Please join us as we tour the country to celebrate our best Citizen Athletes.
Click the stars on the map to guide yourself through the tour.
Kelsie Nickerson
Kelsie's award ceremony: May 7th, 9:30am
Community service, involvement and patriotism
Proving it isn't just about her high school activities, Kelsie has completed over 500 hours of community service in activities that include coaching youth team, working at youth basketball camps and serving as an official. Her influence on the youth in her area is a blessing to the individuals (who aspire to be just like her) she interacts with directly and to her entire community.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
Kelsie's competitive nature has propelled her on the basketball court (since 2006 through 2010), the soccer field and the softball diamond. In addition to serving as Team Captain, she has also received the Coaches Award – showcasing her ability to not just compete athletically, but to lead by example. She has been a valuable asset to each of the team's she competed with throughout her high school career.
Academic accomplishments
Being first in her class and maintaining a 4.0 GPA provide additional evidence of her outstanding character and drive to succeed in all facets of her life. She is also the recipient of multiple Evergreen Conference All-League Academic awards and was named to the 2008 2A State Academic Championship team.
Campus involvement
Kelsie has been regularly involved in on-campus leadership over the last four years. Known for her humble attitude, she leads quietly by example and is most commonly found behind the scenes in most of the Tumwater's activities from the initial planning phases, during school assemblies and clean-up afterward. Her participation in the leadership class is the perfect reflection for how she spends her personal time devoted to making her teams, school and community a better place.
Ryan Herb
Ryan's award ceremony: June 11th, 10:00am
Community service, involvement and patriotism
Through his service in sports (Blanchet Baseball Camp, Minor League Baseball clean-up and ground crew), Ryan has learned the importance of being both a contributor and leader in his community. His service activities have also included Christmas caroling, Hospitality Minister at Mass, Interfaith Hospitality and participation in the Rosary Bowl. Through his Senior Service Project, Ryan was also able to drive donations to the Father Taafee home.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
Ryan competed in baseball from June 2005 through today and has contributed significantly to his team's chemistry and work ethic; as evidenced by his designation as Most Valuable Player. Additionally he participated in football (2006) and basketball (2006-2008, including being named Team Captain), and soccer (2009).
Academic accomplishments
Ryan's commitment to academics is showcased well by the following accolades and accomplishments: Valedictorian #1, 4.0 GPA, President's Honor Roll, American Mathematics Competition: AMC-10 First Place, AMC-12 First Place and OASSA Mathematics Award Third Place. He has also served as Vice President of the National Honor Society.
Campus involvement
Staying actively involved on campus, Ryan has been involved with the Spirituality Team, a new student mentorship program, World Quest, Choir and the National Honor Society. He has also served as school Vice President and Treasurer and assisted in organizing a blood drive.
Libby Jelinek
Libby's award ceremony: April 27th, 8:00am
After all the votes from across the country were counted, we are pleased to name you the National Citizen Athlete in recognition for your outstanding service and exceptional accomplishments within your community.
Community service, involvement and patriotism
Libby's school achievements are outshined only by her community service. She is a Daughters of the Revolution Good Citizen Gold Trail Chapter Recipient, National Charity League Member (served as Newsletter Chair, Secretary and President), Ticktocker Spirit Award Recipient, Special Olympics Volunteer, St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen Volunteer, Kids First Volunteer, Homestart Worker, Sierra Hills Senior Home Volunteer, Granite Bay Library Volunteer and an active Lifeteen member. She has also volunteered as an elementary school aide and youth basketball camp counselor, participated in the Community Outreach Club and even been a "Santa's Helper."
Sports Played and Accomplishments
Libby is a standout athlete on the Varsity basketball team. As three year varsity team member and Team Captain, she starts and rarely leaves the floor. She has been named First Team All-League in the toughest league in the Sac-Joaquin Section and has been instrumental in helping her team into the playoffs every year she has been on the team.
Academic accomplishments
With a 4.32 GPA, she is the definition of student-athlete. In addition to being a Lifetime Member of the California Scholarship Federation, she is also the recipient of the Scholar Co-Curricular Award and the Junior Academic Merit Awards Double Gold recipient.
Campus involvement
Libby's high school involvement expands far beyond athletic participation and good grades... she has served as State Delegate, Emerald Brigade Marching Band Member, Concert Band Member; Yearbook Copy Editor and Dead Poet's Society Literary Member.
Da'rell Andrews
Da'rell's award ceremony: May 10th, 2:00pm
Community service, involvement and patriotism
Da'rell's passion to be engaged within his community is exemplified by his participation in his local chapter of the Better Business Bureau, Special Olympics, Susan B Komen Walk For The Cure, youth basketball coach, district poll worker and the Children's Museum. He also worked with Angel Tree, a prison fellowship program that provides support to the children of inmates, as the Youth Coordinator to host banquets and plan/manage activities.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
As an accomplished two-sport athlete, Da'rell's basketball accolades include 4-year varsity teammate, team captain, three-time MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and First Team All-League; his football achievements include 3-year varsity teammate, team captain, MVP, Player of the Year and Second Team All-League. Additionally, he was awarded Male Athlete of the Year as only a Junior.
Academic accomplishments
Not to be outdone on the field and hardwood, his classroom excellence is exemplified in earning the 4th rank within his class and repeated listing on the Honor Roll. Whether earning top honors at the school's science fairs or being recognized by local organizations, his awards and honors are numerous: San Diego Union Tribune All-Academic Team (2008-09, 2009-10), Urban League's Golden Pyramid Award (2007-08), Youth Football National Scholar Athlete (2006-07), Hampton University's History Department Pre-College Achievement Award (2008-09), Pacific Life Holiday Bowl Scholarship Recipient (2009-10), National Society of High School Scholars (2007-08, 2008-09, 2009-10), University of California, San Diego Academic Connections Scholar (2006-07, 2007-08).
Campus involvement
Augmenting his already-overwhelming high school accomplishments, Da'rell was consistently found serving his peers from within the student government organization in a variety of roles, including Class Representative, Vice President and President. Midway Baptist is fortunate to have an individual of great character leave a grand legacy of success and service for others to mimic.
Mat Schnorenberg
Mat's award ceremony: May 14th, 2:00pm
Community service, involvement and patriotism
In addition to volunteering at youth camps in football, wrestling and track, Mat is also a band mentor and an active member of the School is Cool Reading Club. After years of hard work and dedication, Mat has claimed the distinguished honor of earning the rank of Eagle Scout, placing him in the top two percent of all young men who participate in the Boys Scouts of America. Receiving this rank signifies that Mat has show competence across a very broad range of subject matter and, through the successful execution of a variety of leadership positions, showcased great management skills and a proven ability to be a true leader.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
Mat is an accomplished three sport athlete, competing in football, track and wrestling. His athletic accomplishments include being named to the All Big 9 and All-City teams as well as being an All-State Academic athlete in track & field and wrestling.
Academic accomplishments
Mat's diligence in the classroom has earned him a spot in the top 3 of his graduating class. As a Triple A Regional Winner, his 4.11 GPA isn't a surprise to any of his teachers, coaches or peers.
Campus involvement
As a member of a variety of on-campus organizations, Mat has been an integral member of his high school community. His school service has included participation in the National Honor Society, the Math Knowledge Club, Student Council, Band, Orchestra, Choir, Link Crew and Peer Tutoring. His leadership and service will be missed, but he undoubtedly leaves Mankato East better than he found it.
Dawn Marie Krager
Dawn's award ceremony: May 24th, 2:00pm
Community service, involvement and patriotism
Community service for Dawn has included volunteer work with inner-city youth from Betty Jane and Harris elementary schools, raising money and collecting gifts in cooperation with the Giving Tree Project. Her efforts to reach out and serve beyond her teammates, friends and fellow students is inspiring... and much needed within the community.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
Dawn's participation in volleyball, basketball, softball and cheerleading provide great insight to her athletic abilities. Her efforts have been recognized by coaches and teammates alike as she has served as Team Captain in multiple sports. Additionally, she was named Honorable Mention All-League (volleyball), helped her team to the semi-finals (basketball).
Academic accomplishments
As the 2010 Valedictorian, her 4.67 GPA is a testament to her commitment to be an outstanding student-athlete. Not only has she been a member of the National Honor Society, but she has served as Treasurer as well. Dawn also honorably carries the prestigious title of Scholar Athlete in volleyball, basketball and softball.
Campus involvement
Never one to be content on the sidelines, Dawn has actively been engaged with Student Government serving as Treasurer and President while still effectively managing her responsibilities as a team member, student and community citizen. Mogadore High School will surely miss Dawn next year, but we are thrilled to call her a Wildcat!
Patrick Rainville
Patrick's award ceremony: June 9th, 6:30pm
After all the votes from across the country were counted, we are pleased to name you the National Citizen Athlete in recognition for your outstanding service and exceptional accomplishments within your community.
Community service, involvement and patriotism
Patrick's good works extend beyond his athletic and academic endeavors to include nomination for DAR Good Citizen recognition, Boys State (2008-09), Hugh O'Brien Candidate (2007-08), National HOBY World Leadership Congress (2008) and participation in the SADD National Conference.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
Patrick has been an integral component of his school soccer and basketball teams, competed at the varsity level for all four years and been named Team Captain. His leadership and strong character are outstanding examples of what Danville athletics seek to promote to all participants.
Academic accomplishments
As a Salutatorian of his class and a 3-year member of the National Honor Society, Patrick shows a great ability to maintain a healthy, balanced workload. His strong academic work ethic has earned him unique opportunities extended only to a select group of high-achieving students within his high school.
Campus involvement
With his involvement over the past four years in Student Council (including serving as the current President), the French Club (currently serving as the Co-President), the Vermont Teen Leadership Safety Program/Students Against Destructive Decisions and school representative to the state organization, Patrick's contributions to his school showcase exemplary school spirit and leave a legacy of service for others to emulate.
Jessica Dittmer
Jessica's award ceremony: June 2nd, 7:00pm
Community service, involvement and patriotism
Serving in various capacities (including a tutor for autistic child, President of the Amnesty International Club, Co-President of the Environmental Club, and President of Helping Everyone Attain Life Club) Jessica provides a perfect role model for her elders and peers. She has also raised $2,000 for the World Wildlife Foundation and started a school recycling program.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
In her four years of athletic competition at Indian Hills, there isn't much that Jessica hasn't accomplished. She's been the Varsity Volleyball's Team Captain twice, designated First Team All-League twice, All-County Honorable Mention and All-Tournament twice. She led her team with outstanding on-court prowess to State Quarterfinals – something her school hasn't accomplished in more than a decade. Her love of volleyball also kept her engaged during the summer as she volunteered with local youth camps.
Academic accomplishments
Jess' excellence extends from the court to the classroom; a 4.36 GPA puts her in the top ten percent of her entire class. Beyond her membership in the National Honor Society and the World Language Honor Society, she has also received the West Point Leadership Award and won the Ramapo College Teen Essay Contest.
Campus involvement
Beyond her athletic and academic accomplishments, Jessica is also involved with Biology League, Spanish Club and Debate Club (serving as Co-President), Freshman Transition Program (Peer Leader), and Teens Need Teens Core Leadership Program. She has also assisted in coordinating campus fundraising events for Autism Awareness – providing financial assistance to the organization in addition to promoting awareness and understanding among her fellow students.
Josh Godwin
Josh's award ceremony: May 19th, 8:30am
Community service, involvement and patriotism
Beyond his high school activities, Josh participates in the National Leadership Forum where he received the Leadership Award to Harding University in Searcy, AR., a church youth choir and is a mentor for Royal Ambassadors. Additionally, he assisted at Meredith Miracles (a local children's cancer organization), participated with American Legion Post 80 distribute flags on graves for Veteran's Day and helped build a handicap shooting house for the Conecuh National Forest.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
Josh is a fierce competitor in football, basketball, baseball and karate. His athletic ability and interpersonal skills have afforded him leadership opportunities as Team Captain in football (twice), basketball and baseball (four times). Additionally, he has obtained Isshinryu Black Belt, is a class teacher and a member of the 200 point club, a two-time National Champion (2005 & 2007) and three-time Runner-Up (2004, 2006 & 2008).
Academic accomplishments
His academic focus is easily summed up by virtue of the fact that he is the Senior class Valedictorian; however, his academic accolades also include: Bryant-Jordan Regional Winner, Syfummer Honors Award, Highest Stanford Achievement Test Award and a 2nd place finish at the University of Alabama Math Tournament. Rounding out his endeavors, Josh is a Jr. and Sr. Beta Club member, an Envirobowl representative and won 3rd place in the Envirothon state competition.
Campus involvement
Josh's involvement on campus has included being a Junior and Senior member and officer of the Beta Club, FFA and FCA multi-year member, Student Council Class Representative, Class Officer, Treasurer, Vice President and President.
Jennifer Pacheco
Jennifer's award ceremony: May 19th, 6:00pm
Community service, involvement and patriotism
A model citizen, Jennifer created her own foundation: Just Justify Peace. She uses her platform to provide much needed assistance to Nicaraguan children, working tirelessly to collect and donate toys, clothes, and food to the most needy children. She is currently working on expanding her foundation's efforts to serve needy children in additional countries.
Sports Played and Accomplishments
Jennifer is a true athlete, competing in volleyball, basketball, softball and track. As a key team member, she has lead her teams to great success included repeated appearances in District Finals and two State Championships.
Academic accomplishments
Jennifer's commitment to academics is evident by her stellar 4.5 GPA despite her intense involvement in athletics during her entire high school career.
Campus involvement
Jennifer's campus involvement has included serving as a Student Government Representative, an active member of the C.A.R.E.S Magnet program and the Senior Committee. Her unselfish efforts to provide positive, uplifting experiences for her peers sets her apart and makes her worthy to add the title of Citizen Athlete to her high school accomplishments.