Nikki Hipolito

Bishop Gorman High School

Class of 2011

Big things come in small packages, and Bishop Gorman High School Senior Class Vice President Nikki Hipolito is a brilliant example. An award winning thespian with an outstanding academic record, her accolades tell a story all their own. Yet, it is through her determination to show the world that charisma and confidence are far more important than vertical stature that her true nature really shines. With ambitious goals and the initiative to follow through with them no matter what the odds, the sky’s no limit for Nikki Hipolito, and for that she is – A Step Above. 

G.P.A.:  3.91

Activities/Clubs:

• Gaels Theatre Guild, 2007-Present
• Worship Choir, 2007-Present
• President of the International Thespian Society Troupe 4347, 2010-Present
• Senior Class Vice President, 2010-Present
• National Honor Society, 2009-Present
• Spanish Honor Society, 2009-10
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2010-Present

Awards/Community Service:

• Outstanding Academic Performance–Spanish 1, 2008; Algebra II/Trig, 2010; English III, 2010
• National Honor Thespian of the International Thespian Society
• Best Actress for Inca of Perusalem, 2009
• Best Angel for Anything Goes, 2009
• Best Studio Sweetener for Gaels Theatre Guild, 2009
• Nevada Thespian Regional Competition Superior Rating (Group Musical; 2011
• Three Square Food Bank, 2010-Present
• Opportunity Village Thrift Store, 2010
• Bless Fest, 2010
• Operation School Bell, 2010-Present

Goals & Aspirations: “After receiving an Honors Diploma at graduation, I plan to continue my education at a respectable college in the East Coast and go to medical school to study anesthesiology. Beyond education, I hope to travel the world someday.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am so proud of achieving the honor of a National Honor Thespian of the International Thespian Society with 161 points. I hope to achieve international status before I graduate!”

Nikki is Successful Because: “I am successful because I am extremely passionate in whatever I set my heart to. Some of my dreams and goals are very ambitious, but none of them are unattainable to me. I don’t believe in giving up without a fight or not giving 100% into anything that I do. To me, anything’s possible.”

Nikki is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I have always been very short for my age, and people would tease or ridicule me for it. I became very shy and was afraid of what other people would say about me. However, as I got older, I started becoming more proud of the person that I am, and I have learned that the best person I could be is me. As Dr. Seuss once said, ‘A person’s a person no matter how small.’”

Griffin Fox

Silverado High School

Class of 2011

Silverado High School senior Griffin Fox is a student with a plan…and a furry, purple monster as his right hand man. Unusual? Maybe, but together this duo is spreading the word about good values and faith through laughter and friendship. Amusing puppetry aside, it’s not all fun and games for this ambitious young man, whose natural leadership and mentoring abilities propel him along the path to a prosperous tomorrow. It’s about being the best person he can be, living proud, yet humble, and devoting his life to service and guidance for the benefit of all, and for that, Griffin Fox is – A Step Above.           

G.P.A.: 4.75

Sports/Clubs/Activities:

• Freshman Basketball, 2007/08
• Silverado Guidance Program–Vice President, 2010-Present
• Bible Club, 2007-Present
• National Honor Society, 2009-Present
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2009-Present
• SHS Production of Fiddler on the Roof–Role of the Bartender
• SHS Production of Lil’ Abner–Role of General Jack S. Phogbound
• SHS Production of Alice in Wonderland, 2009–Role of Humpty
• Men’s Glee Club Choir, 2009/10
• Madrigals, 2010-Present
• Concert Choir, 2010-Present
• Chamber Choir

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service:

• Academic Letter, 2007-10
• Rotary Youth Leadership Award, 2009-10
• Whole Person Merit Level I Scholarship
• Sunday School Teacher, 2006-Present
• Volunteer at The Store, a nonprofit food pantry, 2009/10
• Harry Reid Campaign Volunteer, 2010
• Aggie Roberts Elementary Tutor, 2010
• Volunteer at the Animal Foundation of Las Vegas, 2009

Goals & Aspirations: “I have always wanted to attend and graduate from Oral Roberts University, my dream college. I want to major in theology and minor in business. After graduating from college I plan to get married.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of being a children’s teacher for five years at my church.  To know that I had a part to play in a child’s life by teaching lessons about character brings joy to my heart. Finally, I am extremely proud of my grades.  I spend hours doing homework and staying up late studying.”

Griffin is Successful Because: “I believe the two most important components to a successful life are time management and listening to wise advice. As an AP student, I know I have a lot of work to do, so I prioritize my time so that I may spend time with my family and friends. Also, my parents are smart. They usually are right so I take their advice on almost everything.”

 Part of the Solution: “Teens are insecure. They don’t know who they are and what they are called to do. Teens run to relationships, drugs and alcohol to seek relief. Through Seven Youth Ministries and the Church at South Las Vegas, I am a part of walking teens through their troubles. We preach a message of hope that draws teens of all ages to safety.”

Paul McKay

Green Valley High School

Class of 2011

No matter what Green Valley High School senior Paul McKay is up to, he’s likely making the most of it. Taking advantage of his strengths to defy perceived weaknesses, he constantly strives to step up his game and set an example for his peers. Whether rousing his teammates to put in that extra time at practice or simply being a model athlete and student, he’s proven time and again that his playbook is filled with leadership, spirit and pride. For devoting tireless effort to better himself and excel in all that he endeavors, Paul McKay is – A Step Above.

G.P.A.:  4.60

Sports/Activities:

•  Football, 2008-Present
• Baseball, 2008
• Lacrosse, 2009-Present
• Concert Choir, 2008-Present
• Men’s Choir, 2008-Present
• Madrigal Choir, 2008-Present
• Green Valley Lacrosse Club

    Awards/Community Service:

• Honor Roll, 2008-Present
• AP Scholar, 2009-Present
• GVHS Student of the Month, 2007/08
• Rotary Club of Green Valley Student of the Month, 2010
• Nevada All-State Academic Team, 2011
• Varsity Football Nevada Scholar Athlete, 2009-11
• Team Captain–Freshman, JV, Varsity Football, 2008-11
• Team Captain–Lacrosse, 2009-11
• Quarterback Flag Football National Championship, 2007
• Deluca Scholar Athlete of the Year Nominee
• Football American National Player of the Week, 2009
• Offensive MVP–JV Football, 2008; Varsity Football, 2010
• Homecoming Court, 2011
• Cantor (singing) for Church Services
• Church Youth Group Leader
• Youth Flag Football Referee and Volunteer Coach

Goals & Aspirations: “I would like to graduate with an Honors Diploma then study either medical/athletic training or education in college and become a coach. I also hope to continue playing football and lacrosse, not only because it is something I enjoy, but so I can further my aspirations to become the best coach possible.”

Paul is Successful Because: “I am successful because I am a great listener and try to gain and learn everything that I can from anyone teaching me something. I also take advantage of every opportunity that I get and make the most of them.”

Paul is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I have always been told that I was too small to play football, especially the quarterback position. Ignoring these people and remaining persistent in my goal of playing quarterback, I earned significant playing time as a junior and was the starting quarterback my senior year.  This taught me to not let anyone try to convince me I can’t accomplish something.”

Angela Thompson

Liberty High School

Class of 2011

Nothing about Liberty High School senior Angela Thompson is average or skin deep. Superficially, her cool balance of strength and poise is obvious. On further inspection, it’s clear that intelligence and discipline drive her determination to succeed. And even deeper still, it is through her sincere willingness to put her own needs aside for the good of others that her true character really shines. In other words, she’s just the kind of person you’d be proud to salute as she enthusiastically serves our country with pride and compassion, and for that, Angela Thompson is – A Step Above. 

G.P.A.:  4.43

Sports/Clubs/Activities:  

• American Taekwondo, 2005-09
• President of Advanced Placement Club, 2010-11; Treasurer, 2009-10
• Co-Service Chair of National Honor Society, 2010-11
• Seven on Campus Member, 2009-10
• Nevada Girls State Delegate, 2010
• Church Youth Group

Scholarships/Awards/Community Service

• Accepted into United States Military Academy at West Point, 2010             
• Taekwondo Weapons State Champion
• Children Mending Hearts, 2010
• Stop Child Trafficking Now Walk, 2010
• St. Jude’s Night of Lights, 2010
• Tea for Tots, 2010
• Shade Tree Volunteer, 2010
• Schorr Elementary Volunteer, 2009/10
• Unity One Inc. Internship, 2009
• Honors Biology Tutor, 2009
• Presidential Campaign Volunteer, 2008
• Kidz in Power, 2008

 Goals & Aspirations: “My most immediate goal is to graduate from Liberty with the Advanced Honors Diploma. Once I graduate I plan on attending West Point and becoming an officer in the Army. Ultimately, I want to make myself, my family and my country proud.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “Receiving an appointment to West Point is my proudest accomplishment. I have always tried my best in school to earn good grades and stay out of trouble. I’m thankful for the opportunity to go to such a prestigious school, and I’m glad that my hard work is paying off.”

Angela is Successful Because:  “I am determined not to give up on myself. I make just as many mistakes as anyone else, but I learn from my mistakes and I move past them. Also, my family and friends constantly encourage me to succeed. Their support, coupled with my desire to achieve my goals makes me successful.”

Angela is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Currently my dad is in Iraq for a year as a civilian contractor. He also served in the Air Force for 21 years and was frequently deployed to other countries. While it has been difficult to grow up without him being with our family for such long periods of time, I refuse to be selfish about the situation. My dad is serving America, and he has helped me realize that sacrifice is necessary.”

Samantha Gregg

Nevada State HS

Class of 2011

Nevada State High School senior Samantha Gregg is a young lady of duality. As an all-star on the Foothill High School track team and student of her soon to be alma mater, she’s doubly spirited. And as a high school student on the fast track to an Associate’s degree, she’s getting where she’s going twice as fast. Still, it’s the direction she’s headed that is so inspirational. With an altruistic mindset, a conscientious world-view and unwavering ambition, she’s following her own compass to success, charity and gratitude, and for that, Samantha Gregg is – A Step Above.

G.P.A.:  4.75

Sports/Clubs/Awards/Community Service

• JV Track & Field, 2007-09
• Varsity Track & Field, 2009-Present
• Varsity Cross Country, 2008-09
• Student Union of Nevada State High School, 2009/10
• Yearbook Committee, 2009/10
• All-State Academic Team–Track & Field, 2007-08
• Henderson High School Leadership Retreat Participant, 2010
• Academic Letter, 2008/09
• St. Rose De Lima Jr. Volunteer (100 hours), 2009/10
• Department of Utility Services at Henderson City Hall Volunteer (95 hours), 2010
• Math Tutor, 2009/10
• Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Fundraiser ($2000) and Participant, 2010
• Student Mentor at Nevada State HS, 2010
• Nevada State HS Introductory Two Week Course (65 hours), 2010
• Newton Elementary School Special Education Volunteer
• Raised over $2500 for Baby Safe, South Africa, 2010

Goals and Aspirations: “My current goal is to graduate high school with my Associate’s Degree, which I will have successfully accomplished in May. My career goal is to become a doctor, as of a specific specialty I have not decided, but I do know that I want to work with children. All of these little goals are hopefully leading up to my ultimate goal in life, which is to go to Africa to participate in Doctors without Borders.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “Over the past couple of months I have seen the world in a new light. And, I have walked away with the amazing accomplishment of saving babies’ lives in Africa. Through raising over $2500, I have sponsored a new Baby Safe in South Africa. Hopefully, this safe will save many babies.”

Samantha is Successful Because:  “My mom makes me successful. She has taught me a very valuable lesson when it comes to success: NEVER QUIT! Another lesson is in her favorite saying: ‘Make good choices.’ With her help and guidance, I am glad to say that I have made some pretty good choices.”

Samantha Looks Up To: “My dad was a member of the U.S. Air Force and now serves his community as a police officer. He has taught me what it means to put others first, and the most valuable of all his lessons was respect. He is courageous, loyal, patriotic and hard working. I try to live my life by those standards, because I want him to be proud of me and the choices I make.”

Alex Forman

Faith Lutheran High School

Class of 2011

Undoubtedly, life comes fraught with highs and lows. The real challenge is to learn from our trials and forge positively into the future; a challenge that Faith Lutheran High School senior Alex Forman works to conquer every day. Realistic, grateful and humble, Alex sets up for the future by focusing on attainable goals and personal strengths, while being present for all of life’s day to day gifts. Soon he will most assuredly use his talents and intelligence to join the forces of the world’s forward thinkers, not simply for personal gain, but to be an inspiration and a leader, and for that, Alex Forman is – A Step Above.    

 G.P.A.:  3.9

Sports/Clubs:

• Varsity Lacrosse, 2008-Present
• Team Vegas Elite Lacrosse Team, 2009-Present
• Student Council, 2011 

Awards/Community Service:

• Crusader Athletic Award, 2009
• Crusader Academics Award–3.75 G.P.A. and above for the entire year, 2009-10
• Sociology Student of the Year, 2009 
• Donations to the Homeless, 2008-11
• Big Brother Lacrosse Program, 2011

Goals & Aspirations: “For now, I would like to graduate high school with scholar honors and a top 10 class ranking, and also get accepted to USC for the study of international business. One day I would like to have a positive impact on the development and overall distribution of vehicles fueled by alternative energy sources.”   

Accomplishments Most Proud Of:  “I am very proud of maintaining a 3.75 GPA (un-weighted) through all of high school; it took a lot of hard work and dedication. I am also proud of working full time every summer since 8^th grade in order to save up for my car.”

Alex Looks Up To:  “I look up to my father because he started his career without help from anyone. He worked his way from the bottom to the top of his business and became one of the most successful business owners I’ve ever met.”

Alex is Stronger and Wiser Because: “The loss of my mother when I was in the seventh grade was the largest obstacle in my life; but it has helped me to become closer to my family and become a much stronger person. The lesson learned from the experience is that every day is a gift, so don’t dwell in the past; be thankful for the present and look forward. Take risks and learn from your mistakes.” 

A Step Above – Kimberly Coombs

Palo Verde High School

Class of 2011

Palo Verde High School senior Kimberly Coombs is undeniably determined to lead by example as she travels along the high road to success. Embracing diversity, willfully taking on tough tasks, and maintaining an active role in social issues are integral landmarks on her journey. In a word, discipline is what sets this champion athlete, outstanding student and JROTC all-star apart from the competition. For consistently striving to uphold strong moral character, along with a sense of responsibility to her country, family, peers and community, Kimberly Coombs is – A Step Above. 

G.P.A.:  4.592

Sports/Activities/Community Service:  

• Varsity Cross Country, 2007-09
• Varsity Girls Swimming, 2008-10
• Air Force JROTC Women’s Physical Fitness Team Captain, 2008-Present
• Orchestra, 2007/08
• Kitty Hawk, 2009-Present
• Assistant Swim Coach–Summerlin Seals, 2010
• Central Christian Church Volunteer, 2008/09
• Summerlin Community Fundraisers, 2007-Present
• Palo Verde High School Fundraisers, 2007-Present

Scholarships/Awards:

• Varsity Letter–Cross Country
• Varsity Letter–Girls Swimming
• Scholar Athlete–Swim Team & Cross Country, 2007-09
• 200 Relay Nevada State Champion–Swim Team, 2008/09
• Nevada State Champions–Swim Team, 2009
• Varsity Most Valuable Player–Cross Country, 2007
• NIAA Nevada All State Academic Team–Cross Country, 2007
• 2^nd Place All Air Force–JROTC Physical Fitness Team, 2009/10
• 3^rd Place Clark County School District–JROTC Physical Fitness Team, 2010
• Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference, 2009
• Nevada Girls State, 2010
• Wendy Heisman High School Scholarship State Finalist, 2010
• Student of the Month, 2010
• UNLV Army ROTC Scholar Athletic Leader Award, 2007
• Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge Award, 2009/10
• Women’s Veterans of Nevada Award, 2009
• Military Officers Association of America Award & Scholarship, 2010
• Cadet of the Month–Air Force ROTC, 2008/09
• Commanders Award–Air Force ROTC, 2008
• Cadet of the Quarter–Air Force ROTC, 2009/10
• Outstanding Citizenship Award–Air Force ROTC, 2010

Goals & Aspirations: “I intend to attend college at either a military academy or at a university in Southern California where I plan to obtain a great education, be a member on a swim team, and develop my leadership skills. After attending veterinarian school and serving my country, I aspire to set up a veterinarian practice in Las Vegas.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of being part of the Palo Verde Girls Swim Team that won the 2009 Nevada State Championship. It was the first time the swim team had won the state championship.  Winning the championship acknowledged all the hard work and motivation of my teammates and our coaching staff. Go Panthers.”  

Kimberly is Successful Because: “My determination, hard work ethic and aspiration to always be better than my best effort helps me succeed, along with the support, guidance and encouragement of my teachers, coaches, and family.” 

Alexander Shen

Palo Verde High School

Class of 2011

Backed by a stringent list of priorities, a perfect SAT score, rock-solid work ethic and a vision, Palo Verde High School senior Alex Shen is a force to be reckoned with.  This upstanding student spends his time in a multitude of ways, always striving for excellence in academics, athletics and charity.  It all seems to be part of his larger plan, that is, to succeed in his chosen career and family-life; to remain true to his faith and convictions; and to be a vital asset to his community. Given his actions so far, he’s well on his way toward making this plan a reality, which makes Alex Shen – A Step Above.

G.P.A.: 4.800

Sports/Clubs:

• Golf, 2008-Present
• Computer Club, 2008-10
• Science Club, 2007-10
• Varsity Quiz, 2009-10
• Science Bowl, 2009-10
• National Honor Society, 2008-10
• Yearbook Staff, 2010
• Speech and Debate, 2008-10

Awards/Community Service:

• National Merit Semi-Finalist, 2010
• AMC10 Highest Score in Nevada, 2009
• Scholar Athlete, 2008-10
• Nevada All-Star Academic Team, 2008-10
• AP Scholar, 2009-10
• Opportunity Village Magical Forest, 2008
• Three Square Food Bank, 2008-09
• Ragnar Relay Race, 2009
• Ronald McDonald House Charity McHappy Day, 2009
• NHS Mentoring, 2010

Goals & Aspirations: “I wish to attend a prestigious college and study international finance and affairs and then go into business school. Hopefully, I can work and travel for a couple years after college, then settle down and have a family.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I got a perfect score on the SAT reasoning test. I got straight A’s all through high school while taking the most rigorous courses. I worked very hard and sacrificed a lot of my time, but in the end it paid off.”

Alex is Successful Because: “I have a very strict sense of priorities in life. Number one is God, as I always try to follow his teachings. Number two is family, as I always take my parent’s advice to heart. Number three is school. The rest comes after.”

Alex Looks Up To: “I look up to Job from the Bible. He had a distinct set of core principles, and he stuck to them despite losing all of his money, his house, his wife, his children, and even his health. His determination is a great source of inspiration for me.”

Lesley Chan

Sierra Vista High School
Class of 2011

Despite her many accolades, Sierra Vista High School senior Lesley Chan aspires to more than just perfect scores and praise.  Sure, she receives these, but for her, they are merely positive byproducts of the ambitions that will boldly take her in the way of her hero, “where no man has gone before.” Beyond the borders of academics and athleticism, Lesley’s demeanor is hallmarked by light-hearted candor, enviable self-discipline and maturity. With these qualities at the forefront of her character, she sets her sights above the marks to achieve her own measure of success and leadership, and for that, Lesley Chan is – A Step Above.    

G.P.A.: 4.43

Sports/Music/Clubs:

• Varsity Tennis, 2008-10
• Track & Field, 2008/09
• Junior Varsity Bowling, 2007/08
• Orchestra (Violin; 2007-Present
• Studio Art AP–Drawing, 2008/09
• French Club, 2007-Present
• Varsity Quiz, 2008-Present
• Mu Alpha Theta, 2009/10
• Renaissance Club, 2009/10
• National Honor Society, 2009-Present

Awards/Community Service:

• Athletic Scholar
• Tennis MVP, 2010
• White Letter (Tennis; 2010
• Bagel Award (Tennis; 2010
• NIAA All-State Academic Team Award, 2008/09
• Varsity Quiz Regional Championship, 2009
• Canarelli Middle School Tutor
• Sierra Vista High School Tutor
• Canarelli Middle School Orchestra Volunteer, 2009/10
• Campus Clean-Up, 2008
• National Honor Society Canned Food Drive, 2009
• Elementary Middle School Fall Festivals Volunteer, 2009/10
• Golden Desert Debate Tournament, 2010

Goals & Aspirations: “I intend to graduate from high school with an Advanced Honors Diploma.  I also strongly seek to attend a respectable out-of-state college and earn a degree in Humanities and/or Social Sciences.  I aspire to then attain a career that enables me to play a distinguished role in society.”

Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am so proud of my high school tennis team.  They started out as a band of shy beginners; as their captain, I avidly worked with them throughout the season, and they have all grown so much in terms of skill and confidence.”

Lesley Looks Up To: “Captain James T. Kirk is my absolute hero.  He is highly intelligent, extraordinarily versatile, exceedingly brave, and remarkably steadfast in his moral code.  He always puts the crew first, and he is an outstanding leader.”

Desert Oasis High School DECA Club

The DECA organization has a heavy task at hand: to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. Desert Oasis High School’s DECA club, approximately 100 strong, are doing much more than preparing for their careers. They’re out in the community all year long on philanthropic detail, achieving their maximum potential through fundraising efforts, blood and food drives, desert clean up and so much more. For dedicating their time and abilities to the benefit of those in need during the holiday season and beyond, each member is – A Step Above.

Activities:

We R Community: In this year-long initiative, students determine what the needs are in the community and create a mission statement based on those needs. They then use that mission statement to solicit grants, review the financial needs of several nonprofits and, finally, award the chosen nonprofits with $5000 in grant funding. 

Opportunity Village Magical Forest (11.20): Fifteen members donated eight hours to help set up and work at the Magical Forest, an event that benefits adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Food Drives (11.3-9 & 20): Students collected approximately 200 boxes of food to benefit the Salvation Army at two drives, one at school and the others at Smith’s and Albertsons.  

Goodie Two Shoes (10.23): For National Make a Difference Day, students helped distribute new shoes donated by Zappos to approximately 2000 Clark County children that needed shoes to attend school.

DECA President Kazzandra Alvarado comments on the group’s success:

What is DECA’s greatest achievement so far this year? “Our greatest achievement is having the honor of being the high school group that does the greatest amount of community service in Clark County. We clock over 1000 hours of community service every year.”

What is it like working with DECA to organize and follow through with charitable endeavors? “It is a great feeling to know that we are helping other people that may not have the same opportunities that we do. All too often we forget how lucky we are to have a roof over our heads; a supportive family; a great school environment; and a DECA advisor that pushes us to be our best.”

How do you select the charities you work with? “We select our charitable opportunities based on need in the community. We hear about the charitable events through several sources, including We R Community, an initiative of the Public Education Foundation.”

What are some of the obstacles you face as a group, in terms of planning and executing, and how do you overcome them? “The biggest challenge we face is time management and the policies and procedures with CCSD. Any event that we attend, plan or implement requires a mountain of paperwork. The paperwork must be submitted six weeks prior to the event. In addition, we struggle with funding. We overcome these challenges by planning ahead and working with local businesses that help sponsor events.”

How does working with charitable organizations or for charity affect DECA’s dynamic? “Community service has helped us learn to work in teams and to understand that everyone deserves a chance to succeed. Having compassion for others plays a significant role in a successful future.”