Previous Cohorts

Victoria Gradillas

Hi! My name is Victoria Gradillas and I am the youngest of two sisters and a daughter to my amazing mother and father. I am a first generation college student and am so honored to be a part of the Leadership Scholarship Program. I dedicate all of my achievements to my family and my Uncle Mike, I could not have done this without them. I am majoring in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice. Alongside school, I love hanging out with my friends, reading books, Harry Styles and anything that has to include my lovely niece!

I graduated from Shadow Ridge High School in Surprise where I served as the class president from my freshman to senior year. I was the Key Club president and a member of best buddies. Student Council taught me the importance of leading by action. By consistently volunteering and advocating, I knew exactly what I wanted my future to consist of; helping, leading, growing and educating. 

ASU is truly so thrilling and full of so many opportunities! I am so thankful to be a member of LSP and growing alongside my forever friends. 

Lex Caoile

My name is Angel Alessandro Caoile, and I just finished my first year at ASU studying Electrical Engineering. I am originally from the Philippines and emigrated here when I was nine years old. Since then, I have found enjoyment and grown my interest in anything tech related. At ASU, I am a student worker at the Smart Cities Cloud Innovation Center, as a teaching fellow helping high schoolers get into tech and get cloud certified and get college credit at the same time. Outside of school, I also love traveling, trying new things, exploring life from different perspectives, and learning about the different cultures around the world. In 2020, I was selected by the US Department of State to serve as Youth Ambassador Representative for Costa Rica. I am also a Sister Cities Ambassador with Tullamore, Ireland. I'm so happy to be a part of LSP Class of 2021! Thank you for reading and see you soon!

Vivian Pelayo

Hi everyone! My name is Vivian Pelayo, I graduated as the Student Body Vice President from Queen Creek High School. I have always been very involved in the Student Council. I was also a member of the Key Club and played Tennis and Soccer throughout my high school career. I am now entering my sophomore year, majoring in Architecture with a minor in Business. My goal is to change the world by redesigning temporary housing, making it more accessible, sustainable and innovative. 

Aside from academics, I love exploring anything and everything and meeting new people. I love a little bit of everything. Right now some of my current hobbies have been photography, horseback riding, and river tubing! I enjoy exploring new places and finding the core of their culture. I am looking forward to what ASU has in store for me, go devils! 

Keon Davoudi

Hello! My name is Keon Davoudi, and I am from Scottsdale, Arizona. I attended Desert Mountain High School where I was involved in Student Government, Software club, and Robotics. In my senior year I served as treasurer of Student Government, Vice President of Software Club and one of the lead programmers in Robotics. I am bringing my experiences in these extracurriculars to LSP where I hope to enter and contribute to an even grander scale of like-minded peers in clubs and meet lots of new people in these areas and more. Aside from school and programming, I like to hike, cook, exercise and listen to music. 

When I was admitted to ASU Barrett I decided to major in Computer Science. I have enjoyed programming for a while up to this point in my life and I am very excited to develop further in my journey towards a career working in CS. I hope to continue my passion for tech and leadership by joining clubs here on campus. 

I am very grateful and thrilled to be a part of LSP, where I can cultivate passions with others, meet friends in the program, and explore different opportunities. Thank you!

Liana Illya

Hello everyone! My name is Liana Illya and I  grew up in Surprise, Arizona. I graduated from Paradise Honors High School where I was involved in multiple leadership programs. Such as Student Council, Surprise Youth Council in addition to volunteer work and other extracurriculars. At Arizona State I am majoring in Organizational Leadership (Project Management) and double minoring in Tourism Development and Management as well as Business. I am so excited for this recent change I made to my college career to incorporate my passions for leadership and growth within communities. 

I hope to take advantage and value all of the opportunities LSP and ASU will give me during my college career. I am very excited to be surrounded my new LSP family and make great memories. Forks up!

Haley Prey

Heyo! My name is Haley Prey and I have lived in the Arizona heat for all my life. I graduated from Sunrise Mountain High School where I was heavily involved in sports such as soccer, cross country, and track while also participating in the National Honors Society. My involvement stretched outside of school as I volunteered through my church and events held around my community. 
I love staying active whether that’s longboarding, hiking, or playing sports, l am always looking for a new adventure. Some other hobbies of mine are thrifting and baking! I have a passion to travel and see the world which is why I hope to study abroad next summer! During the school year, you’ll probably find me at Insomnia Cookie or Sparky’s Old Town Creamery because I have the biggest sweet tooth.
This fall, I will be studying Civil Engineering, as I have always had a passion to build and design future cities. I am thrilled to continue my journey at ASU with the support of my cohort!

Logan Alvarado

Hello, my name is Logan Alvarado! I was born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, and graduated from Brophy College Preparatory. I am majoring in Psychological Sciences at ASU Barrett with a pre-medical track. I am honored to be a part of the 2021 Leadership Scholarship Program cohort! A little bit about myself, I enjoy longboarding, spending time with friends, working out, and going thrifting. I love listening to all genres of music and going to concerts. In high school, I participated in many clubs such as Kino Teens, and Best Buddies, and I was the president and founder of the Zoology club. I participated in varsity swimming all four years of high school. I enjoy volunteering in my free time and giving back to the community. I am very passionate about mental health and psychology. I am excited to be a part of LSP and the Arizona State University community! I am so excited to be a part of the ASU community and I hope to contribute to research and student organizations. FORK UP!!!

Jake Oku

Hello! I am Jake Okun, an Engineering and Barrett Student at the Polytechnic Campus. I was born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, and am incredibly excited to be a second-generation Sun Devil. As a member of LSP, I am excited to continue to advance my leadership skills.

I am a proud graduate of Desert Mountain High School in Scottsdale, Arizona. I was a founding member of the Desert Mountain Robotics Team and heavily involved in other organizations such as SkillsUSA, Graphic Design, Ambassadors Club, and International Robotics Honor Society.

Throughout high school, I started and mentored over 24 robotics teams from around the world and played a major role in the FIRST Robotics Community. My team won many awards through the years, however, the most exciting experience was ranking 3rd at the FIRST Robotics World Championships. We qualified to compete on the Einstein Field which is like making it to the Super Bowl in Robotics! With all of the great experiences that I received from robotics, I was able to hone my leadership skills and accomplish more than I could ever have imagined.

One of the greatest honors I received was being named a 2020 United States Presidential Scholar by the U.S. Department of Education for my academic success and work in the fields of robotics and graphic design. I am excited to actively be involved in the Academy of Presidential Scholars Alumni Association and interact with other scholars from around the globe.

Giving back to my community is a big part of my life. Through my work in Graphic Design, I was able to give back to my school and my community by designing our senior class logo, shirts, senior yard signs, putting together the virtual graduation ceremony, and many other marketing materials for my school. Our Class of 2020 may not have had the traditional end to our senior year, but it was sure memorable and one for the books.

I am thrilled and honored to be a member of the LSP family! Our class, the virtual class, will hopefully connect like no other! Forks Up Devils!!!

Thanks again! Stay safe and healthy in these trying and uncertain times!

Abby Kiekintveld

Hello! My name is Abby Kiekintveld and I was born and raised in the small town of Pine, Arizona. I attended Payson High School where I was involved in Link Crew, Key Club, DECA, Softball, and Basketball. During my senior year, I served as an Arizona DECA State Officer and I absolutely fell in love with business. So with that said, I will be continuing my passion for business at W.P. Carey!

Outside of academics, I enjoy watching and playing all sports, but softball specifically, I could talk about for hours. I love being active and going on hikes, but I could also drive around for hours just listening to music. Finally, although I have very little talent in either, I spend a lot of my free time painting and I always keep tennis rackets in my car.

I’m beyond excited to start the next chapter of my life as a sun devil and meet amazing people along the way!

Alec Mathew

Hello! My name is Alec Mathew and I am from Chandler, Arizona. I graduated from Hamilton High School where I was involved in National Honor Society and boy’s volleyball where I was varsity captain my senior year. Outside of school, I am actively involved with volunteer work and my job at Olive Garden.

I love spending time with friends and traveling new places. I also am a huge sports fan and I’ve played most sports at one point in my life.

I will be a biological sciences major starting this fall and I hope to eventually get into dental school where I aim to be a pediatric dentist.

Mallory Moss

Hello! My name is Mallory Moss, and I’m from Bullhead City, Arizona- a small town on the border of California and Nevada. Despite coming from a small community, I’ve done my best to be involved. I’m an alum of both the HOBY Leadership camp and AASC. I graduated as Valedictorian of my class, Student Body President, and Debate Captain. My passion is giving back to the community, so in addition to being an officer in both NHS and Interact, I’ve been a longtime volunteer for both the AYSO Soccer League and a local food pantry. This passion for helping others led me to major in Secondary Education, with the goal of becoming a calculus teacher.

On my free time, I enjoy writing, reading, shopping, and drawing. I’ve written two full length novels and I’m attempting to get the first one published- my greatest aspiration is to be an author!

Hibah Usmani

Hello! My name is Hibah Usmani. Although I was born in California, I have lived in Arizona my whole life. I recently graduated from Estrella Foothills High School where I strived to be constantly involved.

Some of the organizations that I participated in were Student Government, National Honor Society, SkillsUSA, and soccer. Each of these extracurricular activities provided me with the unique opportunity to help my school community in different ways since I held leadership positions in each of them. For example, as Senior Class President, I worked with Student Council to plan and run events that would encourage every student in the class to get involved and have fun. In NHS, I worked on volunteering on and off campus, and in SkillsUSA, I expanded my career and photography skills. Academically, I aimed to challenge myself by taking advanced courses which led me to having the highest rank in my class of over 200 students.

As I look towards the future, I am very excited to attend Arizona State University where I plan to major in mathematics through Barrett, the Honors College. I especially look forward to the opportunities that await and the people I will meet through the Leadership Scholarship Program.

Sarah Hurmez

Hi! My name is Sarah Hurmez and I had the great honor of graduating as a Panther from Paradise Honors High School. Throughout these last four years, I spent a majority of my time being involved in some great organizations such as Student Council, National Honor Society, Make A Wish Arizona, and Amnesty International, along with becoming an ambassador for an organization I value so deeply, Bring Change to Mind. These groups not only taught me how to plan some amazing and impactful events with little to no sleep (COFFEE), but they have also led to some amazing and lifelong friendships that I am so incredibly grateful for. Speaking of coffee, I have a borderline dangerous obsession with coffee shops and absolutely adore finding new shops with other fellow caffeine lovers.

There are no words to describe how excited I am to be a part of LSP, and to be surrounded by such inspiring and hardworking individuals. I am curious to see what our next four years will look like, but i'm beyond excited to get to know all of you along the way :)

Sam Montano

Hello, my name is Sam Montano, and I graduated from Notre Dame Preparatory located in North Scottsdale. During my time at NDP I was involved in various extracurriculars, such as swimming, National Honors Society, and other leadership activities. This helped me find the value of community involvement and want to do more for the people around me. I come from a very modest family that emphasizes the hard work and sacrifices that are needed to flourish in life. As I transition into this new stage of my life, I hope to make an impact on the Tempe community by giving my time and devotion to local organizations that are in need.

I hope to make the most out of my college experience by taking advantage of the vast amount of academic, communal, and professional resources ASU and LSP has to offer! Forks up!

Araceli Lopez

Hola! My name is Araceli Lopez and I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. I attended Xavier College Preparatory High School where I was involved in Student Council, National Honors Society, Advocacy Club, Key Club, and Political Action Club. Overall, I love staying involved in my community and am committed to fighting for social justice.

An organization that I have been involved in for over 2 years now is Aliento. I took part in their fellowship program my senior year, which helped shape me into the person I am today. Within this fellowship, I found my passion for spreading awareness on injustices our community endures, in particular, those that undocumented and DACA students face here in Arizona. I have worked within schools around Arizona to ensure that all Arizona graduates are eligible for in-state tuition regardless of their immigration status.

Throughout this, I began to understand that students are the key to a better future combined with my dedication to equity. Outside of this, I love coffee, boba, hiking, meeting new people, trying new places to eat, and overall spending time with friends and family.

I am excited to become a member of the LSP family and look forward to creating meaningful relationships with my peers. I plan to continue advocacy for social justice in Arizona State University’s community to emphasize the importance of meaningful change to not only make an impact in society but to also inspire those from a minority background to bring about hope in transforming their fears into action. Forks Up!

Tagwa Salih

Hey y'all! My name is Tagwa Salih. I have lived in Phoenix, Arizona for pretty much my entire life though I was originally born in Plano, Texas (hence the "y'all" to stay connected to my Texan ~roots). I *virtually* graduated from BASIS (if you know, you know) Ahwatukee this year and I'm so excited to be a sun devil!! In high school, I was involved in a number of extracurriculars including Speech and Debate, National Honor Society, CASE, Banner Desert Hospital, and the Conviction Circles program at my local mosque. More recently, I have been working with NextGen Arizona, speaking of which: vote! vote! vote!

In my free time, I like to read, - just have to shout out Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie real quick, her books and her TED talks are legendary - dance (in my room or... if I'm home alone... my living room *gasp*), and write (if you are a journaler... can we be fweinds?). Specifically in quarantine (this is a separate category bc I am not normal right now), you can catch me working out or just being forced to go on walks, making tik toks, and talking to myself - yes, I am a YouTube vlogger in my heart. Okay, I lied, I do these things on the regular too. My favorite shows at the moment are Community and Suits (so I'm always here to obsess with fellow watchers), but I've also committed too much of my life to watching Grey's Anatomy so I have to mention it as well.

At ASU, I plan on majoring in Global Health with a minor in Spanish, while on the pre-med track! I can't wait to meet my LSP fam and make some memories over the next 4 years! I'm definitely a people-person so feel free to reach out to me for anything!

Fatima Bitheri

Salam everyone, my name is Fatima Bitheri! When my parents first came to the United States in the late 90s, they started off in the state of Maine even though they were nowhere near use to the cold coming from sunny East Africa. Once they heard that Arizona had a much hotter climate, they packed up our bags and started off on our journey. Since then, I have forever called Arizona my home. I attended the first public all-girls high school in Arizona called Girls Leadership Academy of Az. Regardless of the fact that my high school was very small, my graduating class was around 30 girls, I was very much involved in my school and took on a lot of leadership positions. To be exact, I was pretty much involved with every club but Anime Club. I was a part of Student Government, Be A Leader, the National Honors Society, the Spoken Word Poetry Club, and so many more. I also was a student ambassador representing my school and I was named one of Junior Achievements 18 Under 18 in Arizona for the year of 2019. Through my involvement in school, I had discovered my passion for activism and advocacy, and hope to further pursue my passion through A.S.U. which is why I am a Justice Studies major. In the future, I hope to become a refugee caseworker or work somewhere within the social work field.

I am super excited to join LSP and cannot wait for what is in store. One thing about me is that I am a huge foodie and enjoy eating and trying new things. Although this may sound a bit corny, I love to laugh and one of my life mottos is that if I can laugh at least once a day, my life will be good. In my free time, I usually binge-watch shows; I am a sucker for romance, action, and legal genres.

I am very excited to start a new chapter in my life and cannot wait for LSP to be a part of it. Forks Up!

Ahlias

What’s up, everyone! My name is Ahlias, I am the second youngest in a family with six children (four boys two girls) and will be the fourth to attend ASU. I plan on majoring in sports business, and I hope to one day become an Athletic Director.

I recently graduated from Arizona College Prep, a small school based in Chandler. While I was at ACP, I found I had a passion for sports. I played football, basketball, track, and golf during my high school career and was even a Powder Puff Champion Coach. However, after discovering that my coordination (or lack there-of) would not be able to take my playing career past high school, I chose to pursue the administrative side of athletics.

In my Sophomore year, I was selected to represent my school’s division in the AIA’s Student Leadership Advisory Committee. This was a group of amazing student-athletes gathered from around the state and brought together to better high school athletics in the state. In my senior year, I co-founded a similar group, CUSD Student Organization of Leaders, which was designed specifically to help better athletics for the Chandler Unified School District.

Outside of athletics, a few of my interests are classic cartoons, anything related to Adidas, 90s Hip-hop, anime, and occasionally I like to read too. I absolutely cannot wait to get to know everyone and I am beyond excited to attend ASU! Forks Up!!

Rodolfo Quijada

Hola! My name is Rodolfo Quijada and I graduated from North High School in Phoenix Arizona. During my four years of high school I have made it my priority to involve myself in extracurriculars, my education, and serving my community. I was involved in Student Government, the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program, and the Achieving a College Education (ACE) pogram. Through these organizations, I have been able to attend and speak at multiple conferences across the country and strengthen my leadership skill. I’ve also gained experience in serving my community through various fundraising and community service for organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

When it comes down to my activities outside of school I enjoy baking, traveling, hanging out with my friends while getting Dutch Bros, and volunteering at Banner University Medical Center of Phoenix. I am so excited to start my journey at ASU where I plan on studying Biomedical Sciences on a Pre-med track. Ever since I was young I have always loved and enjoyed science in school, but as I got older and experienced new and unexpected things, I started to build an interest and love for medicine in all.

Anna Kuzminsky

Hello, everyone! My name is Anna Kuzminsky, and I was born and raised in Bullhead City, Arizona. I am a proud T-Bird from Mohave High School which is where I graduated from as Valedictorian of my graduating class.

During my four years of high school, my entire life consisted of actively participating in clubs and community service. My main focuses in high school, aside from academics, included Student Council and Interact Club. I was extremely active in those two clubs while working my way up in the positions before finally landing the role of President of Interact Club and Student Body Vice President of the Student Council during my Senior year. I am incredibly grateful for the amazing opportunities I received in high school, and I couldn’t have asked to go to a better school!

Aside from school, I have a super active and adventurous lifestyle. I love traveling and being outdoors, especially in my small town where everyone practically lives on the river 24/7! I am super outgoing, and I absolutely love meeting and engaging with new people. I am also a super huge fan of trying different coffee shops and cultural food! I cannot wait to continue my life’s journey at ASU in this amazing program. I am super pumped to see how much I grow even more as a leader with my fellow LSP family members!

McKenna Jerpseth

Hi! I’m McKenna Jerpseth and am from Yuma, AZ which is right at the borders of Mexico and California so definitely some bomb food but still trying to learn my Spanish. I went to Cibola High School and probably spent more time there than at home because I was Student Body President and tennis captain my senior year. I was also a part of the GATE program, NHS, swim & dive, and track & field - only for freshman year though because I realized I am terrible at running. I became Miss Yuma County’s Outstanding Teen 2019 which gave me my love of volunteering and working with my former platform of suicide prevention and awareness. I continue to be an advocate for mental health and wellness and plan to take that into action at ASU.

I’m going to major in biomedical sciences and plan to become a doctor; I have no idea what kind yet but have a long time to find that out haha! I love hanging out with and meeting new people and learning people’s stories/ cultures/ backgrounds. If you know me, you’ll definitely see I’m very energetic and outgoing, but can also just sit and talk for hours with someone. Not going to lie, food is the way to my heart, but I also have a passion for adventure and travelling. I plan to study abroad for a summer in Europe or Australia at some point (after corona decides to leave). I can’t wait to make the most of my time at ASU and am so excited to join the LSP family and officially become a Sun Devil!!

Sofia Lomeli

Howdy! My name is Sofia Lomeli, and I’m a proud graduate from Mingus Union High School in Cottonwood, Arizona. I bet you probably don’t hear about that town very often! I love painting, traveling, and trying new foods! My passion for the arts and community service shaped my choice in extracurriculars during my time at Mingus. I was incredibly active in clubs such as National Honors Society, Link Crew, a bit of theater, choir, and, most notably, the Interact Club. My work in Interact exposed me to many different cultures and languages, such as Russian. This curiosity led me to become a National Security Language Initiative for Youth Finalist this summer. Outside of school, I was involved in the Civil Air Patrol and the Interact District Council as an Assistant Governor. One of my most memorable experiences in high school was being an intern at the Parks and Recreation Department in my town (yes, just like April in Parks and Rec). I plan on majoring in Architectural Studies and becoming an architect in the future.

My parents are the reason I’m so proud to be a first-generation student. The way they built their life from the ground up in a different country inspires and motivates me to try my best in everything I do. I’m so excited to be a part of such a wonderful program at ASU!

Meg Sarbacker

Hi there! My name is Meg Sarbacker and I am so excited to become a Sun Devil and a part of the LSP family! I attended Liberty High School in the Northwest Valley, where I was involved in Spanish NHS, Club Unify (an effort to integrate special needs students into our school culture), and Student Activism Club, which I founded two years ago to collectivize students involved in their community.

Above all, the greatest experience in my past four years has been getting involved with activist organizations and social issues, which has allowed me to discover a passion I would like to pursue in my career. I am extremely excited to learn about the field of creating policies that will help improve communities, and even more excited to be pushed as a leader from my peers and mentors in LSP.

I love to explore new places, find good food, and appreciate music, and I can't wait to enjoy that with my new family both in Tempe and in Downtown Phoenix, my new home.

Morgann Kelly

My name is Morgann Kelly and I am a part of the 2020 cohort. I graduated from Desert Vista High School in Phoenix where I served as the Student Body President and the Arizona Association of Student Councils President. I was on Speech and Debate for four years where I competed in Public Forum Debate and Informative Speaking. Additionally, I have been training in Wado-Ryu Martial Arts and Krav Maga for 9 years. I am an internationally licensed first degree black belt and to this day I still enjoy training and teaching Martial Arts.

Self defense activities have always fueled my passion, I believe that everyone should not only be able to speak up for themselves but also protect themselves. Which is why in the future I intend to serve those whose voices and actions go unheard as a Senator.

I have big goals and am excited to see where my LSP journey takes me.

David Amavisca

My name is David Amavisca and I’m from Yuma, Arizona. I graduated Yuma High School in 2020, starting off as an unmotivated freshman with poor grades and no career goals. By my senior year I was involved in various clubs and programs such as Student Council, Academic Decathlon, Upward Bound, National Honors Society, Yuma Youth Leadership, as well as being a student employee. My proudest moment in high school was presenting to the Diamondbacks and earning a grant for my council to host a district wide charity dance. As for now, I’ll be majoring in Business Management at WP Carey.

When I’m not busy I love music and playing guitar, going out with friends, getting food, thrifting, and watching Netflix. I look forward to being a part of LSP and meeting everybody and making new memories. Ready to swag out these next four years!

Tabarak Abdelhabib

I’m a Sudanese-American-Muslim. Yeah, that may be a handful to say every time someone asks me about my identity, but all three play a crucial role into who I am. As a Sudanese woman, I learned the importance of kinship. As an American, I learned to take every opportunity and to work relentlessly to achieve my goals. As a Muslim, I learned to be, generous, patient, and kind towards others around me. As a human being, I’m learning everyday to understand the differences around me and the complexity of people, and to extend to them the same love and kindness that I would show my own. More importantly, I’m learning to always think of ways to change the world for the better, because I believe in a better world.

I graduated as the 3rd graduating class Paragon Science Academy has ever had. Although the school is fairly new and small, it encourages students to be innovative and take leadership. Therefore, students like me took comfort in starting our own clubs or joining as many clubs as we possibly could. I was that one student that joined almost every club possible. I did Turkish folkdance, Science Olympiad, Volleyball, Student Council, Speech and Debate etc. Eventually, I started my own club called “Pay It Forward” where we would create and initiate humanitarian projects. Aside from school activities, I enjoy spending my time doing things like writing, photography, and simply engaging in meaningful talks with those around me.

Yoselin Acosta

I was born in the beautiful state of Sinaloa, Mexico and moved to Arizona when I was two years old, I learned english by watching cartoons! I am a Chandler High graduate, over the past four years I have been involved in various extracurricular activities, some of my favorites include. Link Crew, National Honors Society Treasurer. Modazz Dance Company, Best Buddies and Unified Sports. Outside of school, I volunteered at Chandler Regional Hospital in the Summer Volunteer Program for three summers. This experience made my dream of a career in healthcare and medicine more realistic and kept me motivated. Along with a career in medicine, I aspire to influence other Latino/Hispanic students to challenge themselves with a rigorous education. I’m so beyond excited to make my mark and take advantage of the many opportunities at ASU! I’m so proud of to be a Sun Devil!

Ryan Adame

My name is Ryan Adame, and I am an incoming freshman at Arizona State. I will be majoring in sports journalism and hope to end up with a career covering the San Diego Chargers, Arizona Cardinals, or working with the NFL Network. I recently graduated from San Simon where I have attended since I was in kindergarten and where my father graduated in 1978. I am a huge fan of football and I played it all four years of my high school career. I also played basketball, baseball, and ran track. Outside of school I have two jobs at Phantom Fireworks and the Rodeo Tavern Bar and Grill. I am also a first responder for my community’s volunteer fire department. In my spare time I enjoy watching and playing football, but my hands down favorite activity is playing paintball. I strive for success and am a very hard worker.

Molly Bishop

Hi there! My name is Molly Bishop, 2016 Salutatorian of Gila Ridge High School in Yuma, AZ! Although I've spent my high school career in Yuma, I've also lived in Utah and Alaska. Definitely a fan of the cold, Arizona has allowed me to explore a very new climatic extreme! Aside from trying to beat the heat, I adore playing with my dogs, singing, acting, reading, writing, and traveling.

As my accomplishments- rising from Secretary to VP to President of Drama Club, Thespian Troupe President, NHS VP, Performing Choir Section Leader, and student director (among others)- may suggest, I love to stay busy! I'm ambitious, dedicated, and quick-witted. Dual majoring in Theatre and Communications as a Barrett Honors student, I love expressing myself artistically while satiating my analytic side. This unique perspective is what I strive to bring not only to ASU, but the Tempe community. Goooooo Sun Devils!!!

Casey Blue

My name is Casey Blue and I am from Gilbert, Arizona. I love adventuring! Some of my favorite hobbies include hiking, swimming, biking, and soccer. I am majoring in Global Agribusiness, my goals include researching chemically engineered foods and their effects in today’s society as well as reforming food industry guidelines to protect and inform consumers. Go Sun Devils!

Joseph Briones

One broken arm, two broken wrists, one cracked head, one broken leg and counting (knock on wood)...It's fair to say that I know the route to the hospital like the back of my hand. But, these mistakes and numerous casts have resulted from my curiosity of the unknown and have shaped who I am today: a learner who is not afraid to ask “what if,” even if i results in a couple of injuries. Today, I foster this curiosity in the morning as a writer, during the day as an engineering student, and at night as a researcher.

Mary Kate Cundiff

Hello! I am coming to Arizona from my hometown of Wichita, KS. I graduated from Bishop Carroll Catholic High School and am very proud of my accomplishments both at my school and in the greater Wichita community. Throughout my high school career, I participated in volleyball, basketball, debate, theatre, student council, and was a football manager!

Coming to Arizona will be a significant change for me, but I am extremely motivated to study hard and create meaningful relationships among my peers. I will be studying business entrepreneurship at W. P. Carey with hopes of creating my own start-up company someday. I am super passionate about helping others find their own passions, and my dream is to travel the country as a motivational speaker. I know that ASU is the best place for my future to begin, and I trust that the LSP will set it all into motion. Go Devils!

Breanna Deets

Hello everyone! My name is Breanna Deets and I graduated as Valedictorian from Red Mountain High School located in East Mesa. Throughout high school I spent a majority of my time participating in a variety of clubs and doing countless hours of volunteer work within the community. My favorite organization was Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research where I raised money for medical research and helped build awareness about this devastating disease. I also participated in the Hugh O’Brian Leadership Summit and the Cesar Chavez Leadership Institute programs where I learned the value of service for both the local and global community. I enjoy shopping and reading the latest New York Times Best Selling novel. I am extremely passionate about everything I set my mind to and am determined to make the world a better place, something I am sure the LSP program will help me accomplish.

Julia Fields

My name is Julia Fields and I’m from Prescott Valley, Arizona. Until moving down to Tempe for school, Prescott Valley has been my home my entire life. I like to travel, read, and drink coffee. I’ve seen pretty much every episode of Friends and can be found watching it in any free time that I may have. I love to act, and I hope to be in some productions here at ASU. I’m currently an English Major, however, I cannot spell to save my life. I’ll probably make at least a million terrible jokes and puns just at dinner tonight. My favorite foods are, spaghetti, grilled cheese with ketchup and hot sauce, and any and all types of bread. I’m extremely excited to be at ASU and in LSP and look forward to all the adventures that this year holds. Lastly, I can lick my elbow.

Lauren Hawks

Hello, my name is Lauren Hawks! I am proud to be born and raised in Mesa, Arizona since 1998! I am a big fan of cheese ravioli, bargain shopping, motivational media, and list making. As a graduate of Westwood High School and the International Baccalaureate Program, I will always carry Warrior Pride with me. Some of my favorite activities in high school were marching band, dance, Model United Nations, and volunteering at the Arizona Museum of Natural History. I am so excited to be studying Political Science and Mandarin Chinese this fall as a Sun Devil! P.S. Ask me about my cats.

Gabrielle Juvera

Hi! My name is Gabrielle Juvera, and I graduated Valedictorian from Ray High School in the small mining community of Kearny, Arizona. At Ray, I was involved in everything from three varsity sports, to seven clubs, to also being in Choir and Band. I was honored to serve as Class President all four years, as well as Student Body Vice President, National Honor Society President, and Drum Major. When I wasn’t busy with school, you could find me helping out at my church, reading, playing music, fishing, or volunteering. I was fortunate to have been a part of the Cesar Chavez Leadership Institute, and I hope to continue my passion for leading and serving others by continuing my involvement in the institute and other organizations around campus. I am very excited to begin the next chapter of my life as an LSP member and Business Management Major. Go Devils!

Colton Lowery

I was born in Torrance, California and moved to Phoenix in December of 2010. I graduated from Phoenix Union Bioscience High School, where I was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to expand my horizons and find out what I was truly passionate about. In the fall, I will be majoring in Mechanical Engineering, and be taking the next steps toward fulfilling my dream of becoming a Professional Engineer. In addition to pursuing my degree, I look forward to being extremely engaged as a Sun Devil by being involved with the numerous clubs and organizations on campus, going to as many sporting events as possible, as well as joining a fraternity. I look forward to being involved with the LSP and getting to know all the other amazing members of my cohort.

While attending Bioscience High School, I was a dedicated member of both the school community and the downtown Roosevelt Row community. While in school, I was involved with many extra-curricular clubs, like being President of the E-Tech Club, as well as being a member of the i-Gem Genetics Engineering Club, and the Chinese Honor Society. While with the E-Tech Club, I coordinated numerous projects such as the fabrication of a biodiesel/electric hybrid vehicle, creating a sustainable agriculture system, and other school improvements. In addition to engineering projects, one of the main focuses of E-Tech was to open up opportunities for students to experience nature by taking students on trips such as desert backpacking, whitewater rafting or hiking. Outside of school, I spend most of my time as an intern for an engineering firm. When I’m not spending my time at school or work, I enjoy spending my time rock climbing, attempting to cook, working on cars, and having spontaneous adventures with my friends.

Stephen Marqueling

Born in Indiana, my family made the cross country journey and re-located to Gilbert Arizona when I was entering the fourth grade. I was fortunate to arrive safely via the four hour plane ride with my mother and now 16 year old sister, Katie, while my father drove through the mountains and highways transporting our belongings. I am passionate about one thing and one thing only: drumming as it has consumed most of my life. In the off chance you don’t find a pair of drumsticks in my hand or tapping beats on an object, I can be found in a gym as I take my health seriously. I enjoy challenging myself, pushing myself to the next level, yet accept defeat gracefully. Spending time with people who bring positive energy will remain a priority of mine as I begin my college experience.

Frankie McLister

Hi! My name is Frankie McLister. I’ll be an incoming freshman at ASU as a Marylander coming from the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. I plan on majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication (and hopefully minoring in Spanish) at the downtown campus. Spending my senior year as an active Historian for FBLA, an avid gym-goer, an intern for D.C’s ABC 7 News, a basketball player, and a server at Chili’s, shows that I stay busy. Family is a huge aspect in my life. In fact, I have 2 older sisters, 2 awesome parents, 4 grandparents, 9 aunts, 8 uncles, and 31 first cousins! My favorite food is Maryland crabs, but I also love Greek food, and anything from Chipotle. You can usually catch me traveling, helping others, and wearing Under Armour. Leadership is something I take pride in, and I look forward to becoming an LSP scholar!

Ryanne Mueller

Hello! My name is Ryanne Mueller! I live on a 40 acre farm and love to explore. Hiking unknown places is one of my favorite pass time along with watching movies (especially horror!) I love cinematography, fashion, pugs , pewdiepie, and pasta. I will be attending ASU in hopes of becoming a NICU Nurse!

Rohoini Nott

Hello everyone! My name is Rohini Nott and I am from Chandler, Arizona.

I am passionate about social justice, scientific research, and global health. While in college, I plan to pursue a pre-medical track and major in Biological Sciences, with a concentration in Biology and Society. I plan to study and learn about the social and cultural aspects of healthcare to bridge the gap between the varied communities that I hope to serve as a physician scientist.

My interests range from playing soccer, to engaging in various genres of music, to serving others through peer tutoring and community outreach. At BASIS Chandler, my high school, I enjoyed participating in student government, American Red Cross club, and National Honors Society. I am hopeful that I will make a positive and enduring impact on the communities that I serve, through my commitment to leadership and service.

Nina Patel

I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. I enjoy traveling to new places, learning new languages, going on adventures, and trying new foods. I love painting, playing the guitar, drinking coffee, and people-watching. I am interested in studying Global Health in order to eventually go on to attend Med School. I hope to be instrumental in closing the gap of global health inequality, while also improving community awareness of health issues. While at Arizona State University, I also hope to study abroad and participate in research opportunities and internships in order to improve the health care provided to underserved people nationally and globally.

Annaliese Pickett

Hello everyone! I'm a recent graduate of Highland High School where I participated in the Highland Symphony and the United Sound Special Needs Orchestra Mentoring Program. A lover of folk music, I am a former member and current staff member of The Gilbert Town Fiddlers as well as a frequent participant in music festivals and jam sessions! Outside of my musical forays, I am an ardent CrossFitter and cat-lover and enjoy new cultures, the outdoors, and watercoloring. My ultimate passion and sole goal is to serve others with the compassion of Jesus and to bring Him glory with my life!

I will be attending The Thunderbird School of Global Management and The Barrett Honors College on The New American Scholarship for National Scholars to study Global Management, Political Science, and Spanish. I hope to aid in bringing economic stability and human rights to indigenous and refugee communities.

Daniel Ramirez Morales

My name is Daniel Ramirez and I am a 2016 graduate of Arcadia High School in Phoenix, Arizona. I was born in Phoenix and spent the first half of my life in East Mesa, Arizona. I currently live in Scottsdale and have an older brother and two younger sisters. In high school, I was a member of the marching, jazz, and symphonic band ensembles. Senior year, I had the honor to be a drum major of the marching band. I was also the president of the National Honor Society at Arcadia. A few years in high school, I had the chance to be a volunteer for the City of Scottsdale, an experience that will always be important to me. As an LSP member, I hope to make progress with like-minded people to realize the opportunity in change.

Ana Spraetz

When most people ask me where I’m from, I never really know what answer they’re exactly looking for. Where I was born -- Bucharest, Romania; Where I’ve lived most recently -- Phoenix, Arizona; Or maybe what they’re asking me is where I’ve spent the longest portion of my life -- McDonough, Georgia.

Despite the numerous places I’ve called home and all the school hopping, I most recently graduated from Pinnacle High School in Phoenix, Arizona. Throughout the past 4 years I have dedicated a majority of my time to a variety of clubs and organizations on campus some of which include: Student Government, Key Club, Society of Women Scholars, and National Honors Society. One of my greatest achievements was being lucky enough to be elected to be on the Student Body Executive Board for STUGO, which has really helped me flourish through the countless activities and events that were put on for the rest of the student body.

Besides my involvement in school, I really enjoy traveling, going to concerts, and immersing myself in cultures foreign to me, which I hope to be doing a lot of at ASU

I’m looking forward to beginning my involvement at ASU and continuing my involvement throughout the community. I’m certain that through LSP, my peers and I will be able to achieve great things and reach great heights. Thank you Arizona State, and the LSP community for making me a part of your family and giving me this wonderful opportunity! Go Devils!

Jack Stansbury

I am a native of Arizona and was born in Phoenix but lived in Indonesia for a time as well. I am a graduate of Valley Lutheran High School. In high school I was a three sport athlete and a captain on the football team my senior year. I spent four years in the student council where I served as Treasurer and President. I have sung in a number of choirs including the Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix. I was also able to contribute to Teen Lifeline, a crisis hotline for teens, as a peer counselor and trainer.

In my free time you can usually find me in the gym, but if I’m not there I also like building computers, and playing video games on them, as well as reading.

I’m very excited to be pursuing a degree in Computer Science and attending Barrett the Honors College this fall. At ASU and in the LSP, I plan on making the most of this opportunity and working hard toward developing myself as a student, person, and leader.

Kaitlyn Van Klompenberg

Hi everyone! I’m Kaitlyn VanKlompenberg and I’m originally from Naperville, Illinois but I moved to Chandler, Arizona when I was seven years old. I love going to Disneyland and the beach whenever I can and I love road-trips. My biggest passion involves music. I’ve learned how to play the violin, viola, and piano and I am trying to learn the guitar. My favorite band is twenty one pilots - I could talk about them for days. I spend all my money on concerts - from Jon Bellion to Weezer. I will be upset if you don’t invite me to your upcoming concert, please. I am half Vietnamese so I’ve grown up on Asian food - I will take you all to get phó and boba. I also love my dog, Tamale and Dutch Bros. Lastly, I have an odd sense of humor and I love making people feel loved. Peace ’n’ blessings!

Josh Weston

I am a recent graduate of BASIS Flagstaff High School in Flagstaff, Arizona. I was involved in Student Council, National Honors Society, GCY Outdoors Club, Junior Statesmen of America, Speech and Debate, and basketball, and I spent a lot of time volunteering at my local literacy center.

I also have a passion for the outdoors. During the summer, I worked with Arizona Conservation Corps to help preserve my local national monuments. When I’m not in school you could find me camping, hiking, or climbing with friends. I hope to bring a sustainable outlook to business in the future, so that future generations can have the fun I’ve had outdoors. Therefore, I am pursuing a business degree with an emphasis in sustainability at W.P Carey as a Barrett Honors student.

Ryan Kemmer

I decided to betray my hometown of Tucson, Arizona and attend ASU in order to meet new people and dive into the unknown. For the last four years I attended Catalina Foothills High School where I was a member of drumline and steel drum band. I am an Eagle Scout, and have been involved in planning various community service and fundraiser projects through scouting. At ASU I will be an engineering major, and plan to learn new leadership skills to help make a positive impact on others.

My whole life I have been obsessed with music. In my free time I enjoy tutoring, playing drums in my band, and recording and mixing my own songs. Right now my dream job would be to become involved in audio engineering, so I can help other people make a difference through music. I am really looking forward to being apart of LSP.

Margaret Zheng

Hi Everyone!

My name is Maggie Zheng, and I am an incoming freshman dorming in Cottonwood, and majoring in Biomedical Sciences and Chinese. I love watching operations, and hope to someday perform surgeries myself.

I'm from Tucson, Arizona, and can often be found exploring the city, visiting new eateries and local attractions. Due to my frequent wandering, I'm very familiar with Tucson's layout, which is helpful for navigation, but lately, I’ve been using this knowledge to catch Pokemon.

Safiya Aden

I was born and raised in Stone Mountain, Georgia. I still remember the day I searched "Arizona" into Google images only to see pictures of cacti. It was a bit horrifying, but five years have passed and I have learned to love the beautiful state I call home: Arizona.

I graduated from Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe. Go Padres! In high school, I was involved in Key Club, Wilderness Adventure Club, Academic Decathlon, French Club, Tempe Youth Leadership Program, Tempe Diversity Dialogues, and I also played varsity tennis. I served as the president for HOSA-Future Health Professionals at my high school and I became involved at the state level where I currently serve as the president for the state of Arizona HOSA. In my state-wide role, I represented over 8,000 members of HOSA-Future Health Professionals. In my spare time, you can find me on the tennis courts or bringing my fashion sketches to life through sewing.

I am passionate about social justice, health care, and public health. At ASU, I will be pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Barrett, the Honors College. I plan on getting involved in research and joining organizations that focus on health care and social justice. I hope to continue my education and obtain my Doctors of Nursing Practice so I can become a nurse practitioner. With that, I am really excited to be a Sun Devil. Fork'em!

Amanda Alibrandi

I am a graduate of Williams Field High School in Gilbert, Arizona. As someone always excited to get involved, I have participated in numerous clubs and sports throughout high school. I served as Williams Field's DECA president for two years before I was elected as the Arizona DECA State President. Over the course of four years, DECA has benefited me tremendously. My involvement in this organization has pointed me in the direction of my major, business management, as a student in Barrett, The Honors College. Additionally, I served on the Arizona Board of Directors for HOBY, an organization that has taught me the importance of community service.

When I'm not studying or hanging out with friends, you can find me wrapped up in a volunteer project or with my nose stuck in a book. This upcoming year my goal is to expand my network and join a diverse group of organizations on campus. I am honored to be a part of LSP and excited for the opportunity to grow myself and inspire others to become leaders and active community members at ASU. Go Devils!

Thomas Anderson

I was born in Jacksonville, Florida and lived in Atlantic Beach, Florida for 8 years. I moved to Lake Havasu City, Arizona and began my schooling there at Starline Elementary. When I entered High School I looked for organizations and clubs that would give me the opportunity to develop skills as well as giving back to the community. I joined National Honor Society and after a couple of years, became the Senior Representative, to better represent the ideas, needs, and visions of the classes of students. We participated in many service events centered around positivity, kindness, and overall well-being. I eventually joined the Future Business Leaders of America, and competed across Arizona in various skill-based tests as well as public speaking competitions.

My involvements helped shape who I am, and looking to my future in Barrett, the Honors College and the W. P. Carey School of Business, I plan to use the skills I have developed to make an impact in the community, and I plan to enter as a Finance major. I am beyond excited to begin this journey, and I am grateful that I will have the opportunity to enter college with the LSP community and family on my side. Go Devils!

Nataly Banuelos

I am a graduate of Camelback High School. Throughout my high school career, I was intensely involved on my campus and in my community. I served as the Student Body President and participated in DECA, National Honor Society, National Honor Society of High School Scholars, Health Occupations Pursing Education (HOPE), EcoSpartans, basketball, and softball. Besides being heavily involved on my high school campus, I also volunteered each year at my neighborhood recreation, where I help coordinate summer programs to underprivileged youth in my community. Giving back to others is my favorite thing to do.

At Arizona State University, I plan to major in Supply Chain Management. My interests in business first began as a junior taking honors marketing and I fell in love with competing, writing, and, most importantly, speaking in front of others. Something that I hope will transition well to my first year at ASU is my academic and social life, as I plan to be involved in as many clubs and programs as my full time schedule permits. I am eager to join the Sun Devil Community and am thankful to be in such a great program such as the Leadership Scholarship Program. I know that LSP will help me transition into the Sun Devil Community throughout my college career and for that I am both thankful and excited!

G. Ivan Bascon

My name is Glenn Ivan Bascon, but close friends call me Ivan. I am a graduate of Red Mountain High School in Mesa, AZ - Go Mountain Lions! I was born on an island called Cebu in the archipelago of the Philippines and then immigrated to the United States when I was 7 years old. America has truly been a land of opportunity. My experiences in the Philippines have manifested into pure grit and vigor to pursue, achieve, and succeed in any of my life endeavors. In high school, I was involved in football, wrestling, AP Bio Club, and National Honor Society. Outside of school, I enjoy hiking, camping, traveling, and being involved in Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research (SSBTR). SSBTR is the largest, student-run nonprofit organization in Arizona, where I relished the opportunity in being one of its Co-Chairs.

My objective now is to truly take advantage of the amazing opportunity bestowed to study and mature as a Barrett scholar at ASU. I aim to major in microbiology and someday become a phenomenal and caring doctor. Being part of the Leadership Scholarship Program family will not only promote further enhancements of my ASU involvement in academia and extracurricular activites, but it will also hopefully allot me the special opportunity to help and give back to the communities that we have grown up in and love. I am proud to call myself a Sun Devil!

Laura Belmont

My two biggest passions are service and science. I am a graduate of Corona del Sol High School, and during my time there, I was fortunate enough to be involved in a variety of organizations. I interned at ASU’s Biodesign Institute, doing research as part of CBDA, and currently am an intern at the Barrow Neurological Institute. As for clubs, I was the president of our Key Club, vice president of our Sci-Fi Club, secretary of our United Food Bank/Fallen Heroes Club, as well as a member of National Honor Society, French Club, and TheatreWorks.

During my time at ASU, I will be majoring in biological sciences, with the genetics, cellular, and developmental biology concentration, and will get a concurrent degree in medicinal biochemistry. I hope to build on my past experiences and contribute to my community, both in the form of work through organizations and scientific research. I intend to get involved in a large amount of clubs, volunteer work, and research as part of a lab that approaches neurological conditions from a molecular, cellular, and genetic perspective.

Sophia Bibbey

I am a recent graduate from Poudre High School in Fort Collins, Colorado. I am so thrilled to be a Sun Devil! Growing up next to the Rocky Mountains, I love to go hiking, fishing, and skiing. I even spent this past summer as a fly fishing guide in Rocky Mountain National Park, so don’t be surprised if you find me in a river casting away! In high school, I was student body president, a peer ambassador, manager for the baseball team, and always looking for a project to better the community.

I will be majoring in nonprofit leadership and management, and I can’t wait to spend my time at ASU involved in a variety of clubs focused on bettering the Downtown Campus atmosphere and being an active LSP member. I am a huge football and baseball fan, as I am extremely excited to catch some Colorado Rockies games at spring training! I am beyond excited to meet my LSP family, who share my love and passion for leadership. Go Sun Devils!

Joseph Bingham

When people ask me where I’m from I can give them one of three answers: I was born in Southern Illinois, spent the longest portion of my life in Brussels, Belgium, and graduated high school from Mountain View High in Orem, Utah. I love to travel and be in new places where I can have new experiences.

In high school, I was privileged enough to serve as the DECA State President, represent my school in a few sports, and move up through the leadership ranks of my school’s Model United Nations, Future Business Leaders of America, and DECA chapters.

Just like in high school, I hope to be engaged in the community at ASU and discover ways to contribute and hopefully make the school a better place. I plan to major in supply chain management while gaining entrepreneurship experience throughout college. Eventually I’d like to use the knowledge and leadership gained from ASU to start a business consulting company that emphasizes in systems management and efficiency.

Kelly Bitler

I am a born-and-raised Arizona native from the town of Queen Creek. Throughout high school, I was involved in DECA, Student Council, National Honor Society, Key Club, Humanitarian Club, and more because I love to be involved in my school. In DECA, I had the opportunity to serve as an Arizona State Representative, where I found my passion leading some of Arizona's best business students. It was an honor and an amazing experience that I will never forget. I also love traveling, volunteering, and making new friends.

At ASU, I hope to be continue to be involved various clubs and organizations on campus. I'm not sure what I'm going to do yet, but I do know I want to make a positive difference in my school and community. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of the 2015 cohort and look forward to the opportunities I'll have in LSP. I will be attending W.P. Carey and Barrett, The Honors College. Go Devils!

Catalina Brinkerhoff

I was born in San Francisco, California and moved to Oro Valley, Arizona when I was five years old. I am a graduate from Salpointe Catholic High School, where I held a number of leadership positions. Some included being the Community Service Coordinator for Salpointe’s National Honor Society, Vice President of the Science Club, Director of Alumni Relations for the Salpointe Ambassador Leadership Program, and co-founder of the Salpointe Sustainability Club. Some of my favorite activities include exercising, volunteering within the community, and watching sports, especially football.

I will be majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in Nutrition at Barrett, The Honors College. After I receive my bachelor’s degree, I plan to move forward onto medical school in hopes of becoming a pediatrician. I cannot wait to make a positive impact on the Sun Devil community and continue on my quest to be a servant leader. It is such an honor to be a part of the LSP family at ASU, and I look forward to building friendships with like-minded individuals!

Lauren Cantrell

I recently graduated from Mesquite High School in the lovely Gilbert, AZ. I am an Arizona native and I attended Gilbert Public Schools Preschool through 12th grade. I am grateful to have been given so many wonderful opportunities by the community I live in. I will be attending Barrett, The Honors College next year to study Speech and Hearing Science. I hope to someday work for the United States Military to provide speech therapy to disabled veterans.

My greatest passion is Best Buddies and I hope to continue to promote inclusion for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout college and the rest of my life. I have been highly involved with the Best Buddies organization since 8th grade and cannot wait to become involved at ASU. I volunteer for the Special Needs Ministry at my church, was an officer for my NHS chapter, and work for Town of Gilbert Parks and Recreation (I am a dance instructor and I LOVE it). I have taken 3 years of American Sign Language; I have immense appreciation for ASL and admire Deaf Culture so much. I have also been involved in theatre since 8th grade and some of my favorite school memories are from being involved in school plays and musicals. I am beyond excited to start at ASU and cannot wait to become involved in LSP!

Kiana Cisneros

I am a graduate from Trevor G. Browne High School. In high school. I participated in JROTC and held the highest rank as Battalion Commander, was a member of National Honor Society, and participated in theater. My senior year, I had the honor of being the Drum Major for the marching band and led my school to state competitions for seven years. I also played on the varsity teams for volleyball, basketball, and softball, and ultimately, became captain for all three sports.

Since I could remember, I've volunteered my time as much as I could. I have donated my time to local recreational centers, hospitals, and school events. However, the experiences that have had the most influence and greatest impact have been my involvement with political campaigns. Throughout my experiences, I have helped to impact my community, as well as other communities, in Arizona. Political campaigning led me to meet many senators, councilmen, and many other political figures, including the President of the United States, Barack Obama.

Here at ASU, I want to play intramurals, help with on-campus sports medicine, and get involved in other clubs. I am majoring in Exercise and Wellness, with a possibility of a minor in Politics. I plan to become an athletic trainer or physical therapist for a professional sports team. Then one day have my own practice for all sports players and more. GO DEVILS!

Vanesa Contreras Rodriguez

Hola! I am the daughter of two Hispanic immigrant parents and a graduate of Sierra Linda High School in Phoenix, AZ, where I have lived practically my whole life. Over the past four years, I have been involved in various clubs, where I have held leadership positions that have ultimately lead to my desire to build upon and improve my leadership qualities. Besides leadership development, I am a devoted student, avid volunteer, and perfectionist, with a slight shopping problem.

I am pursuing a major in Business Entrepreneurship with hopes in attending law school to become an attorney and practice in our sunny state of Arizona. Coming from a Hispanic household, pursuing a higher education has been drilled into the heads of my brothers’ and me ever since I could remember. My motivation to help and give back to the Latino community is unwavering. I like to think of my education and accomplishments as a thank you to the Hispanic community for providing me the building blocks to a fruitful and successful life. My ambition to impact and inspire the student body at ASU to dream big and not settle for less is boundless. I cannot possibly contain my excitement to be Sun Devil, and even more so to be a member of the LSP 2015 Cohort! #FearTheFork

Triston Cradic

I was born June 6th, 1997 in Yuma, AZ. I am the youngest of 6 children and I have two wonderful parents. I was home schooled through eighth grade and was able to travel to all fifty states by the time my oldest brother graduated from high school. Throughout my life I have been involved in football, basketball, soccer, and continued on the sports path once I reached high school. While in high school, I played sports all four years and was also a part of student council. At ASU, I intend to major in Civil Engineering and go wherever my career path leads me.

My plan for impacting ASU is to get involved in some type of organization that will allow me to reach out to the student body to make the students feel like they belong to the ASU family so that they feel like it is their own personal home. I will make this happen by coordinating events throughout the school that will give the students an opportunity to meet more people with their similar interests, that will help them overcome the state of being uncomfortable and give them a chance to feel a sense of belonging. Not only do I want to reach out to the students of ASU, but I intend on joining clubs that do volunteer work throughout the school and in the community. So in my endeavor to impact ASU, I will be planning new events to reach out to the student body and volunteer to help the community of Tempe to be better, cleaner and more able to support the students of Arizona State University.

Hadley Griffin

I have lived in Tempe my whole life and am a graduate of McClintock High School. While in high school, I participated in swim and dive my freshman and sophomore year and played soccer all four years. My senior year, I was captain of the varsity soccer team. I also was a member of National Honor Society, Link Crew (a freshman mentoring program), and Student Council where I served as Vice President all four years. However, my biggest high school involvement was with the Arizona Association of Student Councils where I served as a State President during my senior year. Additionally, my immense love for music can be shown through my playing of the piano and ukulele, and singing.

While at ASU, I plan to study immensely as I work to achieve my degree in Computer Science Software Engineering. I hope to be an example to young girls and show them that success is very achievable, even within a male dominated field of study. I also hope to become involved in various different clubs and organizations; specifically ones that are service oriented and give back to the community. I really look forward to growing as a leader and expanding my skills this year in the Leadership Scholarship Program.

Joley Hamilton

Hi everyone! I hail from a small mining camp called Morenci, Arizona in which I have lived in all 18 years of my life. I graduated number one in my class from Morenci High School. I also graduated with my Associate’s from Eastern Arizona College with Highest Honors. A few of my proud accomplishments include being drum major for our marching band, president of Drama Club, National Honor Society, National Science Honor Society, Knowledge Bowl, and Literary Society as well as being Student Body Vice President. I was also involved in National Spanish Honor Society, Tri-M Musical Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, LEO’s Club, and Yearbook. A highlight that I don’t really get to mention on job applications is that I was Prom and Homecoming Queen. On top of all that, I ran my school’s recycling program. I like to stay busy.

Moving on to ASU, I can’t wait to make an impact by just being kind to everyone I come across and by making people laugh. I am studying Business Management with a minor in Theatre. I hope to become involved with many different theatre and service groups alongside LSP. I also want to continue my involvement with Hugh O’Brian Youth (HOBY). One day I hope you’ll see me on the big screen or on the stages of Broadway; all the while running a successful non-profit. Go Devils!

Cole Harding

I am very excited to be here at ASU! I am a graduate from Desert Mountain High School in Scottsdale, Arizona. I grew up playing football and played throughout high school. I was very involved in Boys Team Charity, which helps local philanthropies in the local area. This group got me very involved in Miracle League of Arizona, where I dedicate much of my time to help special needs children play organized baseball in a league of their own.

Over the course of the next four years, I would love to participate in some new clubs to help ASU in any way I can. I really look forward to getting involved in Greek life and meeting tons of new people and friends. With new clubs, experiences, and new fantastic people, I would love to help students at ASU and build myself as well! I am so grateful for LSP and the opportunities it has and will present me in the near future!

Grant Laufer

I am a graduate of Mountain View High School in Mesa, Arizona. In high school, I was heavily involved in political and cultural events, and spent far too many hours working for political campaigns on the state and local level. I was also involved in study abroad programs, helping local exchange students adjust to Arizona and going on my own study abroad trip to Turkey. I may seem quiet to people at first, but once I get to know someone I can’t stop discussing, debating, and joking about the latest current events with them.

I haven’t fully decided on one particular major yet, but I know I want to pursue a degree in the global studies or business fields. I am incredibly excited to join clubs and organizations that fit my interests at ASU, and hope to experience internships and study abroad opportunities during my undergraduate time here.

I can’t wait to make new friends with my LSP family and look forward to a challenging, exciting, and unforgettable time here at ASU!

Nicholas Livengood

I am a native of Anthem, Arizona. I have lived in Arizona for 12 years now since my family of my mom, dad, and brother moved here from Chicago, Illinois. I have been passionate about basketball, golf, and my academics, but I valued leadership and extra-career building activities in the business field during high school. I was a proud member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) for four years, including serving as the State Vice President of Finance during my senior year. I consider this opportunity to expand my leadership in LSP a privilege and an honor.

While at ASU, I plan to study at W.P Carey School of Business for a degree in Accountancy. I also hope to study a minor or certificate in Sports Business or Finance. I hope to become a CPA and a professional sports executive. But while at ASU, to help me achieve these career goals, I will strive to utilize the top-ranked resources provided by the school and give back to the community that will ultimately end up being the source of my success after 3-4 years of rigorous study.

I’m a fun loving guy who loves to hang out with friends, play basketball or golf, work out, or do anything fun with new and exciting people! I really plan to have a great time in college, but I also hope to slow down and enjoy this experience before it passes me by. I want to remember my days as a Sun Devil, GO ASU!

Marcos Lopez

To start off, I am no ordinary student. I was never just a jock or a nerd nor am I just active in clubs; I am all of the above. I participated in four sports, seven community organizations, and seven school clubs. Besides my involvement there, I also was a part of an Airsofting group, Bravo 520, and I also worked for the City of Casa Grande Parks and Recreation. I am very athletic and not only play those four organized sports but also another five on the side. My top sports are football and baseball which I plan to continue playing in the coming years here at ASU. As for my club involvement I mainly participated in three: Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Future Farmers of America (FFA), and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD). Within these organizations I have upheld seven different officer positions. All have helped shape me into the leader I am today. Through my community organizations I have compiled over 2,500 hours of community service over the past four years. My main two organizations have been and will forever be Relay For Life and C.O.P.S. (Concerns Of Police Survivors). Through the involvement and betterment of our community, I want to not only make a difference while I am here, but leave a lasting memory for the university in the years to come.

Lerman Montoya

I am majoring in Journalism and Mass Communications at the Downtown campus. I'm also furthering my collegiate experience by studying at Barrett, the Honors College. My aspiration in life is to be happy in a career that allows me to not only think creatively but showcase my leadership skills. The Downtown campus will be a great way for me to harness my leadership skills and aid the urban communities. Growing up in an urban community did have its setbacks; however, through the hardships of life I’ve learned to be appreciative and humbled by great opportunities. I’m excited to begin my journey at ASU and learn from my fellow peers and staff what it truly means to be a great leader.

Although almost all of my cohort friends are in Tempe, I'm sure that my quirky personality and eagerness to make friends will attract likeminded students to befriend. I hope to get involved in many clubs and organizations at the Downtown campus such as The National Association of Hispanic Journalists, National Lesbian and Gay Journalists, and TRIO Devils. I’m sure that in the first couple weeks of school I’ll be involved in almost every club. However, I’ve heard that it could be stressful, so maybe not. I hope to fuse my passion for community service and my drive for social change, to help make ASU a more diverse and dynamic university. Go Sun Devils!

Julia Paulus

I will be traveling to Arizona State all the way from a small farm town (not kidding, I have 9 chickens in my backyard) in northern Ohio. As an out-of-state student, being a part of the Leadership Scholarship Program family is a true comfort and blessing. I am greatly looking forward to escaping the cornfield-filled Midwest and beginning all of the great adventures that await me at ASU. During high school, I was involved in multiple service groups in my community and worked to establish student-designed community improvement projects. Through leadership in organizations such as student government, National Honors Society, and Students Against Destructive Decisions, I was fortunate enough to work with extremely inspiring people who pushed me to reach my true potential and gave me the courage and wisdom to become a community leader.

I began developing passions of my own during high school, through non-profit organizations such as Americans for Prosperity and Young Americans for Freedom, I began to fight for student political awareness and participation. I worked as an intern on the campaign of the Governor of Ohio, John Kasich, and later as a field associate for Americans for Prosperity. Currently, I am employed as an associate for a small business start-up company, which has inspired me to major in economics at ASU while also pursing the Pre-Law program. I also developed a passion for language and writing. I currently am the senior editor of our high school’s award-winning newspaper, an experience that I have loved though every step in the process, and I have been studying Spanish for five years. I am also a strong believer in traveling, the oxford comma, alternative music, Leonardo DiCaprio movies, and German food. I cannot wait to be a part of the Leadership Scholarship Program and make the 2015 cohort one to remember.

Curtis Peterson

Good day! I graduated from Cibola High School in Yuma, Arizona after spending the majority of my life growing up in Pocatello, Idaho (you know, the place you get your taters from). I am proud to be a part of an amazing group of individuals at the Leadership Scholarship Program after working diligently toward providing for the students in my high school, starting four organizations and various inaugural events, fundraisers, award programs, visits from politicians, and advocating campaigns. I am excited to say, however, that those accomplishments are behind me and I can begin to work toward pursuing my dreams.

At ASU, I will be majoring in physics, a subject I have been obsessed with for most of my high school career. Isn’t it fascinating that the faster you travel, the younger you get relative to, say, your couch potato friend? There is a great joy in physics! And advocating that to students as much as possible is my goal at ASU. At the same time, I want to indulge myself in as much research opportunities as possible, as I would love to contribute whatever insights I can into the study early on.Have a great day and keep on learnin’!

Bari Richardson

I am a graduate of Perry High School in Gilbert, Arizona. In high school, I was passionate about being involved in as many activities as possible, both on and off campus. I have been an active member of DECA all four years of high school and have competed at the international level twice. I also love serving the global community. Over the past two years I have traveled to multiple countries including Kazakhstan and Indonesia to learn about culture and service. In addition, I work at Starbucks Coffee Company. I love my job and anything that involves a latte.

At ASU, I will be attending Barrett, the Honors College, as well as WP Carey School of Business. I hope to make a difference on campus by encouraging students to be active not only in our campus community, but also be active in the global community. I hope to organize multiple community service events that inspire students to think beyond US borders.

Chloe Rutledge

I am a graduate of Arizona School for the Arts, where I spent seven years studying voice and oboe performance alongside rigorous academics. Throughout high school, I was involved in many clubs and organizations, including being a member of honors music ensembles, a member of National Honor Society, and the President of Student Government. One of my favorite accomplishments during my high school career was founding the inaugural Knitting Club, which served the community through fiber arts. In my free time, I enjoy knitting, drinking coffee, spending time with friends, and listening to French hip-hop. I am passionate about community involvement, both locally, nationally and internationally. I have had many opportunities to travel outside the USA, serve different communities and experience different cultures.

As I head into my freshman year, I am majoring in Political Science. I plan to add an Economics minor and continue to study French language and culture. While at ASU, I plan to be involved in clubs, participate fully in my classes, study abroad, seek out valuable opportunities and people, and make amazing memories with my friends. I hope to impact ASU by inspiring my community to become actively engaged in the world around them. I am very proud to be in LSP, and I know that this community will help me on my new and exciting journey.

Crystal Alvarez

Efraen Amarillas

Delilah Cassidy

Ryan Clogg

Zachory Daniel

Natasha Feise

Ricardo Flores

Rachel Gotsch

Lindsay Heffron

Melinda Hickcox

Jacob Jelinek

Sierra LaDuke

Charles Larson

Cindy Le

Jessica Lehman

Emily Liu

Eric Mannix

Mahnoor Mukarram

Rachel O’Malia

Maya Patel

Naomi Reyes

Kari Sanford

Nick Staloch

An Tran

Katherine West

Dominique Zapata

Rachael Bachert

Samarth Bhat

Nicole Briones

Holly Celaya

Nicholas Deininger

Julia Deitz

Grady Eldridge

Patricia Esch

Angelica Fox

Jordan Garcia

Shannon Gilpin

Matthew Gomez

Matthew Harris

David Ingraham

Ciera Lederer

Brandon Marks

Ryan Melikian

Elizabeth Palos

Kaycie Quinonez

Xavier Reyes

Hans Rodriguez

Hannah Warren

Lizette Yslas

Emilia Zamora

Salyssa Alers

I am Salyssa Alers, and will be graduating from Cholla High Magent school in Tucson, Arizona. In my time at Cholla I have been a mentor to my peers, joined several clubs on campus, and I am a candidate in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. When I am not busy with school work I like to spend time with my family, and volunteering at various local organizations. I am very excited to be attending the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism this fall. Attending this school has been my major goal for the past several years and I am looking forward to beginning my journey at Ariona State University.

Olivia Brancati

Hello everyone! My name is Olivia Brancati and I am from Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, AZ. In high school I was involved in activities such as Student Government, Cross Country, Track, Robotics, National Honors Society, and many more! I will be studying at Barrett, The Honors College and am pursuing a degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering. I’m thrilled to be a part of LSP, and I can’t wait to meet all of you! Go Sun Devils!

Karl Blasco

Hi! I am Karl Blasco, graduating valedictorian of AAEC High School and South Mountain Community College in Phoenix, AZ. Originally from the southeastern tropics of Manila, Philippines, I have lived in Phoenix since I was 10. As a dually-enrolled high school student, I took part in organizations at both AAEC and South Mountain:  National Honor Society, Student Government, and Be a Leader Club at AAEC; Phi Theta Kappa, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, and the Honors Program at South Mountain, respectively. I will continue my undergraduate and graduate career at ASU studying industrial engineering as a 4+1 BS/MS program candidate. Fun for me is traveling, going on adventures, and exploring new restaurants, bodies/features of water and land, and my friends’ fridges! Cohort ‘12- black out or back out!

Robert Choueiri

I was born in Lawrence, Massachusetts on July 1, 1994, being paired with my two minute older twin brother(who absolutely looks nothing like me) . I have an eldest brother and older sister in the presence of two extraordinary Lebanese parents. I was raised in Mansourieh, Lebanon for 11 years of my life. I am nearly fluent in four languages and  my hobbies include soccer, choir, student council and learning about government. I strive to be as involved as possible and give my time to those around me. Helping others is my biggest joy and family is a large aspect of my life. I will be majoring in Supply Chain Management and Economics, and minoring in Global Studies(however this academic path definitely has room to change). For graduate school I hope to pursue in International Law. One day, I hope to represent America by becoming an Ambassador and making a difference to foreign sovereign. I also hope to one day open an organization in Middle east similar to the UN but is focused in that region of the world’s issues and educates teens on how to coexist amongst one another through civic education and involvement. And I LOVE LSP.

Fitri Cortes

ASU. Leadership. Marine Corps. Honors Societies. Baking. Soccer. Mathematics. This all describes Fitri Cortes. Born and raised here in Arizona, my Colombian and Indonesian family has supported me throughout my life. My second family is my classmates. In May of 2012, I will graduate from a class of eight at Arizona Cultural Academy. ACA has really been my second home since I was nine years old. The Islamic environment made me who I am today. I've learned to hold my values of religion and education in high regard, and so much more. But no joke, I'm ready to leave my class of eight and be a sun devil, one of a lot more than eight! :) I'm majoring in civil engineering (sustainable engineering) at ASU. I'm so blessed for everything that got me to where I am today, with LSP and how God paved the way to my future. I shall leave you with these last words of wisdom, as said perfectly by none other than Lee Brice: "never let your praying knees get lazy & love like crazy!" :) 

David Allen Crowe

Hello World! My name is David Allen Crowe and I was born and raised in the city I love, Phoenix, Arizona. My educational path started at North High School and has now lead me to ASU where I am going to be double majoring in Supply Chain Management and Marketing in the Barrett Honors College. I was a Student Government kid in high school so I'm not shy and I love to meet lots of people and try new things. As for my goals for the future, I am a man of simple taste. I would marry Vanessa Hudgens and coordinate a local recreational basketball league in Waikiki, Hawaii. If this does not work out, I will happily settle for a wife and kids and a job where I can comfortably afford to make my family as happy as they can be. There is much more to learn about me and the best way to find that out is to come an talk to me yourself. I can't wait to meet you all :)

Melissa Gotsch

Melissa Gotsch: a loyal, passionate, outgoing, and dynamic Scorpio. I was born in Chicago Illinois to two wonderful parents Lynne and Ken Gotsch. Two years later, my younger sister Rachel came into our lives. My parents instilled a religious value in my life at a very early age. Going to church every Sunday is a must. Starting in Kindergarten, I attended Saint Juliana’s Catholic grade school. My Catholic education is extremely important to me. To further my education, I enrolled at the all girls’ catholic high school Resurrection College Prep in Chicago Illinois. While receiving a wonderful education, I become involved in many clubs, sports, and volunteer work. Becoming president of Key Club, Fitness Club, and World Traditions Club was not easy work. Continuing to play volleyball and soccer was also difficult while trying to remain in the Resurrection National Honors Society. I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family in my spare time; summer is my favorite season; and becoming a dentist is my dream.

Alexis La Benz

I plan to major in Business (Communication) and minor in Social Entrepreneurship through Barrett Honors College. Last year as a Bank of America Student Leader, I learned a lot about the non- profit and business sectors – which fascinate me. I am passionate about spreading awareness of human trafficking through presentations with a nonprofit group I co-founded, GS GEMS, and through my website teensontrafficking.org. I have been a part of Girl Scouts for 13 years and was honored this year as a National Young Woman of Distinction by GSUSA. Besides community outreach, I love meeting new people and travelling. I have been in choir since I can remember, and when I am not singing in choir, I am probably singing around the house, in the car, or with friends out in public. This year, one of my dreams came true… my choir was invited to sing at Carnegie Hall. Another dream is to live one day in New York City as CEO of Girl Scouts USA. I am ecstatic to begin this journey at ASU as part of the LSP family.

Miguel Lopez

Hello! My name is Miguel Lopez and I graduated from Desert Ridge High School in East Mesa. Throughout high school I have participated in a variety of clubs such as Student Council, Project Lead the Way, Math Club, and Ourtown. I have also participated in Cesar Chavez Leadership Institute at ASU and HOBY at NAU. Some quick facts about me are: I can speak both Spanish and English, I am one of the biggest diehard ASU football fans you will ever meet, I love to play games such as League of Legends and Diablo III, and I love everything about computers. I hope to graduate ASU with my masters in Computer Systems engineering through the 4+1 program and enter the work field shortly after. My dream job would be to work in a cubicle. Something about sitting in an enclosed space sounds extremely appealing to me because I could work alone and seek help from other people around me. I am very excited to attend ASU because I will finally get the chance to start on my career. 

Evelyn Luna

I am originally from California and get to blow out candles every January 8th since 1994. I lived in a small city called Pacoima until about 5yrs ago when I moved out to Arizona with my family, to the city of San Tan Valley. I'm a huge animal lover of every kind and even do well with reptiles. My favorite hobbies are running, shopping, and interacting with both humans and animals. One of my favorite activities since becoming an Arizona resident has been going to the lake to ride wave runners! I graduated from Poston Butte High School on May 30th of 2012 and soon I will embark on life changing journey at ASU, where I will study Animal Biology Science to hopefully become Veterinarian. As part of LSP, I hope not only to enjoy a great experience, but also leave a positive impact at ASU!

Justin Alan Maenner

My name is Justin Alan Maenner and I was born on November 10th, 1993 in Chandler Arizona. I attended Dobson High School for grades 10-12 where I auditioned for the top Orchestra’s at Dobson; Chamber and Symphonic Orchestra’s, and was immediately placed as a 1st violinist. The first year as a member of Dobson’s Symphonic Orchestra, I performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City. I participated in many clubs and sports such as Orchestra Council, Baseball, Basketball, Football, Football Leadership Council as the Leadership Captain, Link Crew as a member in 11th grade and President in 12th grade, National Honors Society, and Student Success as a tutor. I was involved in extracurricular activities outside of school as a worship team member in the Faith Family Church Worship Band and a member of two club baseball teams. Upon graduating from Dobson High School, I will be attending Barrett Honors College majoring in Digital Culture concentrated in Music and Technological Entrepreneurship.

Cinthia E. Manjarrez

Hello!! My name is Cinthia E. Manjarrez and I’m from Ajo Arizona. I graduated Valedictorian from Ajo High School. I’m originally from Paramount, California but I later (age 11) moved to Culiacan, Sinaloa where I lived for three years and attended school and then moved to Arizona. I am a really outgoing person, I love to socialize, and participate in everything. As a High school student I was able to participate in Student Government, and Student Council (President), National Honor Society, Book Club, Tech Club, History Club, Drama Club, Support Group, Peer mentoring, Volleyball, Basketball, Track and Field, and Baseball. As I said I love being active, social, and loud! On my spare time I enjoy walking, exploring, traveling, watching movies, reading, starting new things and helping others. This year I will be majoring in Biological Sciences (Animal Physiology and Behavior). Let me say that I loved high school, but I expect only better from Arizona State University, which is why I am proud to say “I am an LSP member Cohort of 2012!” GO SUN DEVILS!!!

Lea Martin

Hey Everyone! My name is Lea Martin and I’m from Yuma, Arizona. I’m a proud King graduate from Kofa High School, where I was very involved in my school. I was a cheerleader for three years and served as cheer captain one year; I was a Student Government Representative one year as well. My biggest involvement was with the Kofa Royal Dancers where I served three different positions throughout high school and was privileged to be President of the club my senior year. Being President of the Kofa Royal Dancers, I was fortunate to be the director of two successful dance shows, along with leading and choreographing for the team through the year. Outside of school I’ve dance from the age of four, and participated in the 4-H organization from the age of nine. In 4-H, I raised rabbits for all ten years and market goats for three, my greatest accomplishment through 4-H was being titled the Overall Champion Rabbit Showman at the 2012 Yuma County Fair. In August I will be a Business Communications major at the W. P. Carey School. I’m so grateful for the opportunities and possibilities LSP has for me. Let’s go Cohort 2012!!

Soren Mickelsen

Only eighteen years old, I feel like I have a lot to say. I don’t let any one person, situation or feeling define me. Rather I accumulate all the places I’ve been, people I’ve seen, and lessons learnt to comprise my identity. One of my biggest desires leaving high school was if my peers forget how I dressed, sounded, or acted like, they would least remember what I had to say. I have a voice and I intend on using it. Whether I express myself or take a stand in what I believe in, I have the courage to do what I know is right. Family and close friends impact my life daily—molding me into the unique being that I am—whether I’d like to admit it or not. Transformed by my relationship with Christ, I have a personal relationship with God, holding dearly to my faith. With all that life has afforded me I hope to earn a degree in Biomedical Engineering at ASU. I want to work with the Deaf Community because their culture is exceptional. I can’t wait to live the college-LSP dream. I’m Soren Mickelsen and I have a story to tell. . .

Isaac Miller

Hello! My name is Isaac Miller and I am proud to be in the LSP 2012 Cohort! I have been in the Southeast Valley of Phoenix my whole life, inhabiting such exotic places as south Tempe to north Chandler. I attended Grace Community Christian School for elementary school and part of junior high, before I transferred to the beautiful Tempe Preparatory Academy halfway through seventh grade. I have been able to be involved in a lot at Tempe Prep: football, speech and debate, school musicals, etc. I also have enjoyed the curriculum, having been able to read some of the greatest authors of all time, ranging from Dostoevsky to Aquinas. Throughout all of this development, I have been deepened in my faith in the Lord, the sole purpose for my life. I want to have an unexplainable love for Christ, which motivates me to love everyone around me. I am joyful. I love friendships and healthy human relationships of any kind. I’m very eccentric. I will be majoring in Philosophy at Barrett.

Ruben Olmedo

My name is Ruben Olmedo, and I was born and raised in Redlands, California. Throughout my four years at Redlands High School, I was heavily involved in Key Club, Link Crew and HEART Academy. Outside of school I was involved at my church and volunteered at the local hospital. Arizona State University really became a serious idea for school when my grandparents moved to Gilbert, AZ. My grandpa would always give me updates on what was happening on the Sun Devil’s campus and telling me how I could be apart of that. He also included the incentive that if I attended ASU that I could expect a home cooked meal whenever school food wasn’t cutting it and my grandma could do my laundry. It was just about a done deal, but then my dad and I came across this scholarship from ASU to members of Key Club. Reading more into the Leadership Scholarship Program, I decided to take a chance and apply. Getting the call from Janelle Kappes telling me the good news, that I was now apart of the 2012 LSP Cohort - that sealed the deal for me, and I officially became a Sun Devil!

Neha Patel

Hi, my name is Neha Patel. I was born in Flagstaff, Arizona; I went to Payson High School in Payson, Arizona. I am really excited to become a Sun Devil. This year I am majoring in Global Health. Some of my hobbies include drawing, yoga, and photography. My favorite novels are The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison, and To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Two of the most inspirational people that have inspired me have been Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Seuss. They both serve as my constant inspiration in life. 

Elizabeth Danielle Perry

Hola! My name is Elizabeth Danielle Perry and I am a part of the 2012 Cohort. I will be studying Psychology at ASU in order to someday become a Child Psychologist. I was born and raised in happy Holbrook with seven younger brothers. I am the daughter or a wonderful lady, Mrs. Mellissa Buckley. She taught me to chase after every dream I can imagine. This would be one of the many reasons why I am so involved at my High School. I am a dancer, actress, senior class president, singer, songwriter, guitar player, and choreographer. I am extremely passionate about everything that I do and give everything 100 percent. I am so very excited to be a part of the Leadership Scholarship Program and can't wait to give it all I've got. Life is a stage; you have got to leave your heart and soul out there because once those curtains close there is no going back. Now go live a life of happiness! :)

Reyna Rivera

Hey guys! My name is Reyna Rivera. I grew up in the west side of town, a section of Phoenix that is notorious for crime and danger, as well as a heavily populated Hispanic community. Though it seems horrific, it has molded me into who I am. It has given me the strength and perseverance needed to survive in the real world as I push forward to succeed. I am easy going and I love to smile. I find joy in serving my community and doing all I can to assist others. Through the National Honor Society, I have participated in the Crisis Nursery Drive, the Park Clean-Up project, Reading-Writing Buddy Program, and visited the elderly at the Encanto Palms Nursing Home. My passion in life is music. Music has shaped my character and allowed me to be the vibrant person I am today. In the future I hope to utilize the virtues I have acquired through music and service to aid me in my profession. My desired field of study is child psychology. After becoming a child psychologist, my goal is to create an organization that empowers young children that have faced psychological traumas due to homelessness, child abuse, neglect, and that were taken away from their families by Child Protection Services. Many call me a dreamer, but I say I am a goal-setter. There are times that matters do not go the way I plan them to, but that is the beauty of life. I shoot for the absolute best, and even though I may not always get there, I find myself in a marvelous place. Therefore, no matter what twists and turns await me I am certain I will achieve success.

Matthew Ruland

Hello, my name is Matthew Ruland. I am a graduate from Peoria High School. I am thrilled to attend Arizona State University. Nonetheless, leaving home is oftentimes difficult for me. I love my parents and family dearly. My mindset is always “family first.” Living in Tempe will certainly provide me with an opportunity to experience the “real world” firsthand. One of the greatest experiences of my life was attending Arizona Boys State. This program taught me a tremendous amount regarding government and social skills. Ultimately, I was elected to the Boys State House of Representatives. Athletics have certainly had a huge impact in my life. I was the number one seed on my high school tennis team sophomore, junior, and senior year. My participation in student council undoubtedly afforded me with a fresh outlook on life itself. I now realize serving others is certainly more fulfilling than being placed on the honor roll.

Austen Shipley

I was raised in the small rural town of Globe, Arizona.  Influenced greatly by my family, I grew to have the same set of values as my parents: honesty, loyalty and humility.  My family truly values community service, thus since I was little I have been involved not only in my community but in my faith as well. I have been in many leadership positions such as Student Counsel, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Teen Court as an attorney.  Being active in many sports, I learned the importance of teamwork, especially by those who are all driven by one motive: passion.  I am driven by my passions. I have a caring passion for my friends and family and I show this through my selfless acts.  Also I have passion for both music and soccer.  Music defines me and both provide a means to express myself.  Most importantly, I have a passion to help others. My main goal in life is to be able to always put others first and to provide for everyone as much as I can offer.  I have high hopes for the future and pursue to offer service to all.  I truly enjoy life and see every day as an opportunity to accomplish greatness. 

Katie St. Peter

Hi, I’m Katie St. Peter. I am from Fargo, North Dakota originally, but have been living in Arizona for the past 13 years. I am graduating from Chandler Preparatory Academy and hope to be receiving my Bachelors from the W.P. Carey Business School at ASU and later my MBA. I have been involved in Social Committee, The Mentor Program, Volleyball, Girl Scouts, Key Club, Drama Club, VBS, and a lot of other fun activities at my high school. In High School I really enjoyed our Drama program, not only as an actress but as a lighting designer and director as well. I have also had the chance to play volleyball for the past 4 years, 2 of which were on my school’s Varsity Volleyball team. I love my sport because of the team atmosphere, and all of the connections and friendships I have made through the sport. That is why I am really excited about the LSP program as I find it another opportunity to make lasting friendships and connections while changing the world at the same time. For fun, I like water color painting, volleyball, movie premieres, eating cupcakes, hockey games or ASU games, and going to the beach (who doesn’t).

Julia Thatcher

My name is Julia Thatcher, I am a native to Arizona and have lived here for 11 years now. I recently graduated from Desert Vista high school where I participated in a number of school and community activities. Among a few of the sports and clubs were, improve, student government acting as the student body President, cross-country, and track and field. I enjoy spending time with my family and sister who is currently attending ASU. I am looking forward to being actively involved on the ASU campus.

Hunter Douglas Workman

Born on May 21st of 1993, I, Hunter Douglas Workman, grew up with my older brother, Chris, and younger sister, Amanda. My family and I spent most of my 18 years in Kingman, Arizona. It is in this town that I took interest in music (the guitar, piano, and singing), swimming, and soccer. Away from school, I spent most my time weight training and swimming, life guarding at the city pools, and playing music with various bands. In school, I involved myself in activities I feel passionate about—swimming and soccer. Being the captain of the swim team, I led my fellow swimmers to break school and regional record. In the classroom, I study hard— motivating myself to excel for the sake of my future patients (I want to be a doctor/medical engineer). My past experiences led me to a passion for medical sciences, and influenced my decision of majoring in biomedical engineering. Aside from school, I enjoy mountaineering, playing music, adventures with friends, working out, seeing new things, and meeting new people. I am thrilled and anxious to be a part of LSP!

Bethany Wright

Hey there! My name is Bethany Wright, and I was born and raised in the sunny town of Mesa, Arizona. Growing up in a rather large family of 10 kids, I have found my voice and am not afraid to use it for my love of singing and screaming on rides at Disneyland, the happiest place on Earth and also my second home. At Westwood High School, I was on both the cross country and soccer teams as well as held various positions in student council for all four years. I want to travel and see what’s beyond the AZ sun. My plans for ASU as of now are undecided as I will explore the different majors that focus on writing. Planning to study abroad, I hope to be able to make a difference in the lives of the new people I meet and am stoked for this new chapter of my life. Go Cohort 2012!!!

Julia Buffkin

Hello! My name is Julia Buffkin and I am proud to be a Sun Devil! I am graduating from Dobson High School in Mesa, Arizona. In high school, I was involved in activities such as Student Council, Cross Country, National Honor Society, FCA, Key Club, and many more! I am very excited to begin my story at ASU as a Nursing Major. I intend to work with children someday as a Pediatric Nurse. As for now, I can’t wait for the fun memories with LSP and the amazing people I will meet!

Monica Burba

Hello ASU! My name is Monica Burba. I am from Chandler, Arizona and attended Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, Arizona—not too far from Arizona State University! I will be in Barrett Honors College, pursuing a degree in Political Science and Sustainability. In high school I was very involved in the arts, holding leadership positions in both choir and drama. I plan on also participating in both of these activities at Arizona State. I was also involved with Student Council, NHS, Cooking Club, and Youth in Government-also things I would love to become involved with in college. I absolutely love traveling and hope to eventually serve in the Peace Corps. I can’t wait to get to know all of the LSPers and start my new life as a Sun Devil!

Ashley Differt

Hello, hello from the land of cheese, dairy, and the Green Bay Packers-Wisconsin! My name is Ashley Differt and I am beyond grateful and excited to now be a part of the LSP family. Coming from a town of less than 5,000, I find it so surreal to be given the opportunity to attend ASU and begin the next chapter of my life. Among others clubs, sports, and groups that I was dedicated to in high school, Key Club was the most profound. Having served as the 2010-2011 Wisconsin-Upper Michigan Key Club District Governor, this opened my eyes to the possibilities that exist outside of my hometown of Mauston, Wisconsin. When I begin classes this August, I’ll begin my major within the biological sciences program along with minoring in global health. Aside from adapting to Arizona, I hope to explore Tempe, find some awesome vegetarian cuisine, join ASU’s Circle K Club, and meet a few of my fellow Sun Devils in the mean time! See you in Arizona!

Roisin Doy

Hello my name is Roisin Doy and I was born in Bury St. Edmunds, England. I moved to Arizona when I was 5 years old and have lived here ever since. I am about to graduate from Dysart High School in El Mirage and I am so excited about leaving my Demon days behind and becoming a Sun Devil! I have been really involved in Key Club, drama club, and lots of other clubs throughout high school and hope to be just as involved during college while a part of LSP! When I’m not busy (which rarely happens) I work as a Sonic Carhop. I try to stay busy but I often love to relax outdoors. I plan on majoring in Broadcast Journalism and possibly getting a minor in Non-profit organization management or theater. I have a broad scope of interests as you can see. I am so excited about being a part of the 2011 cohort!

Bennett Dwosh

Hello everyone! My name is Bennett Dwosh, and I come from Pinnacle High School in northeast Phoenix. While in high school, I was active in our school’s Freshmen Mentoring Organization, Key Club, National Honor Society and a few other clubs. Although I enjoyed all four of my busy years in high school, I am even more excited to be attending ASU and Barrett, The Honors College this upcoming fall, where I will be studying Business Marketing (and maybe a second major to come later as well). I enjoy sports, and I even announced a few sports at my high school throughout my four years, and I plan to attend as many events at ASU as possible. After hanging out in Tempe a few times with some of our 2011 LSP cohort, I know we will be one of the most enthusiastic groups ASU has ever seen!

Emilee Eikren

Hello all! My name is Emilee Eikren and I am from Perry High School in Gilbert, AZ. I began at Perry in its first year open and all through high school I participated in Student Government and Yearbook and played an active role in setting traditions. Beginning a new chapter at ASU and LSP, I’m looking forward to not setting traditions, but adopting a culture that already exists. I will be part of Barrett, The Honors College, majoring in Sociology. Living on the Tempe campus, I can’t wait to be on the forefront of activities and adventure. The Leadership Scholarship Program is just the cherry on top. I’ve already made so many connections with fellow LSP-ers and am absolutely looking forward to what the next four years bring.

Jordan Feise

Hi everyone, my name is Jordan Feise! I am originally from Arizona, but I grew up in Fort Collins, Colorado and graduated from Fossil Ridge High School. I have enjoyed my time in Colorado, but needless to say, I am looking forward to the warmer weather! LSP is one of the many reasons I have chosen to attend Arizona State University. I can’t wait to become involved with such a great group. I know I have yet to begin my LSP experience, but can’t imagine my college adventure without it. I can already tell that LSP will be life changing. During my senior year, I served as my chapter’s DECA President and am a self-proclaimed business nerd. One of my biggest accomplishments is qualifying for ICDC, the national DECA competition twice during my high school career. As you may have already guessed, I will be attending the W.P. Carey School of Business and will be majoring in Marketing. I am excited for LSP and the next chapter of my life at ASU. Go Sun Devils!

Leah Fiacco

Hello everyone! My name is Leah Fiacco and I am a recent graduate from Williams Field High School in Gilbert, Arizona. Throughout high school I was very involved! I was a member of the National Honor Society, Physics Club, WFHS Site Council and Varsity Golf & Softball teams, all while serving as the student body president. I also had the honor to be on Gilbert’s Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee and serve as a volunteer at The House of Refuge. In the summer of 2010 I was selected as a student delegate by Gilbert Sister Cities and sent as a youth ambassador to Leshan, China, fueling my passion for international development and relations. However, I cannot wait to begin my involvement at ASU and the surrounding Tempe community! While at ASU I intend to double major in Political Science and Global Studies with a minor in Spanish in hopes of someday becoming an US Ambassador. I am so excited to begin my journey with LSP and cannot wait to take advantage of all that ASU has to offer!

Chase Fitzgerald

My name is Chase Fitzgerald. I intend to get my degree in Biochemistry and go on to get a medical degree in Anesthesiology. I was born and raised in Scottsdale, Az. I attended OLPH, Pope John XXIII, Basis Scottsdale, and Brophy College Preparatory. Things I have been involved in include: Varsity Football, Track, Wrestling; Si Se Puede Learning Center; Horses Help; Brighton Gardens; St. Vincent’s de Paul; Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos; National Honors Society; and Calc Club. I have been involved my entire life and will continue to do so. I aspire to work with Doctors Without Borders when I get my license and I hope to give back in thanks for all that I have been given.

Carlo Hernandez

Hello. I am Carlo A. Smith-Hernandez. I went to Skyline High School in East Mesa. I graduated in the Top Ten category of my class. I participated in many clubs including NHS, Academic Decathlon, Physics Club, Deca, and a few others. I am a Band Geek; I have been in band since Fourth grade. I play all the Saxophones. I love music. I like listening to music, playing music, and creating music. I like to play games of all types (board games, video games, card games, sport games, real sport games, any type of game let’s play). I like to read; I read all sorts of genres. I love to solve puzzles; all kinds of puzzles are fun to me. I attribute my addiction to puzzles to my thinking habits. I really enjoy thinking about things; I like to consider myself an analytical person constantly thinking about deeper meanings of things. I am happy to be going to ASU with all of you! GO DEVILS!!!

Victoria Houle

Hello! My name is Victoria Houle, but my friends call me Tori. I am from Columbia Falls, Montana which is located in Northwestern Montana approximately 20 miles from Glacier National Park. I will be majoring in Psychology and after graduation from Arizona State University in 2015 I plan on going into graduate school and fulfilling my dream of becoming a Psychologist. My passion is service. I love to serve others, so my ticket to Arizona State University was the Leadership Scholarship Program that I was accepted into. I am very excited to join my fellow LSP’ers and the many other clubs and organizations offered at ASU. I can’t wait to start my Sun Devil story!

Mark Mazzucco

My name is Mark Mazzucco and I have lived in Mesa my entire life. I am attending Mountain View at the moment and am planning to major in nursing at ASU. I am 100 % Italian and like going on long walks on the beach....just kidding, but I love playing basketball, watching movies, hanging with friends, and most of all, I love my family. I have two older sisters, Michelle and Gina, and one older brother, Michael. I am so stoked for the LSP program and can’t wait for the next four years of my life to start!

Kelsey McCauley

Hi! My name is Kelsey McCauley, a graduate from Arcadia High School in Phoenix, Arizona. I enjoy singing, dancing, making new friends, and smiles and laughter. Oftentimes, you can catch me humming to myself or just singing and dancing aloud in my room. I also love to be outdoors and on adventures. Ask me to go hiking, on a short run, or even just out to lay in the sun with you, and if my schedule is clear, you won’t have to ask twice! Maybe that is part of the reason why I am majoring in Sustainability! I am excited to be going to ASU and also to be part of LSP. I cannot wait to meet everyone and create memories!

Travis Moore

My name is Travis David Moore. I opened my eyes on November 11th, 1992. I have lived in Arizona my entire life. I grew up for thirteen years in Chandler, then moved to Maricopa, where I spent the remainder of my primary education days. I am a fitness freak! I love to be active and work out. In high school, I was a wrestler and then cross country and track runner. I have run a 4:25 mile, 9:41 two mile, and 16:49 for 5k. I also have a couple of half marathons under my belt. I was also involved in Student Council, Link Crew, Key Club, and We the People Competition Team. In my spare time, I enjoy playing guitar, reading, writing, music (country and beach rock are my favorite), Black Ops (to unleash my inner nerd from time to time), and kicking back with my friends. I am going to ASU to study Journalism and Mass Communications. I chose to attend Arizona State because of the amazing journalism program, Barrett, The Honors College, and LSP!I am stoked to spend the next four years with the Cohort of 2011!! Can’t wait to make memories with everyone!

Sebastian Navarro

My name is Sebastian Navarro and I am from Westwood High School. I want to major in Supply Chain Management at the W.P. Carey School of Business. I will also be involved with Barrett, The Honors College. At Westwood, I served all three years in Student Council and eventually became Student Body President. I am a member of the National Honor Society, REACH/ACE program at Mesa Community College and I also played on the Varsity Football team my Junior and Senior Year. I was involved in many community service events such as the Sweetheart Special Education Dance, Adopt-a-Family, Newborns in Need, Pen-Pals and I also coached Intramural Flag Football and Soccer. I look forward in joining some intramural teams for Flag football and soccer at ASU. I also would like to be involved in Student Government and perhaps a fraternity. I am EXTREMELY excited to attend ASU and live oncampus!!! GO SUNDEVILS!!!! And I LOVE MY NEW LSP FAMILY!!!! COHORT 2011!!!!

Tro Panosian

Hi, my name is Tro Panosian. I attended Notre Dame Prep in Scottsdale, AZ. I am absolutely exhilarated to attend ASU Barrett The Honors College and become a member of LSP! I plan on getting involved with all aspects of business at the W. P. Carey Academy. In my final year of high school at NDP, I served as student body president and, after a captivating season, went on to win the 4A-II Boys Soccer Championship with my teammates. Of Armenian descent, I serve my church weekly as an ordained acolyte. I was recognized as Youth Leader of the Year in 2010 by the Scottsdale/Paradise Valley Rotary Club and was a proud delegate to the Boys State and Boys Nation civics training programs. My favorite hobby is filmmaking—I make video shorts in my spare time and am truly passionate about film production. I am also passionate about soccer and football—especially when it comes to my beloved Philadelphia Eagles. Thank goodness the NFL lockout has ended! I look forward to bonding with fellow LSPers and engaging myself in the various opportunities that the program has to offer. I aspire to excel in business and eventually become a politically active figure in the great state of Arizona.

Rahul Prasai

During my four years of high school at McClintock, I volunteered in a hospital of a third world country (Nepal), played varsity soccer, got elected class president three times, student body president once, found and was president of my own leadership/service club, was inducted to NHS, organized the largest student mentor charity event in the southwest, worked on the House floor at the US House of Representatives for the summer, was selected as a Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation’s National Finalist, served on various administrative advisory commissions, had over a thousand community service hours, was in yearbook, and involved myself in various other activities that would make a better human being. I acknowledge that I have been blessed with many gifts in life, and I will not let them go to waste. While I wasn’t busy killing myself with activities, I was busy trying to be an average teenager— chasing girls, eating, girls, playing video games, girls, sleeping….I just really love and respect all women. Anyways, starting this fall I’ll be studying Justice and Social Inquiry and Global Studies as a Pre-Law student at CLAS and Barrett, The Honors College.

Yazmin Reyes

My name is Yazmin Lizeth Reyes and I am a graduate from Agua Fria High School in Avondale, Arizona. I’ve spent countless hours at my school and in my community always seeking to better the environment in both aspects. I’ve been involved this past year in Student Government (serving as the Student Body Vice President), Future Business Leaders of America (serving as the Parliamentary Reporter), Linkcrew Mentoring Program (serving as one of the Linkcrew Captains), the National Honor Society (as an original sophomore member), and “Owl Rebelution“ Youth Group. Each club and program holds a very strong place in my heart that has led me to be more outgoing, think about my future, reach out to younger students and to be more caring of our society. In each way, these clubs have taught me that it’s okay to be afraid of the real world that I will encounter in leaving my beloved school, but in the same sense, they’ve taught me that I am ready to handle it all. As for my future, my major will be Secondary Education in English. I look forward to attending Arizona State University and bringing along all of my school pride and hard-work ethic!

Natalie Reyna

My name is Natalie Grace Reyna and I was born and raised in the small town of Farmersville, Texas. I have been raised in a strong Christian home and am very thankful for that. Faith, to me, is my most important attribute and has transformed me into who I am today and why I do the things I do. In the summer of 2010, my family was uprooted and moved to the Phoenix area right before the start of my senior year. However, through the obstacles and struggles I was able to be successful in school sports and extracurricular activities. To say a little about my personality, I’m bad at decision making most of the time. Usually I like to go with the flow, but I’m also a perfectionist and have high standards. When I do jobs, I like to get them done and done top quality. I love to laugh and smile and share that smile with others. It is a thing I enjoy in life. My interests also include athletics; I play every sport I possibly can. Growing up the only girl with three brothers, I have learned to be tough and strong. On the other hand, I am a girl and do like shopping, primping, cooking and going out with the girls. I aspire to one day play the piano, guitar and be fluent in Spanish. I am very excited to attend Arizona State University at the West Campus and study Health and Life Sciences. This is a time that I hope to discover myself as a seeing life as I’ve never seen before in college. LSP is something to look forward to and has made my college transition much smoother. I am awaiting the experience and relationships I will get to build.

Allison Snodgrass

Hi, everyone! My name is Allison Snodgrass, and I graduated from Liberty High School in Peoria, Arizona. I have a twin sister also attending ASU, but we both have different majors; I will be studying Sustainability while she studies molecular biology. I’m attending ASU for its amazing honors college, as well as the LSP program. Although I am not moving far from home, I believe ASU will be a completely new experience, and I can’t wait! While in high school I was extremely active in clubs such as NHS and Ceramics, even going to a national competition for a club called FCCLA. Being involved in extracurricular activities has always been a passion of mine, and I hope to bring this passion to LSP. I am so excited for everything we are going to do as a cohort, and I know ours will be the best!

Katrece Swenson

My name is Katrece Swenson and I’m from the good old dairy state of Wisconsin! All through high school I have filled my free time volunteering, mostly for Key Club. This past year I served as a lieutenant governor in Key Club. In my school’s band I play flute and piccolo, and I was also in marching band for four years. An interesting fact is that I work as a Certified Nursing Assistant(CNA) at a Nursing Home. As of right now, I am a Biological Sciences major, and I want to use that degree to work in the health field. I cannot wait to meet you all, and hope you are as excited to become a Sun Devil as I am!

Tamlyn Thagard

Hey LSP’ers! My name is Tamlyn and I’m from Peoria, AZ. I was born in Okinawa, Japan because of my ever moving military family, but have been settled down in Arizona for quite some time. My big things are Law Enforcement Career Technical Organization, National Honor Society, and CANA, a community service club, all which I help lead. I plan on majoring in Accountancy to become a special agent/forensic accountant in the FBI. I’m so excited for our years together as Sun Devils and as a LSP family!

Emilie Twilling

Hello Everyone, my name is Emilie Twilling. I graduated from Saguaro High School in 2011 as a student scholar, artist, athlete and leader. Within the classroom, I always took the route less traveled and eventually earned a spot in the top three percent of my class. I held many club leadership positions, and always worked to make her school a better place. When not reading, volunteering, or studying, I was found behind a canvas with a paintbrush in hand. Many of my works were shown in local galleries and went on to win student awards. To balance out the studies and creativity, I immersed myself in sports, particularly cross country and track and field. I went to state in both and led my team as captain in my senior year. Outside of school, I work as a lifeguard and water safety instructor. I spend my time protecting lives, teaching swim lessons, and coaching a 70+ child swim team. I will be studying at Barrett, The Honors College at ASU and will earn a degree in Architectural Studies. Someday I hope to open my own architectural firm, and work as an artist in my free time.

Lauran Van Slyke

Hello! My name is Laura Van Slyke and I’m from University High School in Tucson, Arizona. I’m currently undecided about what my major will be at ASU, but I’m very excited to figure that out. In high school, I did drama, soccer, film club, mock trial, student productions club and was editor in chief of our newspaper, The Perspective. I was a pretty active volunteer with the Murphy-Wilmot Library and the Southern Arizona Aids Foundation. I am thankful for LSP, and eager to join the 2011 cohort!

Trevor Young

Hi everyone! My name is Trevor Young. I grew up in Safford, AZ, and if you have never heard of this town, I totally understand! Safford is located near the New Mexico border, about 3 hours east of Phoenix. I loved growing up in a small town, but moving to the city has always been my dream. I always say I want to live my life 10 times so I can have 10 different careers. As of this week, I plan on majoring in Tourism Development and Management. One thing I know for sure is that I can’t wait to be a SUN DEVIL! I’ve been wearing ASU T-Shirts since I was a little kid! I walked into Safford High School knowing that I wanted to excel in something. I joined the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) my first year of high school, and fell in love. FBLA is the largest student organization that focuses on leadership development and business careers. I ended my FBLA experience with two state officer positions under my belt and a passion to succeed. I can’t wait to take the things I learned from my experiences in FBLA and continue to grow and learn with LSP. I was also a member of the National Honor Society, a co-editor of my yearbook, and a three year golf team member. I hope to be just as active with clubs and organizations at ASU. College has never been a question for me. I have always known that it would be a large part of my life, and I’m just excited to experience it here, at Arizona State University.

Julius Aguilar

Yaateeh, shi ei Julius Aguilar da’shijini. Bit’ahnii nishliigo. Naakai Dine’e ei baashishchiin. Shima ei Jarelyn Snyder wolye doo shizhe’e ei John Aguilar wolye. Todinishzhee dee’ naasha’. Akoot’eeh go Dine nishli. I am of the Folded Arm People and of the Mexican People clan. My mother’s name is Jarelyn Snyder and my father’s name is John Aguilar. I am from Kayenta, which is located in northeastern Arizona on the Navajo Nation. I am a Navajo. I am majoring in business management (entrepreneurship) at ASU as a freshman in the fall of 2010. I’d like to give a shout-out to LSP for accepting me into the program and for the much appreciated financial assistance. I look forward to further developing my leadership skills within this program. Thank you, LSP!

Angelee Andorfer-Lopez

Hello LSP!! I graduated from Marcos de Niza high school in Tempe, where I have lived my entire life. I played varsity softball and volleyball and was on the cross country team. I love country music, sunflowers and sushi! I’m a very easy person to get along with and I can’t wait for a new chapter in my life to begin at ASU! I will be majoring in business management. I am one of a family of nine, so I am excited to have 25 new family members!! Can’t wait to meet the 2010 cohort!

Blaze Baggs

Hey, what’s up guys! I am coming from Queen Creek High School in the small cow-filled town of Queen Creek, Ariz. I love life and am always happy. My hobbies would have to be playing any sport that has a ball, a little COD and just hanging out with friends. I plan to study political science and maybe some history in there, too. I can’t wait to start my experience at ASU and get to know all of the great people there.

Chloe Benson

I’m from Red Mountain High School, born and raised in Arizona. I’m majoring in interior design but I also love drawing, playing the guitar, taking photos, playing badminton, watching movies and learning about other cultures. What I look forward to most about college is being part of LSP and meeting a lot of awesome new people!

Emily Brytowski

Hailing from the frigid Midwest, home for me is Fridley, Minn., a suburb of Minneapolis. I’m sure it will be an easy adjustment living in summer weather all year round. My high school career consisted mainly of Key Club and other service organizations. I enjoy anything involving art which is why I am very excited to be double majoring in graphic arts and communication to hopefully enter the field of advertising. I am thrilled to be part of LSP and all that it has to offer.

Mariela Diaz

I am 18 years old and was born in Artesia, Calif., but was raised in Mesa, Ariz. I attended and graduated from Skyline High School. I love to play soccer more than anything in this world, but I also am very dedicated to my studies. When I attend ASU in the fall I will be majoring in criminology and criminal justice. I feel very blessed and honored to receive the Leadership Scholarship and I cannot wait until the school year begins to be able to give my part to this program. Go Sun Devils!

Jared Dole

I am from Roswell, N.M. I am a film major at ASU and have led trainings regarding service and leadership in 14 states and two countries. In my free time I like to run and to read, and I am extremely grateful to get the chance to work with LSP this year!

Matt Dundas

I was born and raised in Scottsdale, Ariz. I get along with almost everybody. As it turns out, I’m actually pretty easy-going. I was vice president of the Robotics Club at my high school and work part time managing properties for a real estate company. In my free time, I like to ride my bike, play around with currency derivatives (not as intense as it sounds, I promise), hang out with friends and engage in the occasional deep conversation. I plan to major in finance at ASU, and I will probably add statistics as a second major. I am looking forward to embracing the rich resources and experiences unique to LSP that I’ve heard so much about and I can’t wait to meet my fellow 2010 LSPers.

Alesha Ellis

Hi everyone. I’m from Willcox, Ariz. – that small town no one has heard about. I grew up being told ASU was the only “right” school and if I didn’t go there I’d be disowned by my sister. Several years later, I’m excited to finally be at ASU and even more excited to be part of LSP. At ASU I plan to major in nursing. In high school, I participated in sports, clubs, church and community service (old people are so adorable). I enjoy being active, running and playing intramurals so if anyone needs a workout buddy, I’m game. I love animals especially my pug and hope to get involved in animal rescue. I’m anxious for the fall and to meet all of you.

John Ernzen

Hello future LSP family! I just graduated from Mountain View High School in Mesa. In high school, my life was more or less Academic Decathlon (major nerd, I know) which culminated in my team getting to go and compete at the national competition this past year, placing second! Other than that, though, I was also involved in NHS, World Scholar’s Cup, choir, Spanish club, and a host of other activities that, looking back, made it hard to find time to sleep. And I plan to be just as involved at ASU in different clubs and programs and possibly double majoring in something in addition to bioengineering. (Though in what, I still have no idea!) Something interesting about me is that I’ve actually known about LSP (and what it stands for) for years – because, as coincidence/fate/divine intervention would have it, I am actually the third Ernzen to be blessed by being part of this program! Two of my older sisters were LSPers previously and so I’m all the more excited to get to know the rest of my cohort because I know from their experience what a family we’ll become. So I can’t wait to meet you all and get started on the journey ahead!

Kevin Fallon

I’m more than excited to be an official Sun Devil! I was born in Peoria, Ariz., and graduated from Peoria High School after four amazing years. As unforgettable as those years may have been, I’m very ready to start my next adventure at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the Downtown Phoenix campus. Writing truly is my passion in life, and I look forward to every opportunity to build on those skills. I can’t wait to live the life of a college student at the Taylor Place dorms, and to be part of the LSP family in Tempe! ASU, here I come!

Megan Gagnon-Cagle

Hello everyone! I’m 17 and have just graduated as valedictorian from Arizona Agribusiness and Equine Center and also from South Mountain Community College with my associate of arts degree with high distinction. I am so excited to be involved in LSP! I know that this program offers me the ability to not only further my education, but also help the ASU and local communities. I frequently volunteer with Kitchen on the Street, a local non-profit organization that collects and distributes food to elementary-aged students across the state, in addition to working on community service projects in NHS. I plan to pursue my bachelor’s degree in history and political science. I can’t wait to get to know each and every one of you in the next several years!

David Glenn Garrison III

Hey everybody!!! I am majoring in biological sciences. I come from YUMA!!! The last four years I have been an active member in Student Council at Cibola High School where I finished high school as the student body president. I was also crowned Mr. Raiderman for 2009-2010 (male pageant) and The Most Spirited in my senior class. I have participated in drama productions like The Wedding Singer, served in NHS and JSA Cibola chapter, and also wore a gorilla suit my freshman year for no apparent reason. I guess you could say I’m the second most interesting man in the world. Aside from all the school stuff, I work in construction and for Parks and Rec for the city of Yuma. When not working or going to school you can find me hunting, camping, trying to sing or dance, hanging at IHOP with friends, or remixing my favorite raps with my own lyrics. Although I’m proud to be a 2010 senior of Cibola High School, I have to say that I am even more excited to be part of the 2010 Cohort of LSP at ASU!!!!

Tyler Gillespie

I am 18 years old and come from the small mining community of Kearny in rural Arizona. I really enjoyed going to high school in a rural area with all its opportunities for recreation outdoors. Going hiking and fishing with my friends is what I love to do. In high school I have been involved with sports, student council and various other extracurricular activities. Besides school activities, I have been fortunate to gain valuable skills working at my family’s hotel/restaurant. During the summers I’ve also worked as a lifeguard at the local municipal pool. When I was 16, I had the unique opportunity to be a Rotary Youth Exchange Student. While on my exchange I lived with a host family, went to school, learned Spanish, traveled and had the time of my life! I am also looking forward to attending college at ASU where I will be majoring in sustainability. I am totally psyched to be part of LSP!

Sean Gormley

I’m from Desert Vista High School in Phoenix, Ariz. I moved to Arizona from Michigan five years ago. My major is currently business, but I’m also interested in economics, fi m and political science. Throughout high school I was involved in Student Council, Key Club, cross country, track and other activities. I am truly blessed to be a new member of the LSP family and forever thankful. Congratulations to my cohort on all of their accomplishments! I am very excited to get to know you all.

Victoria Oriene Kingsby

You can call me Tori. I’m 18 and graduated from South Mountain High School. I have lived in Arizona my whole life, but I have been lucky enough to travel. I went to China for 17 days as a student ambassador with the People to People program which was very enlightening and fun. In high school I was in about eight clubs and played tennis, very busy! We have a little rivalry in my family because my sister is a U of A Wildcat alumnus and my brother and I are ASU Sun Devils. My major is interior design and I want to get a master’s in business. I am really excited to start LSP and join the energetic environment I have witnessed!

Alec Kohli

Hi all. I was born in Scottsdale, Ariz., although I lived in Hong Kong and Singapore when I was younger, and spent my high school years in New Hampshire at a boarding school called Phillips Exeter Academy. As an Eagle Scout, I was involved with many of Exeter’s volunteer opportunities as a head tour guide, a student listener and through The Exonian, our school newspaper. It was a great experience and I wouldn’t trade it for anything, but I’m definitely excited to move on to the new opportunities through ASU; Barrett, the Honors College; and LSP! When I’m not in class or volunteering, I love playing sports, listening to music, hanging out with friends, and traveling. I’m also unbeatable in NBA 2K10 on Xbox 360, so feel free to take me on in a game or two. I plan to major in economics and eventually go to law school, and I’m really excited to meet everyone from LSP and to make ASU a great experience over the next several years!

Selena Kuo

Hello! I am a Corona del Sol graduate. I was born and raised in the scorching heat of Arizona, and have lived here ever since. I plan to major in business marketing and might explore some possibilities in psychology or supply chain. In my spare time, I enjoy drawing, sewing, baking, spending quality time with friends and having a picnic on a fine not-summer day. I look forward to all the exciting new adventures and the lasting friendships that will be created in the years to come in LSP. Cohort of 2010, let’s make this our year – unforgettable!

Athena Myers

I’ve lived in Tucson, Ariz., all my life. In my free time I listen to jazz vinyl on my record player, go on hikes, drink coffee and bake sweet treats. I collect anything having to do with pandas, as well as glass bottles. I love the environment and aspire to be part of the movement to save it. I plan to major in business (sustainability) and am looking forward to sharing some amazing years with the caring and motivated people of LSP!

Allie Oaks

I’m from Nashotah, Wis. I spent my first 14 years in Indianapolis and moved to Wisconsin in 8th grade. I have loved living by lakes, and have endured countless inches of snow; I am ready to move on! I focused on school, running, community service, soaking up the sun and socializing. I was involved in diving, cross country, track, student senate, NHS, Best Buddies, Teen Leaders and Key Club! The past three years have been devoted to starting and leading the world’s largest Key Club and serving as lieutenant governor in the Wisconsin-Upper Michigan district. I found my passion and purpose in life through service and I look forward to continuing that at ASU. Speech and hearing sciences is my major, but that may change! This is undoubtedly the most excited I have been; I cannot wait to live the life of an LSPer and Sun Devil!

Patrick Ratliff

Hello, everyone! I am one of the four out-of-state students accepted into LSP. I hail from the small, southern town of Kennett (hometown of musicians David Nail and Sheryl Crow) in southeast Missouri; and although my hometown has absolutely no similarities with Tempe, I am very excited about this new adventure. In high school I was very involved in Key Club International, where I served as the Missouri-Arkansas district governor; I was the Student Council president, captain of the varsity soccer team, historian of the FBLA chapter, voted “Mr. KHS” by the student body and selected as the “Best All-Around Student” at my graduation. As of right now, my major is political science, but I’m sure that will change with time. I love meeting new people and experiencing new things, so I am excited about starting my life at ASU, where I feel like the opportunities to excel will be endless. I am looking forward to getting involved in LSP and all of the possibilities that it brings; and more importantly, I am looking forward to spending the next four years of my life as a SUN DEVIL!

Ragen Riggs

I am proud to be a Sun Devil!! Wooohooo!! I graduated from Higley High School where I was involved in NHS and STUCO and was the salutatorian of my senior class. I also love to play sports! I was on the varsity volleyball, soccer and track teams throughout high school. Music is also a huge part of my life and I enjoy playing the piano and violin. I am a friendly, outgoing person who loves life and everything about it. I am so excited to have been selected for LSP, and I can’t wait for the new school year! Go LSP!

Cara Roberts

I attended Ironwood Ridge High School in Oro Valley, Ariz. I have taken Spanish for about 11 years and did a month-long study abroad the summer after my sophomore year of high school, which makes me very close to being fluent. I am also attempting to teach myself guitar and have already learned fragments of six songs. My other hobbies include creative writing, drawing and spending time with my friends. My major at ASU is speech and hearing sciences, which caught my interest because it is a hybrid between language and medicine. I cannot wait to begin this brand new chapter in my life.

Lena Snyder

Hey everyone! I am a graduate of Buena High School in beautiful Sierra Vista, Ariz.! I’ve lived in Sierra Vista my whole life so I’m really excited to experience the big city up in Phoenix. In high school I was very academically oriented, but also participated in clubs such as NHS, Tri-M, Academic Decathlon, RIF, Gifted and Talented, and Denominators. I absolutely love dance, performing and anything musical. I’ve been in more than 40 performances through the years, and hope to continue in the future. I am a Mary Kay beauty consultant and find it to be a very enjoyable job. If I’m not dancing, learning or at church, I’m probably out on an adventure! I love trying new things because there are so many experiences to be had. Traveling is so much fun; l want to see the world! I will be a student in Barrett, the Honors College, in the fall as a biochemistry/bioengineering major, and I am thrilled to be part of the LSP 2010 cohort. Go Sun Devils!!!

Kavian Toosi

Salutations! I currently reside in Scottsdale, Ariz. I am a graduate of Horizon High School, and I shall be a student in Barrett, the Honors College, at ASU, majoring in mathematics in statistics with an emphasis in pre-health. While in high school, I was the co-president of Horizon’s Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research chapter, the vice president of fundraising for Key Club, the vice president for the Society of Gentlemen Scholars, the treasurer of Spanish Honorary, and involved with more than ten other student organizations. Some of my hobbies involve playing video games (if you have Xbox LIVE and play Call of Duty, hit me up), hanging out with friends, EATING and volunteering. Some interesting things about me are that I love to dance ... everywhere, I sing along to practically every song, and I can speak Farsi fluently. As far as LSP goes, I feel so blessed to have been selected as one of the recipients of this amazing scholarship program! I am incredibly excited to be part of LSP next year, and I cannot wait to meet everyone in my new family.

Katrina VanKlompenberg

Hello all! I’m coming from Perry High School in Gilbert, Ariz. I am majoring in journalism and mass communication at the Cronkite School. I am eager to begin the next chapter of my life, and plan to be very involved at ASU. At Perry I served as student body president, editor-in-chief of the yearbook, president of Link Crew, vice-president of Gay-Straight Alliance, captain of JV volleyball, a member of NHS and FACES, an awareness group standing for “For A Cause Educating Students.” I love to serve my community through Anytown Arizona, and truly, all I need to make me happy is my family, friends, and something to be enthusiastic about! I am thrilled to attend ASU and am looking forward to grow stronger as a leader with the 2010 Cohort.

Lars Ward

My name is Lars R.Ward and I was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. You might wonder how I got the name Lars, and no, it is not because I am Norwegian, nor do I have a flowing mane of blonde hair. I do, however, have an interest in professional sports, lifting weights and watching UFC fights. I became involved in student government as a junior, eventually becoming student body treasurer at my high school. I’ll be studying business at the W. P Carey School of Business, which I hope will someday lead me to a career as a manager of a professional sports team. I am looking forward to this year as an LSP member (especially because of the free money!)

Paige Wyles

My name is Paige Wyles and I graduated from Mingus Union High School in Cottonwood, Arizona. I will be studying special education at the Mary Lou Fulton College of Education. I have always held a special place in my heart for special needs children. I am super excited about LSP and can’t wait to get started!!

Brittany Yarbrough

Hey everybody! My name is Brittany Yarbrough. I was born and raised in Phoenix. I’m a spirited, funloving girl, who lives life to the fullest! I graduated with honors from Arizona School for the Arts with a graduating class of 36. My biggest accomplishment this past year was leading my high school’s mock trial team as the team captain. We competed and placed first in a regional competition, and fifth in the state competition. I was one of six competitors to be placed on the All-State team. During my high school years, I participated in many drama productions and became Student Council President. I was an active member for Amnesty International. I sing and play piano and flute. When I’m not singing or playing, you can usually find me on the soccer field. I am very athletic and love to be active. I am majoring in political science, hoping to later attend the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. I am very excited to be part of LSP.

William Aja

Hey fellow LSP members and Sun Devils! My name is William Aja, but you can call me Will. I graduated from Buckeye Union High School as valedictorian and decided to attend Arizona State University to pursue a degree in civil engineering. I like to play tennis and really just hang out. I can’t wait to get to know all of you and I really look forward to the experiences we will share as a cohort.

Joseph Arnett

Hey! My name is Joe Arnett. I am from the one and only Westwood High School in Mesa, Arizona. My parents graduated from Westwood and ASU, so I’m keeping the tradition alive. I graduated way back in ‘o6 and put things on hold and went to India for two years as a missionary for my church. I have had many great experiences and learned so much living in India. I’m excited to be back and to be part of LSP. I’ll study international business/politics and who knows what else. To me, there is nothing better than college football. I’ve been a devout fan since birth. GO DEVILS!

Breana Branham

Hello! My name is Breana Branham, and I’m really, really psyched to be part of LSP this year. I am really excited for my classes and all of the amazing opportunities which ASU has to offer! Last year, I graduated from Estrella Foothills High School where I was heavily involved in the Drama Club and also a member of the Choir and NHS. At ASU, I plan to major in theatre in hopes of pursuing a future career in theatre education or theatre for youth. I love acting, singing, chocolate, meeting new friends, reading, miniature dachshunds, listening to music and conversations about nothing. I can’t wait to meet everyone in LSP and have a great first year at ASU!

Jennifer Simmons

Hey Everyone! I’m Jennifer Simmons. I recently graduated from Sandra Day O’Connor High School in Phoenix, Arizona. Being a military child, I grew up all over the country and even lived in England for a few years. Throughout high school, I was involved in student government and served as Student Body Vice President my senior year. I was also a member of the Society of Female Scholars and the National Honor Society. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with family and friends, listening to music, and reading. While at ASU, I will be majoring in geography with a concentration in meteorology and climatology. After my undergraduate work, I hope to attend graduate school and work my way to becoming a hurricane specialist for The Weather Channel. I’m excited to be involved in LSP and start ASU in the fall. I can’t wait to meet you all!

Alejandra Valenzuela

My name is Alejandra Valenzuela, I graduated from Douglas High School, ONCE A BULLDOG ALWAYS A BULLDOG. I want to be an auditor and I will be studying at ASU’s West campus. I love to play sports such as volleyball, soccer and softball. I am really close to my family and I always try to help others with the best of my ability. I am extremely honored to be part of LSP and become part of the family. I see that everyone that is in LSP is not only just friends but a family. LSP helps you to sharpen more of your abilities to become a leader. Thank you for the opportunity.

Guadalupe Velazquez

Hello, My fellow LSPers! Please call me Estina. I am a recent graduate from North High in Phoenix. I plan to study business and philosophy. I am a simple person but I do not mind hard work. I embrace challenges, because I understand – if they do not kill you they only make you stronger. I feel honored and privileged to be part of LSP. Not only am I excited for my four years to come, but I look forward to becoming an LSP alumni and leaving an everlasting mark in the community.

Jose Ruiz

Hello everybody, My name is Jose Esteban Ruiz, (you don’t worry about the middle name my mom is the only one who uses it.) I graduated from Westwood High School (Home of the Warriors) in Mesa; I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I served as the Student Body President there, I was on the Varsity football team for two years, I served in National Honor Society, and was President of the YMCA Achievers club. I also served on the Mayor’s Youth Committee and the Superintendent’s Youth Advisory Board, oh and a couple AP classes here and there, and lots and lots of volunteering. Sounds like I didn’t have any spare time but I did; I know how to have a good time. I love spending time with friends and meeting people (I’m a people person). That is why I am very excited to attend ASU, and be in LSP. My long-life goal is to become an architect and ASU is the first step where I will be majoring in architecture. I am SOO excited for this year I’m more than sure that it’s going to be one to remember ... go warriors ... oh wait, no, no ... LET’S GO DEVILS!!!!!

Joseph Schibi

Hello everyone! My name is Joe Schibi, and I am a proud born and bred Oklahoman. I have spent the last 18 years of my life in Lawton, OK, and would not have it any other way. I recently graduated from Eisenhower Senior High School, the home of the Eagles. I deeply loved staying involved in my high school through just about every leadership opportunity, but my favorite opportunity was being the leader of my school’s all male spirit group called the Blue Body Brigade (we were the crazy guys you would see spelling out Eisenhower and deafening the crowd with our chants and cheers). I have also had the distinct privilege to be the International Vice President of Key Club International during the past year. This has given me the opportunity to make connections with other young people making a difference in their home, school and community through the world’s largest student-led service organization. I may be sad to see my time in Key Club end, but now I am ready for the next great experience that awaits me! Because of this, I am excited to be headed to the sunny state of Arizona! Although I did grow up an OU Sooner fan my entire life, I am thrilled for the opportunity to broaden my horizons and impact a new community. I hope all of you are ready for the exhilarating experience that awaits you during our freshman year at ASU! I know I am!

Chelsey Camponeschi

My name is Chelsey Camponeschi and I graduated from Sedona Red Rock High School. I am currently an exploratory major, however I am very interested in law and medicine! I enjoy meeting new people, talking and learning about those people, spending time with friends and family, listening to music, working out, and working with young children. I can’t wait to get started at ASU and in the LSP program. Go Devils!!!!

Joseph Denoncourt

Traveling all the way from the New York-Canadian border, I am honored to be a member of the 2008 Leadership Scholarship Program at Arizona State University. My name is Joe Denoncourt and I am a recent graduate from Ogdensburg Free Academy in the small city of Ogdensburg, New York; just a mere eight hours north of the slightly more popular New York City. If I had to use one word to sum up my high school career, it’d be “involved.” I participated in everything from soccer, hockey, spring track and field, Key Club, Concert and Marching Bands, and National Honor Society, while serving as Class President. Now that high school has come to an end, I’m ready to continue my involvement and education and make the transformation from an OFA Blue Devil to an ASU Sun Devil. Entering ASU I plan to double major in marketing and Spanish, but have yet to officially set that in stone. I’m very excited and looking forward to meeting you and experiencing everything ASU has to offer with everyone in LSP!

Regina Duran

My name is Regina Duran. I am a proud graduate of Red Mountain High School and I’m ready to embark on my new journey at ASU. I plan to double major in nursing and non-profit leadership and management. I truly enjoy volunteering and being able to give back to the world, and I can only hope that with the education I will receive at ASU I will leave a dent in the world and take one step forward in changing the world’s problems. I love to have fun, dance and live life to the fullest. I’m extremely excited to be part of LSP because I know I will grow from the program and create new friendships that will last forever. People say that your college years are some of the best years in your life; I’m sure that being in LSP will only enhance my college experience.

Natalie Fleming

Greetings from cheese land! My name is Natalie Fleming, and I am from Wisconsin. A year ago, I would have never, in a million years, thought that I would be going to Arizona State University. My major is sustainability, and I cannot wait to begin my studies. I am thrilled to be attending ASU this fall, and unbelievably honored to be in the Leadership Scholarship Program. Being a very involved girl in my high school and community, it became a familiar sight for me to see my friends roll their eyes and ask what I was up to this time. My favorite activities involved Student Council, Dance Team, National Honor Society, Link Crew, Choir, Band, soccer, musicals, and Key Club. Specifically, my favorite activity was Key Club, from serving on the district board to participating in a local service project. I believe that without my experiences in Key Club, I would not be who I am today. It is through this organization that I formed a bond with the March of Dimes and now serve on the National Youth Council. Volunteering has always been a large part of my life and I plan to continue on that path throughout college and for the rest of my life. Don’t get me wrong though – it’s not all about work! There has got to be some play involved, too. In my spare time, I enjoy darkroom photography, vegetarian cuisine, ultimate Frisbee, Jones soda, and dancing.

Kara Peirce

Hi everyone my name is Kara Peirce. I grew up in a small town called Wickenburg, Arizona. It’s most commonly known as the pit stop to Las Vegas. I graduated from Wickenburg High School. I was active in my school athletically and academically. I ran four years of cross country and track, even snagging a couple of records along the way. I was a member of my school’s student council and National Honor Society. My senior year I interned at a local veterinarian clinic. Even though I love animals I am pursuing a nursing degree. I have been a lifeguard for four years and working there helped me realize the field I wanted to study in. To know me you must first know that I am obsessed with swimming and the ocean. I’m very easy going and I’d have to say I’m a pretty happy person. I can’t wait to be part of ASU and to be a member of the LSP family!! One last fact: I’m left handed.

Cora Rodriquez

Hi! My name is Cora and I went to Moon Valley High School in Phoenix. I was president of National Honor Society, president of Key Club and a member for four years, and also senior editor of the best yearbook Moon Valley has ever seen. I love traveling, art, singing, playing sports and working at the clothing store Forever 21. With all my interests I have not yet narrowed down a major. I’m hoping to choose one this first semester at ASU. I am very excited about LSP, and I look forward to getting to know everybody!

Tujuan Netters

What’s going on everyone!? My name is Tujuan Netters. People call me Tee-Jay for short. I came to Tempe a few years back and graduated from Marcos de Niza High School where I was involved in activities on and off campus. I was an officer in student council each year. I was also Parliamentarian of FCCLA/HERO, creator and captain of a Dance & Step Team (REMIX) and a member of Key Club, Drama Club and Christian Club. I also volunteered for Best Buddies, Young Actor’s Theatre, and the Tempe Historical Museum. My hobbies include dancing ... especially to Latin music! My plans are to study social psychology and minor in human communications or Spanish at ASU. My ultimate goal in life is to make a positive impact on our society today mentoring and helping the next generation. I’m going to raise the bar high for African Americans in my community, and be a role model to all. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity LSP has given me, and can’t wait to meet all the new LSPers!!!

Kevin Ngai

Hello, my name is Kevin Ngai. I am originally from Hemet, California in southern California, but I just graduated from Maricopa High School as the Class of 2008’s Co-Valedictorian. High School was probably the greatest time of my life, so far, but I know that ASU will bring more fulfilling and memorable memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. In high school I was “most involved” because I was known mostly for being president of almost every club. Some of my favorite clubs/activities were the National Honors Society, Academic Decathlon, Asian Pacific Association, student council, tennis, and being Senior Class President. My favorite thing in the world is just plain and simple laughter. I like to have a good time and spend some time with friends and just enjoying life. The saying I hold true to my heart is, “Don’t be afraid to be who you are.” I love text messaging, going to the movies, and throwing ceramic ware on the wheel. I am an English literature major and a history minor and I hope to one day go to law school. LSP here I come!

Yalda Godusi

Hey there! My name is Yalda Godusi and I am so incredibly excited for my first year at ASU as well as LSP. I graduated from McClintock High School and loved every moment of it, but I know these next four years will be even more amazing! I am majoring in biological sciences with my emphasis on genetics and cell development. Sounds difficult, I know… But I am always up for a challenge! I love meeting new people and am frequently called a social butterfly. I am really looking forward to meeting all the new and existing members of LSP.

Johnathan Ingraham

Hey everyone! I’m John Ingraham, a recent graduate of Saguaro High School in Scottsdale. While I was there, I participated in plenty of obscurely different activities, probably best summed up as some choirs, some bands, some cross country and track teams, some science teams, some leadership organizations, some Boy Scouts, and a church youth group. I try to contribute as a leader in all of my different areas of interest, and I have particularly enjoyed community-service-oriented leadership opportunities including co-directing humanitarian mission trips to San Francisco, Mississippi, and New Orleans and working on Eagle projects in the Boy Scouts. At ASU, I intend to major in biochemistry and mathematics, with possible future plans of research or medicine, each of which can involve such opportunities to help people. In my free time, I love to hike, run and bike with friends in the outdoors and eat good food with them around town. Concerning this next year, I can’t even imagine what’s in store for us and I guess I just have to say that I’m stoked to be a Sun Devil and that I can’t wait to get to know everybody in the LSP!

Joshua Judd

I’m Joshua Judd (yes, I go by Joshua, not Josh). I’m from Queen Creek Arizona, but I graduated from Desert Ridge High School in Gilbert. I love my alma mater and, although I never did any sports, I was very involved in clubs. I had a great time participating in Academic Decathlon, the Anti-Defamation League, Anytown Club, DRHS’s community service club and GSA. I plan to start my own non-profit organization within the next few years, and someday open an animal sanctuary. I’m excited about beginning a new chapter of my life at ASU! As of now my major is set as justice studies, but I’m certainly open to changing if I find something else I’m passionate about!

 

Eric Johnson

Hello everyone! My name is Eric Matthew Johnson, graduate of Bourgade Catholic High School. I plan to study the wonderful world of the theatre while attending ASU. I am very glad to have made it in to this esteemed Leadership Scholarship Program, because not only do I understand the high honor of it, but also I am thankful for the many great people and opportunities that I will encounter along the way. I enjoy various, odd hobbies, but the theatre is my life and my passion. I often like to write awe-inspiring quotes including “The theatre is where people go to watch other people humiliate themselves for pleasure, all to praise the actors for their humiliation later. Why can’t life be like this?’’

Katie Kengla

My name is Katie Kengla, I am from Pinetop- Lakeside, Arizona, and I graduated from Blue Ridge High School. I am going to study early childhood education in hopes of owning a preschool some fine day! I love working with kids, rain, knitting, laughing, snowboarding and going to the movies! I also love to go on walks by the lake. And ... I hate snakes more than anything in the world ... . So be nice.

Stuart Luther

My name is Stuart Luther. I graduated from Nettleton High School in Jonesboro, Arkansas. I’m so stoked about getting to come to Arizona State to get a degree in global studies. I’m so glad to get out of the humid south into the nice and dry southwest where it’s almost always warm. As far as hobbies go, I love to play tennis. Morning, noon, and night, any time is a good time to go and play. In high school, organizations were a big part of what I did. I was extremely active in Key Club International. I am looking forward to being part of this program seeing all the opportunities it can provide me, not to mention the friendships.

Kristina Gonzalez Medina

Hello everyone!! My name is Kristina Lynn Gonzalez Medina. I am extremely excited to be in this program! I graduated from Gilbert High School, and I am currently pursuing a degree in industrial engineering. My ultimate goal is to obtain a doctorate degree in this field. Now … to talk a little bit more about myself, I am Puerto Rican. I moved to Arizona about two years ago. My favorite things to do are going to the beach, spending time with my family, scrapbooking, and interacting with people. I have gone through myriad changes and difficulties in the past two years. Although I am still struggling with the change, there is one thing that I have learned the hard way and that has kept me going: It does not matter how impossible something may seem, how hard things may get, how tired I may be, if I try my hardest, if I fight as hard as I can, I will achieve anything that I want. Thank you LSP, for giving me a chance to shine!!!!

Khaerannisa Cortes

Hello! My name is Khaerannisa Cortes but everyone just calls me Nisa! I'm half Hispanic and half Asian and I come from a wonderful big family. I've been active in leadership programs since I was in 5th grade. I founded my high school's editorial board (we were in charge of the newsletter, yearbook, picture day etc) and was editor through all the years I attended. Also, I was an active Student Council member and was president my senior year. I graduated from Arizona Cultural Academy with a class size of FOUR. So I am VERY excited to be attending ASU and just as excited to be apart of such an amazing program like LSP. But I think most of all I'm anxious to start working towards my life long dream of becoming a pediatrician...what can I say, kids are my life!

Alec Thomson

Hi everyone! My Name is Alec Esteban Thomson; I am from Nogales, Arizona a small border town about 60 miles south of Tucson. I recently graduated from Nogales High School, home of the Apaches. Throughout my high school career I was actively involved in various on and off campus activities. I was an editor for the school newspaper, President of the Gay Straight Alliance and a member of the National Honor Society. My greatest passion was student council where I served as Freshman Class President, Sophomore Class Representative, Junior Class Treasurer, and as Student Body President. I was also a member of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Juntos Unidos Youth Group. Throughout high school I volunteered for the American Red Cross, the Democratic Party and at local elementary schools. Beginning in my sophomore year I started working a part-time job at the Rio Rico Fitness Center as a front desk clerk and continued working there through my senior year. I am thrilled to be starting at ASU. I am even more thrilled to be part of the Leadership Scholarship Program, I am confident that it will make my experience as a Sun Devil even more fulfilling.

Amber Bren

Hey! My name is Amber Bren and I recently graduated from Millennium High School in Goodyear, Arizona. I was born and raised in Nebraska until 2001 and I love to travel. I've been to the 48 continental states and I'm headed to Europe in summer 2007. I'm a very energetic and enthusiastic person with a passion for helping others and teaching children. I was very active in High School and hope to continue this at ASU in the Fall of 2007. I'm a double major in Elementary Education and Psychology with a minor in Spanish. I'm ready to set out on the next chapter of my life with all of you at ASU!! Go Devils!!

Gillian Coffinger

Hi! My name is Gillian Coffinger, a graduate from Desert Vista High School. I am an Arizona native who finds the dry heat soothing (maybe the heat makes me crazy). In high school, my claim to fame was student council, or maybe as the crazy girl running around at assemblies. I served as the Student Body President, but also had other passions such as Best Buddies President and Key Club VP, and a camp counselor. Outside of school, I was very involved in Relay for Life Phoenix and served as a Luminaria Chairmen. Athletics are a joy in my life and you could always find me running with a big group of also crazy girls (cross country), playing soccer, and most definitely lacrosse. In preparation for the exciting adventure of LSP, I love to ride my beach cruiser and take naps, which I figure will come in handy for a busy, yet FUN next four years at ASU. I'm coming in the whole experience studying global studies/global leadership and minoring in spanish with hopes to going to law school, but only time will tell where this girl will go! Yahoo LSP! :)

Ileana Salinas

Hola a todos! Like it says above my picture, my name is Ileana Salinas. I graduated from Westview High School in Avondale, Arizona. Being the first in my family to graduate from high school and pursue a college degree, I have faced challenges that have strengthened my character. I consider myself an optimistic, honest, tolerant, perseverant and committed young Latina leader. Through many experiences I have learned that the attitude I hold every day, and my determination are the keys to overcome any challenge and reach my goals. I want to do so many things in life…I want to become a successful writer and motivational speaker, represent the Latino community in this country, contribute to the community that raised me, and be part of a positive change in our society. I strongly believe that education is the key that opens doors to great opportunities. More than a dream, earning a Ph. Degree is a goal that I want and will achieve. I commit myself to be an outstanding student contributing to ASU and to our community. I am aware of my potential as a human, and I am convinced that every single individual in this world has the ability to influence other people‘s lives in a positive way. I have a passion for singing, writing, reading and running. I like to meet new people and I love the name game… I am always “Improving Ileana”!! There is still much more I want to learn – still so much I wish to experience. That is why I am so happy for achieving my goal to attend Arizona State University and becoming a Sun Devil! And of course, I am very proud and excited to be part of a wonderful program like LSP. I can’t wait until graduation! ;) I’ll see all of you there my friends!

Jesse Bradbury

Hey Guys! My name is Jesse Bradbury, I’m a secondary education major, with an emphasis in business. I grew up in Tempe, just one block away from ASU. I graduated from Tempe High School. I love music! I love listening to music, playing music, writing music, everything about it. I currently play guitar, bass, trumpet, and percussion. I plan on being in the ASU marching band. I also love the outdoors, like biking and hiking. I’m so excited about getting to know all the other LSP members and sharing some great experiences with all of you!

J’shon Lee

Hello everyone! My name is J’Shon Lee and I was born and raised on the White Mountain Apache Reservation in Northeastern Arizona. As a graduate of Blue Ridge High School, I was involved with Student Council, Native American Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and a member of the National Honor Society. I played softball and volleyball and ran cross country. I’m currently a representative for UNITY (United National Indian Tribal Youth). Traveling, having fun conversations, singing, and learning about different cultures can interest me at any moment. My family and Native heritage mean the world me! Well I plan to major in Business Management and later attend Law School (am I the only one who thinks that’s a weird combination?) Like everyone in LSP I love giving back to my community and I can not wait to see what the program holds for me. I’m all about leadership and I’m definitely excited to meet everyone!

Kaetlynn Daoust

Get on a plane and fly north for about three hours and as you see the ground below you turn green and the skies ahead start to pour rain, land at the Seattle-Tacoma airport. Proceed to drive two more hours north and cross a bridge to a tiny town called Anacortes on beautiful Fidalgo Island located in the San Juan Islands. There you will find me playing soccer with friends, driving around town, being generally loud, laying out in the grass, or rowing on the ocean. My name is Kaetlynn Daoust and although I love the northwest, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity presented to me through the Leadership Scholarship Program. I was extremely involved in my high school, participating & serving as officer in everything from Broadcast Club, Drama (inspiring me to pursue the major of Broadcast Journalism and minor of Theatre), Honor Society, Rowing/Sailing Crew, Knowledge Bowl, Women's Varsity Soccer, and Key Club, of which I just completed a term as Pacific Northwest District Governor. My passions include acting, singing out loud obnoxiously to musicals, laughing, leading, shopping for vintage dresses, traveling to visit friends, driving my wagon Big Bertha, Seattle, getting & sending mail, dancing (especially in the rain), folk/indie music, photobooths, sleeping, and spending time with people who make me smile and laugh uncontrollably. I can't wait to meet all of you and begin making unforgettable memories at ASU!

Kathryn Sitter

Born and raised in the rural Midwest, I graduated from Ortonville High School in Ortonville, Minnesota. In my small town and school I became known as the girl that does everything. I have been very involved throughout my high school career in many activities including Awards Association, Knowledgebowl, football and wrestling cheerleading and Student Council where I served as Class President each year until my senior year when I was elected Student Council President. While attending W.P. Carey School of Business at ASU, I will be working to earn a degree in Business Marketing but my plans are not yet concrete, as I have interest in many different fields of business, as well as in politics. I also hope to earn a degree in Vocal Performance. I have been extremely drawn toward music my entire life. I am a very musical person and I love the performing arts as well. . Key Club has been a main focus. Near the end of my junior year I was elected to serve as Governor for the Minnesota-Dakotas District of Key Club International. I truly have considered this to be the best experience of my life thus far and have been very grateful for each opportunity that has presented itself because of it. I still have much to learn but am more than willing to do so in Arizona. As a part of LSP, I know I will be far from home, but I will always have a family nearby. I am equally excited to meet each of you, to begin fresh, and to make a name for myself at ASU.

Katie Dreeland

Hello! My name is Katie Dreeland, and I am an Arizona native. I live in Corona, which is a small community about 25 miles southeast of Tucson. I’ve been in the same school district my entire life, and I just graduated as co-valedictorian from Cienega High School. Most of my classmates say I’m going to the “dark side”, but I am really looking forward to going to ASU and LSP. Currently I’m planning on studying Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology, and while that may change, I do want to study a genetics-related field. I am a 13-year Girl Scout, and I have also led the 4H club I helped start for the last five years. Tucson has an organization call the Metropolitan Education Commission, which is a county/city group dedicated to improving access to and quality of education. I’ve been a Commissioner for two years, and I have also been a part of their Youth Advisory Council/Tucson Teen Congress for the last 6 years. Science Olympiad and Foreign Culture Club were my main in-school activities, and I also love to sew, quilt, cook, shoot, and do photography.

Kylee Gauna

Hi Everyone! My name is Kylee Gauna and I was born and raised in Yuma, Arizona. If you have ever traveled to San Diego, I am sure you have passed through YumaJ I am a happy, enthusiastic, hard-working 2007 graduate of Cibola High School! At Cibola I was involved in a variety of activities throughout my 4 years. I was the Student Body President, class president for three years, a member of the National Honor Society, a Thespian Troupe Member, participated in drama productions, and was Secretary of the Raider Nation Spirit Club. I also was able to be part of the Cibola Television Production Program and took AP and Honor classes. In the community, I was actively involved in 4-H where I took cooking, quilting, and arts and crafts. The best part of my 4-H experience was representing Yuma County as a 4-H Ambassador. I will be majoring in Broadcast Journalism and I am looking forward to being apart of the Cronkite School. I am very excited about becoming a Sun Devil and being involved in the LSP Program at ASU! I cannot wait to meet everyone and start my college experience!

Larry Dorame

My name is Larry A. Dorame III; a native of Tucson, Arizona. I recently graduated from Salpointe Catholic High School, where I was student body President of the Senate, an honors student, counselor for the Salpointe Institute, campus minister and a member of the teenage republicans. Other proud accomplishments that I have met are that I am a local council president for young adults in Tucson with the League of United Latin American Citizens, received the Ray Davies Humanitarian award, and Congressional Achievement award from Congressman Raul Grijalva- AZ-07. I’m a very hardworking student with a lot of enthusiasm; when I believe in something it is completed beyond expectation. I love spending time with my family and friends. I have spent time in Australia being an ambassador for people to people; interned for congressman Jim Kolbe-AZ-08 before he retired in Jan.07. My current plan is to major in political science, but may change to Business administration. I’m very excited to become an ASU Sun Devil and become a family member of LSP!

Laura Holso

Hey everyone! My name is Laura Holso and I’m from Mesa, Arizona. I graduated as a Toro from Mountain View High School. During my three years I joined a variety of clubs but held leadership positions in the Link Crew, National Honor Society, and Life Teen Club. However, my time was mostly dedicated to AP classes. I really enjoy working with kids and spend time volunteering at the Child Crisis Center, with Edge Youth Groups, and at Stapley Junior High. I guess I’m really just a big kid myself. I’ve already changed my major once so far, but right now I plan to study business marketing and finance and eventually work for the Walt Disney Company. In my spare time, I love to cheer on my favorite team- the Arizona Diamondbacks. It may not be evident from my appearance, but I’m a dedicated and loud fan. I really enjoy playing sports, being with family and friends, and shopping. And although I am only from Mesa, I love country music and you may even catch me slipping a “ya’ll” into a conversation. My sister may go to the U of A, but I’ve always known I was a sun devil. I’m so grateful to be part of LSP and can’t wait to meet the other “LSPers”!

Adam Morales

My name is Adam Morales and I am from Scottsdale, Arizona. I graduated from Coronado High School from the Class of 2007. I played Varsity Basketball all four years, and Varsity Baseball for three years (including freshmen baseball). We won the 4A-2 State Championship for baseball in 2007! I was inducted into the National Honor Society my 10th grade year, and became the President my senior year. I was the Senior Class President, and the Key Club International Vice President during my senior year. I have been coaching at SSLL for the past five years, and plan to assistant coach the all-stars this summer. I have been accepted into the Barret Honors College. I plan on majoring in political science, and getting involved in politics. I feel that my Hispanic heritage, being involved in so much leadership, and the increase of Hispanics in Arizona is not a coincidence. I want to get involved in this state and country to make a difference. I plan on studying ABROAD in Spain, and hopefully earning an internship in Washington D.C. My favorite movie is the Godfather and my favorite rap artists are Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, 50 cent, G-unit, and Ice Cube. I love to go hunting and fishing with my father and grandfather. I was raised to always help people no matter the circumstance and live life to the fullest. Being a part of LSP is very exciting because everybody in the program is the "best of the best", and I plan on learning a lot of new things from these great people, and becoming a better person. I had a gut feeling about ASU, and know that being a Sun Devil is the right choice for me.

Raza Mushtaq

Hello, my name is Raza Mushtaq and I am a graduate of Chandler High School class of 2007. I plan on double majoring in biochemistry and biology and a minor in mathematics in next two year, and hopefully get accepted in a medical school. My ultimate goal in life is to become a neurosurgeon. French philosopher, Voltaire, once said, “Perfection is attained by slow degrees; it requires the hand of time.” I aim for perfection in everything I do and attempt to utilize time to the best of its value. Consequently, during my high school career, I was involved with numerous organizations and academic institutions such as International Baccalaureate, Biodesign Institute, and Academic Decathlon. As one chapter of my life has ended with high school, I look forward for the new beginning and hope that I will always be able to cherish this period of my life.

Rudi O'Keefe-Zelman

Hi! I'm Rudi O'Keefe-Zelman and I just graduated from Mountain Pointe High School in Phoenix, AZ. I'm so excited to be going to ASU and to be a part of LSP! In high school I was involved in various activities and served as class president, editor-in-chief of the yearbook, an officer in National Honor Society, and co-captain of the varsity badminton team (yes…it's a real sport!) where I was fortunate enough to be part of two state championships. As of now I plan on majoring in political science, but I'm sure I'll change that a few times as I figure out what I want to do with my life! I love meeting new people and in my free time I like to be with my wonderful family and friends. I look forward to meeting the rest of LSP and having a great four years as a Sun Devil!

Taylor Barnwell

Hi! My name is Taylor Barnwell. I graduated from Westwood High School in Mesa, Arizona. I served as student body president, wrestled, and was a member of the Honor Choir and National Honor Society. I had an awesome life-changing experince traveling to Africa during the summer of 2005. I love the beach, going to the lake, paintballing and riding dirtbikes. I am SO excited to attend ASU! I'm currently indecisive in what to major in, but I want to explore and do something in the medical field. I am so excited to make new friends, get involved, and be in this amazing program! GO DEVILS!

Thomas Hooker

What’s up everybody! My name is Thomas Hooker from Chandler, Arizona. I recently graduated from Hamilton High School as the Student Body President, a member of the National Honor Society, and as a husky! The goal I have set for myself is to major in Spanish and minor in Chemistry. I enjoy golfing, weight lifting, Texas Hold`em (poker), and most all hanging out with friends! In my spare time I enjoy volunteering at Banner Desert Hospital as a transporter working with patients that have recovered from surgery. Around Christmas I also contribute my time towards the Christmas Angel Tree Program for the Salvation Army. I can not explain how excited I am to be apart of the LSP as well as being a proud Sun Devil as well!

Joe Pettinato

Hello, my name is Joe Pettinato and I recently graduated from high school in the small town of Bradford, Pennsylvania. In high school I was a involved in marching band, National Honor Society, Key Club, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and Boy Scouts of America. In my spare time there is nothing I enjoy more than spending time with my family and friends. I also like to play drums, tennis, or read a good book. I plan to major in Political Science in an effort to someday work as an advisor to an elected politician. Even though I am a small town kid who has lived in the Alleghany Mountains my whole life, I couldn’t be any more excited to move to a big city in the desert! I look forward to becoming part of the LSP family and a true Arizona State Sundevil!

Tyler Libey

Hello. My name is Tyler Libey. I graduated from Basha High School in Chandler, AZ, way down south by the cow farms. During my high school career I participated in Marching Band, National Honors Society, and International Thespian Society. I like mangos and long walks in the rain. I also enjoy cooking and my favorite thing to watch on TV is the Food Network. I plan on studying Bioengineering at ASU because of my love of science and technology. I am very excited to be a Sun Devil and I can't wait to meet the rest of the LSPers!!

Elsie Canale

Hello, my name is Elsie. I was originally born in Nogales, Arizona, but moved to Phoenix when I was about 2 years old. I attended Bourgade Catholic High School, where I had the opportunity to become a strong leader and grow in my faith with God. I was very involved in Student Council, National Spanish Honor Society, National Honor Society, and Earthwatch. I also was a part of my school’s Dance Team all four of my high school years; it was so much fun! For these next four years of college, I plan to find my passion for what I want to do in life (career wise). As of now, I am undecided of my major, however, I do know that I would like to minor in Spanish, definitely. Whatever I decided to “become,” I know that I want to help others, and I want to do good for others and my community.

Chase Wright

Hey guys! I’m Chase Wright and I am from Page, Arizona (otherwise known as Lake Powell). I graduated as valedictorian from the one-and-only Page High School. In high school I was pretty much a music freak. I was in the marching, concert, and jazz bands where I played the saxophone,(yes, I was/am a band geek) and I was also in the national champion Winter Guard International (an indoor percussive theatre) where I played the marimba, and other percussive instruments. Besides all of the music I was in National Honor Society, Student Government, Leadership CPA, AVID Tutoring, Nursing Club, and all that other good stuff. In addition to school I love art, music, concerts, enjoying the lake (I really do enjoy long walks on the beach) and just having a really great time. I was accepted into both the Barrett Honors College and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and I plan on eventually attending medical school to become a doctor. I am so stoked to be a part of LSP this year and I cannot wait to get started!

Justin Hoffman

Hailing from the land of cheese and cows I am read to make a splash at ASU. My name is Justin Hoffman and I am most definitely from the state of Wisconsin. In high school I participated in many extra curricular activities; some of these include cross-country, track, Student Council, National Honors Society, Link Crew, and Key Club. Now that high school is over and the cows are milked, I am excited to head to Tempe to continue my education as a Sun Devil. At ASU I plan to major in Finance and one day work in the business world. Until that day, I am honored and excited to join the LSP program and cannot wait to meet everyone!

Charlie Jannetto

I am honored to be a member of Desert Ridge High School's graduating class of 2007. At a new school in the ever-expanding Valley of the Sun, we were only the second class of students to spend all four of our high school years with the wonderful and inspiring faculty of Desert Ridge. I have to admit; together we accomplished some pretty incredible things. As a committee chairperson for the Relay for Life of Gilbert, I helped make our school's event the most successful in Arizona, raising more than $225,000 to help fight cancer. I also participated in and pioneered several programs on our campus that helped set a standard of compassion that continues to permeate the student body. But enough about high school; it's time to pour my energy into the rest of the world, and ASU is a great place to start.

 

Allison Pastor

Hi! My name is Allison Pastor and I am from the small town of Miami, Arizona. I graduated from Miami High in a class of 61 students. I was very active in athletics being a four-year letterman in volleyball, basketball, and tennis. I also hold three state tennis team titles and one individual championship in doubles! I was also involved in Student Body, National Honor Society, and Media Club. Now that my high school career is over I couldn’t be happier or more proud to be in LSP and a SUN DEVIL!!!

Anne Marie Norgren

Hello, my name is Anne Marie Norgren and I recently graduated from Mountain View High School in Mesa. In high school, I was very involved with my school’s Academic Decathlon team as its president. I was also a member of Volunteerism is Pride and National Honor Society, both of which heavily focused on community service. Throughout my life, I have had a passion for education, and in the past few years it has turned into a passion to bring education to those who struggle with learning. To this end, I tutor English Language Learning students as well as other students in subjects like mathematics and English, I volunteer at Casa de la Misericordia (House of Mercy) in Mexico by helping build and paint classrooms, and I help at places like Child Crisis Center, UMOM, and the Boys and Girls Club by tutoring and playing games with children. I am so excited to start college at ASU—I’ve been waiting my whole life to be a Sun Devil! I plan to major in mathematics and economics and possibly minor in Spanish, but I really have no idea what I want to “be when I grow up.” All I know is that I’m thrilled to be part of LSP and can’t wait to get closer to everybody involved in this program!

Aspen Knickrehm

Hi! I'm Aspen Knickrehm. I come from Pleasant Valley, a really small town in central Arizona. In fact I graduated from a class of six! My major is marketing but you'll never know what it'll be in a year! In high school I played varsity volleyball and basketball and was involved in the National Honor Society, FFA, Student Council, and Yearbook. In my spare time I like recreational activities like going to the lake. In my life Starbucks® is a must (I'm working on that!). I can't wait to meet all of you and am excited to spend my college years as part of LSP!

Brooke Hauser

Hey! My name is Brooke and I was born in Tacoma, Washington, and moved to Arizona in June 2000. I recently graduated from Hamilton High School, where I was Student Body Vice President, played varsity volleyball, a member of National Honor Society and dance. I am a very outgoing person with a lot of energy. I love spending time with my family and friends; they mean the world to me. I spent four-and-a-half months in South Africa doing volunteer work with indigent children. This continues to be a passion of mine. I am currently undecided as to my major, but enjoy business, education, and working with others. I am very excited to be a Sun Devil and be part of LSP!

Chad Andresen

Hola! I am Chad Andresen, I am ready to kick off my college education right with a great group like LSP and meet some great friends. I plan to study biochemical engineering and minor in Spanish and mathematics. I really enjoy being active with sports, exercise, Frisbee. I want to join some great clubs like YoungLife and Campus Crusade. My hobbies include computer stuff, photography (digital and film). I love church and learning about my savior Jesus, and following hard to attain a life worthy for God. I travel a bunch for missions and exchange programs and I hope to study abroad once or twice. I really hope to just get a great group of people to enjoy this thing we call college life. See you soon, God bless.

Clarissa Andorfer Lopez

Welcome to my world~! In it lives a little girl with big dreams. My name’s Clarissa Andorfer Lopez. I am a Tempe native, and a recent graduate from local high school Marcos de Niza. In my time there I was involved in a lot of things like everyone else. Some of my favorites were sports, (I played volleyball, basketball and softball), Key Club, We the People and orchestra. Being so busy allowed me to thrive as an individual and, I admit, I loved the pressure and challenges of managing my time well. I basically am a fun, outgoing, down-to-earth person with a love for life. I like to be involved and interact with different people while making new interests and new friends. I like to spend my time hanging with my buddies, listening to music (anything that has a good beat), laughing ’til I cry, dancing, and doing anything active like sand volleyball or rock climbing. I also spend a lot of time with my huge family, especially my crazy sisters. I am so excited for college at ASU and LSP and I hope I can make an impact on whatever or whoever I come across. I plan to major in pre-med and become a general surgeon. I can’t wait too meet my new family and fellow LSPers, so don’t be afraid to holla at me. Go get ’em Devils!

Elizabeth Mayes

I was born in the quaint and picturesque town of Prescott, making me an Arizona native. Arizona is the place that I will always call home, though I hope that my journey will carry me to exotic and life-changing places. As a graduate of Bradshaw Mountain High, I was involved in pretty much everything: Students for Christ, Key Club, Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, Yearbook, Art. Arizona sunsets, painting, running, a good book, and coffee are a few of the things that I love. I am currently a lifeguard, loving the sun and the water, and am giving swim lessons to some of the most adorable kids. As for the future, I’m not sure. I have a direction, but I will trust God to alter my steps when need be. For now, I’m planning to pursue medicine and engineering, with the hopes of perhaps combining them. I am excited to be a Sun Devil and part of LSP. I can't wait to meet all of you in the fall and share the experiences that I know will be waiting for us at ASU!

Estela Barraza

Hey, my name is Estela Barraza; I come from Mexican roots and appreciate the Hispanic heritage. I was fortunate to attend La Joy Community High School my four years and become the first graduating class in 2006. During my four years I was involved in several clubs, and athletics which was my best part that I enjoyed. I participated in volleyball, soccer and track; this made me love running and spending my free time in the weight-room. Wow Salsa Music Rocks!! I love meeting new people and learning about new cultures. I am so excited to attend ASU and be the second person in my family to attend college. Wow! Can’t wait to become a SUN DEVIL!! Wow! LSP buddies, I know we will have so much fun representing Maroon & Gold!!!

Jessica Schreiber

Hi! My name is Jessica Schreiber. I graduated from St. Pius X High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In high school I played volleyball, joined Student Council, was very active in Key Club, and did a lot of work with the Muscular Dystrophy Association. I like to spend time with friends and family, go backpacking and shop whenever possible. Right now my major is biochemistry, but that will probably change. Except for the heat, I'm excited to move to Arizona. I can't wait to meet new people, explore Tempe, and try as many new things as possible. See you all in August!

Jessica Wright

Hey everyone! My name is Jessica Wright and I am so excited to start my college experience at ASU and make new friends in LSP! I’ve just graduated from Sandra Day O’Connor High School where I was Student Body President and involved in National Honor Society, Interact, and Spiritline. Going to a school with 2000 other students, I’m used to huge crowds and lots of activity so I know that ASU is my home! I really enjoy swimming laps, playing the piano (although only for fun so don’t get your hopes up!), and being around people. My true passions are family and God. Without them I would be nothing! I look forward to meeting everyone and starting college with a great group of leaders!

Joey Nahom

Hey everybody! My name is Joey Nahom. Born and raised in the greater Phoenix area, I still cringe every time the temperature flies past 110 degrees. Really, it's like an oven out here during the summer, even at night. So, with this said, why would I stay here for college? The answer ... I love Arizona! Rich past, brilliant present, and as for the future ... I hope to be part of it. I am so excited to be attending ASU through the Leadership Scholarship Program! I believe the program will help me learn to live as a leader in many different ways. I am grateful for the opportunity ASU has given me, and I hope that I can give back in the future.

Karen Okonkwo

Ebony Queen ... Nubian Princess ... whatever works for you, but most people know me as Karen Okonkwo. I graduated from Chandler High School and am very excited to change my Chandler Wolf sign to the PITCHFORK! At Chandler High I was Student Body President for the 2005-06 school year and also served in many clubs including Student Council, Best Buddies, National Honor Society, Peer Mediation, IB Club, and the list goes on! Most importantly I was a varsity cheerleader for three years so I know how to lead the crowd to victory! Here at ASU I am excited to start my career toward healthcare where I plan to be a pediatrician! I am very proud to be part of the LSP program and I look forward to doing great BIG THINGS!

Kelsie Sharp

Hello all! My name is Kelsie Sharp and I am a redhead. That is all you really must know about me, as it is the glue that holds my personality together. It encumbers every facet of my life. I have my red hair and it has me. Now, you may ask, “What if you were to lose your hair? What if you were to be involved in a freak hair dye accident and every strand was to be turned into a repulsive Brussels sprout green?” Stereotypes aside, being a red head is unique to each person who possesses it. It runs deeper into the very marrow and in doing so, I would inherently retain my confidence and ingenuity, and with that ingenuity I would move on and travel the world, mentoring young redheads who were involved in a similar freak hair dye accident. (I would like to make a note that the above paragraph is fictional and, frankly, completely absurd. But, if there is one bit of wisdom that has proven true, it is that one must never, ever take himself/herself too seriously. But seriously, I am a graduate of Chino Valley High School. I am ever in awe to be attending Arizona State University and to be part of the Leadership Scholarship Program. I am so excited to be part of both legacies. I am proud of ASU and LSP and maybe, just maybe, they can be proud of me. Me and my red hair!) P.S. GO SUN DEVILS!

Kristina Fryman

Hi Everyone! My name is Kristina Fryman and I just recently graduated from Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, Arizona … . Go Sabers!!! In high school I was active in both dance and basketball and also took some honor and AP courses along the way. The Boys and Girls Club is my true calling though. Through the last 13 years of my life I have been actively involved in several community service clubs and leadership clubs through the Boys and Girls Club and pretty much spend more time there than home. At ASU I’m planning to major in kinesiology in hope to become an occupational therapist one day … but who knows? Above all, I am extremely excited about getting the opportunity to be in LSP and to be a Sun Devil!

Lyndsay Robertson

Hi, my name is Lyndsay Robertson and I was born and raised here in Tempe, Arizona. I graduated from Valley Christian High School where I was very involved in Student Council, basketball, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and my church youth group. In my free time I enjoy working and being with my friends and family. I plan to major in biology here at ASU in hopes of one day becoming an orthodontist. I have a strong passion for leadership and people and am looking forward to pursuing both of these within the Leadership Scholarship Program.

Magdalena Podsiadlo

Hey. My name is Magdalena Podsiadlo, however I just go by Maggie. I am a graduate of Agua Fria Union High School in Avondale, Arizona. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. During my freshman year of high school I moved to Arizona, where I was thrown into a completely new culture and way of life. I was able to grow and learn, and I have come to love it here. During high school, I was involved in the Avondale Youth Advisory Commission, where I was the Vice-Chair. There I was able to learn how a city functions, and represent my peers in the city. I was also the Vice President of the National Honor Society, and the Treasurer of the Interact and Key Club. I played varsity badminton and varsity tennis all throughout high school. I also took a nursing assistant class during my senior year of high school at the community college, where I was able to learn how to care for patients and become a CNA. As this new chapter of my life opens up, I am very honored to be part of ASU and the LSP program, and I just can't wait until school starts. See you there!

Natalie Moulton

Hi everyone! My name is Natalie Moulton and I am from St. Johns, Arizona. I graduated from St. Johns High School where I was involved with the dance team, Academic Decathlon team, soccer team, drama club, solar car team, and student government. I was the Junior Class President and the Senior Class Vice President. I have enjoyed working in student government and serving my class and school. Outside of school I have been involved in dance. For the past year and a half I have been teaching dance classes to three-to-seven-year-olds at a private dance studio. It has been a difficult, but fun year. I plan to be studying business management at ASU and later opening my own business. I love to meet new people and be involved in my community. I am so excited to be part of LSP!

Nicholas Shreffler

Hey everyone! My name is Nicholas Shreffler, but most people who know me call me Nick or Shreff. I was born and raised in northwest Indiana. I live very near to Chicago and love big cities. I plan to double major in marketing and accounting. I hope to one day become a tax attorney, because everyone loves tax collectors. I was very involved with Key Club in high school and even became an international trustee. I did several other clubs in high school. I also love hanging out with friends, skateboarding, and listening to music. I'm a very easy-going and fun-loving kid and have a passion for trying new things. The chance to pick up everything and go far, far way for college is something I dove right into. I look forward to making new friends and learning what I can from this program. I can't wait to see all of you at ASU.

Odette Nazarian

Hi, Everyone! My name is Odette Nazarian and I recently graduated from Sedona Red Rock High School. I was the Student Body President this past year and I attended Girls State last summer. I live for involvement and I know I will be a big part of the ASU community one day. I am very exciting about attending ASU as a member of LSP this next year! I plan to major in political science and then attend law school and become a lawyer. My long-term goal is to eventually become a federal judge. I am positive I will reach all my goals in life and I know with my great work ethic and determination there is nothing but success waiting for me. I can’t wait to begin this next step in my life and join fellow leaders at ASU!

Phil Oro

What’s up? I’m Phil Oro and I graduated from Canyon Del Oro in Oro Valley, AZ (that’s a lot of Oros). In high school, I was involved in Link Crew, National Honor Society, Student Senate, Superintendent’s Council, Site Council, and all that other “interesting” stuff. I also played on the varsity teams for basketball, volleyball, and track, hung out with friends, and enjoyed myself as much as possible. School has always been my number one priority, and I hope to do well in the Barrett Honors College at ASU. My passion has always been sports and conditioning, so I am looking toward majoring in business as a foundation for having my own sports medicine clinic. I’m a real people person and am excited to get to know all my LSP cohorts!

Richard Teran

Hey everyone! My name is Richard Teran. I recently graduated from Nogales High School in Nogales, Arizona. I contribute my leadership qualities and my overall personality to the different activities that I indulged in during my high school career. I was involved in different extra-curricular activities such as Link Crew, Student Council, and National Honor Society. During my high school career, I also had the honor of being one of 11 International Baccalaureate Diploma candidates. In the future, I hope to attend medical school and become a doctor. Therefore, I have decided to major in biology and society and become a pre-med student at ASU. My ambition to work in the health field and to become a leader to my fellow peers and community is something that I would like to bring to Arizona State University. By participating in the Leadership Scholarship Program and as a Gates Millennium Scholar, I hope to be able to become a leader at ASU. As of right now I have three major goals in mind for when I start my education at ASU; to be involved in as many things as possible, to graduate with honors, and to get accepted into medical school. I look forward to my next four years as an LSP member and all the wonderful things that this university and program has in store for me.

Stacey Shomenta

Howdy! I’m Stacey Shomenta, a graduate of Sahuaro High School in good ol’ Tucson, Arizona. Though I’ve grown up in Tucson and will always love it, it’s time for a change and a challenge! That’s why I’ve decided to attend ASU … and not that other school down here (much to the dismay of almost everyone I know). I’m majoring in secondary education-social studies so that one day, four years from now, I’ll get to go back to high school! Ultimately, I plan to be either a college professor or a high school principal, but I’m not sure about which yet. I’m all about: America and education (hence the major), astrology, the Internet, jammin’ to music, reading, traveling, church, shopping, and spending quality bonding time with my friends and family. I’m totally psyched and honored to be an LSPer and I can’t wait to get to know all of you! Oh, and GO DEVILS!!!

Steve Thompson

Hey Guys!!! My name is Steve Thompson and I recently graduated from Yuma Catholic High School in good ol’ Yuma, Arizona. During my high school career I was involved in debate, drama, community service activities, football, and honors classes. Most importantly though, my true passion was in Student Council where I held various leadership positions including Student Body President my senior year. Of course, I can’t forget to mention that for nearly two years I dished up ice cream at Coldstone Creamery and if you ask nicely I might sing a song for you guys, and you don't even have to tip me! With ASU on my mind, I cannot wait for college to begin. I was accepted into the Barrett Honors College and the W. P. Carey School of Business where I plan to major in business marketing. I am so excited for everything that ASU has to offer and LSP seems to be the cherry on top of it all. I can’t wait to meet all of my fellow LSP cohorts and alumni and to get this whole college experience going! See you all soon!

Toby Phillips

My name is Toby Phillips – born and raised in the 505 – Albuquerque, New Mexico. I graduated from Cibola High School and I am more than ecstatic to be headin’ out to Arizona. Being quite the “ham” and extremely opinionated, I spent most of my high school years in the theater and student government. From there, I branched out into the concert choir, Key Club, and the school newspaper. I plan to major in Journalism – watch out, Brian Williams and Katie Couric! Laughter and sleep keep me running in my self-inflicted, busy lifestyle. I enjoy cheesecake, writing, theater, friends and tons of music. I look forward to the new adventure awaiting me in Tempe, with the LSP gang. Stay classy, Albuquerque!

Trenton Jacobs

Hi everyone! My name is Trenton … some people call me Trenton … other people just call me Trenton. I am originally from Glendale, California, but when I was two years old, my family moved to Tucson, Arizona, where I started school and have lived since. True, I may have grown up in Tucson, but don’t get me wrong, I have always been a Sun Devil at heart. Throughout high school, I was involved in many clubs and sports, and I graduated as valedictorian of the best senior class there ever was. I have been playing baseball for longer than I can remember and I love the game, even though my team’s win record this year was a disgrace. I love to snowboard, wakeboard, and surf, and I am always up for a thrill. At ASU, I plan to major in business management and accounting. I am looking forward to meeting everyone in LSP, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity.

Nicolas Alcocer

The day I was born, an astounding child came into this world. He was set out to do amazing things and would eventually change the world forever…I was born in the room next door. Hey everyone, my name is Nick and I was born and raised in Phoenix Arizona. I am a Disc Jockey and have been doing that since the 7th Grade! I am very family oriented and a very down to earth type of person. My lifelong goal is to graduate from ASU, attend Medical School and become an orthopedic surgeon. Aside from school, my best day would be on a beach in Mexico with my friends and family kicking back with a plate of Carne Asada! I love ASU with a passion and I consider myself very blessed to have been given an opportunity to pursue my dreams and goals.

Amanda Badali

Hey Everyone! My name is Amanda Badali and I am from Oakmont, Pennsylvania. I am a Secondary Education, Social Studies major with a subconcentration of Political Science and a double minor in Religion and History. I hope to become a motivational speaker while in college, a government/international relations teacher post-college, and hopefully hold a political office someday. Throughout high school, I was really involved with the Kiwanis Family. In my spare time, I play guitar, go to concerts, hangout with friends and take random photos of anything and everything. I am really into digital photography and art, and really love abstract pieces. I live for excitement and fun, and believe laughter is the key to life. I'm determined to see everything and to do everything. I'm not afraid to take chances and risks. After all, the game of life is one big sea of opportunities and chances. I'd rather regret doing something than regret not doing something. My goal is to try something new and do something "crazy" every year. (...sky diving anyone?)

Erin Barrett

Hey, I'm Erin Barrett and I graduated from Xavier College Prep. Throughout my high school career, I was very involved in my school and community. I was heavily involved at Xavier in my school paper, Mock Trial, the Political Action Committee, Amnesty International, Gatortown (Unitown), and President’s Council. In addition to these activities, I also participated in the YMCA’s Youth & Government, various City of Phoenix activities (including being a youth ambassador to Japan), and internships for two different political campaigns. As I’m sure you can tell, I’m very interested in politics and civics. So it probably isn’t a surprise that I am majoring in Political Science and plan on attending law school and venturing out into the political arena. I am very excited to be involved in this program and look forward to getting to know all of you very soon!

 

Maribeth Barton

Maribeth Barton I graduated from Mesquite High School in Gilbert, Arizona and will forever be a Wildcat at heart. In high school I enjoyed Drama, A World of Difference, Best Buddies, Renaissance, Arizona Heat (a cheer team) and Swim Team. I was also a student delegate chosen by Sister Cities to go to Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland last summer, which only fueled the fire for my love of traveling. My true passion in high school was Student Council. I was the Class President twice and my senior year I was the Dance Director (I like to be involved). At ASU I am planning on majoring in Nursing. I enjoy reading, writing, shopping and teaching swimming lessons. I could not be happier about the amazing opportunity I was given to be a part of the LSP family!

 

Calvin Bovee

Calvin Bovee Hello, I am Calvin (Cal) Bovee, a recent graduate of Wilmot Union High School located in Southeastern Wisconsin. While being in the top of my class I stayed active in many organizations including Key Club, Student Council, DECA, National Honor Society, German Club, Link Crew, and GAPP (German American Partnership Program). I have an older sister and a twin brother. It is going to be hard next year going to different colleges, but we are ready for the challenge. I have lived in the same small town my whole life, so I am ready for the big city change. At ASU I plan on majoring in the business field, either Accounting or Finance. I am very honored to be a part of the LSP family and I am incredibly excited about this fall! I can't wait to meet all of you!

 

Meghan Burns

Meghan Burns Hello! My name is Meghan Burns. I was born and raised on a small island on the southwest coast of Florida, until my mom decided she needed a drastic change and dragged us to the desert. A few months ago, I graduated from Mountain Pointe High School, where I was very active in their Student Government. My sophomore through my senior year, I acted as President of my class, which was a great honor but also a great deal of stress! On top of those responsibilities, I was in NHS, Key Club, AP and honors classes, Best Buddies... blah blah blah. Just from meeting some of you, I know that I’m not the only overachiever here. Honestly, I could not wait to graduate. I am so excited about becoming a Sun Devil and beginning a new part of my life! My goals for college are to graduate with honors, travel as much as possible, meet as many great people as I can and just have a good ‘ol time doing it! I feel very honored to be apart of the LSP family and can’t wait to meet the rest of you!

 

Cody Coleman

Cody Coleman Hello!!! My name is Cody Coleman and I graduated from Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, AZ (yay Sabercats!). In high school I was on the volleyball team, track and in National Honors Society. I’m REALLY excited to go to ASU and become friends with all my fellow LSPers. I want to major in Justice Studies and minor in either Psychology or Spanish, I’m not sure which yet… After college I’m planning on being an FBI Agent and I can’t wait. I love going out with my friends, shopping, working out, etc. I just moved into my first apartment with one of my friends, and we’re so excited, so I guess I’ll just have to throw a house warming party and all my fellow LSPers are invited!! See you all soon… Go Sun Devils!

 

Amanda Confer

Amanda Confer Hey! I’m Amanda Confer and I recently graduated from University High School in Tucson, Arizona. And I’ll just tell you right now that you’ll have a pretty hard time getting rid of my Wildcat loyalties, but feel free to try! In high school I was super involved on campus and in the community. My favorite activities include participating in Habitat for Humanity, student teaching and running the school board campaign of a friend. As far as the future goes, my ultimate goal is to be involved in the government, maybe as a Supreme Court Justice…or I’ll work for a Non-Governmental Organization…or UNICEF… hmmm… Ok, so I have no idea. Figuring it out is what college is for, right?

 

Jonathan Cooper

Jonathan Cooper Now that I've graduated from Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, I'm looking forward to beginning college at ASU, where I plan to double major in Journalism and Political Science. My goal (however idealistic it may be) is to someday cover politics from Washington for a major metro newspaper like the New York Times or the Washington Post. In high school, most of my time was devoted to my school newspaper, the Sunrise, for which I served as Editor-in-Chief during my senior year. I was also involved with Competition Government, Marching Band, and many other clubs and organizations. My summer has been spent freelancing for the Wrangler News, a community newspaper in my area, and working on a campaign for the Chandler City Council: www.trinityforchandler.com. Meanwhile, I look forward to meeting everyone in the LSP!
 

Taylor Dancer

Taylor Dancer I attended Desert Vista High School where I was Student Body President and also a cheerleader and company dancer. I served as Girls State Governor for 2004-2005 and have been actively involved in the Arizona Association of Student Councils where I was elected as a State President for 2004-2005. I am incredibly excited about attending ASU and being part of the LSP program!

 

Michelle Dayton

Michelle Dayton Hey y'all! My name is Michelle and I am 18 years old. Moving from Georgia when I was ten, I settled in Mesa and grew up to attend the best school in the state, Mountain View High School (Toro Pride!). My passion for leadership and service grew during school with activities such as Student Council, cheerleading, NHS, Peer Mediation, and our "Volunteerism Is Pride" club. I hope to continue my passion for medicine by studying Nursing, Psychology, and Neurology during my years at ASU. I hope to become a Nurse Practitioner and open my own practice somewhere in the valley of the sun. I love swimming, dancing, shopping, and I'm always up for a party. It is an honor to be a part of the LSP program and I look forward to meeting great people, forming close friendships, and making my experience at ASU as best as possible. And hey, if you see me on campus, say howdy! I'd love to meet ya.

 

Jenna Diaz-Gonzalez

Jenna Diaz-Gonzalez Originally from New Mexico, I have been lucky enough to live at Grand Canyon, Arizona for the past 11 years. The small town of Grand Canyon is one where everyone knows what you have done wrong in the last several years, but despite this, I have enjoyed living with all the fantastic people and great scenery for the majority of my life. In my four years at Grand Canyon High School, I was the founder of our cheer squad, played volleyball and soccer, participated in yearbook, peer counseling and was president of student council my junior year. At ASU, I will be participating in the Barrett Honors College and majoring in Business Management. I am very excited to attend ASU and look forward to the LSP program.

 

Megan Gjersvig

Megan Gjersvig Hi guys, I’m Megan Gjersvig. I graduated from Valley Christian in Chandler and am glad to leave their mascot behind me. (We were the Valley Christian Trojans…) Needless to say I’m proud to be a Sun Devil. I’m a performer at heart and was president of Speech and Drama. I love to have fun and be a clown. I work hard and play hard. According to the school I’m still a Communications major, but I’m pursuing a degree in Chemistry. (Just your average drama girl with a knack for periodic elements and calculus.) Ultimately, I love life and I can’t wait to see where the Lord leads me next.

 

Shannon Green

Shannon Green Hey everyone! My name is Shannon and I’m from Mountain View High School in Tucson, Arizona. I plan on studying Journalism at ASU. There just aren’t enough words to describe my personality, so I’ll give you plenty—I am confident, happy, optimistic, always ready for a challenge, passionate, and enthusiastic about anything I’m faced with. I am a leader, a dancer, a Varsity cheerleader, a public speaker, a 4Her, a writer, an avid reader, a Jersey girl, a daughter, a sister, and a friend. I love LSP, meeting new people, projects, spaghetti, a really good read, Arizona sunsets, "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off," being a Sun Devil, being outrageously busy, changing things for the better, and "The Daily Show." I can’t live without lip gloss, music, laughter, pictures, my cell phone, "Sex and the City", mascara, and the news. I cannot wait to meet everyone in my cohort and I’m so excited for my next four years as a Sun Devil!

 

Rafael Hernandez

Rafael Hernandez I am originally from Ciudad Obregón, Sonora, Mexico. My family and I relocated to the border community of Ambos Nogales four years ago. I started my high school career with the commitment to succeed in a different country with a different language and customs. I just recently graduated from Nogales High School in Nogales, Arizona. With my past community experiences, I have learned that the satisfaction of helping others is invaluable and that what shapes your life and who you are and what you will become are those outside experiences. Since childhood, I have always admired those who do something to clean and protect our environment. With this goal in mind, I plan to be one of them. I will be attending the Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering with a major in Civil/Environmental Engineering. I like to learn about other cultures, but I love my Hispanic heritage. I will always follow my convictions and beliefs to represent the Spanish motto, "Sí Se Puede." By the way, I am proud of being selected as part of this program; I will be looking forward to getting to know each one of my fellow LSP Peers!

 

Austin Howe

Austin Howe In the middle of the heartland, where the cows flourish and the corn grows, I’m anything but a country cowboy. From the fast beat of my feet on the boogie floor, I’m the brand of chap who loves to get the party started. I’m a graduate from Palmyra R-1 High School in Palmyra, Missouri. I’ve grown up with my mother raising my sister and I in our small community of 3,500 people. My senior class consisted of only 76 individuals. I plan to further my education by studying to be a Government Service Executive and working in politics. My target is to have a double major in Political Science and Law. Continuing my education, I will pursue and earn a Master's, then a Doctorate in either field. I would like to complete my job in the field, and after retirement, come back to a university and educate college students. In addition to my career, I plan to be a member of charitable organizations and help with any of their regulations or legal issues. I hope to coordinate with charitable and social service agencies, make legislative decisions and truly demonstrate how I can make a difference. Being part of the LSP Program will help further these goals and dreams. I'm looking forward to being a part of this large family.

 

Dulce Juarez

Dulce Juarez I am "Brown and Proud" Dulce Juarez. I was born in Obregón Sonora, Mexico. I graduated form Camelback High School. I aspire to obtain a degree in Journalism/Broadcasting. I hope to be another successful Latina role model, not only for ASU but for the community and for all women. I became interested in the field of Broadcasting due to a TV/Media Club at school which produces a weekly TV show for the school. The TV show is called "Camelback Now" and it is seen by about 2,400 people at Camelback High school. I was active in the club for four years of my life and met some very wonderful people. I also learned skills important to the field I want to go into. Thank you LSP committee for giving me the opportunity to shine. ASU here I come!!!

 

Emily Miller

Emily Miller Hello, My name is Emily Miller and I am a very proud graduate of Gilbert High School. Go Tigers!! I have lived in Arizona my whole life. Let me tell you that I am going to make an outstanding ASU Sun Devil, because I really do like the heat! I enjoy hanging out with friends, staying in shape, and being an active member of my church. My passion thus far in life is the sport of women's lacrosse. I love LAX (lacrosse) so much, that I am planning on playing for ASU this spring. My future plans for college are to major in Business Marketing, attend numerous sporting events, and to make a lot of new friends and memories along the way. My goal in life is to live each day to the fullest, because God never promises us a tomorrow. I am very excited to attend ASU, and am looking forward to getting to know each and every one of my fellow LSPers.

 

Raul Ortiz

Raul Ortiz Hi, I’m Raul Ortiz, Jr., a graduate of Dysart High School in El Mirage, Arizona. During my four years in high school, I kept myself busy being involved with my school and community. Being involved in Key Club, M.E.S.A., the National Honor Society, D.E.C.A., and serving as the Editor-in-Chief for my school newspaper were some of the great experiences that I had while in high school, along with keeping good grades, and being involved in other extracurricular activities. For as long as I can remember, I have been involved in Mexican Ballet Folklorico and in my church. As for hobbies, I love to travel, explore and do things out of the ordinary for fun, hang out with my friends, and spend time with my family. I am so excited to begin my time here at ASU, and being involved in the Leadership Scholarship Program will my make my time here even better! GO SUN DEVILS!

 

Jared Perez

Jared Perez Hi my name is Jared Perez. I am a small town boy who graduated from Morenci High School. Morenci, Arizona is a small mining town, big on copper and small on activity. That is why I am looking forward to living in the big city and being a part of the Sun Devil family. I am a very outgoing and determined person. I loved being involved at my school and my community and I hope that I can continue that at ASU. I love meeting new people and learning new traits from them that can help me to be a better person. I am studying Pre-Business and hope to major in Business Marketing. I am excited and positive about the direction LSP will take me. I can't wait to meet all of you.


 

Arman Rezaee

Arman Rezaee Hello! I am originally from Iran and as of July 5th , I've been in the United States for 22 months. I recently graduated from Westwood High School in Mesa (GO WARRIORS!) My daily routine is meeting new people and making friends. Senior year was a blast. Next year, I will be at Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering. I am looking forward to my time at ASU and meeting all the LSP family members.
 

Jenna Schaefer

Jenna Schaefer I graduated from Henry Sibley High School in Mendota Heights, Minnesota. After living in the same house for eighteen years, I'm more than ready to begin my college career in Tempe, Arizona! West St. Paul, MN was a great place to grow up. The Mall of America has always been 15 minutes away! I got involved in high school basically with Key Club, Student Council, and Orchestra. With Key Club I found my love for community service, which is why I am exploring a major in Political Science at ASU. Through Student Council and Key Club, I was also able to travel a lot. Now, I want to see the world! I have been playing violin for eight years, and hope to continue playing in college. Beyond that, I'm very excited to be a part of LSP and look forward to my years in the southwest.
 

Courtney Sutherland
Courtney Sutherland I have lived in Prescott, Arizona for the past 11 years of my life and recently graduated from Prescott High School. I cannot wait to get out of "P" town and join the world of ASU. My current major is Pre-Med, no preference with the intent of becoming a dentist or an orthodontist. My love for children has led me to work at a summer camp for the past three years proving the suspicion of many that I truly have the maturity level of a ten-year-old. I plan to focus my extra energy on the Crew team at ASU. The physical requirements are somewhat scary, but the biggest challenge of all will be to get out of bed so early in the morning. But just remember: "It’s kind of fun to do the impossible." – Walt Disney
 

Suzanne Szekely
Suzanne Szekely People sometimes find it difficult to sit down with a pen (or pencil) and paper and write about themselves...I'm one of those people. Sure I could write about graduating from Metro Tech High School and my goal to graduate with a BS degree and go on to receive an MBA, but I want this bio to give everyone more than just factual details about myself. I choose to share my passion which, for those who know me best (or have seen my car) can tell you, is dogs. They would also go on to tell you that they would not be surprised if I was registered for gifts at the local Petsmart for my wedding someday. This passion is what lead me to chose my major in Business Management and hopefully business ownership of a pet sitting business of all things. All dogs aside in addition to my love for my dogs and family is my love for my friends and I'm definitely looking forward to meeting new ones during a great first year at in LSP and ASU! Hey...guess that wasn't that hard after all.

 

Marcos Valdez
Marcos Valdez Hey everyone! My name is Marcos Valdez and I am one of the new LSPers coming in this fall. I graduated from Tolleson Union High School in the top 1% of my class with a 4.4 GPA. I was also one of Tolleson’s athletes, and I ended up winning the Athlete of the Year Award (which really surprised me considering the fact there were several other quality athletes). I played basketball, baseball, and football. In basketball and baseball, I was captain during my junior and senior years for both squads. Even though athletics took up a great deal of my time, I still found time to participate in a few extra-curricular activities. Some of these include being the President of the National Honor Society, a member of the ASU’s Rodel Math Program, a member of the Gifted and Talented Program, and a member of the Cub Crew, which was a senior mentor program aimed at helping freshmen become acquainted with the life of a high schooler. The Cub Crew was probably my favorite program because I was given an opportunity to mentor not freshmen, but rather young individuals who are barely about to begin their lives. Other than school, I am a normal guy that likes to hang out with friends, go to the movies, talk on the phone, and play lots of sports. I can’t wait for the school year to begin so I can meet some of the other LSPers! Oh yeah, you can find me in Cholla hall, because that’s where I’ll be stayin’!
 

Kelly White
Kelly White Hello! My name is Kelly White and I am an Arizona native! Although I was born here, I grew up all over the world. I am from a military family, and after many moves, finally returned to Arizona! I am a graduate from Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale. I was very involved in high school. I was the Senior Class President and President of the National Honor Society. I intend to major in Biochemistry, and then go on to attend Medical School. My goal is to someday go into pediatrics because I love little kids. I am really excited to attend ASU, and even more excited to be a part of the LSP program! I look forward to meeting you all soon!

Katie Abbott
Determined not to have peaked in high school, I'm looking forward to my time at ASU. I will be majoring in Secondary Ed with an emphasis in PE and minoring in Political Science. That possibly encapsulates my talents and outlook on life. I always come to play ball and compete but I equally enjoy the schmoozing that goes along with the game. After college I plan to teach and coach at my alma mater of Westwood High School! In the meantime, I am very active in my church. I love to play sports. But more specifically, my PASSION is badminton! Besides that, I just enjoy life and live by my motto: "There aren't any strangers, just friends I haven't met yet!"


Yesenia Barraza
Hola! I am originally from Durango Mexico and recently graduated from Westview High School in Avondale AZ. During my high school career I was really involved not only at Westview but also at the various outreach programs at Saint John Vianney Church. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to be the first person in my family to graduate from high school and attend college. I am very excited about becoming an ASU sundevil. My main goals are to stay active in my school and community, to travel and learn another language, and to stay focused in my academics so that I can continue to succeed. In addition, I want to keep having fun with my friends and family while in college. I really enjoy dancing, reading, and working out. I also want to meet many people and continue sharing my positive, optimistic, and happy attitude with everyone.

Martha Castaneda
My name is Martha Castaneda and I graduated from Barry Goldwater High School in North Phoenix. In high school, I studied under the International Baccalaureate Program and the AP program. I was also involved in several activities around campus. The activity that most defines me and that I enjoyed the most, was the school video announcements in which I participated for the last three years. That is what I want to study at ASU. I have chosen a Journalism/Broadcasting major with a minor in French. By attending the Walter Cronkite school I wish to start my career and serve as a news anchor and reporter to major news stations in the country and abroad. I would like one day to study and work in Paris, France and live each day working in what I really love. While at ASU I hope to never lose touch with my family and friends and instead share my experiences with those I love.

Matt Cicinelli
Hey Everyone! I’m Matt. I’m 18 and I was born and raised in Tempe, Arizona. I graduated from Brophy with Honors…blah blah blah…Most of us have a wrap sheet about a mile long full of accolades, so what? I love to have fun with my friends and I like to think I’m very outgoing. I’m a work-oholic but I love what I do (I work for Wells Fargo Bank). I plan to go on to the Business College but I’m not set on which field I want to pursue. I am very excited to start this new phase of my life and I look forward to sharing this experience with ya’ll!

Howard Chu
Hello everybody! I’m Howard Chu (you can call me Howie, Ho-Chu, Chu Chu, if you’d like). I just graduated from Corona del Sol High School and my passions include sleeping, eating, and gambling. On a more serious note, I enjoy meeting new people and participating in new things. I was involved in Student Council, NHS, Key Club, Interact, Theatre Club, Track and Field and a plethora of other activities. I was born in America and moved over to Taiwan to study for four years (4th-7th grade). I plan on living in the Hayden Hall and majoring in Biosciences. Recently, I have been named a Flinn Scholar, so hopefully this will further assist me in the pursuit of my ultimate goal of becoming a successful and contributive physician. I just want to add that I’m very grateful to become a part of this community and that I look forward interacting with all of you!

Art Delacruz
I am a secondary education major from Kofa High School in Yuma, Arizona. I hope to become an English teacher and hopefully have an impact on students' lives. My hobbies include playing tennis, swimming, taking pictures, and going new places. I always have a smile on my face and am glad to help anybody, anytime. I consider myself a responsible and friendly person and I am really looking forward to meeting my fellow LSP members.

Andrea Diaz
I am a proud graduate of the 5A Basketball State Champions…Mesa High! My major as of now is communications (but as you folks know, I’ll most likely change my major a few times), and I am seriously thinking of double majoring in either business or political science. For my career goals, I alternate between an ambassador for the US to a Spanish speaking country or diplomat of some sort…hence my prior statement of changing majors/minors. I suppose that just like anyone else, I LOVE to laugh, and that is done easily. Also, games are imperative to maintaining a balanced life. Plus, every one of us needs to keep that inner child; it is good to act child-like, but not childish. Another thing I love is bubble gum. It is the key to my heart! I am immensely honored to be a part of this program. I look forward to all the adventures we will embark upon and the friendships and acquaintances I will attain.

Kate Ernzen
Hi everyone! I graduated from Mountain View High School in Mesa. During high school, I was an active member in my church’s LifeTeen program and on my school’s Drumline where I got the chance to travel to China with the marching band, sparking a love of travel. This past year, I was also on Mountain View’s Academic Decathlon team. As a LSP cohort, I hope to spend at least one semester abroad and eventually graduate with a degree in International Business. More importantly, though, I want ASU to be an incredible all-around learning experience and make friends and memories that will last
a lifetime. Go Devils!

Lindsay Farmer

Hi, my name is Lindsay Farmer. I was born and raised in Flagstaff, Arizona and I graduated from Sinagua High School. During high school, I participated in National Honors Society, Peer Mediation and played on the Varsity Soccer Team for four years. I love playing soccer and have played competitively on club teams from Flagstaff and Phoenix. I hope over the next four years to major in psychology and someday become a sports or child psychologist. I also hope to study abroad in Spain.I am excited to meet everyone and can’t wait to be a part of the LSP family!

Tara Gregory
I am Tara Gregory from Bethalto, Illinois, which is not far from St. Louis. I am a Christian, hard working, extroverted, cheerleader, shop-aholic, small-town girl majoring in Bio-Medical Engineering. I get bored easily, and tend to be involved in as many activities as I can. I started a Key Club at school and became the president. I am very fun loving and social, but set very high standards for myself in everything I do. I hope my enthusiasm and energy will continue through my years at ASU and enable me to somehow make a positive difference in the lives of other people. I can’t wait to make new friends and begin a new life at ASU.

Lauren Hengl
Hi, my name is Lauren Okun Hengl and I graduated from Shadow Mountain High School (go matadors!). In high school I was actively involved in Choir, Drama, Student Government, Student Ambassadors, National Honor Society, and March of Dimes. I was Senior Class President, and Co-Founder of a cancer awareness club. I love musical theatre and have been performing around the valley for over 8 years. This past year I was in All-State Show Choir, which was a blast! My college goals may include Communications, Broadcasting or Theatre. I am excited for all the opportunities at ASU, the Barrett Honors College, and the Leadership Scholarship Program.

Mackenzie Hopman
I was born right here in Tempe, Arizona and I attended Tempe High School. Although I live so close to ASU, I will be staying in Pale Verde East. Since I am not quite sure what to major in, I picked something that I enjoyed the most in high school. So, for now my major is English. My minor is political science because I am very interested in current events and world politics. I hope to one day become a political advisor or an English teacher. I love to workout, shop, eat, read and travel. I am very excited to attend ASU!

Alex Hopson
Hi, my name is Alex Hopson - I graduated last year from Desert Mountain High School in Scottsdale where I played baseball and swam for the school team. Next year, I will be starting at W.P. Carey majoring in Finance. I am originally from California and love to surf when I have time.

Natalie Hyde
I am a recent graduate of Rincon High School in Tucson, Arizona. I enjoyed being involved with my school, participating in extracurricular activities such as advanced choir, modern dance, French Club, German, and the Optimist Club. At ASU I am majoring English, with Pre-Law. I look forward to being active in the Leadership Program and meeting LSP students.

Chad Jacobs
Originally from Lancaster, California, my family moved to Albuquerque and then to Tucson before I was five. I went to Flowing Wells Junior High and High School where I was the class Valedictorian. I played baseball for four years, and we made it to State this year only to get knocked around in the first game. I’m a Diamondback fan and did the whole sleep-out-for-World-Series-tickets-thing in 2001. I also tried golf my freshman year, but that sport wasn’t as kind to me. I love to snowboard and I try to go at least once a year. Comedies are my favorite movies and I play the guitar in my free time. I plan to major in Bioengineering and I’m going to try and squeeze in some Business if I can.

Mindy Kinnard
Hi, My name is Mindy Kinnard and I just graduated from Casa Grande Union High School in Casa Grande, AZ. I spent my last year of High School representing Arizona DECA as the State Public Relations Director, serving my school as Student Body President and being involved with my church and community. In my spare time I like to hang out with my friends and family. I enjoy swimming, snowboarding, photography, dancing and sleeping! My plan is to major in Public Relations, but I'm a girl....so I'm constantly changing my mind! I am really looking forward to attending ASU and becoming a part of LSP!

Teela Ladd
Well…I just graduated from Maricopa High School. I participated in varsity volleyball, basketball, and softball, as well as NHS, Student Council, Amerind, and M-Club. I was born in Utah, but have lived here for 9 years. I am from a family of 5 girls, you got it! No brothers! I love to talk, play sports, scrapbook, travel, and have fun. Currently my major is “undecided”, but I am thinking about medicine or law. Eventually I would like to open my own business. I am so excited to be a member of LSP and look forward to meeting you all!

Taylor Morris
I recently graduated from Dobson High School in Mesa, Arizona. My senior year was pretty intense, and I’m hoping I’ll get a little more sleep at ASU. Last year, I was President of NHS, a member of We The People, Orchestra, and Choir. I was also actively involved with the Harry Potter Guild, a club I co-founded which focused its energies on a citywide book drive and a reading buddy program at Adams Elementary. The hard work with the Guild paid off in an unexpected manner when I was named a Toyota Community Scholar last spring. Currently my major is music education, but I would also like to study political science and biology…so I’ll probably end up with some combination of majors and minors. See you at ASU!

Andrew Nelson
To start off, my hometown is Huron, South Dakota. The population is only about 12,000, so I am excited to see what "city-life" is all about. As for the family, I am the youngest of seven children. In high school I did an array of things that filled up my schedule. I participated in hockey, Key Club, FBLA, Student Senate, United Way, mentoring, and various other activities and organizations. I am majoring in business management and minoring in biology. I am anxious to meet all the other LSPers and get settled into college.

Devon Norris
HI! My name is Devon Norris and I am super excited to meet everyone! I am 18 years old, and I recently graduated from Maryvale High School. I love school and being involved in everything! At Maryvale I participated in DECA, NHS, Speech Club, and Varsity Cheerleading. I can't wait to get to ASU! I am looking forward to studying business (however, after my recent trip to Washington DC, I am considering Political Science). Right now I am busy working and getting ready for the transition to university life. I currently work at the Mervyn's at Desert Sky Mall, and will hopefully transfer to the Tempe location in August. I can't wait to meet all of you, I know that we will be the best of friends!

Brittany Olp
My name is Brittany Olp and i graduated from Paradise Valley High School. I am attending ASU in the fall to begin my studies on nursing, and I want to specialize in pediatrics and maybe one day go to the Phoenix Childrens Hospital, but who knows, that changes everyday! Besides nursing my other love is waterskiing. I have skied since I was a little girl and I am hoping to go to nationals this year and take it all (wish me luck)!! I am so excited to attend ASU and extremely honored to be a part of the LSP. See you around!

Thomas Peterson
Hi! My name is Tom Peterson and I’m a graduate of Apollo High School in Glendale. For the last four years, I have been involved with all forms of music and theatre, and hope to for the next four as well. For my major, I haven’t yet settled on either Music Education or Composition, but it’ll be one of the two. Writing music is really my passion, and my ultimate goal is to divide my time between New York and LA, writing for both the stage and the screen. I look forward to meeting you all!

Ashley Scheffer
Hi, I’m Ashley Scheffer, a graduate of Copley High School located in Akron, Ohio. I live with my family Dad, Mom, younger Bro, and my two cats Sammi and Sosa—no we’re not Chicago Cubs fans. I am proud to announce I graduated at the top of my class and kept myself busy with involvement in Key Club International, Symphonic, Jazz, and Pep Bands, Teen Institute, National Honor Society, Academic Challenge, church youth group, and a few other activities. This fall I will be a member of the Barrett Honors College and am incredibly excited about the opportunities offered to me by the Leadership Scholarship Program. I plan to study political science, biology, and anything that may interest me along the way— I haven’t really settled on a major yet. I would like to eventually continue on to medical school and then become a medical missionary, doing what I can to save the world!

Liz Simonhoff
Hello, my name is Liz Simonhoff and I am excited to be one of the new LSP students for the upcoming year. I am entering this fall with hopes of studying business and political science. My life consists of studying, soccer, and participating in community service. I love sports, talking, and getting to know other people. I am looking foward to meeting everyone, and having a wonderful time at Arizona State University. See you all soon!


Stephanie Ventre
Hello! My name is Stephanie Ventre and I am 18 years old. I have lived in Arizona all my life and am a graduate from Highland High School. While there I participated in the Extra Mile Community Service Club, Lettermen’s Club, Anti-Defamation League (Peer trainers program), also I was a Student Ambassador, a Peer Mediator, and a Varsity Cheerleader. I enjoyed my time in high school and am really looking forward to attending ASU. I plan on graduating from ASU with a degree in Speech Pathology and continuing on for my masters. I’m so excited on taking in everything ASU and the Leadership Scholarship Program has to offer!

Joshua Ybarra
My name is Joshua Ybarra, I’m from a small border community called Douglas, Arizona, and I graduated from Douglas High School. During high school I loved listening to music, hanging out with friends and family, playing sports, being active in clubs and helping out in my community and across the border in Mexico. I will be attending the W.P. Carey School of Business at ASU this fall. I am ready and excited in making the transition from a small town to a big city and university. I know that the LSP program is perfect for me and I can’t wait to start meeting everyone else in the program. LSP RULES!

David Werner
My name is David Werner and I am an 18 year old graduate of Huron High School in Huron, South Dakota. In high school, I participated in: Key Club, Future Business Leaders of America, Pep Club, Pep Band, Concert Band, Marching Band, Varsity Football, Varsity Golf, Students Against Destructive Decisions, National Honors Society, and the Huron Mentoring Program. My future aspirations are to graduate from Arizona State University with a degree in Finance, hopefully on my way to a PHD with future plans of being a Professor. I know that my experience with the Leadership Scholarship Program and the members of the Arizona State University community will make this possible.
 

Kelly Williams
Hi, I'm Kelly Williams & I just graduated from Greenway High School here in the Valley. I live with my Mom and younger brother, Alex, in northwest Phoenix but will be living in Cholla at ASU. In my spare time, I love anything Disney, attending theatrical performances and shopping! I also like to do community service projects. Although officially "undeclared," my educational interests are in dance, theater & psychology. I also enjoy reading & analyzing literature. I was involved with the Anti-Defamation League and Unitown at Greenway and would like to pursue anti-bias and diversity issues in college. I'm not sure what my career will be but am excited to explore the varied opportunities ASU has to offer.
 

Amy Wold
Hey everyone! I just recently graduated from Desert Vista High School (Go Thunder!). During my time at DV, I kept myself very busy being Student Body Spirit Director, Vice President of Key Club, a member of NHS, and The Dance Company. I enjoy being an active member in my church and spending time with my friends. I look forward to what ASU has to offer me. One goal that I have set for myself is to make a positive impact in the community. LSP will help me achieve this. I can’t wait for the next four years! Go Sun Devils!!
 

Rachel Aguiar
I recently graduated in the top 1% from Barry Goldwater High School here in Phoenix, AZ. Most of my time was split between academics & music. I lettered in band and participated in concert & marching band for all 4 years. I was also selected by audition to play in the Phoenix Symphony Guild Youth Orchestral Training Program. Besides my passion for music & playing my flute, I have volunteered over 1,000 hours at the Arizona Humane Society over the past 3 years, & I am a National Merit Scholar. I plan to study Bioengineering at ASU, and possibly minor in music. My future career goals range anywhere from NASA astronaut to veterinarian, I haven't quite decided.
 

Jason Ake
I was born in Flagstaff, AZ and graduated from Coconino High School; where I was the Student Body President and was part of many other clubs and sports. During High School I was part of Boy Scouts where I earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Most of my free time is spent working on my ‘48 Willys Jeep, which I built with my dad. I also spend time under the sun playing on the Colorado River with my jet ski. This upcoming year I’m going to study Computer Science, and eventually either own a multimedia or networking business. Looking forward to meeting you all this fall!
 

Jenna Andresen
Hi everyone! I am 18 years old and I live in Peoria, AZ. I am a graduate from Cactus High. I was extremely involved in Student Council and Varsity Soccer all four years. I love watching and playing sports, trying new things, meeting new people and being creative. God has always been a huge part of my life and I am excited to see his blessings in action at ASU. I will be majoring in Communications and I hope to find a career in either Broadcasting or Public Relations. I am so honored to be a part of LSP. I can’t wait to meet all of you! Bring on the fun!!
 

Elizabeth Andrews
I am a graduate of Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, Arizona. In high school I was involved in many activities, including National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Academic Decathlon, and the Honors Professional Internship Program. I love to read, travel, and go to Broadway plays. I am also involved in ministries at St. James Church. I am majoring in political science with a minor in Spanish. In addition, I plan to study in the Barrett Honors College, study abroad, and pursue internship opportunities in government. My career goals include attending law school and working in Washington D.C.
 

Francisco Chairez
What’s up everybody! My name is Francisco (Frankie, Paco, Cisco, etc.) Chairez from Holbrook High School in Holbrook, AZ, a town that no one has ever heard of, probably because its boring, which makes most of us here love the outdoors & activities such as hunting, fishing, swimming, and four-wheeling. I am originally from the border city of Tijuana, Mexico, & I am really proud of my Mexican-Spanish-Italian roots. I have always been a really high energy person who really likes to socialize with people, which has probably gotten me this far in life. I like music, hanging out with friends, reading, writing, exercising, & being crazy! My main career goal is to have a job that will take me around the world.
 

George Chesteen
I was born in Denver but I am an Arizonan all the way. I graduated from Saguaro High School, where I was involved in numerous activities. Captain of the lacrosse team, teen leader at my church, president of the Latin Club...I did it all. My hobbies include hanging out with my friends and restoring my '49 Chevy. I plan on majoring in finance, but I seem to change my mind weekly. I am looking forward to enjoying all the opportunities ASU has to offer, especially the chance to play for the university lacrosse team.
 

Laura Torres
My name is Laura Torres and I graduated from Camelback High School in Phoenix, Arizona. In high school I was involved in National Honor Society (two years, one of them as the treasurer), Spanish National Honor Society (two years, one of them as the treasurer), Upward Bound from Gateway Community College (four years) and Academic Decathlon. My plan is to major in Environmental Engineering at ASU and someday be able to help clean and restore our home, Earth. I am proud to be a participant in the Leadership program and hope to meet at all of you soon!
 

Billy Valencia
Let's see here -- where to begin? I'm a recent graduate of Rio Rico High School, and I like long walks in the park. I became acquainted with LSP through Celina Munoz, a good friend of mine (even though she'd never publicly admit it). It's my hope that my yen for travel will be satisfied during my four years at ASU, and the LSP and Flinn will help me to realize that hope. I see myself as a lawyer, with a concentration most likely in patent law.

 

Emme Valentin
I am 18, my astrological sign is Aries, I like listening to music, and hanging out with my friends. Well it all started when I was about five or maybe six, well anyway it started, "it" being my passion for becoming a doctor. My childhood consisted of me going to many different hospitals and doctors after I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. I have had my fair share of good and bad doctors and my good doctors inspired me. I want to major in pre-medicine and hopefully move onto medical school, where I will then specialize in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
 

Markus Renno
I was born in Minneapolis, MN and raised everywhere from Germany to Tucson, AZ. Army brat? No. My parents just occasionally like a change of scenery. I graduated from Sabino High School, where I participated in Swimming, Choir, and a few clubs. In my (rather limited) spare time, I enjoy playing the piano and traveling. Right now, I am in Europe with a friend and seeing everything from the countryside to cities such as Berlin. At ASU, I will be majoring in biomedical engineering and completing my pre-medical requirements. Eventually I hope to work as a radiologist in a clinic.

 

Jennifer Rogers
Hello, my name is Jennifer Rogers, and I am recently a proud graduate of Gilbert High School! I was actively involved with Student Council, Symphony Orchestra, Speech & Debate, National Honors Society, and Varsity track. As a Sun Devil, I plan on majoring in Business Marketing with a minor in Communications. I have a passion for traveling, fashion, and cooking. In June, I drove across the country to Florida with two friends. I would really like to study abroad in a few years. I am truly looking forward to meeting everyone and being part of the LSP program. I am positive it will be a great year.
 

Dustin Terrill
I was born in Mesa, Arizona. We moved to Casa Grande when I was eight and that is where I have lived ever since. I graduated from Casa Grande Union High School fourth in my class, never receiving anything lower than an A. While in high school I assumed the role of treasurer for many clubs, including NHS, Key Club, Student Council, DECA, Gifted Club, and Teen Court. I also held the position of Student Body Treasurer my senior year. I am looking forward to attending ASU in the fall and being apart of the LSP family. I am going to major in Computer Systems Engineering. I hope someday to own my own software company and to raise a small family.
 

Tiffany Chiang
I was born across the world in Taiwan, but I was never meant to stay there. God had different plans for my life! When I was two months old, I was adopted by my loving family & brought to the US. Life has been an amazing journey and I have recently graduated from Valley Christian High School in Chandler, where I was involved in NHS, band, outreach groups, & community service projects. For fun, I enjoy reading, writing, traveling, & working out. As of now, my plans are to major in history and English and minor in Psychology. My focus is on the horizon and I am looking forward with great expectations for the years to come!
 

Alan Clifford
Last Spring, I attended Gallia Academy High School in Gallipolis, Ohio. Throughout my high school career, I was involved in numerous activities, including Key Club, Yearbook, Energy Team, Student Council, National Honor Society, Mock Trial, Soccer, and Tennis. This fall I will be a member of the Barrett Honors College, majoring in Business Management. I then hope to go on to medical school to become an anesthesiologist. I am very excited to be a Sun Devil and I look forward to meeting everyone!
 

Kimberlee Demaree
I graduated from Noblesville High School in Noblesville, Indiana in the top ten percent of my class. Music is one of my favorite things, whether it's singing, playing piano, listening, or dancing. My high school activities included Spanish club, Speech team, Jazz Band, and Key Club. I am also a ten year 4-H member. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering and community service and will continue this through ASU's Circle K International club. While at ASU, I plan to major in political science and possibly minor in business administration. I plan on working in a governmental planning position after college, and eventually running for a political office.
 

Isabella Flores
My name is Isabel Cristina Flores, but I go by Isabella. I was born in Tucson, AZ but have been raised in the small border town of Nogales, AZ all my 18 years. Being brought up so close to the border, I have been able to learn, practice, and appreciate many things of my Mexican culture; one of the most important ones, has been the gift and value of family. If you get to know me well, you will learn that it is one of my main priorities and a center point in my life. My biggest passion and hobby, is dance; it too, has been one of the things that has been instilled in me through my Hispanic heritage. If you watch me closely, you'll catch me doing some moves out of the blue very often. I plan to minor in dance, and at this point am undecided in my major. There's much more, but I don't have a lot of space, so I figured I'd get the basics down, that way you can really get to know me in person whenever we meet... see you then!
 

Carly Gin
I have lived in Tucson, Arizona all of my life; born into a University of Arizona Wildcat family, my twin sister & I decided to become Arizona State Sun Devils! I am a graduate of Tucson Magnet School where I was active in Student Council, Treasurer of the Dance Club, SADD, Varsity Cheerleading, Varsity Dance Team, & the Tucson High Student Ambassador Program. I was active in dance classes in the Fine Arts Department & received an endorsement in the Programming Arts at the time of graduation. I will be majoring in dance this coming fall of 2003. Dancing is my life and I love performing! I am looking forward to meeting all of my fellow LSPers!
 

Ashley Irvin
I was born in Scottsdale, AZ, & ever since then it has been my only place that I can call home. I have always thought of myself as an extremely dedicated, motivated, & enthusiastic person. I graduated from Desert Mountain High School and being the secretary of National Honor Society I was able to stay involved on the campus and community. For the past 4 years, I have been a member of the Desert Mountain Volleyball Team; however, my volleyball focus has shifted, as I am now a coach. Furthermore, I love to help my community & for the past 6 years, I have been doing community service with my mother in an organization called National Charity League. As for my future, I will study pre-law, psychology, & communications at the Barrett Honors College.
 

Hayley Ivins
I graduated from Dobson High School in May and my passions include singing, following politics, reading all the books I can, and having fun with my friends! Throughout high school, I was involved in many activities including Choir, We the People, NHS, and the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Organization. Last summer, I roughed it in the Virgin Islands for two weeks while I studied termites (I know, they sound disgusting but they really aren't that bad!). Despite this, I remain a normal Arizona girl and I can't wait to learn about all the quirky opportunities all of you have had! At ASU, I'll be majoring in Biology and Society with a minor in Political Science. My future remains open so I'll see where ASU takes me.
 

Andrew Moe
I am so excited to start school at Arizona State this fall. I will hopefully be majoring in political science and journalism with a minor in French. I graduated from George S. Parker High School in Janesville, Wisconsin where I was actively involved in Key Club, Human Relations, National French Honor Society, and Student Leadership Council. I also served a year-long internship at the Wisconsin State Capitol with my State Senator. I am dedicated to community service and would like to commit my life to public service. I am looking forward to my years at ASU in the Barrett Honors College and the memories I will gain as a Leadership Scholar.
 

Brenna Morgan
I have lived in Tucson, Arizona for my entire life & I just recently graduated from Flowing Wells High School. Throughout high school I was the editor-in-chief of the newspaper, a member of NHS, & captain of the varsity golf team. I first swung a golf club when I was five, & I have loved it ever since. My other hobbies include playing the piano, swimming & working out. For the past 2 summers I have worked as a lifeguard & helped teach swim lessons. As for the future, I plan to major in business with a minor in mass communications, but nothing is set in stone. I am interested in pursuing a career in either marketing or broadcast journalism.
 

Annie Woodsen
I was born in Springerville, Arizona and lived there one year. When I was a year old our family moved to Flagstaff, Arizona and we have lived here ever since. I am part Mexican and have a big family. I have two older brothers that go to U of A and a little sister who attends Flagstaff High School, from where I just graduated this June! I love sports, travel, food, God, people and learning new things. I've been involved in many school activities like Student Council and NHS and have also done a lot around my community and at my church. I have tons of interests for my future but a few are Spanish, traveling, TV/Broadcasting, social work, nursing and maybe urban studies. Whatever I become I hope it's for God and it helps His people!