Caesars Entertainment Corporation and Clean the World Foundation
Ever wonder what happens to the leftover soap or shampoos when you go to a hotel? We hadn’t given it much thought until we found out about Clean the World Foundation. In an era of repurposing and recycling – this organization very much thought about what happens to all of that gently-used soap and decided to do something with it that would have a positive impact on the world.
Millions of deaths per year are caused by hygiene-related illnesses. Clean the World Foundation creates a means to fight these statistics by collecting, sterilizing and repackaging soap and shampoo from hotel properties, later distributing them to impoverished nations. Just recently, employees from Caesars Entertainment Corporation packed their bags and boarded a plane to the Philippines as part of a joint trip with Children International and The Clean the World Foundation, Inc. to deliver thousands of hygiene products and health education tips to schools and student activity centers throughout Manila. Employees who were able to travel were nominated by managers and staff for excellence in the following categories: Dedication to Community Service: William Knowles, Electronic Technician – Harrah’s Laughlin, Outstanding Housekeeper: Soccorro Garcia, Inspector, Housekeeping – Bally’s Las Vegas, and Service with Passion: Lance Elliot, Table Games Dealer – Harrah’s Council Bluffs. “I had the opportunity to see many aspects of life that some will never see,” said Elliot. “I saw soap make kids smile and say thank you. I saw kids, kids and more kids, and all of them seemed amazing to me.”
For more information on the Clean the World Foundation visit www.cleantheworld.org. For more on Caesar’s Entertainment Corporation visit www.caesars.com.
Bank of America and Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas
To have a roof over our heads… it’s why we work and it’s why we save. It’s the foundation of the American Dream. A roof over our heads gives us more than just shelter – it’s a place to call home and to have a space away from the rest of the world. Habitat for Humanity, a national organization with a local presence in Las Vegas, understands this basic human need for security. With the help of a generous donation by Bank of America, the organization gave that gift to a local woman in need.
On March 1, 2014 single mother of three, Denzila Watts, entered her Habitat for Humanity home in South Las Vegas for the very first time. The home was donated by Bank of America. More than 20 Bank of America employee volunteers helped Watts with approximately $20,000 in landscaping, painting, flooring and damage repair improvements to her soon-to-be space. This day marked the first time Watts will work on revamping the family’s future home. As part of Habitat’s homeownership program,she is required to complete 300 hours of “sweat equity” which involves not only working at the construction site on Habitat homes, but also undergoing several classes that focus on the various components of responsible home ownership. The home is the 11th such donation by Bank of America – part of a national partnership through which the institution is donating up to 2,000 vacant properties nationwide for renovation or reconstruction over a three-year span.
For more information on Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas visit www.habitatlasvegas.org. For more information on Bank of America visit www.bankofamerica.com.
United Healthcare, Konami Digital Entertainment and Boys and Girls Clubs of So. NV Fight Childhood Obesity
Over one third of children in the United States are considered overweight or obese according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This statistic presents itself in our own community with 34% of Nevada’s children considered such, leaving the state 17th for physical inactivity and 18th for obesity, according to UnitedHealth Foundation’s 2013 America’s Health Rankings. What can we do about this epidemic? First, similar to a new initiative recently launched at our local Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada, we can make exercising fun for kids and encourage them to involve friends in creating a healthy lifestyle.
UnitedHealthcare and Konami Digital Entertainment brought DanceDance Revolution: Classroom Edition (DDR CE) to the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada recently, where local youngsters will use the popular dance game to have fun and improve their fitness… at the same time (gasp!). Students will play the interactive video game, which combines physical activity with energetic music and visuals. The game enables dozens of students to participate simultaneously, creating friendly competition and fun using wireless mat controllers featuring a smart card reader that tracks each student’s individual progress. “It is important we continue the fight against obesity,” said CCSD Superintendent Pat Skorkowsky. “We need healthy, happy students in our schools so they can learn and be good citizens going forward.”
Childhood obesity has doubled in the last thirty years. In order to fight continued growth UnitedHealthcare, Konami Digital Entertainment and the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada partnered to create this new “exergaming” program. For more information on UnitedHealthcare visit www.uhc.com. For more on Konami Digital Entertainment visit www.konamigaming.com and for more on the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada visit www.bgclv.com.
Diana Weeks
It’s hard to believe that it’s been over twenty years since the world learned a new language…the SMS (short message service) or text message. AAMOF (As a matter of fact) over six billion texts are deployed each day in the U.S. according to Forester Research, with a whopping 8.6 trillion annually sent on a global basis. Of these messages, Pew Internet Research indicates that 75% of teens use text messaging and on average send 60 messages per day. The numbers continue to grow and with more children with access to mobile devices, it is imperative that parents and kids be aware of potential problems. 89123 resident Diana Weeks, a Client Relations Manager with Imagine Communications is making a difference in the community by volunteering her time to a number of causes, including SM@RT Connections, an organization that works under the umbrella of the Henderson Community Foundation. The organization’s purpose is to help educate parents and children about the dangers of the Internet, sexting and how to become good digital citizens.
By: Callie Thomas
The nine year resident is active in the community, not only through her work with Imagine Communications and the clients she assists, but also as an important part of her faith. While SM@RT Connections is an organization that’s close to her heart, she also makes time to help others through her church, where she teaches Sunday school and she and her husband Eric manage the church’s bus ministry to transport kids from lower income communities to church each week. Diana Weeks talks about her philanthropic efforts and why working with organizations that assist children are especially important.
How did you become involved with SM@RT Connections?
“I am a part of Leadership Henderson’s Class of 2014 and have become an active volunteer. As a class we chose SM@RT Connections because this is an issue that is growing in vast proportions amongst our youth today. The mobile phone is the new desktop and with it comes a somewhat ambiguous platform from which bullies and pedophiles can play. The Internet has become part of the daily fabric of our lives and people need to know how to use it safely.”
How do you assist the group?
“As a volunteer I head up the Marketing & Outreach Committee for the class project. The committee has worked diligently these last couple of months to try to market SM@RT Connections to the Southern Nevada community.”
Any experiences you would like to share?
“We created the SM@RT Connections brand and logo, manage the project’s social media (Facebook & Instagram) accounts and we’ve developed the website, beingsmart.org. In the future, we will continue to look for media opportunities for SM@RT Connections as well.”
Why is giving back so important to you?
“It means everything to me. It’s an ordinance of my faith and it keeps me humble. I’m reminded that no matter how bad I think I’ve got it, others have it worse. It is encouraging to see the lives that are transformed.”
How do you unplug after a busy day?
“Yoga and a long hot shower but I also enjoy designing stationary, reading and writing short stories. I also love going on picnics with my husband and traveling with my younger sister. Every year we visit a place we’ve never been together and have fun.”
If you weren’t in your present career, what other job would you like to do?
“I am originally from Nairobi, Kenya and am the third daughter in a family of four girls. My father, Charles Chege, worked in the Kenyan Air Force and as the attaché to the Kenyan Embassy in New Delhi, India. I would love to own/manage an orphanage in Kenya for kids who have been orphaned as a result of the AIDs epidemic. I am passionate about kids and working in any type of child ministry/service or volunteer opportunity.”
Kevin Morss
They say that everything old becomes new again. For instance, retro t-shirts are the newest rage. Remember the ones you may have collected with your favorite band like, The Rolling Stones or The Who? New stores have popped up and specialize in just these shirts. 89074 resident Kevin Morss wears a t-shirt that some might think of as a retro notion, but today seems more important than ever. On days when he’s not in his office at WestCare of Southern Nevada, (a family of tax-exempt nonprofit organizations which provide a wide spectrum of health and human services in both residential and outpatient environments,) you’ll see him wearing a shirt that says just two words…Be Kind. Kindness was a common courtesy that seems more prevalent in earlier days, but the word is spreading through a kindness revolution. Kevin Morss is committed to the tagline—not just by wearing the shirt, but by living the message.
By: Callie Thomas
Kevin began his career with WestCare as an Outreach Worker, targeting high-risk youth. Each night he’d map the streets of Las Vegas talking to homeless kids about the services they offered at WestCare. Throughout the years he’s worked diligently with various populations and in a multitude of positions within the company. Throughout his travels he’s met many people that have increased his involvement in the community through innovative organizations and people working in social services. Through those associations he became involved with the Josh Stevens Foundation. An organization that honors the memory of a boy who lost his life just before his 13th birthday by carrying on his legacy for kind acts. Morss tells us about his commitment to community-based non-profit programs and why he’s part of the Kindness Revolution.
At WestCare the motto is “Uplifting the human spirit.” How do you accomplish this?
“By consistently improving, expanding and strengthening the quality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of everything that we do in building for the future. We empower everyone to engage in a process of healing, growing and change which benefits themselves, their families, coworkers and communities.”
What type of services are offered at WestCare?
“We offer programs for women and children, Veterans, the homeless plus resident treatment facilities, mental health services and transitional living services.”
That alone must keep you busy, but you’ve also become very involved in the Josh Stevens Foundation?
“Yes, Josh’s legacy of kindness has now spread to more than 350 schools in eight states including Nevada, California, Oregon, Washington, Minnesota, Florida, New Jersey and Mississippi. We’re currently working with new schools in Germany, Alaska and Hawaii and have reached worldwide to support a Kind playground in Uganda, Africa named after Josh.”
What’s the mission of the Josh Stevens Foundation?
“We want children and adults to know that people really do appreciate their kind actions, even though most times they go unnoticed. Kindness cards are a simple way to let someone know that their genuine kindness can change the world.”
Any experiences you’d like to share?
“In working with Josh’s family I’ve learned the importance of my own legacy and talking to my children about theirs. I find myself often thinking about how people will remember me and if they will say that I was a genuinely kind person.”
Why is it important for you to give back to the community?
“Both my wife and I work in community-based, non-profit organizations. You might say that our hearts are rich, but our pockets are empty. Our family believes in the importance of involving ourselves in our community and of philanthropy.”
What are you most proud to have accomplished?
“Marrying my wife. And I’m not just saying that because our anniversary is coming up. I’m proud of being a dad to my two beautiful children Madilynn and Carter. I never imagined being a dad would be so awesome.”
Any inspiration or advice to others you’d like to share?
“The choices we make today will determine the legacy we leave behind.”
Kema & Jonathan Ogden
If the Ogden name sounds familiar, it’s probably because it should. Residents Kema and Jonathan Ogden are a pretty dynamic duo. Not only are they champions in the business world, but they are also champions at helping at-risk kids in the community.
By Callie Thomas
Kema Ogden has owned and operated a successful boxing gym in Henderson for the past six years. The Vegas native has taken her corporate management experience in the hospitality industry and coupled it with and her passion for boxing to create one of the top boxing gyms in the area. Meanwhile, Jonathan Ogden spent over a decade playing in the NFL as the offensive tackle for the Baltimore Ravens and became an eleven-time Pro Bowl selection and nine-time All-Pro. Last year he was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and having played his entire career with the Ravens, was the first on the team to be recognized with the honor. The former UCLA alum also made history after he retired his #79 jersey and became one of only eight from the school to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Kema and Jonathan, who are also proud parents to son Jayden and daughter Mya, are proud of their accomplishments, but their development of the Ogden Foundation (www.theodgenfoundation.org), a non-profit organization that helps at-risk kids by providing them with weekly after school enrichment programs, is creating a legacy of support for children and families in the community.
The Mission of The Ogden Foundation is to build self-confidence, self-esteem, and healthy lifestyles choices for low income youth through their academic, mentoring, athletics, and empowerment programs. Kema and Jonathan talk about the Foundation, what it means to them and what they’d be doing if they weren’t already deeply satisfied with their work.
Why did you start The Ogden Foundation?
Kema: “Starting a Foundation in the Vegas community is very important to us. Our goal is to promote a healthy body and healthy mind for at-risk children through the weekly enrichment programs. We’ve adopted two Title One schools in Henderson where we focus on academic and athletic programs.”
Jonathan: “Our mantra is ‘level the playing field.’ It’s important that the kids understand the importance of education on and off the field. We also show them the value of being healthy through nutrition and exercise.”
What was your vision in developing the organization?
Jonathan: “We want to provide activities that unite the greater Las Vegas community and create a positive, safe, and healthy outlet for at-risk youth. We aim to ultimately provide after school programs throughout the community and a state of the art facility where youth can participate in year round programs including academic, athletic, nutritional/wellness, and personal empowerment.”
What is the CA.A.M.P. Ogden Club?
Kema: “C.A.A.M.P. Ogden Club provides various program including Book Buddies, a reading, writing and pen pal program and After School Enrichment, which includes academic and athletic mentoring, health/wellness workshops, life skills and anti- bullying. Our summer Fitness Camp offers challenges, boxing classes and healthy meals.”
Any experiences you’d like to share?
Jonathan: “We’ve seen grades improve tremendously in comprehension, English and Math with the kids that are in our after school literacy program. Also to see them so excited when our professional trainers or athletes work with them makes it so special for us.”
Tell us about your upcoming fundraising event “A Fighting Chance.”
Kema: “It’s a sparring charity event on May 3rd at UFC Gym Anthem to help support our two adopted schools, Robert Taylor Elementary and Jim Thorpe Elementary. We’re also having a school supply drive for our adopted schools.”
If you weren’t doing what you are presently what other job would you like to do?
Jonathan: “I love golf and hop on the course whenever I can so I’d be a Professional Golfer.”
Kema: “I’d probably be his caddy (laughs.)”
Patricia Clauretie
How many mornings have you gone to your closet and can’t seem to decide what to wear for the day? For some, the effort may result in a heap of clothing in the closet or strewn over the bed. Imagine what it would be like if you simply didn’t have a closet or a choice of clothes? That is what it is like every morning for thousands of children right here in our community. 89012 resident Patricia Clauretie has experienced first-hand the heartwarming, yet heartbreaking effects of helping children through a program called Operation School Bell, an initiative of the Assistance League where she is a member.
By: Callie Thomas
Helping others comes easily to Clauretie, having lived the small town life in Shepherdstown, West Virginia and later Shreveport, Louisiana. While each of the areas is quite distinct, both offered a strong sense of community and the notion of “pitching in” wherever needed—a way of life she has carried with her to this day. The family moved to Las Vegas in 1988 after her husband Mike accepted a teaching position at UNLV. After her two children Sean and Kevin had grown, Clauretie joined the Assistance League of Las Vegas in 2011 at the invitation of a friend. She was instantly taken with the opportunity to help other children in the valley.
She is an active member and is the Chairman of the group’s Technology Committee in addition to helping at the Assistance League Thrift Store and Operation School Bell program. Each year thousands of children from kindergarten through eighth grade may not attend school because they do not have adequate clothing. Last year Assistance League of Las Vegas provided clothing for more than 8,300 children through Operation School Bell. Patricia Clauretie shares her experiences with the program and tells us why giving back is so important.
How has the small town lifestyle influenced you here in Vegas?
“The population of Shepherdstown was 2,500 in 1972 when we lived there. I quickly learned that everyone had to pitch in to make things happen. If someone got sick, you took food…no one had to ask. If someone needed to raise money for a cause, you chipped in without a thought. Our experiences in Shreveport were much the same but included a heavy emphasis on family first. So when my husband chose to retire from UNLV and our children were grown, I wanted to get involved with an organization that focused on the needs of the valley children and Assistance League does just that.”
What is your role with Assistance League?
“As a member I work a number of shifts in the Thrift Shop or in Operation School Bell. As Chairman of the Technology committee I am responsible for keeping all the computers at peak operating level and helping other members with any technical issues.”
Any experiences you’d like to share?
“Operation School Bell provides school clothing, a warm zippered hoodie, underwear, socks, athletic shoes, a book of their choice, hygiene items and school supplies to children from families in need that are referred by the Clark County School District. The children come to our facility and as a volunteer I have helped them go shopping. My first experience was with a young girl and while we began picking out clothes for her to try on, she kept asking me if she really could pick out anything she wanted. I would politely answer yes and she responded that she had never been shopping before where she could have anything she wanted. How does that not break your heart?”
What does giving back mean to you?
“It’s a way for me to acknowledge the many blessings I have by helping others less fortunate.”
Do you have a life inspiration or quote you’d like to share?
“It’s from my husband Mike: Life is a great teacher but sometimes the exam comes before the lesson.”
Oui! Bernard’s Bistro on Sunset
Ever since the sad demise of Bon Jour Bistro several years back, there’s been the distinct void of casual French cuisine in our neighborhood. A place where the simplest of open faced sandwiches or a classic steak frites consistently make the palate swoon, while the artistic sensibilities of a classically trained chef from Versailles manifests his indelible mark on everything from the menu offerings to the kind of personalized and attentive service you’d expect in a 5 star. Thankfully, French is back and Bernard’s Bistro, located at 2021 Sunset Road at Valle Verde, is an exceptional example of a restaurant that appeals to both young and old alike.
By Aly Wagonseller
Unlike its sister restaurant that calls beautiful Lake Las Vegas home, this second location resides in what originally started as a Boston Market semi-fast food joint. The drive through sign has been awkwardly retrofitted as a “Bernard’s this way-esque” entrance sign and the building itself still roars blah on the outside, despite attempts to spruce things up with an outdoor “patio.” It’s nothing a coat of paint and a few strategically placed planters and trees wouldn’t fix, and the only reason I mention this is you might have second thoughts when driving past. Judging this book by its cover would be a grievous error if incredible food is what you’re after. Indoors you’ll find a comfortable space with white linen tablecloths and a lot (and I mean a lot) of wall décor. It lends a themey feel to the space that, while somewhat kitschy, is inviting nonetheless. Live entertainment various nights of the week reflects a laid back, Sinatra sensibility that has a certain charm for those that like the genre and enjoy old school entertainment.
Not entirely French (the restaurant bills itself as California European Cuisine), the food is thoughtful, exceedingly fresh and varied. Classic offerings include crepes, quiche and the like along with sandwiches, salads, burgers, flat breads, pasta dishes and a wide array of ethnically diverse entrees. We started with the Escargot Belle Epoque. I LOVE escargot, but in most cases it’s the garlic butter and bread that does the talking. Not so with Le Chef Bernard’s version where melt-in-your-mouth snails are paired with fresh tomato, mushroom and bacon and served in an herb sauce more likened to a tasty beurre blanc than the heavy, traditional butter option. It’s fresh, inspired and seriously hall of fame worthy. Next up was the Roasted Farm Beets and Herbed Goat Cheese salad – a must order made with delicate cheese that didn’t overpower the expertly roasted beets, accompanied with toasted pecans, papaya and greens lightly dressed with a balsamic reduction that perfectly balanced the main ingredients. How can something so simple be so good? But of course…it’s a French chef’s secret.
Entrees were tough to decide upon considering the offerings come from around the globe, but in keeping with the Parisian persuasion we decided on Three Petit Mignon with Three Different Sauces, and a Pistachio Salmon in Lavender Wine Sauce. A very respectable dish, the Mignon was fork tender and expertly cooked to a perfect medium rare, no easy feat considering how thin the meat is sliced, and while the sauces were velvety and nicely executed, they seemed one note to me, the demi glace-like base exhibiting a dominant flavor that made it hard to distinguish between the three. The Salmon dish, on the other hand, was sheer perfection. Artfully plated (a true vision to behold complete with crescent shaped puff pastry adornment), the fish was again perfectly prepared and accompanied by a lavender sauce that was as delicate as it was flavorful. Pistachios added an earthiness while pesto capped mashed potatoes lent visual interest as well as a tasty bite that didn’t adversely dominate. Bravo!
We finished our meal with a chef’s special of Cappuccino Chocolate Mousse Cake that was absolutely sublime, and a greeting (French accent included) and kiss on the hand by owner/chef Bernard Tordjman that was as sweet as anything on the dessert menu. Having a French restaurant close to home is again a welcomed reality, and the amazing food and service at Bernard’s Bistro on Sunset couldn’t be a better option. For information, call them at 558-3366.
Into the Wild – Up Close and Personal with Our Local Animal Kingdom
I wasn’t quite sure what I had gotten myself into when I turned around to see a 500 lb. male lion just inches behind me. Mind you, he was busy slurping up raw meat and didn’t seem at all interested in what I was doing there (oh, and did I mention the layer of industrial strength plexiglass between us?), but the sheer size and presence of such a powerful animal that close up is a bizarre mixture of unsettling and truly inspiring all at once. You might wonder how I got the opportunity to hobnob with the “King of the Jungle.” Honestly, it wasn’t that hard. I didn’t have to hop on a plane, or even flash my media badge for a behind the scenes peek. I drove 10 minutes on St. Rose and walked right in. It was one of the two places I traveled in our diverse city to experience close-up encounters with some pretty fascinating wild animals.
By Meghan Pescio
The Lion Habitat Ranch
When the Lion Exhibit at MGM Grand closed in early 2012 the lions’ owners, Keith and Beverly Evans, began to receive inquiries from visitors missing the excitement. They decided to retrofit and open the habitat they had run behind their home for 25 years so that the public could once again enjoy and appreciate the majesty of the creatures they cared for.
We’re glad they did. There’s no other way to describe this place besides downright cool.
Nearly 50 African lions and two newly adopted female ostriches reside at the habitat on 382 Bruner Dr. just east of the M Resort in Henderson. The 8.5 acre outdoor facility takes visitors in a circle to interact with the cats – sometimes lazily spread out in a shady spot and other times right up against the fences, seemingly within reach (although not quite) to onlookers. In addition to watching them interact, hearing a bone chilling roar and simply admiring that familiar, formidable strut, onlookers learn history and hear stories and fun facts from experienced handlers with a special, unmatched love and respect for the exotic beasts. If you’ve never seen a 5’4” woman walk up to five male adolescent lions and pet them like house cats…then you haven’t seen anything.
Truth is, to Keith, Beverly and the hired handlers, these animals are close to family. With decades of experience with large wild cats between them, it was clear during my visit that daily work consists of ensuring the safety, comfort and happiness of the animals as well as the safety of employees and visitors. After all, they’re dealing with lions and nobody’s forgotten that. The ultimate goal of the organization run by Evans, The Cat House Inc., is to raise awareness and funds to protect animals in the wild – which aren’t faring so well due to loss of habitat and human conflict in Africa.
Entry into the sanctuary is $20 for adults with free entry for a child 13 years or younger with each adult. In addition to general visitors, the Lion Habitat Ranch also hosts special events from large corporate get-togethers to children’s birthday parties. Small dinners can be held in a section of the habitat that protrudes into one of the dens – the lions will be just as curious about you as you are about them. A completely unique experience exists in special programs such as Trainer for a Day during which you shadow a trainer for feeding, bathing and handling lions for 3-4 hours. At $800, it’s not cheap, but when you get to be up close and personal with the king of all beasts, it’s worth it.
For more information on hours of operation, facility rental and more visit www.thecathouse.us.
Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary
The friendly staff at Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary joke that their facility, located at 8103 Racel St., is half way to Reno. For any bird lover or parent with young children the trip’s Return On Driving Investment is solid – it makes for a great half day adventure to interact closely with all sorts of animals from colorful macaws and toucans to a mule deer and two adorable pot bellied pigs.
Established in 1970 by William Gilcrease, the facility is used mainly to care for pets, predominantly birds but also barnyard animals, which have been estranged from their owners either due to inability to provide care or to abuse. Bambi, a friendly mule deer you can pet and feed, greets visitors as they enter the eight acre grounds. Aviaries featuring small, colorful cockatiels and larger, more exotic looking Turacos take center stage while cockatoo, macaw and pheasant are housed separately. The cockatoo room is loud, and may be a bit off putting for the little ones, but if they enjoy seeing the birds up close visitors can trek between the cages to the back where a beautiful toucan calls home. A well-groomed nature trail brings guests to a small petting area with goats, burros and llama as well as miniature ponies, ostriches, emus, peacocks, tortoises and of course the pots. A small amphitheater welcomes field trips, events (such as the April 19 “Wings in Spring”) and more.
Most exciting for the sanctuary are future plans for redevelopment. After a devastating fire in 2010, staff is busy preparing to restore and improve the facilities to give animals even more comfort and space. The loving and knowledgeable attitude of the staff, as well as their emphasis on education, is refreshing after seeing animals that have already been through so much.
General admission ranges from free-$4 based on age. For more information on hours, events, donation and volunteer opportunities and more visit www.gnslasvegas.org.
Emily Lim
Silverado High School
Class of 2014
G.P.A.: 4.8
It’s been a hot topic in education and the working world: Why are fewer women interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects than men? Well, that memo never reached the desk of Emily Lim of Silverado High School. The graduating senior, valedictorian candidate and avid runner doesn’t mess around when it comes to math and science. They are her passion and her future. What’s more, wildly driven and intensely focused, Emily has the “get it done” personality that makes her the star of any team. With this dynamite combo, we’re certain Emily will go on to do big things for our world, and that’s what makes her – A Step Above.
Sports/Clubs/Community Service
- Track & Field, 2011-2013; Varsity, 2012-2013
- Varsity Cross Country, 2012
- Key Club, 2010-Present; Secretary, 2011-2012; President, 2012-2013; Vice President, 2013-Present
- Mu Alpha Theta, 2011-Present; Secretary, 2012-2013; President, 2013-Present
- National Honor Society, 2011-Present
- Interact, 2012-Present; Treasurer, 2013-Present
- Sun Youth Participant, 2013
- Varsity Quiz, 2013
- Student Mentor, 2011-2012
- Silverado Blood Drive, 2011-2013; Coordinator, 2011-2012; Chair, 2012-2013
- Relay for Life, 2011-Present; Luminaria Chair, 2011-2012; Team Development Chair, 2012-2013; Co-Chair/Registration Chair, 2013-Present
- Enterprise Library Volunteer, 2011-2013
- Elementary School Carnivals, 2011-2013
Scholarships/Awards
- Scholar Athlete, 2010-2013
- Academic Letter Award, 2010-2013
- 1st Place in Blood Drive Division, 2012 & 2013
- Most Valuable Mentor, 2012
- Silverado Student of the Month, 2010
We love that you’re in to math and science (as writers that’s not really our forte): “In ten years, I see myself working as either a civil, mechanical, or aeronautical engineer. I’ve always had a passion for math and science, and I want to be able to integrate that passion into my life long career.”
You’re very proud of your involvement in the Silverado Blood Drive: “My biggest accomplishment is running Silverado’s blood drives with the blood drive committee. After much effort, we were able to get the most donated pints of blood in our division, taking home a $1500 scholarship, two years in a row.”
Family is an important part of your success: “My mom is the reasoning behind my success. I am ambitious, because she has always offered support, rather than pressure. I also look up to my grandmother, because she overcame all the adversities in her life. After the Khmer Rouge, she came to the U.S. with her family, and started fresh without anything. Because of her work, effort, and dedication to her family, she created an environment for all her children to grow up and prosper.”
If you could be President of any organization, what would it be? “After working on the South Youth Relay for Life committee for the past three years, it has inspired me, and opened up a whole new perspective to my understanding of the world. I would be president, because I would want to work towards the goal of curing cancer, so others wouldn’t have to face the devastating effects of it.”
Favorite Quote to Live By: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Wayne Gretzky
