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2009 GOLD WINNERS
 Ka’Ron Alexander
New Iberia Senior High School
New Iberia, Louisiana“I never settle for the number two position. I reach for the sky in everything I do,” says Ka’Ron. Ka’Ron’s passionate words represent his successes throughout a high school career in which he has distinguished himself as a true leader in more ways than one.
Ka’Ron’s perfect 4.0 GPA makes him first in his class, but his academic success does not keep him from dedicating an enormous amount of time to his true passion, leadership. Ka’Ron has been a part of New Iberia’s student government throughout his high school career. He was president of his junior class and will be student body president as a senior. Ka’Ron also spends his time participating in Upward Bound, and was elected vice president of the math and science program by its members. It’s no wonder Ka’Ron has been named Student of the Month three times since entering high school!
In addition to his leadership roles at school, Ka’Ron is a force for improvement in his community. His two years as a member of the National Honor Society have involved him in a variety of service projects. He also takes a role in his church’s program called God Empowering Men, through which he and other teens encourage young boys to stay off the streets and to help the community in any way they can. Last year, Ka’Ron also arranged a toy drive during the holidays, and got his student government involved to gather donations for families and local orphanages needing holiday gifts.
Although Ka’Ron rises to the top as a leader at school, he says a personal challenge for him has been leading at home. With no father figure, Ka’Ron tries hard to be the best possible role model for his siblings. “I am a person who loves challenges. Obstacles and challenges motivate me to succeed in life,” Ka’Ron says. He credits his mother as the source of much of his motivation, describing her as a hardworking woman who wants Ka’Ron to focus on his academics.  Aimee Allen
John I. Leonard High School
Greenacres, Florida
When it comes to school, Aimee takes advantage of all she can because she knows it will get her far in life. “I will be the third grandchild on my mother’s side to graduate from high school and the first to go to college,” she says. Aimee’s acts of kindness in her community and at school aren’t just a way for her to secure a good future; they embody who she is and how she lives her life.
Aimee applies herself with diligence in all that is academic, and stands first in her class of 438 students. Her determination to keep her grades up, even with AP classes, has kept her on the Honor Roll and Principal’s Honor Roll throughout her school career. Just recently, she has been awarded the Cornell University Book Award to recognize her scholastic excellence. As a leader, Aimee has been class president, and is incoming president of the National Honor Society. Aimee has also been a part of Mu Alpha Theta, Future Business Leaders of America and The Computer Technology Academy. In 2008, Aimee was chosen to be an ambassador for her school at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar, and she continues to act as a representative for Palm Beach County. Lastly, Aimee finds joy in writing and journalism. She is currently the assistant editor-in-chief of her school newspaper, and will assume the role of editor in her senior year.
Aimee has found time for ample amounts of community service. In April she volunteered at camp Sea Star, a camp for children who have lost a loved one and for the last two summers she has acted as an instructor for children at a vacation Bible school. She has also helped fellow students as an algebra tutor during the summer and during the last school year. Aimee enjoys volunteering at the annual Sunfest community celebration, usually helping in the children’s activities area. Last May, Aimee was proud that she organized a student council team that participated in the annual Relay for Life walk/run for cancer awareness and research.
Aimee also makes time to have some fun on the field, playing on the varsity girl’s soccer team and the flag football team for the last two years.
Aimee states that she couldn’t do it all without the support of her family. In particular, she looks to her grandfather, who she says has medical problems and wishes only to see Aimee graduate from college. “He is my motivation for everything; the reason I keep going. I do not want to disappoint him,” Aimee says.  Brady Baldwin
Armijo High School
Fairfield, California
“I have never let my schooling interfere with my education,” said American humorist Mark Twain. Brady Baldwin lives by these famous words, stating that he values learning and being challenged over just getting the best grades. His dedication to learning both inside and outside the classroom proves that he is doing just that.
At Armijo High School, Brady is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program and takes classes at the local community college. To amplify his academic experience, Brady also takes time to read The New York Times or The Wall Street Journal so he can stay up-to-date on the news, and his recent interest in the legal profession has inspired him to intern for his county’s superior court.
Brady has been an entrepreneur from an early age. He and his brother Kyle gained their gardening merit badge for Boy Scouts when they grew a half-acre plot of produce that became their business, “Baldwin Farms.” Today, they still sell eggs to their neighbors. In addition to their farm, Brady and Kyle began their own non-profit organization, My Own Book, which helps less fortunate kids enjoy reading. Brady sets up teams of teens to visit K-3rd grade classrooms with the charge of performing and giving away children’s stories. Today, My Own Book has distributed over 20,000 books and has been nationally recognized by the Elks Club, Daughters of the American Revolution and Service Nation. His community service tally is well above 500 hours.
In addition to his entrepreneurial activities, Brady takes a leadership role in his school and community. He is historian for the National Honor Society, vice chairman for the Fairfield Youth Commission, a National Youth Venture Ambassador and an Eagle Scout. Brady has received the Hornaday Medal, the Boy Scouts’ highest conservation award, which has been given fewer than 80 times in its 125 years. Somehow, between academics and community service, Brady has also found time to be captain of the varsity tennis team, a published poet/author and an aspiring filmmaker.
Success has not always come easily to Brady; at a young age he faced the challenge of overcoming a speech disability. Early on, he made the decision that he wouldn’t let his disability prevent him from succeeding. Brady’s involvement in Boy Scouts, public speaking groups, and his recent achievements with the local community college’s speech and debate team have shown that his determination has paid off. He is motivated by his challenges, new experiences, and helping others. “I want to work on giving others a chance to succeed by giving them a helping hand (or book!), and encourage them that they can do whatever they set their mind to,” Brady says.  Arthur Burkart
Marshfield High School
Marshfield, Wisconsin
Arthur is an independent, creative, curious and adventurous teen. “Competition drives me and knowledge excites me,” says Arthur when describing himself. His pursuit of wide-ranging knowledge and experience is apparent in the variety of activities he participates in. From a 43-mile hike in the mountains to starting his own newspaper, Arthur lives life to learn and knows the value of trying new things.
In school, Arthur is an excellent student. He takes one of the most challenging schedules available, while keeping his grades very high. In addition, he works hard to ensure that his courses satisfy his varied interests in politics, programming and linguistics.
Outside of the classroom, Arthur splits his time between sports and athletic pursuits, school and community service, and work. He has been a runner on the varsity track team since his freshman year, and competed at sectionals as a sophomore. He was also captain of the junior varsity soccer team for two years in a row.
As a student leader, Arthur has shown that he is dedicated to his school. As, president of his junior class and 2009-2010 Student Council President-Elect, he has been instrumental in advocating for student rights. He has logged nearly 100 hours with the National Honor Society, he edits the school newspaper, and is also active in the yearbook club, drama club and Spanish Honor Society.
Outside of school, in addition to delivering newspapers and working as a dishwasher to help support himself and his family, Arthur has volunteered a significant amount of his time. He has been an altar boy at his church since fourth grade, has volunteered at the Marshfield Area Respite Care Center for Alzheimer’s patients over the summer, donates time to the Salvation Army, and during the holiday season installs lighting for a Rotary Club fundraiser.
Arthur attributes much of his success to his government teacher, his brother and his father. Without his government teacher he would have never entered student government or participated in the Laird Youth Leadership Conference and his brother and his father have helped him learn to be determined and to be confident that, even though life can be difficult, hard work will help most things turn out well in the end. With these lessons learned, he is proud that he has managed to excel academically, participate in sports, work, be a school leader and act in drama; sometimes all within the same week.  Abhiraj Chowdhury
Foothill High School
Pleasanton, California
Abhiraj’s involvement in his high school and community might best be described as superlative. He strives for the best in academics, service and extracurricular activities, and consistently comes out on top.
Not many students can point to an academic record such as that compiled by Abhiraj. He is in the top 3% of students in his class of 549, with a perfect 4.0 GPA, which has earned him a school letter in academics. Abhiraj has taken six AP courses at once and never missed being on the honor roll since entering high school. He is also proud of being named to the National Society of High School Scholars, the French Honor Society, the National Honor Society and the California Scholarship Federation. Not surprisingly, Abhiraj has placed highly in various academic competitions including: the State of California Robotics Competition, YES Epidemiology, the Fleet Reserve Association Americanism Essay Contest, the Voice of Democracy Essay Contest and the Optimist Essay Contest.
Abhiraj stands out not only as a strong student, but also as a strong leader. He is founder and president of both the Public Speaking Club and the Cricket Club at Foothill High School, and participates in many sports as well. But what really distinguishes Abhiraj is his passion to help those who are disadvantaged. He has served 311 hours of community service with organizations such as: Dublin & Livermore City Senior Centers, Open Hearts Kitchen, Special Olympics, the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, and The March of Dimes. Abhiraj is proud of his role as a defense advocate with Tri-Valley Youth Court for troubled youth, and as a volunteer for Bay Area Prabasi, an East Indian non-profit. Because of his dedication to helping others, Abhiraj was nominated for the Prudential Spirit of Community Service Award for the 2008-2009 year.
Abhiraj maintains his skills in both piano and trombone, instruments he has played for years. He also makes sure to take time for his family. Abhiraj’s father came to America from India with six dollars in his pocket, overcoming many hardships to create a good life for Abhiraj and his family. Abhiraj attributes much of his diligence and positive attitude to his parents, and hopes to make them proud. “I am a versatile person with two strong passions: to serve the disadvantaged and explore biomedical research,” Abhiraj says.  Elena De Jesus Hernandez
Liberty High School
Hillsboro, Oregon
Student, provider, leader, and mentor are just a few of the roles Elena De Jesus Hernandez takes on in her everyday life. As a responsible young woman, she makes time to take advantage of any opportunities that will better herself and her family. “Doors open up daily and I believe it’s up to me to enter through them before they are closed,” says Elena.
Elena is a high achiever at her school, ranking in the top 3% of her class of 314. She has challenged herself by taking AP Language and Composition, as well as AP Spanish. Along with academics, Elena is involved in many ways at her school. As secretary of MECHA (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan), she is in charge of the club’s meetings and fundraisers. Elena also has become a teen leader with Students Today Aren’t Ready for Sex (STARS), a school group educating 7th graders in ways to stand up to peer pressure when it comes to sexual involvement.
In her community, Elena has volunteered as a choir director for children and has involved herself in a local performance group called Encuentros. Group members present dramas, in both English and Spanish, about refraining from drugs, alcohol, gangs and sexual involvement.
When Elena isn’t concentrating on academics and service, she finds time for herself through running. She was proud to run in the 2007 Helvetia Half Marathon, crossing the finish line in 2 hours and 13 minutes. Elena also enjoys writing. An essay she submitted to the Upward Bound Program resulted in her being selected to go to Washington, DC, to attend various college preparation workshops.
Since her mother passed away, Elena has taken on many new responsibilities: she helps her father with paying bills and preparing meals, and helps her younger siblings with homework. After moving to the US from Oaxaca, Mexico, Elena took on the challenge of learning English and continues to translate for her father and other siblings who need it.
Every night before Elena goes to bed she takes a moment to think about who she is. She reminds herself where she came from and is thankful for all the opportunities and privileges she has living in the United States. She feels her family and friends have been her biggest support and motivation, but said, “above all, though, it is up to me to motivate myself every day.”  Bea Dela Cruz
Jefferson High School
Daly City, California
Bea is a true exemplary citizen. She works hard on developing herself to become a good role model who gives back. She believes in using the knowledge gained in the classroom to help her succeed in daily life, and feels that her experiences outside the classroom contribute just as much to her learning as those inside the classroom.
In addition to taking extremely challenging courses, Bea dedicates much of her time to school organizations. She was class president as a freshman and sophomore, ASB class secretary as a junior and will be school president next year. She is a student trustee for the Jefferson Union High School District, president of the FilAm Club (Filipino American Club), and also secretary, company lawyer, and civil engagement commissioner of Jefferson High’s SAGE Team. Her other involvements include the California Scholarship Federation, the Anime Club, the Drama Club and The Junior State of America.
Community service outside of school is also very important to Bea. She has volunteered for the Renew the Zoo project, the Sterling Park Community Center, Pennies for Patients, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, AIDS Emergency Funds, One Warm Coat Foundation, the Parent Teacher Student Association, election polls and Bert’s Children Foundation.
Her many activities and clubs have led Bea to become an expert fundraiser. “I’ve tried almost anything possible to fundraise,” says Bea. “Every event I have planned has made a successful outcome.” While she has organized every kind of fundraiser from car washes to candy sales, Bea’s most notable accomplishment in this field was the $1,560 that she raised for Bert’s Children Foundation, a shelter for abused homeless children. The funds made it possible for her to start an art class for the kids!
Bea’s motivation comes from within. She longs to lead a happy and productive life, and has found that volunteering and working hard in school help her reach that goal. “I love to volunteer...simple gestures like that brighten my day and I feel great, I feel like ME.”  Sizana Ezana
Montgomery Blair High School
Silver Spring, Maryland
Known as “Mr. Spears” to his friends and family, Sizana has a long-standing passion for Britney Spears, but he has an even greater passion to be a contributor in life. Sizana is continually getting involved, not only at his high school, but in his community and with his family as well.
Sizana’s academic achievements can only be described as hard-earned. He takes a rigorous school schedule of AP classes, while working 25 hours a week, and still manages to rise to the challenge of earning good grades and a high GPA. One of Sizana’s most prized achievements is being selected to partake in his school’s ambassador program, through which he acts as a student representative for his school.
Sizana is a leader in more ways than one. Since his freshman year in high school, he has worked to help take care of his family. “Overall, working has developed my leadership skills, taught me how to handle responsibility and bettered my time management,” Sizana says. Along with working, Sizana volunteers his time with the Summer Buddies program, acting as a camp counselor and play specialist for special-needs kids. He was inspired to do more and so created an organization called Students 4 Students, which helps special-needs schools, charities, and programs in Maryland. As president of the organization, Sizana was able last year to raise $1,000 that went to a special-needs school where the teachers could not afford to purchase adequate teaching supplies because of budget cuts.
At Montgomery Blair High School, Sizana participates in student government and has acted as director of student relations. He is involved with his school newspaper and was recently selected as its executive communications director, managing subscriptions, fundraisers, recruiting advertisers and advertisement pages in the paper. When Sizana isn’t working with student government or the newspaper, he may often be found at the ceramics club, which he co-founded after enjoying a ceramics class as a sophomore.
Ever since moving with his mother from Kenya, Sizana has taken on new responsibilities that have made him increasingly independent. From homework to school clubs to running his own non-profit, Sizana proves that it takes more than just passion to get where you want to be…it takes hard work. “When I am passionate about something, I give it my all,” says Sizana.  Kelly Gagnon
Hickory Ridge High School
Harrisburg, North Carolina
Kelly Gagnon is a high achiever who is focused on being successful, but she is also dedicated to her community and always finds a way to put helping people first. “The feeling received when you help someone can be so self-satisfying that it pushes you to do better in everything and all that you do,” says Kelly. To many students, balancing a busy schedule like hers seems impossible, but Kelly finds a way to do it all without compromising success in any area of her life.
Kelly says that academics are a high priority in her life. She ranks 13th in her class of 325 and has challenged herself with honors classes plus AP Statistics and Environmental Science. She is a member of the National Honor Society, and takes pride in her role as lieutenant governor for all Key Clubs in her district. Kelly’s active involvement in National Honor Society, Key Club, Beta Club and Mu Alpha Theta has resulted in her running fundraisers, tutoring peers and helping to develop a program to inform her fellow students of the tragedies that are happening in Uganda.
While Kelly takes on many school related activities, she always makes time for community service. She is an active volunteer at her local hospital, accumulating 60 hours of service so far. Kelly particularly enjoyed her experience with Wings of Eagles Therapeutic Ranch for handicapped children. Most recently, Kelly is excited about her role on the committee for Youth United, an arm of Habitat for Humanity.
Kelly credits much of her determination to her strong, secure family and the strength she finds in herself to succeed. “With an optimistic attitude, determination and an open heart anything is possible,” Kelly said. “I have come to realize that it isn’t enough to think positively; in order to truly be successful you must put those thoughts into actions.” Kelly’s ambitious mentality is what has allowed her to balance everything in her life well and to become the leader she always wanted to be.  Cindy Hsu
Carlsbad High School
Carlsbad, California
Artist, entrepreneur, and high-achieving student are just a few roles that describe Cindy Hsu. “I am artistic and very ambitious. I really enjoy working and interacting with children and my peers,” Cindy says.
Cindy is a diligent student with a perfect GPA and takes a full load of AP courses. She has become an entrepreneur at her school, launching two highly active community service clubs. Cindy and her friends started The Children’s Relief Coalition to raise money for underprivileged children. As president of the Red Cross Club, she helps educate her peers and community on how to prepare for, and respond to, disasters and other emergencies. She is currently vice president of both the Interact Club and the Art Club, and has recently taken on the position of treasurer for the 2010 Class Student Council. Cindy has also been involved in the Peer Leaders program, Amnesty International and the Environmental Club for more than two years.
Art is one of Cindy’s greatest passions and she spends a lot of her time outside of school working on her pieces. She has received numerous awards for her creativity, including being recognized by her school’s art show, the Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League, The Women’s Club and the Palomar District No. 24 Arts Festival.
Cindy enjoys giving back to her community. For the past few summers, she has volunteered with the Summer Reading Program at her community library. Last year, Cindy enjoyed using her artistic talents to teach young children art at the Creative Arts Camp in Carlsbad. Volunteering at the Boy and Girls Club and tutoring middle school kids have also been ways in which Cindy contributes to her community.
Cindy’s goal of going to a four-year college has motivated her to do well in school. Her parents want her to achieve the education they didn’t receive, so that she can have many options for her life. The many contributions she has made to her school and her community have fulfilled her main aspiration of becoming a leader. “My capability as a leader shows that I am able to take charge and be innovative,” she says.  Jennie LiTemple City High SchoolTemple City, CaliforniaThough only a junior in high school, Jennie has already lived in three countries. She credits this experience as one of her primary motivations to succeed. “I had experienced the real world when I was really young,” she says. “I learned that hard work pays off.” It is difficult to imagine a person who works harder than Jennie and, as she anticipated, it seems to be paying off. Jennie takes a rigorous schedule of AP and honors courses, and has managed to stay in the top 10% of her class. Her achievement has been recognized by her school with multiple President’s Education Awards. Beyond academics, Jennie is committed to serving her school and community. Along with a few of her peers, she started an environmental club and also founded her school’s chapter of Future Business Leaders of America. Through these clubs and her other commitments, Jennie has organized numerous fundraisers and community service projects ranging from tree planting and beach cleanup to musical events that benefit charities. Jennie’s other club involvements include Multicultural Club, National Honor Society, California Scholarship Foundation, Key Club and Infinity Club. When not busy with school and school-related clubs, Jennie spends much of her time volunteering at the local hospital and tutoring younger students. Achievements in school and service are part of what defines Jennie, and she is also extremely artistic. She dances ballet and hip-hop, paints and plays the piano. She has placed first in both regional and national solo dance competitions, won awards for her paintings and received a certificate of merit for level 7 piano. Jennie is motivated to make the world a better place. “By helping the environment,” she says, “the earth can live longer, and humans, animals and creatures can also live longer.” With someone as dedicated and hardworking as Jennie, this goal is more likely to become a reality.  Connie Lim
Newport High School
Bellevue, Washington
Connie Lim is an extraordinary student, musician and entrepreneur. “I actively participate in all that I can and am eager to learn new things at every opportunity,” Connie says. She constantly strives to do more and do it better, and cites her strong spirituality as her motivation to do so.
Connie is a high-ranking student at her school, always taking AP courses and keeping a high GPA. In order to gain more educational experiences, she is in the Running Start program, allowing her to take demanding college courses at Bellevue College.
Academics may seem to be Connie’s strong suit, but what really distinguishes her is the dedication she shows to help others in need. Connie is currently developing a program called the Bellevue Global Health Alliance, in partnership with the Washington Global Health Alliance. She wants to raise awareness in teens about global health issues and to educate them on how they can help. Her goal is to raise funds to purchase needed health-care items and send them to struggling nations, as well as to train other students to spread the word on global health. Connie also takes time to be on the junior volunteer board at Overlake Hospital and to advocate for youth programs with the Bellevue 24-Hour Relay.
At school, Connie is a member and president-elect of Key Club International. She is also a leader with Link Crew, which helps incoming freshman ease into the high school environment. Connie has also devoted time to the Invisible Children’s Club, Junior Statesmen of America and Teens Against Tobacco Use.
Connie’s spare time is filled with music: she plays both harp and piano, and loves to sing. In recent years, her family has worked to overcome challenges brought about by her father’s struggle with multiple sclerosis.
Connie finds that her deep spirituality provides the motivation to get through difficulties and succeed. “I may not be the coolest person in the world, or have tons of money to spend, but I have compassion and love because God showed me that first,” Connie says.  Brittne Lunniss
Thomas Jefferson High School
Auburn, Washington
Brittne Lunniss is a strong young woman who has beaten the odds and used her experiences to help others. “To make a difference, you must become the difference. I am the difference, and I believe it is my mission to lead,” says Brittne.
Music is one of Brittne’s greatest passions and she spends most of her time at Thomas Jefferson High School involved in the arts. She has been a member of the chamber choir, jazz choir and concert band, and also enjoys musical theatre. Brittne worked to organize a benefit concert for music education in public schools and, as president of the Music Honor Society, has become a musical mentor and tutor for middle school students.
While music is Brittne’s chief passion, she doesn’t let her scholastic goals fall to the wayside. This will be Brittne’s third year as a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. Her forensic talents have led her to become president of her school’s speech and debate team, and to be selected to attend the national competition in Alabama. She also takes pride in her leadership roles as former ASB class secretary and a choir officer. She was named to receive the 2009 Outstanding Junior Award.
Outside of school, Brittne finds time to help her church and community. She is a state representative for the Conference Council of Youth Ministries, as well as former president of United Methodist Youth. She has taken roles on the worship team and church praise band as well. Since 2007, Brittne has logged over 300 hours of service with her community and church by planning retreats, organizing fundraisers and helping with clean-up projects, including a mission serving at an orphanage in Ensenada, Mexico.
Brittne has been fortunate enough to overcome a rare heart disease, tuberous sclerosis, as well as the hardships stemming from her father’s absence from her life. Her struggles to fit in and feel “normal” led her on a long journey of fighting to survive. Today she can say she has defied all the odds by working to make a difference in her school, community, church, family, and state. “I want to lead others, share my story, and help anyone who feels different or [feels] the need to give up,” Brittne says.
 Chris McAuley
Fairborn High School
Fairborn, Ohio
Chris describes himself as friendly, always busy, interested in sports, and fond of pizza, and Stephen King books. This may make him sound like an average high school student, but a careful observer would see a diligent student, leader, and mentor. “I’m not sure if world peace is possible, but I try to put my best foot forward and try to instill a more peaceful community,” Chris says.
When it comes to scholastic achievements, Chris is decidedly not average. He ranks first in a class of 318 students and maintains the highest possible GPA at his school at 4.35. He jumps at the opportunity to challenge himself through honors classes plus one college course per quarter at Wright State University, where he can further his interest in mathematics. He is proudest of winning various math competitions in the last few years and being one of the 20 students selected to participate in the Super Computer Institute at Ohio State University in the summer of 2008.
Chris believes school isn’t just about getting the grades; it’s about getting involved. He has been elected treasurer of Student Congress, taken on various roles with the Spanish Club, and served on the prom committee. He shows enormous potential as a participant in the Academic Challenge Varsity Team, which consists of competitions involving history, math, literature, government and science. Chris is also proud to be a member of the National Honor Society.
Outside of school, Chris likes to involve himself in his community. He has gained over 178 hours of service with Boy Scouts of America, where he has taken on the roles of troop guide and scribe, as well as attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. He has spent 80 hours with his youth ministry, and some 50 hours with other organizations that help youth, the elderly, the homeless and families in need.
With all of Chris’s achievements, it might be hard to believe that he has struggled at one time in his life. When he was younger he experienced speech problems, but was able to overcome them, move forward, and participate in a program for gifted students. Chris is motivated by his earlier difficulties and says he now appreciates all that he is able to do. “I strive to improve myself every day, and improve the lives of others around me,” Chris said.  Bea Melcher
Atlantic High School
Port Orange, Florida
“I am a focused, down-to-earth young lady, scholastically motivated, but fun loving,” says Bea. Ever since coming to the United States from Germany in 2004, she has striven to be a top student. Above her academic and community service achievements, Bea is an independent young woman with a motivation to get herself to college.
Bea is ranked third in her class of 285 students and maintains a GPA of 4.2. After excelling in AP Literature last year, Bea decided to challenge herself more in her upcoming senior year by taking three additional AP courses: Language, Statistics and Government.
Bea has always enjoyed being involved at her school. She is currently part of her class board, the Student Government Association, Finesse, Academy of Law and Government, and enjoys helping with the Nautica dance team.
With her busy schedule, Bea still finds time to help out in the community. She is proud that she has logged over 700 hours of community service volunteering at the Halifax Hospital and acting as squad leader for Police Explorers, a program that allows young adults to explore careers in law enforcement and help their communities.
When Bea isn’t studying or involving herself in the community, she is working to support herself. Bea has been working at Target for almost two years, and because of her earnings is able to pay for her own gas, car insurance, car payments and cell phone.
Bea believes it is her family’s support and her strong background that have made her who she is today. She is reminded of this every day when she goes home to her grandmother and mother, and is able to speak both English and German fluently in her household.  Elizabeth Menzie
Irvington High School
Irvington, New Jersey
Elizabeth Menzie is an extraordinary student, mentor and leader. When it comes to doing it all, Elizabeth finds a way. “I am known for adapting well to many different situations,” says Elizabeth. Along with her enthusiastic attitude to getting involved, Elizabeth stands out by keeping an energetic and appreciative mentality that gets her through a sometimes stressful high school experience.
Since 2007, Elizabeth has accumulated a massive number of community service hours by participating in bake sales, park rehabilitation, blood drives, and donation efforts for The March of Dimes. Her most recent 151 hours of service were gained through volunteering at a daycare, helping at an after-school program, and petitioning to raise money for the Save Darfur Project.
Elizabeth has attended two high schools in the last two years and has found a way to get heavily involved at both. At her current school, Irvington High School, she has been nominated as secretary of her class for 2010 and has been an important member of the Future Business Leaders of America. She has also been recognized as an Ambassador to the National Society of High School Scholars. While earlier attending the Health Opportunities High School, she served as co-captain and then captain of the dance team, and was involved with the Sobri Music Organization.
When Elizabeth isn’t working on her academics, she is picking out books for her book club. The Irvington Teen Book Club, founded by Elizabeth and four of her friends, brings together Irvington High School students who want a place to relax through reading. She also has found time to be co-captain of the varsity tennis team, placing first in singles as a junior.
Although Elizabeth shows enjoyment in her scholastic achievements, her passion lies with helping other girls succeed. She acts as community service representative for the Gamma Sigma Sigma organization, which Elizabeth says is meant to build a sisterhood for girls who want to better themselves and other young women. She also takes pride in being involved with the Career Vision Ambassadors Organization, another group of young women collaborating to better their futures.
Elizabeth attributes her motivation to succeed to her mom, whom she describes as hard-working parent who, at a young age, struggled to support Elizabeth. “When I feel like I want to give up, I look at my mother for motivation and remember that I am fighting to give her the world in whichever way I can,” says Elizabeth.  Daniel Nguyen
Franklin High School
Seattle, Washington
Daniel is the epitome of a well-rounded individual. He juggles a busy schedule of work, school, and community service -- and seems to enjoy it all. “I know how to have fun with every opportunity that I get, because there is nothing more satisfying than getting your work done and having a good time doing it,” says Daniel.
Daniel’s most significant achievements lie in service to his school and his community. As president of Franklin’s junior class, he has led many events to earn money for his class, including the annual car wash. Capitalizing on other leadership opportunities, Daniel has also managed to become the Seattle NAACP Youth Council president, the Regional NAACP Youth Council vice president, a first-place Varsity Urban League debater, wrestling team captain, and top analytic speaker for the 2008-09 University of Washington Upward Bound program.
Daniel’s commitment to having a positive impact is exemplified in the club he founded, the Stand for Change Committee, which promotes improvements at Franklin High School and around the Mount Baker community. As president of the club, Daniel leads other students to help clean litter, remove graffiti, and beautify the school and surrounding area by planting flowers and trees.
In addition to all of his school and community commitments, Daniel has worked since age 13 to help support his family. During the last year and a half he has been an assistant at Stoel Rives, a prominent Seattle legal firm. Daniel’s earnings make a difference for his collective family of nine, and as an aspiring lawyer, he is happy to be gaining experience in a law environment.
Daniel believes that he must take advantage of every opportunity he has. He credits this drive to his mother and his family. “My mother, who is my main motivation, hardly had any opportunities,” he says. “Everything that I do, I do for her, myself and the rest of my family.”  Avni Patel
Salem High School
Canton, Michigan
Avni dreams big. Her goal in life is to embrace those dreams and do what she can to reach them. “Everyone tells me...that my dreams are too big,” says Avni. “Whenever I am told this, it motivates me even more to prove them wrong. I want to succeed and make my dreams come true, so that I can be a role model to someone else and show them to dream big and they too will succeed.”
As a junior in high school, Avni has already achieved big things. Ranked first in her class, she takes the most rigorous course schedule available. In addition to her academic achievements, Avni is deeply involved in her school and community. President of her class for the past three years, she is a member of the Salem Student Congress, she is a Plymouth Canton Educational Park Key Club board member, winner of Discovery’s Citizenship Award, secretary of the Kiwanis Salem High School Key Club, a member of the debate team, a member of the In the Lines Art and Theatre Club, and a member of the National Honor Society.
Outside of school, Avni is committed to volunteering her time to her community. Since September of 2007, she has logged over 450 hours of community service by working at the Annapolis Hospital, tutoring elementary school students, helping at the Hindu Temple of Canton Health Fair, and volunteering with the Salvation Army.
Of all her school and community service achievements, Avni is proudest of founding and nurturing a club called Women of the World, which works to help girls and women develop their self-esteem, confidence, independence and strength. This cause is particularly meaningful for Avni because, as a young girl, she never had anyone to help her discover these qualities in herself. Now that she has done so on her own, she wants to help other women and girls find the strengths they have within themselves.
Avni has already achieved an incredible amount in her high school career and with all of her motivation and entrepreneurial drive, there is no doubt that Avni will reach her big dreams and be the role model she hopes to become!  Mitchell Sauve
Gladwin High School
Gladwin, Michigan
At the age of 12 Mitchell Sauve was adopted from a Russian orphanage, immersed in the United States culture, and faced with the challenge of learning English. In three months, Mitchell learned English and became a straight A student. With such a significant change in lifestyle, Mitchell is the epitome of what it means to take advantage of new opportunities.
Mitchell is ranked third in his class of 154 students and has a 3.9 GPA. Along with his quick advancement in the English Language, Mitchell excels in challenging math and science classes. He is involved in the National Honor Society, he volunteers at a variety of schools functions and has also been a member of the 4-H club for five years, acting as Treasurer and taking the lead on service projects.
When Mitchell isn’t at school, he is involving himself in his community. He has spent many hours as a Boy Scout and Eagle Scout, running canned food drives, helping with trail maintenance, and sharing his passion for soccer with youth. As a scout, he has taken on various leadership roles for his troop, acting as patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader and senior patrol leader. Mitchell also works hard to save money for college by working every summer. He has spent the last few summers he worked at an ice cream shop and weeded and planted at a community garden.
Mitchell’s motivation to learn English in 3 months is the same kind of motivation that has helped him achieve greatness in school and his community. “I am mostly self-motivated; if I feel something is very important and needs to be done, I do it,” Mitchell said.  Bradley Shane
Chaparral High School
Scottsdale, Arizona
When Bradley moved to the United States from Johannesburg, South Africa eight years ago, he knew he would have the opportunity to have a promising future. Now, at the age of 17, Bradley has accomplished more than he ever thought possible.
As a student, Bradley is always challenging himself to learn more and take advantage of any opportunity involving learning about a different culture. He has taken honors academic courses along with AP World History and AP United States History. Because of his passionate goal to speak the Spanish language he takes Spanish Honors courses and is currently a member of the Spanish Honor Society. He is also a proud member of the National Honor Society.
Getting involved is what school is all about for Bradley. His biggest school achievement has been acting as vice president for Interact, the largest community service club at Chaparral High School. He is most proud of the $2,000.00 Interact was able to fundraise last year for the March of Dimes. School clubs aren’t the only thing Bradley is involved with. He is an outstanding participant on the junior varsity cross country team and was given the Student Athlete Award for being able to balance both academics and athletics. Art is another passion Bradley pursues. He has won awards for his art during his earlier years in high school.
When Bradley isn’t focusing on school or running half marathons, he is giving back to his community. “By enriching the lives of others, I feel a sense of fulfillment and my life is equally enriched,” says Bradley. For two years, he has been a member of the March of Dimes Chain Reaction Youth Leadership Council, which focuses on improving the lives of babies. As the education committee chair, he helps educate the public at March of Dimes events. Bradley also works with the Scottsdale Mayors Council and the Teen Advisory Board. During the summers, he takes advantage of volunteering as a camp counselor for underprivileged children at Camp Swift.
Overall, Bradley works hard, has a passion for learning, and helps the less fortunate. Bradley has faced hardships in his life, but has overcome them with the comfort and motivation in his strong relationship with his mother and sister. Bradley states that his South African community is always in his thoughts, and that leader Nelson Mandela has especially motivated him to never lose sight of his goals, regardless of obstacles that may lie ahead. “In my journey through life I strive to live each day to the fullest, taking a positive path in the direction of my aspirations,” Bradley said.  Carter-Thaxton Smith
University High School
Tucson, Arizona
Carter is a driven and committed person who loves learning and discovery. Every activity he undertakes, whether a school course, astronomy research or his Eagle Scout project, he completes with the utmost care and precision.
Carter has several accomplishments of which he feels especially proud. Foremost is his Eagle Scout project. He earned the coveted rank at the early age of 12 by organizing an astronomy star party with a wide range of accommodations for children residing at the Arizona Schools for the Deaf and the Blind. Second, is his ability to have a positive impact on his community; as recognized by several honors including the Jack Horkheimer Service Award from the National Astronomical League. Third, he is proud of his research on light pollution, and related work in creating awareness of light pollution, as part of the International Year of Astronomy.
Outside of Boy Scouts and his astronomical studies, Carter dedicates himself to his school and community. He serves as a student representative on the school site council, participated in the Science Olympiad and finds other ways to contribute such as fundraising and serving as a teacher’s assistant. Carter also volunteers at his church and takes part in several committees for the Order of the Arrow, a service association of the Boy Scouts.
Such success could not always have been predicted for Carter. In middle school, he was warned by many people that, due to learning disabilities, he would need five years to complete high school. Now, as a junior, not only is he on track to graduate, but his grades are outstanding, he takes AP courses, and, as seen above, he spends an enormous amount of time studying outside of school and working to improve his community. This is a young man who knows where he wants to go and won’t let anything stop him from getting there!  Hannah Smythe
Anacortes Senior High School
Anacortes, Washington
“I’ve always been determined and independent, and my characteristic perseverance has motivated me to always try my hardest to succeed in everything I do,” said Hannah, and her record certainly proves this all to be true. Whether it is school, work, or extracurricular activities, Hannah quietly achieves excellence in everything she does
In school, Hannah strives to always succeed. She is ranked number one in her class, maintains an unweighted 4.0 GPA and has won a total of six school departmental awards in Spanish, Science, English and Social Studies. She scored a 2200 on her SAT and has achieved National Merit recognition for her PSAT scores.
Hannah is also very committed to serving her school. She devotes much of her school service time to Schools for Schools, an organization dedicated to helping kids in civil war-torn Uganda receive an education. Serving as president since sophomore year, she has conceived of, organized and executed many fundraisers. The most exceptional examples of fundraisers she has led include a four month long intra-city book drive that collected 15,541 books for students in Uganda and two highly successful New Year’s Eve benefit concerts. Beyond her work with Schools for Schools, Hannah is also president of the International Club, captain of the Sailing Team, president of Students Against Destructive Decisions, and an active member of National Honor Society, Link Crew, Spanish Travel Club and French Travel Club.
Outside of school, Hannah spends much of her time volunteering and working to save for college. Since September of 2007, Hannah has logged over 250 hours of community service by tutoring struggling middle school and high school students and volunteering for various organizations around her community. During the school year, Hannah works a few days a week after school at a hardware store, and during the summer she spends 11 hours a day, five days a week working at the hardware store and teaching sailing. Beyond work and volunteer commitments, Hannah finds time to participate on the varsity sailing team, which she has been on since freshman year.
Hannah’s fierce independence drives her to succeed. She makes it very clear that she doesn’t want to have to rely on someone else to support her. “More than anything, I want to be able to go to college and get a fantastic education so that I can support myself.”  Erika So
Pittsburg High School
Pittsburg, California
Erika takes each day as an opportunity to learn something new and does her best to reflect what she has learned on others. She makes the most out of every day, cramming in anything that involves helping her school and community. “I’ve learned that I can make a difference and I try to help out wherever there is need, so that I can brighten someone else’s day,” Erika says.
The Girl Scouts of America organization is where Erika has found herself and her passion to serve those in need. Her membership is at the Ambassador Level, as a result of volunteering over 1,500 hours of community service with the Girl Scouts since September 2007. One of her greatest Scouting experiences has been volunteering for three years in the Golden Gate Bridging, a program which welcomes Junior Girl Scouts to the Cadette level. In 2008, she also had the pleasure of traveling to Costa Rica to take part in three service projects: painting for a youth community center, constructing a recycling center and building a community garden with soil from the rain forest.
Erika applies herself with equal diligence when it comes to academics. Along with being fourth in her glass and achieving a high GPA, she takes extra courses at Los Medanos College so she can make the most out of her school day. Her top priorities also include student leadership: she has been class president for two years, and vice president for one. Music is another important area in her life. She has been active in the school’s jazz ensemble, and as drill instructor for the Pirates Marching Show Band, she is recognized throughout her community as a skilled performer. Key Club, Mu Alpha Theta and California Scholarship Federation are other clubs in which she is an active member. Erika was named Most Valuable Player on her school’s women’s varsity golf team.
Beyond school, Erika has accomplished some amazing achievements. Along with her Silver Award in Girl Scouts, Erika has been inducted into the Cookie Hall of Fame for selling over 1,200 boxes of cookies in three consecutive years. In 2008, Erika, holding the title of Miss Teen Pittsburg, won the Leadership Award at the 2008 Miss Teenage California pageant. Also, at the F.I.R.S.T. Robotics UC Davis Regional competition, Erika’s team received the Rookie Inspiration Award.
As in the Girl Scout promise, Erika vows to make the world a better place. Her family’s hard work to get by has made her thankful for all that she has gained, and for all the opportunities she has been given. “Each adventure presented to me has given me the tools to improve myself,” Erika says. Her outstanding spectrum of service and educational achievements proves that Erika takes nothing for granted.  Hanna Wilson
Mid-Prairie High School
Wellman, Iowa
“Being a leader inspires those around you to do the same; be leaders,” says Hanna. Hanna Wilson’s achievements mirror her impassioned words. It seems that almost every day she finds a way to better the lives of others. Whether with a smile or a project, Hanna believes that if teens do more, our world will advance in new and positive ways.
Hanna sees being a mentor as one of her greatest achievements. She has taken the lead as a mentor for girls in a 4-H program and volunteers at her local recreation center, planning activities for the youth. At Mid-Prairie High School, Hanna takes time away from her studies to be involved with the Student to Student Mentoring Program, mentoring a high school student with disabilities. Each and every day Hanna is inspired by the dedication and passion of those around her and continually works to help younger students become just as dedicated and passionate.
A recent National Honor Society inductee, Hanna believes academics should be every student’s top priority in high school. At her school, Hanna has been involved in various organizations, holding offices in the FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) and FFA (Future Farmers of America), excelling in the Choir and Theater Departments, and managing the girls’ basketball team.
While she spends a great deal of her time on school and mentoring, Hanna also involves herself in her community. She has spent over 100 hours assisting teachers at various elementary schools and learning about what she hopes will one day be her career; teaching. Hanna has also spent time with organizations at her school visiting local nursing homes, teaching children about farm safety, planning a teen pregnancy prevention dance, and many other community service projects.
Hanna cites her challenges in life as her main motivation to succeed and help others. When she was in eighth grade Hanna’s family faced difficulties after her father was in a serious car accident leading to a very long hospital stay. Hanna’s family has had to adapt to her father’s disabilities, which present many challenges, but she believes the experience brought them closer together. Further, Hanna has had to miss numerous school days due to a pineal gland lesion in her brain, diagnosed last year. While her life has not been easy, Hanna believes these struggles have made her the person she has always wanted to be; someone her peers can look up to. “I see my achievements through the inspiration that I instill in others,” Hanna says. “The best way to describe a person is to look at their passion and commitment. My passion lies with my leadership and my commitment lies within the peers that strive to become leaders themselves.”  Jenelle Yee
Edward C. Reed High School
Sparks, Nevada
Jenelle sees her high school career as an opportunity to get involved in the community “Caring for the community goes hand in hand with volunteering, which is very close to my heart,” says Jenelle.
So far, Jenelle’s high school experience has been most influenced by her service to the community. Of all her service activities, Jenelle cites her positions as Key Club district secretary and Key Club lieutenant governor as her most influential. During her term, Jenelle presided over a board of liaisons consisting of students from over 600 schools throughout California, Nevada and Hawaii, and led 13 district high schools in a fundraiser to support pediatric trauma programs.
Other organizations benefiting from Jenelle’s involvement have included the March of Dimes, March for Babies, Special Olympics and many more. She has accumulated over 200 service hours in such efforts since September 2007.
In school, Jenelle is an outstanding student who maintains a strong GPA, takes honors and AP courses and is heavily involved in school activities. Some of the organizations she participates in include Nevada Youth Legislative Issues Forum, varsity tennis, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), National Honor Society, Giving Circle; Youth Philanthropist, Diverse Student Union, Rock Climbing Club and the Newspaper Club.
Many of Jenelle’s outstanding achievements have been recognized by prestigious honors. She was chosen as a Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference Ambassador, took third place in parliamentary procedure at the FBLA state competition and received the Hope of America award from the Cal-Nev-Ha Foundation. She has also placed in regional competition as a doubles tennis player.
Jenelle names the opportunity to participate in Key Club as the reason for much of her personal growth. “Key Club has been my motivating factor in high school,” she says, “since it is the one organization that allows its member the opportunities to build character, develop leadership skills, be inclusive and perform service in the home, school and community.” back to top
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