A Step Above – Lena Schulhofer
The Meadows School
Class of 2014
Life is a continuous learning experience for The Meadows School Student Body President Lena Schulhofer. As she steps up to assume a key leadership role within her academic community, Lena hopes to serve as a positive role model while staying deeply involved in student life and affairs, a mission she hopes to carry with her into college and beyond. Altruistic, self assured and driven to accomplish great things, Lena strives to discover a new world of ideas and knowledge while staying emotionally and morally balanced enough to keep herself grounded. For using every day as a new chance to inspire someone else, Lena Schulhofer stands – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.75
Sports/Activities
- JV Volleyball, 2010; Captain, 2010
- Varsity Volleyball, 2011-Present
- Class President: Freshman, 2010-11; Sophomore, 2011-12; Junior, 2012-13
- Student Body President, 2013-Present
- The Meadows School Microbank, 2010-Present
- Microbank COO/VP, 2011-12; CEO/President, 2012-Present
- Make-A-Wish, 2010-Present; Co-VP, 2012-13; Co-President, 2013-Present
- National Honor Society, 2012-Present
- National Spanish Honor Society, 2012-Present
- Cum Laude Society, 2013-Present
- GSA, 2010-Present
- Women’s Empowerment Club, 2012-Present
Awards/Community Service
- Most Improved Player (Varsity Volleyball), 2012
- National Spanish Exam Level 3 Gold, 2012; Level 4 Silver, 2013
- Academic Award:
- Honors Intro to Literature and Composition, 2010-11
- Honors Ancient History, 2010-11
- Honors Spanish II, 2010-11
- AP Calculus AB, 2012-13
- Geometry Tutor, 2012-Present
- Relay for Life, 2011 & 2013
- Springs Preserve Volunteer, 2010-12
- HELP of Southern Nevada, 2010-13
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am proud of overcoming my stage fright this past year. When I was younger, I used to fear being asked to speak in front of my class, and I would always choke up while speaking publicly. This year, while representing my school’s Microbank at the 2nd Annual Leadership Summit in front of about one hundred professionals, something clicked and I was able to relax and deliver my speech. I still have nerves, but I am now more confident.”
Lena is Successful Because: “My strong empathy for others makes me successful. Whether working incredibly hard as president, running the school’s Microbank, helping plan Make-a-Wish movie nights, or being a supporting friend, I have a strong will to help and connect with others.”
Part of the Solution: “Many young adults are afraid of failure and become apathetic. I believe it’s crucial to reinforce that an occasional failure does not have to be negative; without making mistakes, it’s impossible to mature and become fully aware of your passions. I do my best to motivate and support my peers by helping them recognize how feasible happiness and success are.”
A Step Above – Brock Smith
Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2014
Between academics, athletics and student council, Faith Lutheran High School Student Body President Brock Smith stays active and involved in all aspects of campus life. With dynamic leadership skills and steadfast determination, Brock takes great pride in encouraging the student body to stay connected and proactive by living that same message himself. Decisive, inspiring and deeply self motivated, Brock relies on his strong sense of values and unyielding confidence to carry him through life’s adventures while helping others understand the true meaning of success and the power of positivity. For all that and more, Brock Smith rises to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.22
brock smith
Sports/Activities/Awards/Community Service
Freshmen Football, 2010
Freshmen Basketball, 2010; Captain, 2010
JV Basketball, 2011-12; Captain, 2011-12
Varsity Basketball, 2013-Present
Student Council, 2012-Present
Junior Class Treasurer, 2012-13
Student Body President, 2013-Present
Academic Scholar Award, 2010-13
Crusader Award, 2010
Basketball MVP, 2012
Teacher Assistant/Volunteer at Bozarth Elementary School, 2011-13
Brock is Successful Because: “I am successful because of my determination and accomplishments in high school so far. As a seventeen-year-old going into my senior year, I am growing up and finding out what I want to do with my life. All I can do right now is control my academics, my attitude towards the future and how I help out my school, and I believe I still have room for growth.”
Improving Student Life: “I think school spirit can change the way student life is at my school. Sporting events, dances and other school related events are ways for students to really be active in school and meet new friends through cheering on a sports team or attending a dance. As Student Body President, my peers and myself are trying to encourage everyone to be a proactive student.”
Part of the Solution: “I think one of the biggest issues for young adults today going through college or thinking of college is the fact that jobs are not so available as before. The recession has affected many people in that money isn’t as accessible for college tuition or anything related and many young kids with degrees aren’t able to get jobs.”
Cause for Concern: “I would be the president of the American Cancer Society. Cancer affects the lives of millions of people, those who have it and those who know of someone with it. There is no known cure and I believe cancer research is a desired thing that every person who has been directly or indirectly affected by this terrible disease wants.”
A Step Above – Kayla McKenna
Silverado High School
Class of 2014
Confidence is key for Silverado Student Body President Kayla McKenna. Self assurance has long been the standout quality of any good leader, especially one charged with overseeing student government, and Kayla helps keep her focus through a desire to create a positive, everlasting impact. Spirited, hardworking and always adventurous, she’s never afraid to break out of her comfort zone; like the great leaders who have come before her, she knows that facing something you fear every day can only lead to stronger motivation, sharper skills and the will to make the impossible a reality. For all that and more, Kayla McKenna rises to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.4
Sports/Activities
- JV Soccer, 2011
- Women’s Varsity Soccer, 2012-Present; Captain, 2013
- Women’s Varsity Flag Football, 2013-Present
- Las Vegas Sports Academy, 2010-Present; Captain, 2012-13
- Freshman Class Vice President, 2010-11
- Sophomore Class President, 2011-12; Junior Class President, 2012-13
- Student Body President, 2013
- Class Committee, 2011-Present
- Student Council, 2011-Present
Awards/Community Service
- Regional Champions (Flag Football), 2013
- Outstanding Freshman Super Leader, 2011
- Outstanding Sophomore Super Leader, 2012
- All Southern Nevada, 2012-13
- All Sunrise Region, 2012-13
- All Northeast League, 2012-13
- L.I.G.H.T. Work Camp, 2010
- Volunteer with Las Vegas Sports Academy Juniors Program, 2011-Present
- Special Olympics, 2013
- Soccer Jam Volunteer Coach, 2010-12
- Volunteer at Charlotte Hill Elementary School, 2009-Present
- Youth Leader at St. Thomas More Church, 2013
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am very proud of my election as Student Body President because it’s something I have dreamed of accomplishing since my freshman year. It showed that all my hard work has paid off even though I have a lot more work ahead of me. I am also proud of being Captain of my high school’s Varsity Soccer team as a junior. I am proud of this because it showed that I am a leader outside of Student Council and that my coach believed in me.”
Kayla Looks Up To: “Ever since my freshman year in Student Council, Cecilia Fisher has shown me what it is to be a true leader. She took me under her wing and helped me be the leader I am today. She not only displayed leadership in Student Council but also in everything she did outside of Student Council. I look up to her and model how I am as a leader after her.”
Cause for Concern: “I would love to be president or part of Best Buddies because it’s so important that kids with mental disabilities get the chance to experience things and to feel a part of something rather than feeling different. I love how this program makes it easy for teens to interact with special needs kids and make them feel important and like they belong.”
A Step Above – Sophie Arrowsmith
Green Valley High School
Class of 2014
Life has been a spectacular adventure for Green Valley High School Student Body President Sophie Arrowsmith. Hailing from across the Atlantic, Sophie’s journey has taken her from Manchester, England (she’s a Man City fan for you football fanatics out there) to the desert of Las Vegas, where she’s now putting her energetic spirit, passion for success and dynamic leadership skills to the test. She sees the future of her school as one of unity, progress and excellence, and she’s got the talent and resolve to help them get there. With her forward thinking vision dead set on the promise of tomorrow, Sophie Arrowsmith stands – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.5
Sports/Activities/Awards
- Varsity Women’s Tennis, 2011-Present
- Student Council, 2010-Present
- Sophomore Class President, 2011-12
- Junior Class President, 2012-13
- Student Body President, 2013
- Bella Voce, 2010-12
- Class Committee, 2010-Present
- Scholar Athlete Award, 2011-13
Community Service
- March of Dimes March for Babies, 2011-13
- Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Walk, 2010-13
- PB&J-A-Thon, 2010-13
- Santa Run, 2011-13
- Relay for Life, 2011-12
- Food Allergy Walk, 2011-12
- Suicide Prevention Walk, 2013
- Feeding the Homeless, 2013
Goals & Aspirations: “My ambition is to be a successful Student Body President this year and make a difference and inspire other students and encourage as much spirit as possible within the Gator family. I want to ensure that all students feel welcome and valued and are inspired by the true spirit at Green Valley. I would also like to graduate with an advanced honors diploma and present a memorable speech at graduation for the Class of 2014.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “My main accomplishment is the fact that I have moved from a different country, started a new life and have achieved success in becoming Student Body President. My sister Charlotte encouraged me to join Student Council and become involved in the day to day life of school.”
Sophie is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Four years ago, my family relocated to America for my father’s job. I left behind family and friends, hobbies, interests and membership of several organizations. I had to become integrated into the last year of middle school where everyone was well established and start my learning experience in a completely different education system. I applied to join Student Council as a freshman. This was my opportunity to make firm friendships and become involved in running this intrinsic aspect of school life. I could never have believed that four years later I would have the honor of being Student Body President of GVHS.”
A Step Above – R.J. Khalaf
Coronado High School
Class of 2014
“To thine own self be true,” said Polonius to his son Laertes in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, advice that Coronado High School Student Body President R.J. Khalaf takes to heart. With a prevailing drive to succeed and a resolution to never take no for an answer, R.J. maintains strong pride in all that he does, from student council to debate and beyond. Professional, eloquent and firm in his beliefs, this enterprising young man has his sights set on Georgetown University and an eventual career with the United Nations, seeking to bring about change on a global scale. It’s that kind of elevated thinking that makes dreams a reality and places R.J. Khalaf – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.1
Sports/Activities
- JV Track and Field, 2011
- Varsity Track and Field, 2012
- Varsity Debate Team, 2011-13
- Muslim Student Association, Founder and President, 2011-13
- Best Buddies, 2011 & 2013
- Forensics/Debate, 2011-13
- DECA, 2011-13
- FBLA, 2011
- Sophomore Class President, 2011-12; Junior Class President, 2012-13
- Student Body President, 2013
- Lumberjack Alliance, 2013
Awards/Community Service
- Student of the Month, 2011
- Best Public Forum (Debate Team), 2013
- Featured in R-Jeneration, 2013
- 4th Place at State, Team Marketing and Decision Making (DECA), 2012
- Tournament of Champions Bid, 2013
- 1st Place, JV Public Forum County Debate Tournament, 2012
- Bears for Love, 2013
- Day of Dignity, 2011-13
- Volunteer in Palestinian Refugee Camps, 2010-11 & 2013
- Volunteer for Dina Titus Campaign, 2012
R.J. is Successful Because: “What makes me successful is my drive. I want to be the best in whatever I am passionate about. I don’t like to let obstacles stop me or let people tell me that I am not able to do something. I work to finish the job, no matter how hard it gets. Above all, I owe my success to support from my family and to God for all that he has blessed me with.”
R.J. Looks Up To: “My dad is the epitome of a true leader and has been since he was seventeen when he started working full time in his father’s store to support the family. My dad is also the most generous man I know. He donates money to charity and always puts others before himself.”
Cause for Concern: “I would love to be president of an organization that deals with world hunger and works to provide adequate water and food to people all over the world who don’t have access to those basic necessities. I think that with all the resources we have in the world today, it is a disgrace that people are dying because they can’t afford food and water.”
A Step Above – Allison Beal
Foothill High School
Class of 2014
True leadership is not about making inspirational speeches; it’s about results, and Foothill High School Student Body President Allison Beal has spent her career in student council making things happen through intensive leadership, goal setting and a strong sense of follow through. Engaging, driven and committed to excellence in all she does, Allison has learned to become a positive role model by staying involved in activities and surrounding herself with like minded people. Taking charge of student government is an uphill climb, but she’s determined to reach the summit, and that’s the kind of personal devotion that sets Allison Beal – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.63
Activities
- Sun Youth Forum Participant, 2013
- Henderson High School Leadership Participant, 2013
- RSVP Workshop Presenter, Southern Zone, State & National Student Council Conference, 2011
- Presenter at National Student Council Conference, 2013
- Student Council, 2010-Present
- Student Body President, 2013; Junior Class VP, 2012-13
- National Honor Society, 2011-Present; Leadership Team, 2013
- Yearbook, 2010-Present; Editor, 2011-Present
- Interact, 2012-Present
- NASC Certified Student Leader, 2011
Awards/Community Service
- Student Council Most Valuable Freshman, 2011
- Student Council Most Valuable Sophomore, 2012
- Student Council Most Valuable Junior, 2013
- Kids to Kids Book Cleaning, 2012-Present
- Santa Run, 2011-Present
- Peanut Butter & Jelly-athon, 2012-Present; Chairperson, 2013
- Suicide Prevention Walk Volunteer, 2011-Present
- Trick or Treat for Canned Goods, 2010-Present
- Iron Man Volunteer, 2012-Present
Allison Looks Up To: “My cousin Amanda Lester has been my role model my entire life. Amanda is the one that got me interested in student council in elementary school. It is such an honor that we were both able to serve as Student Body President at Foothill High School. Her drive and goal setting have been an inspiration to me.”
Allison is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My parents have encouraged me to excel in school my whole life. They worked hard to put themselves through college and expect the same from me and my brother. My parents encouraged me to get a job to learn about working hard and the value of money. I am expected to bring home good grades and earn a good life like they did.”
Part of the Solution: “The societal pressure to make children grow up faster than they should is a major issue facing young adults, especially girls. Their self esteem suffers if they do not look the way society expects them to. I can help by mentoring young girls and showing them how important a good education is and how they can still care about their appearance without sacrificing their education.”
A Step Above – Claire Holden
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2013
John Mayer once sang, “Who says I can’t be free from all of the things that I used to be?” That idea of a life filled with promise and possibility is something Palo Verde High School senior Claire Holden holds close to her heart. Driven by a passion for everything from music to endangered animals to community fellowship, Claire approaches every situation with a positive outlook, preparing herself for the road ahead with a strong work ethic and a natural aptitude for leadership. There’s no dream beyond her reach, and that places Claire Holden – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.45
Activities/Community Service
- JROTC, 2009-10
- Marching Band, 2009-Present; Concert Band, 2009-Present
- Jazz Band, 2009-Present; Jazz Combo, 2012-Present
- Percussion Ensemble, 2009-Present; Section Leader, 2012-Present
- Steel Drum Ensemble, 2009-Present; Taiko Ensemble, 2012-Present
- Wind Ensemble, 2011-Present
- Drum Line, 2011-Present
- Band Student Leadership, 2012-Present
- Church Mission Trip to La Mission, Mexico, 2005-Present
- Walk Over to The Heights of Summerlin Mental Rehabilitation Clinic, 2012
- Campus Clean Up, 2009-Present
- Hometown Holidays, 2010-Present
- Snow Day, 2010-Present
Awards
- JROTC Commander’s Award, 2010
- Presidential Service Medal (Silver), 2010
- Marching Section of the Year (Percussion), 2010
- Most Improved Concert Percussionist, 2010
- Outstanding Concert Percussionist, 2012
- Superior and Excellent Scores in Solo & Ensemble, 2010-13
- Superior Scores in Regional Solo & Ensemble, 2010-13
- Highest Scores in Nevada, All State Solo & Ensemble, 2011 & 2013
Goals & Aspirations: “I plan on attending UNLV, then going on to continue my education in veterinary school, hoping to one day have my own clinic. I hope to graduate from veterinary school with little to no debt and set up an outreach for endangered animals.”
Part of the Solution: “The biggest issue facing students today is the general lack of world knowledge and involvement in the community. A lot of people are just not aware of what is going on around the world and how it affects our lives and the future of our country. I believe that history and government class should spend a portion of class time reviewing current events and holding class discussions.”
Cause for Concern: “I would choose to be president of a charity that continues to support our veterans wounded in war. Most of my family are currently serving or veterans of the military, though I am lucky enough that none of them were injured during war. I would like to support our troops as much as I can.”
A Step Above – Lindsey Flangas
Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2013
Faith Lutheran High School senior Lindsey Flangas has built her strength of character through hard work, strong values and a clear vision for her future. The University of Texas at Austin will welcome her with open arms this fall, where she plans to study mechanical engineering in hopes of forging new paths and bringing innovation to the forefront. The bonds of family play a key role in this volleyball superstar’s world, with years of supportive encouragement helping her to develop the poise, grace and will to succeed that she shows in everyday life. For always embracing her full potential no matter the obstacles, Lindsey Flangas stands – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.01
Sports/Activities/Community Service
- Freshmen Volleyball, 2009-10
- Varsity Volleyball, 2010-13
- Club Volleyball, 2009-12
- Lip Sync, 2012-13
- National Junior Honor Society, 2009-10
- National Honor Society, 2010-13
- Opportunity Village Kids, 2009-13
- Service Leadership Class, 2012-13
- Mark 10:14 Class, 2012-13
Awards
- Valedictorian, 2013
- Scholar Athlete, 2009-13
- Crusader Award (Volleyball), 2012-13
- 2nd Team All State (Volleyball), 2012-13
- 1st Team All Conference (Volleyball), 2012-13
- 1st Team All Division (Volleyball), 2012-13
- Conference Champions (Volleyball), 2012-13
- Division Champions (Volleyball), 2012-13
- Freshmen Volleyball MVP, 2009-10
Lindsey is Successful Because: “I believe I am successful because I always give my best effort in whatever I set my mind to. It’s easy to rush through homework or only put in half effort at practices, but you won’t see any results that way. Putting in a little hard work can go a long way.”
Lindsey Looks Up To: “I look up to both my parents because they’ve worked hard to accomplish everything they have and have made sure I have the same values. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for them always encouraging me.”
Lindsey is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My freshman year of volleyball, I did not make the team I was hoping to make. After that, I trained twice as hard, played club and was able to make the varsity team the following year. It helped me learn that if things don’t go your way you can either get mad and quit or take the actions to improve your circumstances.”
Part of the Solution: “I think an issue facing young adults today is a lack of identity. High school is a time where a lot of students are still trying to find their place and it’s easy to be persuaded to make the wrong choices. I think young adults should stick to their morals and key beliefs and not let others change who they are.”
A Step Above – Laura Brodkin
Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2013
Knowledge is truth, and Bishop Gorman High School senior Laura Brodkin hopes to have a career and a future where she consistently seeks more of both. Eloquent, personable and passionate about what she believes in, Laura hopes to shape public policy and influence the political sphere on issues that matter the most to her. By staying engaged and informed on every level, she’s always working hard to be the best, a quality that she hopes to continue at the University of Michigan this fall. Her passion helps keep her motivated to create the change she would like to see in the world, and that’s what helps Laura Brodkin rise to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.87
Activities
- Freshman Cheer, 2009-10; Junior Varsity Cheer, 2010-11
- BGHS Competition Cheer Team, 2010-11
- Sophomore Class President, 2010-11; Junior Class Treasurer, 2011-12
- Executive Board Senator, 2012-13
- Varsity Public Forum and Domestic Extemporaneous, 2012-13
- U.S. Senate Page, 2012-13
- We the People Unit Leader, 2012-13
- Mock Trial, 2012-13
- Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, 2012-13
- National Honor Society, 2011-13
- Micro Bank, 2010-11
Awards/Community Service
- Nevada State Mock Trial Champions, 2012-13
- AP Scholar, 2012-13
- 1st Place, Unit 6 We the People – District 3, Region 1, NV, 2012-13
- 1st Place, Varsity Public Forum, 2011-13
- BGHS Academic Society, 2009-11
- Scholar Athlete Award, 2009-11
- St. Vincent Lied Dining Facility/Catholic Charities, 2011
- Three Square Food Bank, 2010-12
- Opportunity Village, 2010-12
- Habitat for Humanity, 2012
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of my mock trial team placing fourth at the national level. The team was a group of amazing students that really worked hard to be the best. It is the best any team from Nevada has ever done and I will always remember the fun I had with some great friends.”
Laura is Stronger and Wiser Because: “My most important experiences have come from my failures rather than from my successes. Losing my student council election senior year taught me that you can’t win at everything. It also showed me that winning with grace is one thing, but losing with grace can be even more important.”
Part of the Solution: “A key issue that young adults face today is being severely underestimated by leaders and by the media. I think that many would be surprised how many truly engaged and informed young adults there are, especially on issues that matter to us. To solve this, my fellow classmates and I need to involve ourselves more deeply in social movements and community activism to make sure our demographic is properly represented.”
A Step Above – Neil Insigne
Liberty High School
Class of 2013
Liberty High School senior Neil Insigne doesn’t believe in limitations. From his impressive achievements as a pole vault champion to his desire to help others in his future career as a physical therapist, Neil keeps his goals in sharp focus and maintains a strong sense of determination and discipline to keep them within reach. Outgoing, humble and never afraid to take risks, Neil fully understands the power of a helping hand and the importance of making others feel welcome. He’s got the courage, resilience and character it takes to meet every challenge, and that sets Neil Insigne – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.285
Sports/Activities/Community Service
- • Varsity Track and Field, 2010-13
- • Orchestra, 2006-11
- • Breakdance Club, 2009-13
- • Gawad Kalinga, 2010-13
- • Key Club, 2012-13
- • National Honor Society, 2011
- • AP Club, 2013
- • Volunteer at St. Thomas Moore Church, 2011-12
- • Volunteer for Rare Artistry Dance Group, 2011-Present
Awards
- • Millennium Scholarship, 2013
- • Classical Scholar, 2013
- • Advanced Honors Diploma, 2013
- • Varsity Letterman (Track and Field), 2010-13
- • 1st Place, Southern Nevada Freshman/Sophomore Pole Vault Championship, 2010
- • 1st Place, Valley Relays Pole Vault Winners, 2012-13
- • 2nd Place, Pole Vault, Meadows Track Invitational, 2013
- • Pole Vault Regional Qualifier, 2010-13
- • Most Improved Violinist, 2010
- • Perfect Attendance, 2012-13
- • Best Hair for Senior Class, 2013
Goals & Aspirations: “My main goal is to graduate high school with advanced honors and qualify for the Nevada State Championships for pole vault in track and field. In the future, I intend on graduating college to pursue a career as a physical therapist to help those who have sustained disabilities, impairments or limitations in their overall physical function.”
Neil Looks Up To: “My sister is someone I look up to because she is one of my biggest supporters. She coaches me and encourages me to do my best in pole vaulting because she was a pole vaulter in high school as well. Even though she can be hard on me at times, I know she is pushing me to my full potential.”
Part of the Solution: “One of the biggest issues facing young adults today is bullying. Whether it is verbal or physical, criticizing another human being for who they are is completely wrong, especially when the person is contemplating taking their own life because of the harassment. I will stick up for those who feel belittled for being different and urge others to stop making teens feel judged based on who they are or what they are passionate about.”
