Olivia Yamamoto

Politics are among the many interests of Coronado High School Valedictorian Olivia Yamamoto. Even before she was legally allowed to vote she began making big political waves affecting the lives of Nevada’s youth through bills that she confidently presented in front of state lawmakers. That she had the courage and confidence to do so speaks volumes about her character, while the substance of the bills–protecting equal rights for girls and the LGBTQ+ community–reflects a nature that is compassionate, inclusive and powerful. With plans to study science, technology and international relations at Georgetown University, it’s clear that she is committed to continuing her work and determined to make the world a better place for all, and for that, Olivia Yamamoto is– A Step Above.   

G.P.A.: 4.8

Sports/Clubs/Activities:

• -Varsity Golf, 2015-2016
• -Orchestra, 2015-2016
• -Mu Alpha Theta, 2015-2018
• -Unicef Club, 2017-2018
• -AP Executive Council, 2016-Present
• -Mock Trial, 2016-2017
• -Every Fifteen Minutes, 2018
• -Coronado High School Homework Committee, 2017

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:

• -Nevada Youth Legislature Scholarship, 2019
• -School Board Student Advisory Committee Scholarship, 2019; Clark County Education Association Scholarship, 2019; Clark County School District Retired Teachers’ Association Scholarship, 2019; Georgetown Scholarship, 2019
• -Rotary Youth Leadership Award, 2018
• -AP Capstone Diploma & Scholar with Distinction, 2018
• -Nevada Youth Legislature Chair, 2015-Present
• -Trial By Peers, 2016-Present
• -Clark County School Board Student Advisory Committee, 2016-Present
• -YMCA Conference on National Affairs, 2017-2019
• -Female Wave of Change, 2018
• -My Brother’s Keeper Conference Panelist, 2019
• -Muscular Dystrophy Association Camp Counselor, 2017 & 2018
• -Three Square Food Bank, 2015-Present
• -Christ Church Episcopal Homeless Outreach, 2017-Present
• -MDA Muscle Walk, 2017 & 2018
• -Anti-Defamation League Walk Against Hate, 2017

Why is environmentalism such a hot button for you? “We, as humans, are causing too much detriment to our earth and now we must act to minimize our harmful impacts. I want to encourage peaceful, diplomatic relations between nations that will foster a plan of action to reverse the course of environmental degradation.”

You’ve had some great accomplishments with Nevada Youth Legislature. Can you tell us about the bills you shaped? “In my last term, I presented my bill idea to form curricula teaching high schoolers on topics such as sexual consent, sexual assault and rape to the Nevada Legislature. In 2017, it was signed into law by the governor. In my second term, my bill (SB97) on eliminating the gay and trans panic defense was just recently passed by both the Senate and the Assembly and is now awaiting the governor’s signature.”

Who is someone you look up to and why? “Laverne Cox is my inspiration. Laverne is a beautiful, talented woman who never compromises any part of her identity for anyone. She is the epitome of self-confidence and grace, and remains a role model for unapologetically being herself, always.”

Tell us why you enjoy volunteering at the Muscular Dystrophy Camp? “My experience there has been life changing, emotional and transformative. From playing football, singing campfire songs with s’mores, and, of course, wheelchair Mario Kart, I loved every second of my time at camp. These children have the biggest hearts, and I cannot wait to see what waves they make in the world someday.”