Next generation of leaders honored by foundation
Although the 14 high school seniors selected as Leadership for
Tomorrow Honorees are diverse students with varied talents — such
as tennis, architecture, medicine and music — they are all emerging
leaders.
“These students are hard workers with dedication, vision and
passion,” said Cherry Creek Schools Foundation Executive Director
Carolynn Erickson. That is why these students were selected to be
honored at the Cherry Creek Schools Foundation Leadership for
Tomorrow Luncheon on March 17.
Cherry Creek High School
Carly Shira. Carla Shira epitomizes what it means to be a
leader. During her sophomore year she started a club called the
BRUINS Squad. It stands for Becoming Respectful, United,
Insightful, No-hate students. As an extension of the Anti
Defamation League, the club aims to break down barriers that
isolate students. As a member of Student Senate, Shira founded and
heads a committee that raises money for Teachers Across Borders,
Inc., which provides educational opportunities for children in
corrupt and poverty-stricken third-world countries. Shira plays
soccer for both Cherry Creek High School and for Storm Academy
Copa, where she is one of three captains. Outside of school, Shira
volunteers at the Sunrise Assisted Living Center for about six to
eight hours a week. As a youth volunteer leader, she organized the
center’s Alzheimer’s Association Fundraiser.
Matthew Iritani. Matthew Iritani has had a lot of practice being
a leader. He is the student body president at Cherry Creek High
School, and was president of his class for his freshman, sophomore
and junior years. In addition, he is president of the National
Honor Society, Key Club treasurer, and was the junior class swim
team captain.
Outside of school, Iritani actively participates in the Japanese
American Community and calls bingo at this grandfather’s assisted
living center.
Eaglecrest High School
Ashley Lewis. Being a leader is an innate part of Ashley Lewis.
Throughout her life she has felt it was important to serve her
community and to serve as a role model to others. She plans to
continue doing so throughout her life.
“I want to help young girls,” Ashley said. “As a black, Mexican
girl, I feel it’s important to help other young girls through their
struggles and hardships. As long as they keep their goals in mind,
they can achieve what they want to achieve.”
Already Ashley has a long list of her own achievements. She is a
varsity cheerleader at Eaglecrest High School. She’s been cheering
competitively for 14 years. She’s also a member of the Honors
Diploma Program, the National Society of High School Scholars and
the Spanish Honor Society.
But one of the most meaningful experiences she’s had has been
volunteering with the Special Olympic track team. “It was such a
humbling experience and it made me feel like I was really making a
difference.”
Lewis plans to purse a career in acting or public relations.
Connor Bohl. Connor Bohl uses his leadership skills to help lead
Eaglecrest High School as student body president. He is responsible
for supporting activities, programs and initiatives that bring
students together and reach the goals of the school.
In addition, he performs with the school’s top-level choir, the
Madrigals and he’s involved with Boy Scouts of America.
Academically, Connor leads by example with his involvement in
the Honors Diploma program, which provides structure and college
preparedness for high-achieving students. The program also has a
community service component.
One of Connor’s biggest passion’s is playing volleyball. He
plays boys high school volleyball and club volleyball.
Students earn academic honors at Oklahoma City
Kelly A. Bostdorff and Paige E. Tryggestad, of Centennial, have
earned academic honors at Oklahoma City University.