Discus Award Winner
Winners Gallery
PHOTOS
Leslie Gutierrez
11th Grade, NM
ATTRIBUTES
Government
I was a participant of the Leadership Institute and the Summer Policy Academy (SPA). The SPA is an educational leadership and public policy program focused on four principles: Leadership, Community Service, Public Policy and Critical Thinking. During the first year, I was able to understand the Legislative process, public policy, Indian Law and the importance of service in our communities. In the second year of SPA, I attended their program at Princeton University where I was able to conduct research on Indigenous issues in regards to the protection of sacred sites. After my research, I went to Washington, D.C. to present my findings and personal views on my topic to our Congressional delegates and the National Trust for Historic Preservation Executive Board. Ref: regis.pecos@nmlegis.gov
Athletics
I am definitely a Student-Athlete. I currently hold a 3.9 Cumulative GPA and working hard on bringing it up by taking additional AP classes. I understand that being an Athlete is a privilege and ensure to make the most of my high school years. All of the sports that I participate in are geared to help me become a better basketball player. Since I can remember, I have always dreamed of playing college basketball and I have worked so hard in trying to make that happen. It’s not as easy as anyone would think, as I am only 5’2”, but with hard work, commitment and dedication, I think I am defying the odds. On September 4th, 2012 I received my first letter from a college interested in me playing basketball at their college and have received several more letters. Ref: monett@eyghoops.com
Community Service
With my experience of Public Policy and the Legislative Process, I worked with State Representatives to support and sponsor Certificates of Appreciation for all schools within my school district to recognize our Teachers. Upon my completion of work at Princeton University and Washington, D.C.,I became so empowered to continue my efforts with my Teacher Appreciation Initiative and contacted my Senator and obtained support on a Teacher/Educator Day at the 2013 Legislative Session. I will be holding a press conference to propose my May 2013 Green Ribbon “Teacher Appreciation” Campaign. I also have a proclamation submitted to our State Governor on Proclaiming May 2013 as Teacher/Educator Appreciation Month in the state of NM, since it has not been done in the past. Ref: jrmadalena@fsipinc.org
