of the Solution: “Young adults face the challenge of finding their passion. Most teens pray for graduation to approach faster, but forget that it is the best time to find who they are. I strive to get people involved in anything they can so they can find the sensation of passion that I was blessed with finding early.”
Michelle on Peer Pressure: “I constantly project my personality. I strongly believe that you should not hide who you are to please others. I always stand up for my beliefs, alone or not, because they are mine and not easily influenced.”
Brittany Moles
Silverado High School
Class of 2010
Silverado High School senior Brittany Moles’ success can be attributed to many things. One is her belief that when you start a job you finish it strong, with every ounce of your ability. It also helps to stay focused, which she does by not allowing outside influences to derail her intentions. She takes pride in her work as well as helping others, spreading that positive vibe around whenever she can. Combining her special brand of community spirit with a strong desire to not merely succeed, but to do so with integrity, Brittany Moles is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.58
Sports/Activities/Clubs:
- JV Soccer, 2006/07
- Varsity Soccer, 2007-10
- Club Soccer, 2003-10
- Colorguard (Marching Band; 2007-10
- Class Committee, 2006-10
- Peer Helpers, 2007-10
- National Honor Society, 2007-10
Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:
- Academic Letter, 2006
- Scholar Athlete, 2007-10
- Nevada All-State Academic Team, 2010
- Adopt a Rescue Pet, 2008-09
- Blanket Making for Safe Nest, 2009
- Catholic Charities, 2009-10
- Las Vegas Santa Run for Opportunity Village, 2009
- Miracle Minute for Haiti, 2010
- MLK Painting Senior Homes, 2010
- Polar Plunge for Special Olympics, 2009
- Prestige Assisted Living, 2008-09
- Relay for Life, 2007-10
- The Animal Foundation, 2009-10
- Tutoring at Aggie Roberts Elementary School, 2010
- United Services Blood Donor, 2009-10
- World Water Day, 2009
Goals & Aspirations: “My goals for the future entail attending Northern Arizona University to major in Hotel/Restaurant Management and ultimately have a career in convention planning. In college, I want to get good grades and be involved in student government and community service organizations. I hope to make my family proud.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of becoming Silverado”s National Honor Society President. It was something that I strove to be, and I feel like I have made a difference in the club by involving it in many volunteer activities, thereby helping the community.”
Brittany is Successful Because: “I am successful because I am hard working, highly dependable, extremely persistent and dedicated. I try to never move on from a task unless it is complete. Also, I believe I am successful because of my parent”s help and support in everything I do.”
