LORITA BOGHOSPOR Henry T. Gunderson High School San Jose, California
Lorita is an enthusiastic achiever. She currently ranks first in her class while taking three AP courses, and she takes a leadership role in almost everything she is involved in.
At school, Lorita serves her school through leadership. She is the student body secretary for two years now, Key Club President and secretary of the California Scholarship Federation. In addition, to her academics and service, Lorita enjoys creative and athletic activities as well. She plays varsity tennis and has received the Celebration of Poets Award for her poems. Lorita is also involved with Link Crew where junior and seniors work together to welcome and mentor freshmen through their first year in high school. As mentors, they work with these students in answering any questions regarding school, counseling, and activities. Being on Mock Trial her junior year, she learned to take on a more competitive and mature role in her career as she trained to become a defense attorney for a mock case. Lorita was also the Students In Action leader for two years and attended important workshops in order to enhance her life and leadership skills.
Outside of school, Lorita has organized a myriad of fundraisers. She organized a fundraiser for Feed The Children, a UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund) program and she organized a fundraiser for the local Second Harvest Food Bank, where she has served as an intern. She also organized funding drives to benefit refugee children and the Kiwanis Pedia Traumatic Program, a program that works to develop local projects, which will reduce the number of children who are killed or injured by accidents. She also consistently works with the Kiwanis to deliver food to local soup kitchens. With all of her work, Lorita has logged over 250 hours of community service to date. Lorita is also part of the San Jose Leadership Academy at the San Jose Unified School District. Every month, this year, she attended different locations in San Jose that are struggling through the budget crisis. She was exposed to this environment so that she can work with her high school in order to improve her community.
Lorita lives with her mother. "Every day I am motivated and dedicated to making [my mother] proud of me. She was exposed to no educational opportunities... and was a victim of religious persecution. She is my motivation because I have witnessed the countless struggles she has overcome, Says Lorita. Lorita also lives with her aunt, grandmother, and grandfather. She takes care of her grandfather and grandmother most of the time when her aunt or mother is not home for her grandparents are illiterate. She spends the time organizing their pills, washing the dishes, and tidying the house as her aunt and mother arrive home for the night.
"I enjoy attending school because some of the most influential people in my life are always there to cheer me up and enhance my education: my teachers," says Lorita about Henry T. Gunderson High School.
CALEB BRADFORD Bob Jones High School Madison, Alabama
Caleb is a motivated young man, dedicated to all of his many endeavors. His academic distinctions include receiving the Rensselaer Medal, awarded to students who excel in science and mathematics. Ranked sixth in his class of 720, Caleb is a National Achievement Scholar and a Delta Sigma Theta Scholar.
Caleb participates in a wide range of school activities, including Future Business Leaders of America, Model United Nations, Minority Achievement Council and Mu Alpha Theta.
As a student leader, Caleb has served as an officer in student government, Young Republicans Club and math team. He also participates in the National Spanish Honor Society, Spanish Club and Culture Bowl, in which he earned a second place in national competition. Furthermore, he is a Boys State representative. As a student athlete, Caleb participates in the track, wrestling and football teams.
Working to help support himself and his father, Caleb manages his time so that he can also lead the Timberglen Teen Advisory Council. Co-founder of this program, he describes the main goal as to unify the youth population through engaging service activities, talent shows, social mixers and mentoring assistance. Caleb is an active member of his community, logging over 400 hours of service. He is vice president of the Huntsville Hospital Leadership Council, delegating tasks to committees and club members, and serving as a liaison to the board of directors.
Calebs social and involved attitude did not always come easily to him, but with hard work he was able to develop into the leader he is today. "I was shy, taciturn, and somewhat of a recluse. I often found myself impeded by my own apprehensions. Then a metamorphosis occurred in seventh grade, and I attribute most of the success to my language arts teacher," says Caleb.
PAUL B. BROWN Waurika High School Waurika, Oklahoma
I have been reared knowing the value of hard work, says Paul. Expecting to become the first member of his family to graduate from college, he ranks first in his class and has already logged over 350 hours of service to the Waurika community.
Paul is involved through the Oklahoma Future Farmers of America in city-wide food drives, community beautification efforts and other civic activities aimed at increasing citizen involvement in community affairs. His leadership in the FFA has also included terms as sentinel and secretary.
Paul is president-elect of the student council, a member of the National Honor Society and a participant in both athletic and academic organizations. As a Waurika High track team member, he has made the All Conference track team and has qualified twice for the state cross country team. As an academic scholar, he won first place in an interscholastic algebra competition, has won numerous public speaking awards, and has been named top math and English student at his school.
In addition to his school and community commitments, Paul started a lawn mowing business and is determined to pay for as much of his personal and college needs as possible so that his parents wont need to. "Seeing that my father is just over a decade away from retirement, I am strongly motivated by the desire to give back to the two people that have encouraged me throughout high school."
DAVID J. BROWNE Flathead High School Kalispell, Montana
David is a prominent leader in his school and community. He is the junior class president, he attended the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards and subsequently help to launch a Rotary Interact Club, and has received both Gold and Silver Presidential Volunteer Service Awards.
Davids commitment to his community has been expressed in over 450 hours of service since entering high school. He co-chairs the International Understanding Committee for Interact, is a crew member for the Montana Conservation Corpss Youth Engaged in Service (YES) program and volunteers as an attorney in the local peer court program.
David also sets a fine example of commitment to his studies and continuously seeks to challenge himself academically. He maintains a 3.94 GPA while taking a demanding schedule of International Baccalaureate classes. He also seeks out-of-school learning opportunities. Working on an independent study curriculum in computer science enabled him to attend a research fellowship program at Montana State University last summer. This summer he will journey to MIT for a program called MITES, for Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science.
Service and achievement are often characteristic of those who have lived through difficult situations. When David was in the second grade, his father developed brain cancer and struggled bravely for a year before passing away. However, as Davids academic and service record shows, adversity has stimulated him to help others and to help himself. Says David, "I am motivated to enjoy life, be happy, make myself better, help others, never stop learning, become kinder, satisfy my curiosity and love and accept others and myself...I think all of these things are to a large degree integral and inseparable."
LILIANA G. BUSANEZ Chula Vista High School Chula Vista, California
Liliana is a strong student with a big heart. She ranks 20th in a class of over 600 students, plays on the volleyball team, and is president of the school robotics club. In this role she has worked energetically to raise funds so that club members can participate in the regional robotics competition in Las Vegas during the next school year. Her efforts have included a public relations initiative to gain media attention, a letter campaign to local businesses to solicit sponsorships, and bake sales at school functions.
Liliana is treasurer of her school's Earth Service Corps (ESC), through which she has organized and participated in community cleanups and a fundraiser for Haiti earthquake relief. She is currently coordinating a fundraiser for child malaria victims in Africa. "A child dies every three minutes because of the lack of attention and lack of money, says Liliana, and my group and I can help buy mosquito nets which will be donated to African children and their families."
Every Sunday, Liliana takes time out of her busy schedule to work with Save The Orphaned Pets, or STOP. She cleans cages and tends the animals to show them that someone cares. She has completed well over 150 hours of community service with STOP and ESC.
"I will be the first in my family to go on to college, she says. I know that anything in life is possible and I live by this concept. I want to bring people of my culture up from the shadows and stand as an example for them."
JASON CORDER Knightdale High School Knightdale, North Carolina
Jason is an actor, philanthropist and determined student. A deep love of the arts is a driving factor in many of his pursuits. He and a partner placed first in a duo acting competition at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. He has been cast in a major role in the last ten stage productions at his school. Jasons dynamic acting abilities have earned him roles ranging from Jeremy Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird to The Dentist in Little Shop of Horrors. He has directed marketing and publicity for several productions, serves as vice president of the Knightdale Repertory Theatre and is treasurer of his schools chapter of the International Thespian Society.
At school Jason is a member of the National Honor Society, French Club and Gay-Straight Alliance. Jason was selected to be Knightdale High Schools Spotlight Student, an award recognizing one student who shows the most promise and has overcome the most adversity. His creative instincts led Jason to co-found his high schools first literary magazine, for which he is currently the literary editor. Jason is a member of the Omega Psi Phi African-American History Awareness Endowment. His history team won the Wake County championship and went on to take first place at the state level.
While working to help support himself and his mother, Jason finds time to give back to his community. He has dedicated more than 900 hours to local arts and service organizations. Jason volunteers with Special Theatre Arts of Raleigh, a program which allows adults with developmental disabilities to pursue their love of theatre. He assists in the proceedings and facilities maintenance of Alcoholics Anonymous. Jason also works with Habitat for Humanity in its building projects.
LINDSAY M. DEMARCHI Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan Old Tappan, New Jersey
Lindsay is a very active member of her community, school, and home. Among her wide range of activities, Lindsay's dedication to martial arts has been a constant. Holder of a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, she volunteers as an instructor and teaches classes to children with developmental disabilities.
Last year Lindsay co-founded a non-profit organization called Generosity Grows. She and a friend dismantled an above-ground pool and transformed the area into a large garden. Lindsay devotedly tends to the garden through weeding, planting seeds and watering, as well as harvesting the produce, all of which is donated to the local food pantry.
Lindsay's dynamic achievements in writing have brought her recognition. She takes part in essay contests and was selected to participate in the National Council of Teachers of English Achievement Awards in Writing. Essayists and poets such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Sylvia Plath, and Henry David Thoreau inspire me to write my own poetry[the poems] I have chosen to share have been my passport to an entire community of fellow writers and thinkers in my school, Lindsay said. It is a community in which Lindsay is a dedicated contributing member.
In school Lindsay serves as an officer of Ski Club and is a member of National Honor Society. Lindsay has also participated in Science League since her freshman year. At home, she takes pride in being a compassionate, supportive role model for her brothers.
Lindsay's unwavering ardor for learning and service is evident in her academic successes and commitment to her community. "For as long as I can remember, Ive had an insatiable desire to learn. Curious and intelligent, I love to think and imagine," Lindsay says.
ABRAHAM CRUZ GUADARRAMA Royal High School Royal City, Washington
Abraham ranks high in his class and has become a school and community leader. He was nominated to attend the National Young Leadership Conference in Washington, DC; he is a letterman in track, wrestling and football, and leads the saxophone section in band. He is involved with the Future Business Leaders of America and also the Upward Bound Program. For a science project he created a computer model of the H1N1 virus. Remarkably, with little background in robotics or programming, Abraham developed the skills to co-design a robot that won a regional competition.
His computer skills have become well known in the small community of Royal City. He teaches weekly keyboarding and computer classes for adults, and is the designated Microsoft Excel instructor for his high school class.
Abraham also makes time to volunteer in a variety of other areas. He tutors in an ESL program, helps organize clean-up projects in local parks, helped secure $500 in donations toward his churchs winter utility bills, and was a leader in organizing a fundraising dance to benefit Haitians.
Abraham lives with his parents and four siblings. "I come from a family who works during summer harvest season and saves for the winter," says Abraham. Neither of his parents had the opportunity to finish high school. When his uncle was terminally ill, Abraham promised him that he would do his best in all areas of his life and make him proud.
Royal City is a small farming community, but problems associated with widespread poverty make it less than placid. "Looking around," writes Abraham, "you can see graffiti of gang members, and hear gun shots, and be filled with fear for the kids in the community." Abraham Guadarrama is one young person who wants to change that unfortunate reality, and is working hard to do so.
STACEY MARIE HALVORSEN Mt. Edgecumbe High School Sitka, Alaska
Stacey is a remarkable individual who has accomplished much despite unfavorable odds, while maintaining a positive and optimistic outlook.
Stacey is an active member of her schools student government, serving as a student orientation leader and also working with the Sitka Youth Leadership Committee. She was student body historian in her sophomore year and was recently elected vice president. Stacey has also been a member of her high schools wrestling team.
Since 2009, Stacey has worked as a student leader in Wyld Life, a nondenominational youth group for middle school students. This position allows her to form strong relationships with younger students, acting as a mentor and role model. Stacy welcomes the opportunity to work with those who struggle with personal problems, allowing her to make a difference in their lives.
Stacey's achievements become far more powerful when one learns that her parents, both unemployed, are unable to support her and so Stacey must work to provide for her own needs. Taking the initiative to be responsible for her future, Stacey has enrolled in various programs and worked to improve her situation in life. "I believe my biggest achievement is accepting that Im not able to change my parents. I have recognized I needed to make a change in order to be successful. I took control of my own life."
AMANDA MARIE HARRIS Snow Canyon High School Santa Clara, Utah
Amanda has compiled a dazzling record of service and personal-achievement. Most impressive is Amandas commitment to her community, resulting in nearly 600 hours of community service since entering high school. Among the numerous programs for which she has served as chair or co-chair are the GATES (Gifted and Talented Education Students) project to support a local childrens hospital; a program benefiting an orphanage in Honduras; and a school-service learning project.
At school, Amanda gives extra time to tutor her peers in a variety of subjects and, thanks to her knowledge in the health field, travels to local elementary schools to give presentations on important health issues. In the past Amanda also edited a school newspaper, played clarinet in the band for several years, sang in the school choir, and participated in the high school play.
Outside of school, Amanda has pursued many areas. She plays the piano, has excelled at clog dancing, participating at the state fair as well as a member of a first-place team in competition, and shown sheep with 4-H at the county fair. Amanda has also served in many leadership capacities at church.
What makes Amandas achievements especially noteworthy is that, for a variety of reasons, she was not able to attend school until the third grade and found it difficult to catch up with her peers. However, Amanda has more than met the challenge. She now takes AP courses, has a very respectable 3.77 GPA and has been on the honor roll for several years.
Amandas passion for life and her community shines through in her words. "Life is not worth living unless you can lose yourself in the benefaction of communities, people and eventually the world," she says. "I want to make this world a better place."
SOPHIE L. HOLTZMAN Yankton High School Yankton, South Dakota
With an upbeat attitude and admirable level of achievement, Sophie embodies the spirit and drive of a true Hamilton Scholar.
Sophie is an active member of her high school, and has served as treasurer of her class for three years. In this position she has met weekly with the school principal regarding the organization of school-wide events impacting over 1000 students. Sophie has been lead organizer for various events through Student Council. She currently chairs the School Spirit Community, was the State Student Council representative as a freshman and sophomore, and worked to organize banquets supporting the Boys and Girls Club, Children's Miracle Network and other local causes.
Sophie has a strong commitment to community outreach and service. She works as a peer tutor for one class period each day, working with 10th and 11th grade students who are struggling to complete their school work. She volunteers with United Way and Volunteer Services, as well as at Avera Yankton Senior Care Center. Sophie teaches a first-grade Sunday School class each week and helps her church in other ways as well.
Sophie is ranked 13 out of 247 students with a 3.97 GPA. She takes two AP courses and manages to balance top grades with wide-ranging list of extracurricular activities. Sophie has a long and impressive record of awards and achievements. She is a National Youth Leader nominee, a Congressional Student nominee, a National Forensics League member, a Yankton A+ Student Honor Roll of Excellence recipient, current vice president of her schools Teenage American Republicans Club, a National Debate qualifier, a 2nd-place state winner for Lecture and Debate, drum major for the marching band, and a recipient of the Quad-State award as best drum major,
Sophie has an ambitious and eager attitude. "I have learned to pack as much life into each day as I can. I am very optimistic about my future opportunities. I know that I can have a successful life with hard work."
JANE ESTHER HUANG Temple City High School Temple City, California
Jane has a long and impressive list of leadership positions and achievements. An element that sets her apart from most young leaders is her journey to discover leadership within herself. "I used to have rather low self esteem," she says. "I would have scoffed at the idea of taking on a position of leadership. But then, I realized that this was not the right mindset. I realized that I could not achieve any sort of success in life if I condemned myself to failure before even starting. I decided to change my life."
Janes newfound ambition soon led her to become one of the top young leaders in her community. Joining her schools chapter of Future Business Leaders of America, she became its community service director in her sophomore year, spearheading the organization of all service-related activities. A benefit concert she organized raised over $1800 to aid worldwide access to clean drinking water. This year, as FBLA president, Jane helped expand the scope of the now-annual concert: her group contacted YouTube stars, negotiated performance fees and advertised the event, raising over $4000 for the March of Dimes.
Jane has taken on leadership roles in an array of other school groups. As a freshman she was a member of the research and development committee for the Building Leaders Today conference. She served as president of the schools American Cancer Society chapter and is lieutenant governor of the Division 10 North Key Club. Jane is also involved with a peer counseling program, Christian Club, Environmental Club, National Honor Society and the California Scholarship Federation. Jane is also an accomplished musician who plays cello, guitar, piano and ukulele, and takes part in the Honors Orchestra.
Despite her remarkable commitment to extracurricular participation, Jane maintains a 4.0 GPA and ranks in the top ten in her 481-member class, taking a rigorous course load with three AP courses.
Jane has a long list of community service commitments, some of which stem from her school involvements. She has chaired the program committee for the schools Building Outstanding Leaders program, hosting seminars for at-risk youth in business and leadership education. She also volunteered as an intern for the Academy of Business Leadership, a non-profit dedicated to inspiring and educating underprivileged students in business, financial literacy, social entrepreneurship and leadership skills. She volunteers at her church as a Sunday School instructor, gives time at the Midnight Mission Food Bank, and works with Lake Avenue Church distributing hot meals to the homeless.
Jane has a refreshing drive to serve her world and community. "I was born and [partially] raised in the Philippines. Growing up in the poverty-stricken capital of Manila, I have been exposed to the hardships and miseries that poverty brings. This experience has made a strong impression on me and has been a huge factor in motivating my desire to serve."
JESSICA JOHNSON Richland Northeast High School Columbia, South Carolina
Jessica is a dedicated, passionate, driven student. As a participant in Model United Nations, Jessica has earned the Outstanding Delegate Award at every conference she has ever attended. Along with her class, she won an award for a Hope for Haitis Children Project Board allowing it to be turned into a service project. She led her class in the process of implementing the service project at her high school and local elementary schools to extend assistance to the UNICEF Registry in Haiti. She is also a member of Interact and aids in the organizing process for her schools powderpuff game, which is a fundraiser for a local charity.
Selected to chair South Carolina's Interact convention, Jessica taught 250 students from all over the state ways to get involved in community service and the importance of it. She also participates in her schools theater production each semester, is in National Honor Society, and is active in Teens Against Drinking and Driving. This program gives me the opportunity to mentor students with alcohol addictions or students dealing with parents suffering from alcohol addictions, says Jessica. Moreover, she has been selected to chair a Dance Marathon to help raise money for Camp Kemo through the help of Palmetto Children's Hospital.
Jessicas commitment to service is remarkable. She served as the Junior Chair and will serve as the Senior Chair for Helping Other People Everywhere (HOPE) 365, a service program which raised $25,000 for Camp Kemo to send children with cancer to summer camp. As a part of HOPE 365, Jessica, along with fellow students, dedicated hours to collecting more than 20,000 canned food items for the local food pantry. HOPE 365 also includes adopting families for Families helping Families. Additionally, she helped another student in the early process of establishing the non-profit organization called Building First Base, which recruits students to make sandwiches for the homeless of Columbia. Jessica has also logged more than 200 hours volunteering at local food pantries, nursing homes, children's hospital and churches in her high school career.
She is an avid sports fan and plans to begin a career in sports broadcasting. She would love to be a sideline reporter for ESPN. She is getting an early start at her high school where she serves as the school sports reporter on the broadcast staff. She also serves as the spotter for the home football games, and the announcer for the baseball games. Jessica is also proud to be in the top 10 students in her high school class because she says academics are just as important to me as having fun.
"I am a unique person and I have always had big dreams about what I wanted to be when I graduate from college," says Jessica.
JANE KARPIS Staten Island Technical High School Staten Island, NY
Jane is an extremely talented young person with interests ranging from ballet to the law, and a knack for pursuing her passions in ways that serve her community.
Jane is the founding member and president of the Respect for Law Club at her high school. This group allows students an opportunity to discuss and gain a greater understanding of the United States Constitution, gives students a place to debate political issues, and allows them to learn how legislation affects their lives. Jane plays an important role in organizing group trips to New York City court rooms so members can observe the legal process at first hand. The club also works in the community. Most notable, they raised funds for the Human Right First Foundation.
Jane also serves as vice president of her schools Russian Folklore Dance Club, through which she not only performs but also organizes the groups involvement in the annual Multicultural Festival. Nearly 100 people attend this event each year. She also writes for the school newspaper and has been a Student Organization delegate since her freshman year.
A talented writer, Jane has received much recognition for her essays, including a first place prize in the Respect for Law Alliance essay contest on the topic, How can we respect the law? She has received various awards for her diverse array of interests, including the Staten Island Ballet Fireman's Scholarship for her excellence in dance; a semi-finalist recognition from the National Center for Women and Information Technologies competition for her work in computer science; first place title for The Youth for Understanding Japan- U.S. Mutual Understanding Scholarship, and a gold medal in the Tri-State Area Math Challenge Competition.
Jane has an impressive commitment to serving her community. She organizes monthly events as a teen coordinator at the Staten Island Family Torah Center where she organizes monthly events. She also participates in the Volunteers for Peace organization, through which she served in an international work camp in France to restore local historical sites and a natural water source. Jane has logged over 1000 hours of community service since entering high school.
Despite her extensive involvement, Jane maintains a high level of academic excellence with a 3.94 GPA. She currently is taking three AP courses including United States History, Russian Language and English Language.
Jane hopes for a career as a civil liberties lawyer. "As a child, my family told me about the cruelties they faced in Russia [because of their religious beliefs]. I value the freedoms many take for granted. This fueled my desire to become a civil liberties lawyer, so I can help protect the rights of women, minorities and the LGBT community."
RYAN C. MANDADO Farrington High School Honolulu, Hawaii
Ryan is a top-ranking student at Farrington High School and is also enrolled in the Running Start program at a local college. He was class president in both his freshman and sophomore years and is currently the student body treasurer. In addition, Ryan is a member of the School Community Council and the Honolulu District Student Council, which draws its membership from all high schools in the Honolulu district.
Ryan, a member of the National Honor Society, is involved in a school program called Gear Up, which is dedicated to helping students learn more about college and financial aid. Ryan placed first in a sports medicine competition sponsored by Health Occupations Students of America. Active in the Pacific and Asian Affairs Council, he was awarded its 2010 Frank Boas Study Abroad scholarship to travel to China.
Even considering his achievement elsewhere, it is in the area of community service that Ryan has his passion. As a member of the school student government, he organized an effort to raise money for earthquake relief in Haiti through a program called "penny wars. Cleverly, Ryan and others created a game, pitting class against class to see which group could raise the most money. Outside of school he is involved in a community outreach group called the Kalihi Community Youth Leaders, which helps teens avoid crystal meth, tobacco and other drugs.
Ryan does not always feel safe in his community due to "gang violence, drugs and domestic violence. Ryan's parents emigrated from the Philippines and he lives with his parents and seven siblings. Says Ryan: "My dream is to become a politician. Living in a community where people face a lot of problems, I want to become a politician so I can come back and help the community that I live in become a better place where teenagers don't need to feel scared while walking the streets."
JENNIFER NGO San Gorgonio High School San Bernardino, California
Jennifer, ranked second in her class of over 750, wants to go into medicine in hopes of curing and inhibiting cancer. It is a goal determined by my love and fascination of oncology; and developed by my hatred of witnessing the suffering of many victims of cancer, she says.
Jennifer takes a rigorous course of AP and honors classes, and reaches out for additional education over the summers. These endeavors have included EDGE Academy, a health course at a local college, plus participation in the California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science, held at the University of California at Irvine. Further inspired by biomedical research in oncology, this summer she will be interning with the Loma Linda University in the Apprenticeship Bridge to College summer research program.
Beyond academics, she is also involved in numerous clubs and extracurricular activities, and is an accomplished artist recognized through her paintings by New Art Originals. She is an officer and president-elect of the Art Club, treasurer of the Calculus Club, and leader of the Academic Decathlon team. Additionally she is an active member of Key Club International, National Honor Society, Scrubs (an organization for high school students interested in health care), and International Flavors. She also participates in Track and Cross-Country; and plays the violin with her schools orchestra.
Accumulating nearly 200 hours of community service, Jennifer has volunteered with such organizations as: Young Mens Christian Association, the Loma Linda Medical Center, the American Cancer Society-Relay for Life, and the City of Readers. Committed to serving the community, she has also shared her artistic talents to help design clothing for Key Club, Academic Decathlon, school newspaper, and school posters. Recently, one of her paintings was showcased at a district art show.
Her independence and optimism drives her determination to success. "[I have a] short stature; however, living in a big world what I lack in size, I make up for in my expansive ambitions and aspirations." Jennifer's life goal is to make her parents proud, and "to become a benefactor to society."
STEVEN T. NGUYEN West Seattle High School Seattle, Washington
Steven is a committed student who is dedicated to celebrating his cultural heritage and serving others.
At school, Steven is a top student in his class and maintains a 3.9 GPA while also taking challenging AP courses. He is the junior class vice president, a member of the National Honor Society and will be next year's president of the West Seattle High's Multi-Cultural Club. The Multi-Cultural Club is involved in mentoring activities at Madison Middle School, a club he began when he was a student there, teaching students how to lion dance and celebrate their cultures. Steven makes a big difference by "...teaching and helping our middle school friends whenever they need help."
Outside of school, Steven is involved in Vietnamese Boy Scouts where he helps with food drives and forest restoration projects. At a recent International Vietnamese Scouting Jamboree in California, Steven was elected group leader -- an achievement he is particularly proud of. He also helps local farmers sell their organic products at the farmers market during the summer. Whether it being collecting cans of food for the local food bank or planning hiking trips for the troop, Steven strives to be a good samaritan. Through Vietnamese Boy Scouts Steven is able to enjoy quality time with friends and give back to the Pacific Northwest forests and parks.
In addition to his demanding school and extracurricular schedule, Steven also works save for college and help his family financially. He works as a lifeguard and swim instructor, teaching elementary students how to swim. He enjoys this work because he knows that teaching kids how to swim could one day save their lives. Steven enjoys working with kids because he believes in their potential and enjoys seeing them overcome obstacles and succeed.
Steven is proud of his family and background and inspired by his parents' who he says, created an inspirational foundation for me out of nothing. When Steven is not with his friends, he is always with his family. When a problem occurs in his family or something needs to get done Steven endeavors to take care of it to "fulfill his role as the head of the family now that my parents are getting old.
Steven is a hardworking upbeat student who will never give up on his dreams. "I try to treat others with full respect because I believe in karma, and good things will come back eventually."
Khalid, a young man of broad interests and great energy, has been recognized in many areas of endeavor. He received 2nd place in the AAU National Taekwondo Championship, 2nd place in the VFW Patriots Pen Essay Competition for the State of Ohio, 5th place in the VFW Voice of Democracy Speech Competition for the State of Ohio, and was the City of Oxfords 2007 Mayor for a Day.
In his high school, Khalid has achieved an outstanding level of leadership. He has been captain of the Academic Challenge, president of the French Club, Model United Nations competitive speaker, varsity Mock Trial closing attorney, president of the Key Club, president of the Go Green Club, and president of the Political Voices Club. He has also been an active participant and position holder in student ASB throughout high school and served as sophomore class president. Khalid participates in Drama Club, the school newspaper, Speech and Debate and various other activities.
Khalid also has a strong commitment to community service, working with his Key Club to participate in various community events, volunteering at the local library and contributing time at a crisis center. He has also worked with his high schools ESL class, and volunteers with a local daycare at a family resource center.
With the help of his sister, Khalid founded a non-profit project called Gifted Shoes, later expanding the effort to include an allied cause, Coats for Kids. The groups collect gently-used shoes and coats throughout the year for distribution through local schools during the winter months.
Khalid manages all this involvement with school and community while working at two part-time jobs. Despite this heavy workload, he maintains a high level of academic excellence with a 3.847 weighted GPA while taking seven honors courses.
Khalid possesses a keen sense of purpose that has propelled him to his wide range of achievements. "I am motivated to success so I can help my family and help others, he says. My mother always believed in me and encouraged me to try harder. The best way to honor her sacrifices is to work hard and live up to my greatest potential."
Hana has taken on numerous leadership roles at her high school. As president of the National Honor Society she works to develop meaningful projects and events that can be supported by an extremely low budget. To solve this funding problem, Hana rallied her fellow officers to brainstorm alternative fundraising methods. Ideas which evolved included a movie night, a riddle contest and other events around the school.
Hana was selected to serve as student ambassador at a local community college, where she takes courses not available at her high school. In her role as ambassador, Hana works to smooth the transition to college for over 500 students each quarter, including many ESL students. She organizes events, acts as a Korean translator, and assists in career counseling for students at the college. She has been inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa national honor society for community colleges.
Though deeply involved with the college, Hana remains active at her high school. She serves as president of the National Honor Society and of the Knowledge Bowl team, is a project leader in Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA), is a peer mentor in the Clover Park Mentor Program, and serves as co-captain of the varsity golf team.
Hana has given over 530 hours to community service since entering high school. She tutors at a local elementary school, was a project coordinator for Math Science Leadership (MSL), is the main organizer for community service events for the National Honor Society, acts as a mentor and translator for the Washington-Tacoma Korean American Association and acts as a Clover Park High School Peer Mentor.
Hana is able to serve her community while maintaining a high level of academic excellence. She is ranked in the top 2% of her class with a 4.54 weighted GPA, while taking several courses at the community college. She hopes one day to attend a top university and plans to study bioengineering. This summer, Hana will attend MITES, a six-week engineering summer program at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Hana would like to work as a biomedical researcher and ultimately a university professor. "I am dedicated, optimistic and an astute learner, says Hana. I challenge myself every day with my rigorous course load, and I always enjoy helping my peers and fellow citizens. I live every day with my goal in mind, working one step at a time to achieve my dreams."
JENNIFER M. SOLIMAN Alexander Hamilton High School Los Angeles, CA
Jennifer is a tenacious and driven young woman with a passion for service and a variety of talents. She earned second place in the 2009 individual Youth Spiritual Competition, she can run a 6:38 mile, she was honored as Best Prosecution Witness and she serve on her high schools honor guard for academic excellence.
At her high school, Jennifer serves as treasurer of the Red Cross Club, captain of the Mock Trial team and treasurer of the Best Buddies Organization. Jennifer is also a member of Peer Leadership, Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA), Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the Heal the Bay Club.
With over 500 hours of community service, Jennifer has a significant commitment to volunteering. She works as a camp counselor for students in grades 4-6, volunteers with Loma Linda Childrens Hospital, teaches Sunday School, worked as a teen supervisor at a childrens day camp, coordinated a park clean-up event, and captained a team participating in the Youth Spiritual Competition.
Jennifer is a born organizer. Recently, Jennifer was involved with planning, promoting and coordinating a program called Rotary Life for incoming freshmen. She also organized an annual youth camp through her church. To support the camp, she has helped to stage fundraising events such as car washes and cell phone drives.
With this high level of service, Jennifer still maintains academic excellence. She has a 4.1 weighted GPA and is ranked third out of 673 students. She is currently taking four AP courses. "Motivation comes in many forms for me: financial stability, self-satisfaction, and my family. I do my best in everything I do. I want nothing more than to be happy, and solely this has become my goal in life."
PABLO STORCH Dr. Michael M. Krop Senior High School Miami, Florida
Pablo is a focused, remarkable member of society. His prowess as an academic is truly noteworthy. My thirst for knowledge propelled me to excel in school, where I really enjoy the intellectual stimulation fostered by many of my teachers, says Pablo. He maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA while enrolled in five AP classes.
Outside of the classroom, Pablo dedicates his time to helping children in his community succeed. He initiated a program called Speak Up, in which he teaches inner city elementary school children the power of speech and debate. Since its creation, Speak Up has developed into a network of tutors focused on improving communication skills. Pablo also volunteers with The Miami Children's Trust, an organization meant to improve the lives of children and families in Miami-Dade County by making strategic investments in their futures; and DoSometyhing.org, a national organization that promotes social entrepreneurship among the youth. At both organizations he serves as an advisor. In addition, he works as an online mentor through the Tufts University Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Developments Zora Program.
Pablo has been active in the Student Government Association since his freshman year, serving as senator, vice president and now incoming president. He is business editor for the school newspaper and an executive board member of the debate team.
"What has influenced me the most was becoming conscious that any small effort can grow, multiply and change peoples lives, and that countless accomplishments of humankind started with the concern or curiosity of a regular person like me," says Pablo. Pablo's small efforts have had a significant impact on his community. back to top
KELSEY TRIPP William Byrd High School Vinton, Virginia
Kelsey is an academic leader of her class of 291. Her success extends into various areas of study. Her 2009 science project won a first-place award at the Western Virginia Regional Science Fair, and was also recognized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Kelsey's poetry has also won an array of awards, including first place in a statewide contest sponsored by the Poetry Society of Virginia. Two of Kelsey's poems have been published in a national poetry quarterly.
Kelsey's commitment to her community has led her to give hundreds of hours with various organizations. Kelsey is the Volunteer Officer of the Youth Leadership Committee for the Foundation of Roanoke Valley. She volunteers at the Blue Ridge Autism and Achievement Center and the Science Museum of Western Virginia. Kelsey is also a reader for the Voice of Blue Ridge, recording newspaper articles for those who are not able to read the print version. She has received the Presidents Volunteer Service Award and the Roanoke Valley Community Volunteer Recognition Award.
In school Kelsey was selected as a Natural Helper. She is active in Beta Club, Leo Club and the Youth Alcohol/Drug and Prevention Project. Kelsey has also participated in Service Learning and Leadership, through which she has assisted with Special Olympics, Red Cross blood drives and the Cancer Society Relay for Life.
Recently, Kelsey has been chosen to attend the 2010 Summer Residential Governor's School at Virginia Tech.
Kelsey dances for a competitive dance team, and has won gold awards for solo, trio and group performance at several major regional competitions.
"We are blessed to live in a free nation that allows us to pursue any interests that we may have. I intend to do my absolute best and to make a positive difference in this world," states Kelsey.
STEPHANIE MARIE VERDI High Point Central High School High Point, NC
Stephanie is a hard worker with incredible drive. A dedicated member of her Girl Scout troop, Stephanie has received the Girl Scout Leadership Award and has embarked on her project for the Gold Award, the highest achievement possible for Girl Scouts ages 14-18.
A tenacious worker, Stephanie successfully raised funds to cover her travel to Paris and Switzerland with her troop. Having to work so hard for the trip made it that much more special to me, says Stephanie. The experience enabled me to learn about other cultures and at the same time learn about myself as a person.
Stephanie is a member of her schools Renaissance Club for honor roll students. She has also been involved in the Drama Club, performing skits for incoming freshman at orientation.
Stephanie is committed to seeing change in her community. She arranged a benefit dinner which raised over $6000 for a local pre-school girl with leukemia. She has also organized various sports camps through her local Boys and Girls Club for underprivileged children, and has worked with Kids Voting USA to expose children to the voting process. Stephanie also spends time working with Theatre Art Gallery, instructing children in the creation of art projects. She led a group of community members in a city wide Clean Sweep. Stephanie also serves as her youth groups chairperson and is the lead altar server at her church. To date, she has completed over 175 hours of community service.
Stephanie is an active member of her schools athletic program, participating in the varsity cross-country, soccer and swim teams. Co-captain of the cross-country team, she received the Varsity Cross-Country Coaches Award in both 2008 and 2009.
Academically, Stephanie maintains a high level of achievement with a 4.72 weighted GPA while taking a full load of AP courses. She has received her high schools Academic Achievement Award in both 2008 and 2009, and achieved acceptance into the International Baccalaureate program.
OCTAVIO VIRAMONTES Delano High School Delano, California
Octavio is creative and proactive in serving his high school. He organized and led the revival of the schools Math Club, implementing a peer tutoring program in which students struggling in math can get help before and after school. President of the club, Octavio tutors students every Monday and Wednesday. I recognized the need to provide an opportunity for students to succeed and overcome obstacles that they have in their life, says Octavio.
Octavio has a long and impressive list of achievements: He is the recipient of the 2008 Northwest Young Leaders Conference Oral Presentation Award from the National Hispanic Institute, he is an alumni of the Chicano Youth Leadership Project, he is a Scicion Leadership Training delegate, he has been student of the month six times, he took first place at the California State University of Bakersfield 2009 Individual Medley competition, he took first place in the MESA (Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement) solo math competition, his team took second place in the 2009 MESA Day High School Regional Team Math Quest Competition, and they took first place in the 2008 MESA Day High School Regional Team Math Quest Competition.
At his high school, Octavio is president of the Math Club, vice president of MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science and Achievement), a senator in student government, secretary of the National Honor Society, president of the Chess Club, and treasurer of the California Scholarship Federation. In addition, Octavio has worked part time at a law office where he updates and organizes files. In the summer, Octavio also works as a street vendor selling cantaloupes, corn and watermelons. Octavio maintains 4.0 GPA and is ranked first among 493 classmates. He is currently enrolled in three AP courses.
Octavio has made incredible efforts to give back to his community. He volunteers at the annual Delano Thanksgiving Dinner, has been a seasonal caroler at the Delano Regional Medical Center, assisted with a yard clean-up project, helped remove graffiti from the local post office, attended a Relay for Life event, was an organizer and head volunteer for a Math Olympiad Competition, works each week as a math tutor, serves as a Spanish interpreter at his high schools parent orientations, and worked as assistant manager for a city council candidates successful campaign.
Octavio is committed to his family and community. "As an immigrant from Mexico, I come from an impoverished family who came to the US to find a better future. I consider my perseverance and my determination in school as one of my biggest accomplishments. All my life's experiences helped me to define myself as an agent of change."
KATHLEEN E. WISEHEART Jones College Preparatory School Chicago, IL
Kathleen is a young woman dedicated to achievement, particularly in the area of engineering and sciences.
She, along with two other students, transformed the Young Engineers Society (YES) at their high school. Through this program, she works alongside fellow high school students to teach grade school children about the field of engineering. Revitalizing the membership and changing the programming, Kathleen helped redevelop and entire curriculum for the program. One of the programs included a session on building and using robots, which required the organization of a successful school wide fundraiser.
Kathleen also participates in her high schools Rube Goldberg team, a group that focuses on building machines for competitions. Kathleen's team took first place in a regional competition, earning them a trip to nationals at Purdue University.
Outside of school, Kathleen is an active volunteer with her church. She works each summer as a camp counselor at a Bible school. Kathleen also participated on a mission trip to Tennessee. On the trip she worked with a group of teens rebuilding and repairing homes of the elderly and disabled. Some of the repairs included installation of wheel chair ramps, roof repairs and exterior/interior painting. Kathleen has logged a total of 120 hours of community service. Kathleen is an academically driven individual. She is currently enrolled in all honors as well as two AP courses and has 4.42 weighted GPA. "Keeping my head held high, I know that college will help me gain the knowledge necessary to obtain a life I love."
JENNIFER YEUNG Harbor High School Santa Cruz, California
In the past two years, Jennifer was elected president of her junior class and managed to complete almost 200 hours of community service despite working a strenuous schedule at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to help support her family. She also participates in softball, varsity tennis, varsity cheerleading and varsity wrestling. "Yes, you read that right," writes Jennifer. "I am the only wrestling cheerleader in Santa Cruz."
Jennifer, who wrestles in the 103lb. class, took fourth place in the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League finals and was the first girl to receive the Ed Farrell Award as the most inspirational wrestler of the year. As main flyer on her cheer leading squad, Jennifer has mastered her roles in many extreme stunts, including the twisted down, liberty and Arabesque. Jennifer takes AP classes at her school and is a solid student, despite her demanding job and her school activities -- which include much more than wrestling and cheerleading. She has helped to organize or carry out events such as the Stanford Blood Drive, parents' nights at local middle schools, homecoming events and several projects to help school seniors with prom and graduation expenses. She is also an assistant wrestling coach at a local middle school and has participated in Girl Scouts for five years.
Home life has presented many challenges for Jennifer, however, she maintains an upbeat attitude despite these experiences and her role as a heavy contributor to family support. Jennifer says, I know that I am going to get really far in life and be successful.
"I had an amazing time in Quetzaltenango. This trip affected me more than any other experience I have ever had in my life... I gained an entirely new perspective on life and I thank Hamilton Friends for providing me with the opportunity to do so."
-Jillian Ogren, '07 Hamilton Scholar and Guatemala Leader Week attendee
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Seattle Leader Week SLIDESHOW!
CLICK HEREto see a slideshow of the 2009 Seattle Leader Week.
Alexander Hamilton Friends Association | 216 1st Avenue South, Suite 345 | Seattle, WA 98104 | 206-774-0764 | contact us
