Brandon Kawaguchi

Coronado High School
Class of 2014

Many people go years without finding or pursuing their true passions, and for some the threat of failure can be a deterrent all together in chasing a dream. As a senior at Coronado High School, Brandon Kawaguchi has found his passion…and he’s going for it. Contrary to the “safer” options he may  have been pursuing until now, Brandon is determined to follow his calling regardless of the risks involved. His appetite for a career he cares about, matched with respect for good old-fashioned hard work and the rare courage it takes to venture outside of his comfort zone is inspirational, and places Brandon – A Step Above.  

 Music/Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• Coronado High School Orchestra, 2010-Present; Board President, 2013-2014
• Nevada All-State Orchestra, 2013
• CCSD Honor Orchestra, 2012-2013
• CCSD Solo & Ensemble Regional, 2012 
• Junior Varsity Track & Field, 2011
• National Merit Semifinalist, 2013
• Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar with Honors, 2013
• Japanese Language Bowl Winner, 2011-2012
• Scholar Athlete, 2011 

Clubs/Community Service

• Leo’s Club Culture Shock Presentation, 2010-Present: Performer, 2012-2013; Host, 2013; Co-President, 2013-2014
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2011- Present
• Las Vegas Gakuen (Japanese School), 2011-2012  
• CHS Key Club, 2010-2011
• Hip Hop Dance Club, 2010-2011
• Habitat for Humanity, 2012-Present 

A side hobby has just recently become a greater focus for you: “From the start, I’ve taken AP classes to prepare me for an engineering or health major. Although a job in these fields may offer more stability and security, I’ve chosen to pursue my true interest in filmmaking and apply to USC’s School of Cinematic Arts while continuing to play cello in a classical orchestra. Risky? Yes, but if I’m going to do something for the rest of my life, I might as well do what I love.” 

You’re not afraid to try new things: “I’m not afraid to step out of my comfort zone. From scuba diving with sharks, to attempting to sing in a high school performance, to trying out for the All-State Orchestra – I find that these are some of the ways that I can learn and experience new things and discover new passions, and perhaps learn from failures along the way.”

Is there a person in your life who has shaped your outlook on things? “My dad swept floors at Pier 1 Imports and flipped burgers at Carl’s Jr. Now, he’s a respected physician, but one thing hasn’t changed: he is still down to earth. He treats everyone with dignity and respect – regardless of status or position. He realizes that no colleague is unworthy and that everyone makes mistakes and learns from them.”

A favorite quote to live by:

「塵も積もれば、山となる」
-Japanese proverb

Pronunciation: Chiri mo tsumoreba, yama to naru.
Literal meaning:  “Even dust when piled up can become a mountain.”
Significance: Many small efforts can combine to make great success.

George Chumas

A feeling of inclusivity and sincere appreciation is met when talking with George Chumas, an 89012 resident and senior at Foothill High School. A natural leader and humble talent, you believe him when he says he considers his peer groups “family” and credits his success to those around him. George’s positivity, drive to make a difference in the world and his genuine gratitude are attributes that can’t be taught, but are products of overcoming life’s struggles without letting them define you. With an upbeat disposition, faith and the belief that hard work is its own reward, George rises – A Step Above.  

Music/Sports

• Foothill Band, 2010-Present; Section Leader, 2012-2013
• Foothill Drum Line, 2013-2014; Drum Major, 2013-2014; Cymbal Line Section Leader, 2013
• CCSD Honor Band, Euphonium, 2013
• CCSD Honor Brass Ensemble, 2013
• Foothill High School Football, 2011-2013
• Foothill High School Soccer, 2010
• Foothill High School Track & Field, 2010 

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service

• Scholar Athlete, 2012-2013
• Football Letter Winner, 2012-2013
• Frosh/Soph Track Championship Participant, 2011
• Junior Varsity Football Leadership Award, 2011
• Soccer Letter Winner, 2010
• National Society of High School Scholars, 2012-2013
• Student of the Quarter, 2010 and 2011
• Anthem Hills Music, Brass Group Mentor, 2011-2013
• Spread the Word Nevada, 2012
• American Cancer Society, Relay for Life Team Leader

You have a few different “families” in your life: “I have been working since middle school with the goal of becoming a drum major and a varsity football player. Catching touchdowns with my football family while my band family plays the school song is the best and most humbling feeling in the world. I am blessed to be able to do both activities and am grateful to my band directors and coaches for working together to make this possible.”

What’s your secret to success: “A work ethic, a positive attitude and an incredible support system contribute to my success. My parents and brothers are my biggest fans and best sounding boards. I trust their judgment and heed much of their advice. The vast and varied opportunities offered at my school coupled with dedicated administrators, teachers and counselors make it difficult not to succeed.”

You had an incredible obstacle that you turned into a good situation: “I was struck by a vehicle at age thirteen. Being an athlete defined me and sports in my future were uncertain. Music became the focus and I learned to play three instruments. My band family became equally as important as my sports family. I am profoundly grateful that my darkest hour became the greatest blessing.”

Your grandparents are a source of inspiration for you: “My maternal grandparents emigrated from Greece, learned English and became successful business owners and charitable pillars in the community.  My paternal grandparents raised nine children while my grandfather worked full time for the railroad and simultaneously earned a degree in chemistry.  They all understood the value of a hard day’s work. I embrace their legacy of faith, family, self-reliance and perseverance.”

Deanna Konopka

Cimarron-Memorial High School
Class of 2014

It’s hard to find a person with the curiosity and bravery to start something totally new, and even more rare for that person to posses the focus and willpower to conquer the difficulties that will surely come from inexperience. This is the mindset of Deanna Konopka, Student Body President at Cimarron-Memorial High School. Embodying the maturity and patience to trust in incremental improvement along the path to success, Deanna believes that just because you’re not good at something the first time around doesn’t mean you should give up. With incredible tenacity and a positive attitude she’s sure to conquer any challenge she faces with flying colors, placing her – A Step Above.

Sports/Activities/Clubs

• Varsity Tennis, 2013-Present
• Varsity Cheerleading, 2010-2013
• Varsity Swimming, 2010-2013
• Sophomore Class Secretary, 2011-2012
• Student Body Secretary, 2012-2013
• Student Body President, 2013-Present

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service

• National Honor Society, 2012-Present
• Scholar Athlete Award, 2012-2013
• NIAA Swim Regional Finalist, 2011-2013
• National High School Cheerleading Competition, 2012-2013
• Spartan Academic Lamp, 2012-2013
• Spartan Academic Letter, 2011-2012
• St. Joseph Husband of Mary Community Service, 2010-2013
• Atria Seville Nursing Home Volunteer, 2011-2013
• Candlighter’s Run, 2010-2012
• Thanksgiving Feed for the Hungry, 2011-2012
• Catholic Charities, 2012

What accomplishment are you most most proud of?  I am most proud of winning the “Do the Write Thing” challenge, an essay contest about violence and how it affects our community.  Not only did I get to travel to Washington D.C. with my mother, I also got the chance to meet with other student delegates from around the nation.  Winning that contest made me more confident in the writing I have done since, and it also was a wonderful experience I will never forget.

We’re sure you’ve had your share of obstacles. When I swatted at my first tennis ball it looked as if I’d never have a chance to make the Varsity Tennis Team at my high school.  My boyfriend and I practiced on the courts for hours, but I was barely improving.  It seemed like I was chasing down the balls more than hitting them over the net.  However, I wanted to be a part of that tennis team, so I practiced numerous weekends making sure I’d be ready in time for tryouts. Try-outs came around and within the first week I was playing number one doubles.  It felt like such a great accomplishment and I was proud of myself.  I believe that if you want something bad enough, you will work towards it until you achieve it.

Any one thing that drives your success? My drive to be the best I can be is what makes me successful.  Every day I strive to push myself to be better than the day before.  I believe that my motivation, as well as the great support system I have behind me, is what has made me successful.

Shane Cashin

E.W. Clark High School
Class of 2014

Shane Cashin shoots for the moon…literally. Meeting the intensely ambitious senior at The Academy of Mathematics, Science and Applied Technology (AMSAT) program at E.W. Clark High School is like meeting Juggernaut from X-Men, except on the “good” team and ready to make a tangible, positive difference in our world. And we believe him. Academically he’s at the top of the district, and he’s an award-winning cross country runner and musician, but what’s most notable about Shane is his passion – for life, for positive influence and for being the best. His big dreams put him – A Step Above.

 
Sports/Music/Clubs

• Varsity Cross Country, 2011-Present
• Las Vegas Premier Soccer Club, 2010-2012
• Freshman Football, 2010
• Clark Philanthropic Orchestra, 2012-Present
• Zion Youth Orchestra (Violin), 2011
• Temple Beth Shalom Youth Group (Piano), 2010
• Forensics Club, 2011-Present; Platform Captain, 2012-2013; Captain, 2013-Present
• DECA/FBLA, 2011-Present; Vice President, 2012-2013; President, 2013-Present
• Key Club, 2011-Present
• National Honors Society, 2011-Present

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:

• AP Scholar with Distinction, 2013
• Harvard Prize Book Winner, 2013
• National Merit Commended Scholar, 2013
• Top 25 Individual Runner – Nevada State Cross Country Championships, 2013
• Financial Services Nevada State Champion – DECA, 2012-13
• Award of Excellence Top 25 International Competition – DECA, 2012-13
• National Qualifier, Varsity Original Oratory, 2012
• La Cost Tournament of Champions in California, Champion – Varsity Original Oratory, 2012
• Gan Alonim Volunteer Day, 2012-2013
• Summerlin Hospital Volunteer, 2011-2012

You have a unique way of tackling a challenge. My ability to envision the results is what has driven me my entire life. If I am at a race, the beginning may be the toughest part, but as soon as I envision crossing the finish line I begin to work harder to improve my time. When I might not feel motivated to study for a big test, I imagine getting my test results back, and then I begin to work harder. If I want to feel successful when it’s over, I know that I need to put in the effort from the beginning.

What’s your take on our community’s youth? Young adults often find school boring and dull as opposed to what school should be viewed as: the chance to open their minds. I believe that the use of today’s technology can be implemented more closely into schools all around the globe and used to make classes more interactive and interesting to students. One day I hope to work to create a more efficient process for students to participate and learn in the classroom through the use of technology.

We see you have big plans. I have always dreamed of standing up in front of a crowd of hundreds of thousands of people and influencing them. Growing up I was always the short one, but when I stand up in front of an audience I feel bigger than ever. In the more unrealistic zone: being an actor, opening my own smoothie/sandwich shop, visiting every continent at least once, and traveling to space since I have a bet with my younger sisters on who will make it there first.

Catie Miller

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2014

Being comfortable in your own skin is a luxury that comes to most well after the trials and tribulations of high school. For Catie Miller, on the other hand, it’s something that has arrived much sooner as a result of hard work, adversity and a positive attitude. A flourishing swimmer with Olympic capabilities, a coach and a stellar student, Catie has a schedule that would leave most begging for mercy but she powers through with a smile and clear idea of where the hard work will leave her positioned for the future. Her energy and defined sense of self are unique and her talent is trumped only by her will to always maintain forward momentum, clearly setting her – A Step Above.

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• Sandpipers of Nevada Swim Team, 2001-Present
• Bishop Gorman Swim Team, 2010-Present
• Bishop Gorman Swim State Champions, 2010-2013
• Academic All-America, 2011-2013
• Sandpipers of Nevada State Champions, 2011-2013
• Olympic Trial Qualifier, 2012
• 200 Individual Medley Champion for Bishop Gorman, 2012
• Sportsmanship Award, 2012

Clubs/Community Service

• National Honor Society, 2012-Present
• National Spanish Honor Society, 2012-2013
• Academic Society, 2010-2012
• Volunteer at Faith Lutheran Church, 2010-Present
• Catholic Charities, 2011-2013
• Volunteer at Carefree Senior Living, 2013

You’ve had some exciting accomplishments. One of my most proud accomplishments is when I got my Olympic Trial cut in the 400 Individual Medley during the summer of 2012. I had worked my entire life to get to that point, and after missing it by a few tenths of a second finally achieving my goal was an amazing feeling. It took a lot of hard work and dedication, many long hours of intense training and endless days of soreness, but it all had paid off, achieving my ultimate goal.

Do you have a person you look up to? The person that I look up to the most is my brother Cody. Cody has been so successful in everything he has worked for. He is a very inspirational and driven person, he knows what he wants and he goes after it. Cody is always there for me and has been a guiding light in my life. Although he is my brother, he is my greatest teacher, my role model and my best friend.

What quality makes you most successful? I think I am successful because of my capability to always see the brighter side of things, and I thrive to achieve all I can. My ambition and drive allow me to accomplish.

You’ve had to transcend difficult times. I have sailed through many storms in my life, but my ultimate storm was and still is, my father leaving. I had to become a very independent person at a very young age and I have had to make many sacrifices to be where I am now. But these waves have only made me stronger. They have sculpted me into the person that I am today and for that I am truly grateful because I wouldn’t want to be anyone other than me.

A Step Above – Jordan Serrano

Liberty High School
Class of 2014

For all the pressure put on looking towards the future, there is something very special and unique about those who are able to live in the moment. Jordan Serrano, Liberty High School’s current Student Body President, is a special young man with an uncanny ability to do both. From disciplined martial artist to a social and philanthropic leader among his peers, Jordan keeps his eye firmly on the prize while still allowing for changes in direction. Most importantly, Jordan’s ability to sincerely appreciate the people and resources around him puts him in line with all the greats, and makes him – A Step Above.

G.P.A. 4.633

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• JV Wrestling Co-Captain, 2012
• JV Volleyball, 2012
• Filipino Martial Arts, 2001-2010; Assistant instructor, 2008-2010
• First Place Point Sparring, USA World Championship, 2010
• First Place Continuous Sparring and Weapons Form, Fall National Championship, 2010
• First Place Point Sparring, Disney Martial Arts Festival, 2007-2010

Clubs/Community Service

• Liberty High School Student Council, 2010-2014; Secretary, 2010-2011; Vice President, 2011-2012, Treasurer, 2012-2013; Student Body President, 2013-2014
• Key Club, 2011 & 2013
• Nevada Boys’ State Delegate, 2013
• Southern Nevada Zone, 2013
• Nevada State Conference for Student Council, 2011-2013
• Relay for Life Participant, 2010-2013
• Beatty Elementary School Carnival Volunteer, 2011-2012
• Student Advisory Committee, 2012
   

Jordan’s Proudest Accomplishment: “Becoming Student Body President is my most proud accomplishment. Coming into student council my freshmen year, I didn’t expect to achieve this goal. It was only until my sophomore year that I knew I wanted to make a difference and become the Student Body President. I continued to put in hard work within my council and school and eventually, it all paid off.”

Contributions to Jordan’s Success: “My drive and desire are what make me so successful. When I want something, I will achieve it no matter how much I have to go through.”

Jordan’s Inspiration: “One person I really look up to is my sister, Jasmine Serrano. She is the reason why I joined student council. I even followed in her footsteps and became the student body president just like her! She constantly motivates and helps me become the best person I can be. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without her.”

Words Jordan Lives By: “Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.” –Buddha

A Step Above – Brooke Garlick

Coronado High School
Class of 2014

It’s not always easy keeping a smile when life gets tough, but for Brooke Garlick of Coronado High School that’s the only way to be. That, and so focused on making dreams come true that you don’t have time to get down in the dumps! A stellar athlete, involved student and natural leader, Brooke truly personifies the results of good, old-fashioned hard work mixed with just the right dash of flexibility for life’s guaranteed twists and turns. Add that to the premium she puts on being a good teammate on and off the court, and it’s a recipe that places her – A Step Above.

G.P.A. 3.69

Sports/Awards

• Varsity Volleyball, 2011-Present; Team Captain, 2013-2014
• CSA Volleyball Club, 2013-2014
• Three-time AAU Junior Olympics Bid, 2013
• 702 Beach Volleyball Team, 2013
• Vegas Encore Volleyball Club, 2011-2013
• Net Believers Volleyball Club, 2009-2011
• First Place 18U LV Beach Bash, 2013
• Selected for Congressional Youth Leadership Council (CYLC), 2013
• USA Volleyball A3 Youth Camp in Las Vegas, 2012-2013
• Most Spirited (Varsity Volleyball), 2012-2013
• Best Offensive Player (Varsity Volleyball), 2011-2012

Activities/Clubs/Community Service

• Coronado Student Council Class President: Freshman, 2010-2011; Sophomore, 2011-2012; Junior, 2012-2013; Senior, 2013-2014
• National Honors Society, 2012-2014
• Best Buddies Member, 2012-2014
• Graduation Ambassador for HERFF Jones, 2013-2014
• Three Square Food Bank, 2012-Present
• Cougars Care, 2010-Present
• Santa Run, 2007-Present

Where can you find Brooke in ten years: “In ten years I see myself either working for ESPN as a sideline sportscaster or helping young athletes in sports medicine.  I also see myself giving back to my community.”

Brooke’s keys to success: “I believe that your success is based off of the ability to take a bad situation and make it better.  As John Wooden once said, ‘Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.’  No matter what I go through, I try to make the best out of it because life is too short to be dwelling on the negative.”

On overcoming adversity: “I was invited to a USA Volleyball camp my sophomore year and on the first day, during the last drill, I stepped on another player’s foot and severely sprained my ankle.  The type of sprain took a long time to heal and it was a very frustrating recovery.  I missed nearly all of my junior season and quickly learned that it takes both patience and hard work to rehab and return from an injury.  I learned through adversity that it is important to stay positive and always keep your head up.”

A Step Above – Julia Stella

Coronado High School 
Class of 2014

In a popular culture that at times gives too much credence to negative and even potentially damaging behavior, hope stems from those individuals like Julia Stella of Coronado High School who are dedicated to positive influence and empowering those around them to be better versions of themselves. A talented musician and attentive student, Julia’s commitment to excellence has proven valuable in meeting her goals for the future, and thriving in all aspects of her life. Even more importantly, Julia strives to succeed while always maintaining top standards, a positive attitude and a focused vision of how things can be, placing her – A Step Above.

G.P.A. 4.8

Music/Scholarships/Awards

• Cougar Pride Marching Band, 2010-Present; Section Leader, 2013
• Wind Symphony, 2012-2013
• Symphonic Band, 2010-2012
• Superior Rating at CCSD Solo and Ensemble, 2013
• Nevada Prize Exam Award Recipient, 2013
• AP Scholar, 2013
• Outstanding Woodwind Musician, 2011

Clubs/Community Service

• National Honor Society, 2012-2013
• American Red Cross Club, 2013; Vice President, 2013
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2013
• Ironman Volunteer, 2012-2013
• American Red Cross Youth Ambassador, 2013
• L.I.G.H.T Work Camp, 2012

Julia’s Goals and Aspirations: “My most important aspiration is to be a role model for others. I have been privileged to meet so many inspirational people in my life that now I hope I can inspire at least one person to realize that anything is possible when you have an open mind and a desire to succeed.”

Julia’s Ten Year Plan: “In ten years, I see myself as a college graduate working in a medical research setting. I hope to develop new medications or treatments for today’s incurable diseases.”

Someone Julia Admires: “I look up to my parents more than anybody. They both have showed me that your perspective on a situation is essential. It’s not about the actual circumstances of a situation but how you let the circumstances affect you.”

If Julia Could Be President of Any Charity: “I would like to be the president of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. I think it is a great charity because it provides great experiences to children with life-threatening illnesses. Children are blessed with innate hopefulness, and the charity sustains that hope in children who face very serious challenges.”

Favorite Quote to Live By: “If we all did the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves.” Thomas Edison

A Step Above – Powell Naylor

Palo Verde High School
Class of 2014

Success takes many forms, but its origin typically boils down to one thing: lots of hard work. Palo Verde High School Student Body President Powell Naylor has dedicated himself to leading by example by putting in the long hours and devoted perseverance it takes to turn aspirations into accomplishments. Strong willed, focused and always looking out for others, Powell sets high standards for himself by sticking to his strong values and draws constant inspiration from faith, friends and family.  There’s no obstacle big enough to block his path; give him a goal and he’ll find a way through, and it’s that resolute willpower that sets Powell Naylor – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.4

Sports/Activities

• JV Soccer, 2010-11; Co-Captain, 2011
• Varsity Soccer, 2012-Present; Division Champions, 2012-13
• Downtown Soccer Club, 2010-12; Captain, 2012
• JV Lacrosse, 2012; Captain, 2012
• Varsity Lacrosse, 2011-Present; State Champions, 2012
• Vegas Starz Lacrosse, 2012-13
• Christmas Nativity at Opportunity Village, 2012
• Student Council, 2010-Present
• Class President, 2011-12; Class Vice President, 2010-11
• Student Body President, 2013-Present; Vice President, 2012-13
• State Student Council Representative, 2010-Present
• Mid-Level State Student Council JC, 2013

Awards/Community Service

• Eagle Scout, 2010-Present
• Lead American Recipient, 2012
• The National Society of High School Scholars, 2012-Present
• National Student Leadership Recipient, 2013
• Panther Heart (Lacrosse), 2011
• Most Improved Varsity Lacrosse Player, 2012
• Scholar Athlete, 2012-13
• Three Square Food Bank, 2010-Present
• Opportunity Village, 2010-Present
• Big Brother Volunteer, 2011-Present
• Volunteer for State Senator Election, 2012

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “The accomplishments I am most proud of would be my work and activities in school. I play two varsity sports, I am Student Body President, I’m an active member in my church and I manage to maintain good grades. I am always very busy and always on the move, but I always make time for my family, friends and schoolwork.”

Powell Looks Up To: “Someone I look up to would definitely be my dad. He is the hardest working person I know, but he always manages to make time for family. I’ve gone to work with him and his job is extremely hard and tiring, but you never hear him complain and he still puts out the best work possible. He always works hard, is always honest and does it with a smile.”

Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults today is the inability to function in social situations because of the impact of technology. Young adults are so caught up in technology and all the social networks that they have lost the ability to associate face to face. I feel I can initiate outside activities and social events in order to be a part of the solution.”

A Step Above – Nick Hatton

Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2014

Much like his father, Bishop Gorman High School Student Body President Nick Hatton has a passion for restoring old cars. A fitting hobby in his case, as this enterprising and forward thinking young man has always had a strong “drive” to be the best. Self assured and filled with purpose, Nick takes leadership to the next level with far reaching goals that include one day working in the White House, preferably in the Oval Office. Every day is a chance to improve himself a little more and help pass that passion for success on to his friends and classmates. The road ahead may be long, but he isn’t slowing down, and that places Nick Hatton – A Step Above.

G.P.A: 4.08

Activities/Awards/Community Service

• Associated Student Government, 2010-Present
• Sophomore Class President, 2011-12
• Junior Class President, 2012-13
• Student Body President, 2013-Present
• Academic Society, 2010-12; Historian, 2010-11; President, 2011-12
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2012-Present
• National Honor Society, 2012-Present
• Link Crew, 2012-Present; Commissioner, 2012-13
• Certificate of Academic Achievement, 2010-13
  • Algebra 1 Honors
  • Old Testament
  • Church History
  • Principles of Leadership
  • Morality
  • Algebra 2/Trig Honors
  • Principal’s List, 2010-13
  • Three Square, 2010-12
  • Catholic Charities, 2010-13

Nick is Successful Because: “I think that the main thing that makes me successful is my absolute drive to be the best that I can be.  I really live by the fact that ‘You don’t have to be great to get started, but you do have to get started to be great.’ Any opportunity that I get to improve myself, I take because I know that it will ultimately lead to success.”

Nick Looks Up To: “I really look up to my uncle, Rob Groeschen. He is such an inspiration to me because he is always looking for a way to improve the lives of others. Rob has founded a nonprofit organization called InReturn, which provides jobs for those with severe brain damage. Uncle Rob has been a constant guiding force and role model in my life, and I can only hope to do as much good in this world as he does every single day.”

Nick is Stronger and Wiser Because: “One obstacle that I have faced was the passing of my aunt during my freshman year. My aunt was always there no matter what and always wanted me to succeed and be the best that I could. When she passed away, I was sad, but now I realize that she is looking down at me and helping me to overcome other obstacles that I face.”