2010 SILVER WINNERS

FABIOLA ARROYO
Sultan High School
Sultan, Washington

I am a girl of action, says Fabiola. Her hard work and dedication are apparent in many aspects of her life. At school Fabiola is ranked first in her class of 160, she has taken all of the AP classes her high school offers, and maintains a 4.0 GPA. Beyond school, Fabiola is an organizer, a committed athlete, a talented musician and an inspiring leader.

During her freshman year, Fabiola began organizing Rachels Challenge in memory of Rachel Scott, the first victim of the Columbine High School shootings. The groups aim is to inspire a positive change in the way students treat each other. With the help of Associated Student Body, Fabiola was able to put the program into action her sophomore year. 

Fabiola has been part of Associated Student Body for three years and is currently junior class president and ASB Representative for the National Honors Society. She is a member of International Club, Pep Club, Math Club, Knowledge Bowl, and the Sky Valled Teen Court Jury. Service to her peers is also a focus in Fabiolas life. She serves as an officer in Debate Club, is a section leader wind ensemble, and earned her varsity letter in jazz band. 

As a student athlete, Fabiola participates in varsity soccer and track and field. She has lettered in girls' varsity soccer since her freshman year, she is captain of that team, and she also manages the varsity boys soccer team.  Fabiola is currently involved in fundraising for the construction of a third tennis court, which would enable the high school to offer tennis as a sport.

In her community Fabiola is dedicated to service. She has participated in Relay for Life for two years and serves as a camp counselor for several summer camps, ranging from Boys and Girls Club summer camp to track and soccer camps. Fabiola also finds time to volunteer at the local elementary school and is captain of a Volunteers of Americas Action Team. Each year Fabiola volunteers as a panelist for the Snohomish County Health and Safety Networks Kids Futures initiative and the Voices of Youth .Teen members organize presentations for local officials regarding problems the young citizens see in their communities.

Fabiola's achievements have been recognized by her community. She was selected for the Sky Valley Masonic Education 2010 Junior Achievement Award, she was accepted into the Bioquest Academy sponsored by Seattle Biomedical Research Institute, she won a scholarship from the Action Team Major League Baseball Fund, and she was selected to be the keynote speaker for 2010 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.

"I want people in my community to see that even though were from a small town, that doesn't mean we can only achieve small things. We can do big and great things," says Fabiola.

LISA BJORKLUND
East Valley High School
Yakima, Washington

Lisa is an adventurous, smart and spirited student and athlete. Lisa has earned the Silver and Bronze Awards through Girl Scouts. She has been a Girl Scout member for 12 years and has served as secretary, treasurer and event coordinator for a variety of community service projects. She has helped organize fundraisers which filled backpacks with school supplies for children, replaced flooring at a local pet rescue shelter and collected food for a pet rescue shelter. Lisa has volunteered at a homeless shelter kitchen, organized clothing drives for the women's homeless shelter, and made wood doll houses for children at the battered women's shelter.

Lisa's commitment to her community is wide and varied. I practice what I learned through Girl Scouts: service before self, says Lisa. In addition to her dedication via Girl Scouts, Lisa is a volunteer at the Larsen Art Gallery Guild, she assisted with the annual Memorial Hospital Foundation Follies performance, she mentors elementary school students through the EVE Buddy Program, and she has participated in Young Life Youth and Wesleyan Spirit Alive Youth Group. 

At school, Lisa is a varsity cheerleader, a member of East Valley High School National Honor Society Chapter, Physics Club, Christians in Action Club, and Renaissance Honors Program. As a student athlete, Lisa plays fast pitch softball, soccer and basketball.  Lisa also serves as Associated Student Body secretary and secretary for her junior class. Lisa is a member of the Gear Up Program (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs). In tenth grade she was selected as a speaker for the Gear Up program for the University of Washington Legislative Day on the Hill, at the Washington State Capitol. Lisa has received outstanding student awards in science and English and was selected as Student of the Month for Student Services. She also earned the Presidential Fitness Award.

Lisas dedication to her community and her commitment to leadership and academics earned her the Upper Yakima Valley Masonic Education Council 2010 Junior Achievement Award.

In her down time, Lisa can be found in the mountains with family and friends, camping and riding dirt bikes on mountain trails. She has been motorcycling since she was four years old and believes she has learned determination and discipline through riding trails "with switchbacks on cliff edges and inclines so steep you can't stand up."

Lisa's future will be dedicated to helping others. "I plan on becoming a medical doctor so that I can give back to my community and help others," said Lisa. She will continue to share her intense passion for service with her community and pass on her spirit of giving by mentoring youth.

ANGELICA CEJA
Delano High School
Delano, California

Angelica wholeheartedly embraces her education and holds second place in her class of 503. Her academic prowess has earned numerous recognitions, including the Academic Excellence Award for each semester of high school plus 11 Student of the Month awards. Angelica has also received the Delano High School Mathematics Award. 

Angelica participates in a variety of school clubs and student organizations, including Chess Club, National Honor Society and the California Scholarship Federation.  She has served as Math Club secretary. Highly interested in the French-speaking world, as a sophomore Angelica revived the schools disbanded French Club and served as its president. Angelica is also a student athlete playing on her schools tennis team, for which she received the Most Improved Player Award and Coaches Choice Award.

In her community, Angelica participates in Relay for Life, helping to raise money for cancer survivors and those living with cancer. She is also very active in volunteer events sponsored by the National Honor Society,
 
Angelica emigrated from Mexico when she was young. This significantly impacted her life and fueled her striving for excellence. Angelica attributes part of her drive to her parents. "They have always worked arduously in the fields to give my brother and me a proper education. I recognize their sacrifice and their hardship, which is why I strive to attain an education and become a doctor to serve those in need," says Angelica.

DIANA CIUCA
Atlantic Community High School
Boca Raton, Florida
 
As an avid music lover, Diana has merged this love with her interest in photography and journalism. After taking a History of Rock and Roll class at a local university, she was inspired to do more. She now takes pictures of concerts and writes reviews for shows, songs, albums, and music videos for a non-profit organization called Swept Away Media. This inspired Diana to pursue her writing further. She now contributes occasionally to her high schools newspaper and writes for a local newspaper called Today's Teen. She was recently given her own College Column, which gives readers an insiders guide to college

In 10th grade, she co-chaired a Hunger Banquet through her high schools GLOBAL Issues Club. The event was sponsored by OxFam International, and helped raised awareness of worldwide poverty. The event also raised money for a local homeless shelter. In her junior year, she served as publicity director for this same event. Diana is currently working on a benefit concert for the Toms Shoes Foundation. In her junior year of high school, Diana organized a Holocaust Remembrance Event: A Tribute to Holocaust Survivors through her Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society featuring 3 Holocaust survivor speakers. This event attracted more than 100 interested students and parents. This year, she further raised money for kids cancer through St. Baldrick's and helped recruit "shavees," ultimately shaving her head, too.

Along with her commitment to community service, she has a long list of academic and leadership achievements. Her strong role as historian of Spanish National Honor Society has led her to become vice-president of that same club. She has  also committed herself to Speech & Debate Club since middle school, becoming historian of her school's club for 2 years. Through them she received recognition through competitions in events like Legislative Assembly, Original Oratory and Original Interpretation and participated in Lincoln-Douglas and Public Forum Debates. Diana also participated in Math Academic Games, with her team placing 1st in the county. She has also been recognized as an Ambassador to the National Society of High School Scholars. Among her interests is art, placing 1st in a local Art Show in 2007. Diana has also been involved in Mu Alpha Theta, Key Club and Literary Club.

During the summer, Diana worked with underprivileged middle school students tutoring them in geometry and art history through Breakthrough Collaborative. She also has a long and continued commitment to the American Cancer Society, serving as an active participant in the annual Relay for Life fundraiser. Through them, she has co-captained and captained teams and played a crucial part on the West Delray and Delray Beach Relay for Life Committees. She also spends time volunteering at the West Boca Medical Center and Florence Fuller Child Development Center. In total she has logged over 400 hours of community service.

With all of these incredible achievements, Diana maintains an excellent academic standing. She is in the top 1% of her class and has a 4.98 weighted GPA.  Among the 5 AP classes she already took, she is currently taking 5 AP courses and has already taken 4 college classes at her local university and plans on taking 3 more by the end of this year. Her long list of APs has gained her the recognition of AP Scholar with Distinction. She also won a Smith College book award for her accomplishments. In addition to this, she has already completed the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program and she is an International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate. Somehow, along with all of this, she baby-sits and recently found a job with a small business to help support her family and pay for her own expenses.

Diana is a true leader. Her commitment to service and leadership has been constant throughout her life. "I attempt to evoke positive, measurable change in myself and especially those around me. I commit myself to the quest of finding things I am passionate about and applying myself to them. As long as there is passion in what I do, I will continue doing it."

ALEX DIENNER
Conestoga Valley High School
Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Alex is a dedicated athlete, an outstanding student and a strong leader. He has lettered in football twice as starting quarterback, and in baseball at three positions. In baseball, Alex captained the team and set a school record of 32 stolen bases at the JV level -as a sophomore. He played on the school basketball team for two years. I strive for excellence both on the field and in the classroom, says Alex. He has been named Athletics and Activities Student of the Month and also won the Character Award for Tolerance.

In school, Alex is president of Future Business Leaders of America. He has been a regional winner twice and has been in the state competition twice, placing first in Networking Concepts and Technology Concepts. He is also a member of the Superintendent's Leadership Council and the Fellowship of Christian Students. Alex has been recognized as Rotary Club Student of the Month, one of only six juniors selected.

With his busy schedule, Alex still manages to find time to give back to his community.  He shares his love of baseball through helping to coach local junior midget teams. Alex volunteers at his church working with audio and video equipment, and has done so since sixth grade. He has also gone on several mission trips, including a summer experience in St. Croix in which he worked at a youth camp and did manual labor.  I love making changes in others lives and seeing a difference in them, says Alex. 

When Alex can find personal time amid his demanding activities, he enjoys playing pick-up basketball and football, and playing catch with his little cousin. "A few things that are really important to me and motivate me would be God, my family, my church/youth group and helping those around me," says Alex.

ELVIA GAONA
Liberty High School
Hillsboro, Oregon

Running and service are the two things I'm most passionate about, says Elvia.  Lettering in both track and field and cross country, Elvia is a dedicated student athlete who also leads the teams. 

Elvia is very active in student government. She has held a variety of class offices and will be President of her senior class next year. She has organized many events including Raising Student Voice and Participation, canned food drives, school dances and a variety of fundraisers. Elvia earned leadership varsity letter awards both sophomore and junior year. She also served as vice president in Freshmen Academy Leadership. Her other school activities include National Honor Society, the yearbook staff, tutoring in physics, as well as the Oregon Association of Student Councils.

From organizing fundraisers to school events, Elvias dedication to service is remarkable. In her community, she has volunteered by coaching with Hillsboro youth cross country and youth track and field teams. She participates with Meals on Wheels, the Oregon Food Bank and Elvia volunteers at a daycare. She also works to help stage the Mr. Liberty Pageant as well as Dimes for Doernbecher, both of which raise funds for the Doernbecher Children's Hospital. 

"I love to love, I love to give, and love to learn," says Elvia. Her myriad of activities in and out of the classroom are a reflection of her ardent dedication to making her community better.

WILLIAM GOFF
Jones College Prep
Chicago, Illinois

"My aspiration is to be either a US Senator or a music executive at a major record label, and I use myself as a motivator to hopefully achieve those goals," says William. His passion for excellence drives his record of successes. William is currently ranked first in his class of 205.  

Maintaining a rigorous course load and service to his school community, William is a positive influence for many. He is a founding member of the Alpha Leadership Academy. This organization focuses on developing leadership skills for young men and women through community service and mentoring, and prepares all its members for higher education, says William. 

William serves as the Local School Council student representative, acting as a liaison between the student body and the Local School Council, and he has also been named an Eagle Leader in Training, a mentoring program for assisting  freshmen students during their transition to high school.

In his community William works as an election judge during the presidential elections.  William also works with the Health and Nutrition Symposium at Woodson South Elementary School, teaching younger children healthier eating habits and encouraging them to exercise. William has participated in the Mikva Challenges Crank the Peace program, which allows him to engage in discussions on how to avoid gun violence in the communities of Chicago and to promote safer activities. Through this program William has also focused on drawing the attention of Chicago public officials to the issue of gun violence.

"I love to create music, stay up-to-date on political issues, draw, hang out with friends and listen to music," says William. 

BRIANNA IANNARELLI
Canon McMillan High School
Canonsburg, Pennsylvania

Brianna is a giving, tenacious, dedicated student athlete.  As captain of the cross country team, Brianna has won Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player and the Coaches Award.  Brianna has served as captain of the indoor and outdoor track and field teams for two years and was a Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League qualifier for both cross country and track and field.

In the community Brianna volunteers with numerous organizations.  She works at The Amazing Bike Camp where she teaches children with developmental disabilities how to ride bikes.  Brianna also volunteers for the Bernelli Foundation and at the Washington County Youth Center.  She has participated in fundraisers with the Houston Fire Department as well. 
Briannas passion for running carries into her community service.  She participates in countless charity races including The Memorial Run for Alex, Race for the Cure, Toys for Tots and Three Rivers Athletic Trainers Run.  Brianna helped to organize a clothing donation for an inner-city girls basketball team.  The drive provided the team with appropriate attire for traveling to their games.

Brianna is a high-ranking student at her school maintaining top grades.  She is a member of the band and has been Big Mac Band squad leader for two years and a class representative for three years.  Amidst Briannas busy schedule she still manages to participate in National Honor Society, French Honor Society, French Club, Technology Students of America and Ski Club.  She also is a member of Students for Exceptional Children and Kids for Wish Kids.

"I am an enthusiastic, caring, and generous person who aims to make a difference," says Brianna. 

MYKELLAH B. JARVIS
Knightdale High School
Knightdale, North Carolina

While still in high school, Mykellah has accomplished something that most adults have yet to achieve: she is a published author. Her childrens novel, Miss Kathy Sailon, was released on August 11, 2009. Since the publication of the novel, Mykellah has traveled to various elementary schools speaking to students about her novel while encouraging them to continue reading and writing. 

An active member of her high school community, Mykellah serves as the vice president of her class, is a member of the National Honor Society and participates in her high school chapter of Future Business Leaders of America and Future Teachers of America.

Mykellah volunteers through the Raleigh Parks and Recreation Center, helping with the Raleigh Special Populations Dances. She is also an active participant in an outreach mentoring program through her high school. Her other service activities include Relay for Life, visiting residents of local nursing homes, working at a health fair, tutoring at elementary schools and helping with a local blood drive.

Ranked 5 out of 368 at her high school, Mykellah has a 4.00 GPA and 4.57 weighted GPA. She takes a rigorous course load including AP English, AP US History, and AP Environmental Science.

Mykellah has an incredible work ethic. She works part-time during the school year and held an internship during the summer before her junior year of high school, working with low-income minority students through a program called Project Seed. Project Seed is a highly competitive program, only accepting top students across the state of North Carolina to participate in the internship program. 

Highly motivated, Mykellah cites her achievements come from her own inner drive with the help and support of her family and friends. "I am a very hard worker and a lot of what motivates me is within myself and its brought out through the encouragement from my friends and family.  I couldn't do it without them."

ZELAH JURADO
West Seattle High School
Seattle, Washington

"Through the years I have lived, Ive come to realize that you must appreciate the qualities that symbolize who you are because in the long run those are going to be the qualities that will motivate you," says Zelah. 

Zelah is a hard working, dedicated student. Taking a heavy course load including AP classes, Zelah is a positive member of her school community. Zelah participates in YWCA Girls First, Team Read and Earth Service Corps. Her leadership positions in her schools Associated Student Body have included secretary and public relations.  She also participates in the Latino Club, Urban Impact, Drama Club and choir. Zelah co-founded her schools Indian Club, which provides student events focused on Indian culture.

Zelah has earned recognition in various fields of study and athletics. She won the Seymour Kaplan Humanitarian Award and the Award of Excellence in Fashion Merchandising. Zelah also earned the Seattle Reading Award. As a student athlete, she earned a varsity letter for tennis and was named both most improved and most inspirational player on team. 

In her community Zelah volunteers through various organizations and programs. She donates time at Park West Nursing Home and Arbor Heights Elementary School. Zelah tends to the grounds at Highland Park Nazarene Church and volunteers in cleanup efforts at local parks. In addition to her many other activities, Zelah works as a tutor and mentor.

KATHERINE M. KUREK
Whitney High School
Rocklin, California

Katherine is a bright and gifted musician, and her array of awards and recognitions is superb. For five years now, I have been playing the violin. It has completely changed my life and direction, she says. She has been named musician of the year twice, in addition to lettering in music. Katherine is also first chair in her high school orchestra.  With her musicianship and leadership skills, Katherine is a strong role model for her school contemporaries. 

Likewise, her service in the arts is quite remarkable. Katherine gives of herself and lends her expertise to fellow orchestra students. She volunteers to assist students in more clearly understanding school music so that they will perform better and develop their technique. Sharing her unwavering love for music, Katherine has worked giving private violin lessons.  She also volunteers in the performing arts department, is a standout member of the chamber orchestra and has served as orchestra concert mistress. Katherine manages her time so that she can grow as a musician.

At school Katherine dedicates much of her time to various clubs and student organizations. She has participated in her community's San Jose Walk for AIDS. She is a member of Key Club, Rotary Interact, and Paws for a Cause. She consistently strives for academic excellence as a member of the honor roll.

"Academically, playing the violin has motivated me to try and do things I previously thought impossible," says Katherine. She hopes to earn a masters degree in music and become a music teacher. Katherine's passion for music and service are essential elements of her life's symphony which she continues to compose and perform.

KATHERINE LY
Garfield High School
Seattle, Washington

Katherine is ranked first in her class of 395. Her quest for academic excellence and passion for community service are remarkable. 

In her community, Katherine volunteers through numerous organizations. She escorts patients at the University of Washington Medical Center and works with many members of the community, ranging from Asian seniors at Kin On Retirement Home to foster children in the Treehouse program. I love being involved in community service, because I am exposed to different ideas that I can learn from, and explore my interests, says Katherine.

Beyond her extraordinary record of service, Katherine is dedicated to her academic endeavors. She serves as National Honor Society president and has served as treasurer. Katherine is also the submissions officer of The Pen, Garfield High Schools literary magazine. As a member of Upward Bound Katherine is Leadership Council secretary and newsletter writer. Through this program, Katherine was able to explore the benefits of tutoring and mentoring. This inspired her to start a peer tutoring program at her high school. Another personal passion is the American Civil Liberties Union.

Katherine's free time is punctuated by her meaningful relationship with the orphans of Can Tho, Vietnam. She corresponds with them and sends small gifts.  "Although I don't actually get to meet my friends, they improve my outlook on life by teaching me to be grateful for my position to be able to help, and be hopeful and positive for the future," says Katherine. 

KAYSHA LYBECKER
John R. Rogers High School
Spokane, Washington

Kayshas commitment to school, athletics and community service is nothing short of extraordinary. She is ranked first in her class of 383.  My most significant achievement is my dedication to having a 4.0 grade point average, because I am dyslexic, says Kaysha.  She maintains academic excellence while participating in numerous extracurricular activities: she is a cheerleader and plays on the varsity soccer, basketball and softball teams. 

Kaysha is a member of Key Club, National Honor Society and Interact. Through Key Club, Kaysha has participated in several community service projects, ranging from organizing a Make-A-Wish drive to volunteering at assisted living homes. She also attends monthly Kiwanis meetings in connection with Key Club.

Kaysha is a student leader and has participated in Associated Student Body, serving as both cheer representative and vice president of her class. She also takes part in Washington Drug Free Youth. These activities are important to me because they build character and allow me to serve my school and community, says Kaysha.

Community service outside of school is also one of Kaysha's passions. She has volunteered at Kids Day, Toms Turkey Drive and the Christmas Bureau. Kaysha also volunteers with the Terri Kim Fund, a foundation that promotes community service and the Vanessa Behan Foundation, a foundation that works to provide women and children in crisis with a safe place to live.

Kaysha points to her relationship with her mother as the solid foundation for her success. "She always tells me I can do anything if I work hard and believe in myself," says Kaysha. 

NEEL MANDAVILLI
Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School
Cary, North Carolina

Neel is an exceptionally driven individual. From acting in school drama productions to volunteering at the local blood bank, Neel is always on the go.

Neel serves as the President of the Science National Honor Society at his high school, focusing on energizing student members to maintain a commitment to community service and outreach through various programs.  His is also president of the Interclub Leadership Council, and serves as a tour guide for tours around his high school.  He serves as project manager for a program called 180 Degrees SMART Lunch Program Rollout.  The goal of the program was to efficiently use lunch time to offer tutoring programs and club activities to students.

As the co-chair of the Science and Technology Committee for the North Carolina Youth Legislative Assembly 2010, Neel researched, created and presented a legislative bill on increasing renewable sources of energy for North Carolina. The bill was passed in the mock youth assembly, and was presented to the Governor and to the North Carolina Assembly.

Neel has served as lead organizer of several projects at his high school. He spearheaded the organization of a litter clean-up drive that won the Wake County School Liter clean-up award in 2009. He also worked with the Science National Honor Society to start a bottle collection and recycling campaign. Neel led the organization for adopting a park in his town, leading the Science National Honor Society in helping clean, weed, mulch and maintain the park for local residents. He also led a group of students in creating a presentation to the Board of Education in Wake County on the importance of maintaining diversity in the school system.

Neel has an incredible level of recognition for his achievements. He is the recipient of a 2010 National Youth Service America Award, a 2010 Yale Book Award, 2010 US Congressional Gold Medal, a 2009 US Congressional Silver Medal, a 2008 US Congressional Bronze Medal, The Presidents Volunteer Service 2010 Gold Medal, the 2009 Hard Corps Award for Volunteering, the 2009 Mayors Award for Volunteering, the 2009 Hugh OBrian Young Leaders World Leadership Congress Scholarship Award, a 2009 Outstanding 180 Degrees Leadership Award, The Capital Area Soccer League Hamilton Sportsmanship Award in 2008, and the 2008 Best Supporting Male Actor award.

A top notch student, Neel has a 4.41 weighted GPA and is currently taking four AP courses. While maintaining a high level of academic excellence, Neel still finds time for community service. He has logged over 536 hours of community service volunteering at his local hospital, his local library, Marbles Kids Museum, the American Red Cross, Raleigh Jaycees, Raleigh Parks and Recreation, the Ronald McDonald House, Food Bank of North Carolina, Cary Teen Council, Chinmaya Mission, and the Anacostia Watershed Society.

A hard worker and a realist, Neel has a strong sense of how the world operates, what problems we face and what steps must be taken to solve these problems.  "What motivates me as a leader is to facilitate positive changes that impact the student community at my school.  My life's mission is to live by Gandhi's signature quote, 'You must be the change you wish to see in the world.' "

KYLE E. MEYER
Frank W. Cox High School
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Kyle has a non-stop work ethic apparent in all aspects of his life.

For the past three years, he has had a part-time job at a local smoothie shop and has advanced to become a supervisor. Winner of a sales competition at the shop, he was able to direct a donation of over $500 to Camp Sunshine, a camp in Maine serving kids with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

Much of Kyles school involvement revolves around his enthusiasm for Latin. As president of the Latin Club, he led fundraising efforts which brought in over $3000, enough to cover expenses for an entire year. Also president of the Latin Honor Society, he has been selected to participate in regional Latin conventions and last year was accepted  into the intensive residential Virginia Governors School summer program in Latin.

Kyle holds office in several other school organizations. He is vice president of the Spanish Club, community service chairman of the National Honor Society, treasurer of the Running Club, and vice president of the Ultimate Frisbee Club. He also takes part in the Light House Psychology Club, the World Affairs Club and the Spanish Honor Society. He was chosen to attend a Hugh OBrien Leadership Conference.   

Kyle has received several school awards for his participation in athletics. He has earned the Sportsmanship Award for varsity baseball, plus Dedication Awards for both indoor and outdoor track, and also participates in cross country.

Kyle used his love of running to serve his community: he has volunteered at several local races including the Mud Run, the Turkey Trot and the Shamrock Marathon. He also organized a project for his National Honor Society chapter, in which members created Valentines Day cards for residents of retirement home. Kyle donates time at a local elementary schools annual Fall Festival helping to set up, run events and clean up.

Kyle has a positive go-getter attitude, ready to take on any challenges that might come his way. "I enjoy working hard and knowing that everything I have is a direct result of my hard work and determination."

TAMMY MO
Lowell High School
San Francisco, Calfornia

Tammy is a highly driven and talented young leader who strives to push herself both academically and through her extracurricular endeavors.

Tammy took the initiative to form her own club at her high school. Wanting to create ways for academically-accomplished students to connect with service learning opportunities in the community, she began the Random Acts of Kindness Club.  She started the Random Acts of Kindness Club.  She wanted to form a resource for students to connect with service learning opportunities in the community.  Each month, Tammy organizes various community outreach events such as food drives, beach clean-ups, park restorations and much more. Tammys goal for the club is to offer academically driven students easy opportunities to become involved in community service.

Tammy is also a member of the Global Glimpse program.  She is one of fourteen students selected from her high school to attend a program in Nicaragua teaching English and completing an individual community service project.

Tammy became a member of her high schools JROTC in her freshmen year, where she served as a squad Leader her sophomore year. Tammy also serves as the public relations officer for the Octagon Club, a club focused on community service outreach. On top of her intense extracurricular involvement, Tammy takes a rigorous course load.  She is currently taking five AP courses including English, Psychology, United States History, Chemistry and Human Geography.

On top of her intense extracurricular involvement, Tammy takes a demanding academic load which currently includes five AP courses.

Each summer, Tammy volunteers with the AIDS Walk and Stern Grove Festival. She also volunteers with the Golden Gate Parks Conservancy and the Presidio Plant Nursery for plant restoration. Tammy has also been an active volunteer for various races/marathons throughout San Francisco. Each week, Tammy spends time at a local elementary school working with students. She loves seeing the excitement the children have when they finally understand a new topic. Tammy has currently logged over 500 hours of community service.

An extremely driven young woman, Tammy has an extremely positive attitude about leadership and life.  "My biggest fear is not doing all the things I want to do, and not living my life to the fullest. My greatest achievement is living the life I love, as I am doing right now."

MILES M. MULLER
Frank W. Cox High School
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Miles loves a challenge. Whether he is starting a club or taking a difficult class, he enjoys challenging himself to be the best he can be.
 
Miles has held a part time job since he was in tenth grade, learning at an early age how to balance school work, extracurricular activities and a job.  During his junior year, he helped start an Ultimate Frisbee Club.  As president of his high schools Medical Association, Miles led the organization of several blood drives at his high school.
 
Miles is also dedicated to community service. As a member of the Youth Conservation Corps, he traveled to York River State Park for three weeks to work on improving aspects of the park. During this project he logged 120 hours of community service. Miles also volunteers at the Norfolk Senior Center and First Landing State Park.
 
Miles is the recipient of several awards. His received the Prudential Spirit of Community Scholarship, the University of Rochester Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award and was a member of the State Honor Band in 2009.
 
He has been an active member of his high schools music program. He participated in Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensemble, and Festival Band. Miles also participates as a member of Spanish Club, Latin Club, Latin Convention, varsity Track Team, Key Club, Medical Association, Foreign Language Olympics, Running Club, Spanish Honor Society, Latin Honor Society, English Honor Society, National Honor, Society and Ultimate Frisbee Club. Miles challenges himself with a full course load, taking a total of six AP courses while maintaining an over 4.0 GPA.
 
Miles is a hard worker with incredible drive. "I really want to learn all that I can, not for obtaining a grade, but for my own curiosity. I do not stop thinking or learning when I leave school. Instead, I take my enthusiasm for learning and thinking home. For me, the quest for knowledge never ends."

YUMEKO NIELSEN
Oceanside High School
Oceanside, California

Yumeko is a bright, fun-loving student who ranks sixth in her class of 547 with a 4.0 GPA. She has an exceptional record of community service and academic successes. I am motivated by the football player Junior Seau who grew up in Oceanside, in a gang-related area, and successfully accomplished his dream of becoming a football player in the NFL, says Yumeko.

In her community Yumeko addresses the negative effects of gang activity. She has participated in the Oceanside Sun Project, whose task it is to repaint fences defaced by gang graffiti. Yumeko volunteers every Memorial Day and Veterans Day in clean-up projects for the graves of military veterans at local cemeteries. Perhaps Yumekos most fervent passion is for helping animals. She donates time weekly caring for animals at the San Diego Humane Society and the Mission Animal and Bird Hospital.  

Yumeko's passion for animal well-being carries into her activities at school: she organized a schoolwide fundraiser to collect money and material donations for the San Diego Humane Society. Yumeko is vice president of the Junior Civitan club, which focuses on community service with an emphasis on helping those with developmental disabilities. She also coordinates blood drives for the Oceanside High School Health Academy and is a member of National Honor Society. Yumeko serves as a Better Business Bureau Student Ambassador, informing students about the use and misuse of credit, how to establish credit and how to prevent identity theft. 

"I am an extremely dedicated and determined student with a desire to fulfill my dream of becoming a veterinarian to cure and improve the lives of helpless and cherished animals," says Yumeko.

WON OH
Clover Park High School
Lakewood, Washington

Ranking third in his class of 241, Won maintains a very challenging schedule including AP classes, varsity sports and exceptional community service.

Wons achievements touch on many areas of study and service.  He placed second in the Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement competition and has received the Schools Citizenship Award and Directors Award in the Elite Choir Program. In addition, Won is a varsity soccer player whose good attitude and talents on the field caused him to be voted Most Inspirational Player for the team.

In school Won balances his studies with numerous extracurricular activities. He founded the Newspaper Club at his school and organizes fundraising for the National Honor Society. Won is also a member of Key Club, Asian Club and Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement. 

With hundreds of hours of community service, Won dedicates a majority of his time to teaching Korean to third generation Korean-American students. He is a leader in his group of volunteer teachers and is responsible for the children learning the proper curriculum. Won also participates in other community service programs such as packaging food for distribution among the needy and assisting Thanksgiving charities.

"I want to attend Harvard College and graduate from there in order to give back to the community," says Won.

ELLEN K. OLSEN
Shorewood High School
Shoreline, Washington

Ellen is not only kind and caring, but an energetic young woman with a strong commitment to service.

As a dedicated long-term member of Camp Fire USA, Ellen has had many opportunities to act as a leader of her peers. She took the lead in planning, organizing and executing an event designed for Camp Fire Youth called Carnival of Beads. She has also worked with Camp Fire USA to pursue her passion for environmentalism, helping to organize a Go Green event.  Ellen also compiled a small book of environmental facts and tips which was distributed among children at the event. In the summer before her junior year, Ellen worked as junior staff coordinator for a Camp Fire day camp. In this role she worked to organize over 200 campers and 100 staff in weekly events and programming, serving as aide to the site director and acting as the lead for all teenage staff members.

Proud of her ethnic heritage, Ellen has been involved with the Northwest Danish Society for the past four years and currently holds the title of Danish Princess for the Danish Sisterhood Society Lodge. In this capacity, she wears a traditional costume to attend events and volunteers as a visible representative of her Society. Ellen is also a member of the Run 4 Fun Club, based at the elementary school she previously attended. She enjoys leading younger kids in fun running activities, and giving back to her old school.

Ellen has maintained a 4.0 GPA and is ranked first among 427 students while currently taking two AP courses. She is a member of the National Honor Society and of the Suicide Prevention Club, whose goal is to raise awareness about suicide and inform people of the many warning signs that may provide an opportunity to save a friends life. Ellen also enjoys taking part in her schools drama department, working as lead of the costume crew.

Whether she is leading a volunteer event in her role as Danish Princess or working with elementary school kids at a day camp, Ellen brings a sense of compassion to all of her service activities. "I am a driven person overall. In all areas of my life I work hard and put in my best effort. My personal philosophy is that the most worthwhile things are attained only after you strive to reach them."

DONALD ROADS
Wilcox-Hildreth High School
Hildreth, Nebraska

Donald is a model student athlete.  His commitment to academic success and community service, in addition to sports, is above outstanding.  As a freshman, while taking difficult classes and volunteering in his community, he lettered in three different varsity sports.

"I'm currently working on my Eagle Scout rank, and I am very proud of that," says Donald.  Donald has been a member of Boy Scouts for 12 years.  For his Eagle Scout project, Donald built flag decommissioning drop boxes to educate the community on proper disposal of the American Flag.  His Boy Scouts leadership positions have included terms as patrol leader, senior patrol leader and scribe. 

Donald also volunteers in his community through various church youth organizations. He has worked at a homeless shelter in Minneapolis and, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Donald helped to repair a ravaged cemetery in New Orleans. 

Donald has earned an array of awards and recognitions for his dedication to excellence. He is a 2010 Nebraska Boys State Delegate, and won third place in engineering at the regional science fair. 

At school Donald is a hard working student. He serves as president of the junior class and president of the Lutheran Youth of Nebraska. Donald is also a member of Future Business Leaders of America, High School Quiz Bowl, Falcon Club, and he has participated in One Act Play and student leadership.

"I am very family-oriented, and I am very active in my community and school," says Donald.

HUNTER R. SCHONE
Pine View High School
Washington, Utah

Hunter is passionate about many causes, promoting ideas concerning youth involvement in politics. This is shown with Hunters founding of The United States Youth Council, helping to promote youth involvement in politics, world-wide service and to promote positive change in America and the world. The group currently has over 5000 members and is still growing.

Hunter has a long list of academic and leadership achievements. He was a semifinalist at the Utah State Science Fair, was ranked as one of the top 20 high school tennis players in Utah, has played as top singles player for this high school varsity tennis team since sophomore year and is a recipient of the Presidential Service Award. Hunter serves as the president of The United States Youth Council, was Vice President of his high school class, is an Eagle Scout and serves as Vice President of the National Honor Society. Along with this impressive list of extracurricular activities, Hunter holds 3.972 GPA balancing a course load packed with AP courses.

In addition to his personal and leadership achievements, Hunter volunteers as an intern at the Dixie Regional Medical Center in the radiology department. He is responsible for caring for patients and assisting radiologist technicians. He has also volunteered at his local hospital for the past two and half years, volunteers as a tutor for elementary students struggling in school, and participates in various community service projects including the St. George Marathon, a litter clean-up project and volunteer project at a rehabilitation center.  For his Eagle Scout project, Hunter collected baby blankets and books.  These items were sent to victims of the earthquake in Haiti.

Hunter plans to one day work as a heart surgeon. "I'm a teenage red head aspiring to become a heart surgeon. I like spending my time helping others. I enjoy working at the hospital. I am doing everything I possibly can to open every possible opportunity for my future."

Tiffany Smith

Oak Grove High School

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Having logged more than 570 hours of community service, Tiffany has had a profound positive influence in her community. Service above self is a perfect maxim for Tiffany's continuous hard work. 

Tiffany works as a one-on-one counselor at Abbie Rodgers Civitan Camp for children with developmental disabilities. She also volunteers at the Association of Retarded Citizens House, and has volunteered as a cheerleading coach for three years for the Southern Stars, the only cheer squad in Mississippi for children with developmental disabilities. Tiffany has also worked as a Spirit Girl with the Forrest General Hospital's Spirit of Women Program, which is comprised of teenage girls who participate in focus groups, community service and charitable events. Tiffany has volunteered through numerous other organizations and programs including Salvation Army Angel, Operation Christmas Children and SNOW (Southerners Needing Outdoor Wear).

In school Tiffany manages to earn consistently high grades and participate in a spectrum of extracurricular activities. She has been a Student Council class representative for three years and is also a member of Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta and National Honor Society. Tiffany serves as vice president of DECA and has been elected president for her senior year.  As an athlete, Tiffany has participated on the girls track team and the cross country team.

Tiffany was recently accepted into the Hugh O'Brien Leadership Seminar and she earned a spot on the Mississippi High School Athletic Association Cross Country Scholar Athletic Team and the Track Scholar Athletic Team. Tiffany also was nominated for the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum of Law and Medicine, and the Presidential Youth Leadership Conference.

"I am a very hard worker, very organized, and I am motivated by challenges and the desire to help others," says Tiffany.

ZACHARY D. STANLEY
Hopkins County Central High School
Dawson Springs, Kentucky

Zachary has a passion for music and excels at playing the saxophone. An active member of his schools marching band, he currently serves as vice president of its council. As a member of the bands leadership, he has led and organized many of its crucial fundraising efforts. One of his initiatives involved selling concessions supplies, left over after sporting events, to students after class. Once the idea was approved, Zachary led the way in organizing and advertising the successful fundraiser.

Given his dedication to music and band, it is not surprising that Zachary has garnered many honors in that arena. These have included All District Band selection, 110% Band Award, Spirit Band Award, Western Kentucky University Honors Band selection, Murray State University Honors Band selection, All-State Band Selection, and a Superior Rating Award at a regional concert festival, 

He has also achieved in numerous other areas. A member of the National Honor Society, he was honored with the School Counts Work Ethic certificate at his high school and the Rotary Club Youth Leadership Award. Serving as secretary of the Math and Science Club, he plays an instrumental role in recycling efforts at his school. Zachary has also participated as a Student Council representative since freshman year. Zachary is an outstanding student, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while taking three AP courses. He is ranked first in his 243-member class.

Eager to give back to his community, Zachary participates in a range of service events through his Youth Group. He has taken part in the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership seminar, working with a group of students to paint a mural. Zachary has also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity.

A student with a positive attitude and a go-getter drive, Zachary brings energy and focus to everything he attempts. "I am always dreaming. That's how I stay motivated."