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Meet the 2007 Yes I Can! Winners

CEC’s 2007 Yes I Can! winners are a force to be reckoned with! These 29 young people let nothing stand in their way—whether it be a physical or cognitive disability or others who don’t understand their many capabilities. Their achievements are remarkable—and their spirits even more so. Read on, and let them inspire you in your work and your life!

Academics

Jovany Barba
California

Jovany Barba 11, has made great strides academically. This young man with a visual impairment reads print and Braille, which he learned in addition to English. Today, Jovany is in a general education class for the majority of the day and earns mostly As and Bs. He also acts as a big brother to other students with visual impairments, reading to them and helping them navigate the campus. Jovany, you are an excellent student and a leader to others.

Allison P. Brooks
California

Allison Brooks, 18, is a published writer. Allison, who has overcome emotional disturbance, won first place twice for her short stories in contests by the Press Telegram. She also writes poetry, which comforts others who are struggling. Additionally, Allison earned a perfect score on the SAT English section, and she was in Honor’s Club every semester. She often assists and encourages her classmates with their writing and is a positive role model. Allison, you touch many with your writing and caring.

Kaylee Cierra Just
South Carolina

Kaylee Just, 12, is a determined student who lets nothing, including a learning disability, stand in her way. Kaylee moved from a self-contained to a general education class where she makes the A/B Honor Roll. She was also honored at her school’s Reading Club Honor Dinner. In addition to being a role model at school, Kaylee helps care for her siblings and tutors them on school work. She plans to be a teacher. Kaylee, you will be an honor to the profession.

Nicholas Letchford
Texas

Nicholas Letchford, 18, has overcome a learning disability and become an outstanding scholar. Nicholas is in the top 20 percent of his class. He has won the Best Westerner Award for 10th and 11th grade, the Outstanding Student Award in English III Honors, and awards for academic achievement in Latin and geography. Additionally, Nicholas has been a member of his school’s robotics team for more than four years, and he led the school’s BEST team in 2006. Nicholas, your determination sets an example for all.

Rahul Rajagopalan
Maryland

Rahul Rajagopalan, 16, is an accomplished linguist and scholar. Throughout his high school career, in which he takes advanced placement and gifted and talented classes, he has maintained a weighted GPA of 4.64. Rahul was selected for school-wide excellence in French and science, and he won Oticon’s Focus on People Award for breaking stereotypes about those who are deaf. Additionally, Rahul has won national chess competitions, is a member of the band, and is a volunteer at Fidos for Freedom. Rahul, you are an example for others to emulate.

Tasmin Smith
Ohio

Tasmin Smith, 15, is an outstanding student. A young lady with multiple disabilities, she has overcome numerous challenges to succeed academically. Tasmin has been mainstreamed and she regularly makes the Honor or Merit Roll. Tasmin also works on the school newspaper. Tasmin has had a significant impact on her fellow students, and she is frequently called on to be a role model for them. Additionally, Tasmin volunteers at the Cleveland Sight Center. Tasmin, we are very proud of all you have accomplished.
Academics

Grayson Steur
Colorado

Grayson Steur, 10, is the “Science Kid.” Grayson, who has Asperger syndrome, is an expert on grasshoppers and other scientific fields. He has the most extensive collection of grasshoppers in northwestern Colorado and assisted the county extension office with their collection and identification of grasshoppers. Grayson also gives presentations on science to professional societies, his classmates, and school personnel. Additionally, Grayson’s poems on nature and science were published in a community book. Grayson, you are setting the standard for scientific expertise.

Phillip C. “PJ” Williams, Jr.
Virginia

Phillip, “PJ” Williams, Jr., 10, has a sincere desire to learn. His multiple disabilities made it difficult for PJ to focus his attention, even in one-on-one situations. Now, he works in a small group for up to 45 minutes on a variety of activities. PJ’s hard work has paid off. He can name 12 letters of the alphabet and write his name. PJ also interacts well with his peers and adults in the school. He has won awards for sportsmanship and being an “all-around good student.” PJ, your spirit will open doors and take you far.

Arts

Zachary Culliton
Montana

Muscular dystrophy has not stopped Zachary Culliton, 19, from becoming an accomplished artist. Zachary relies on software, legos, and his classmates to carry out his designs. He won the Best of the Show and the People’s Choice awards at the Montana State Fair Contest for Original Designs and a design contest for an “art car” by the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art. In addition, Zachary will exhibit a collection of his work at a contemporary art museum. Zachary, you are an inspiration to us all.

Robert T. Harle
Maryland

Robert Harle, 16, is a multi-talented musician. Robert, who has Asperger syndrome and a hearing impairment, has been selected for All-State Band, Baltimore Symphony Side-by-Side Orchestra, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Great American Marching Band, Chesapeake Youth Symphony Orchestra, and Tri-M Music Honor Society. He has also written and conducted musical compositions. Additionally, Robert is the band’s drum major and plays numerous instruments. He also acts in his school’s theater productions and maintains a near 4.0. Robert, your talent is exceeded only by your drive.

Trampus Hoover
South Carolina

Trampus Hoover, 19, is an extraordinary trumpeter. Trampus, who has Down syndrome, earned two state championship medals with his nationally recognized high school band and was invited to attend the University of South Carolina’s summer band camp, where he was placed in the top ensemble and first chair in band. Trampus was also selected to play the National Anthem at the New York City Buddy Walk and the Special Olympics Basketball Conference playoffs. Trampus, you are a talented musician who has opened doors for others with disabilities.

Joseph Klobas
California

Joseph Klobas, 18, is an acclaimed thespian. Joseph did not let a learning disability prevent him from landing the lead role in his school’s fall drama, where he displayed fantastic timing and an ability to “become” his character. Additionally, Joseph is a member of the Drama Club and received its Most Adventurous Award (because he treads boldly into characters) and Best Thespian Award. And, Joseph inspired other students with disabilities to try out for the
play. Joseph, you are a winner on — and off — the stage.

Athletics

Elizabeth “Lily” Rose Kuhn
Virginia

Lily Kuhn, 14, is a superb athlete. She has competed in Special Olympics since she was eight, and in 2005, Lily was the youngest member of the Special Olympics Team to compete in the World Games in Japan. There, she won gold and silver medals in skiing. Lily, who has multiple disabilities, also was selected for her school’s basketball team, where she distinguished herself with her tenacious defense. Throughout all her athletic endeavors, Lily’s enthusiasm abounds. Lily, you are a champion in every sense of the word.

Trista Kutcher
South Carolina

Trista Kutcher, 17, is known for her athletic prowess. Trista earned two gold, one silver, and two bronze medals at the Special Olympics World Games in Ireland, and she performed with an Olympic gymnast at a Tour of Champions exhibition. Trista, who has Down syndrome, also competes in basketball, bowling, and tennis. She was a National Games South Carolina Unified Tennis Team member and a varsity cheerleader, too. In 2003, Trista was named the Lowcountry’s Athlete of the Year. Trista, with your accomplishments, you give hope to others.

Dale McLeod
British Columbia

Dale McLeod, 19, is a lifelong athlete. He has participated ice hockey, baseball, sailing, horseback riding, and swimming. When muscular dystrophy impacted his ability to participate in those sports, Dale started playing Power-soccer, Powerhockey, and boccia. Not only is Dale an award-winning Powersoccer player, he has also helped develop the rules for the game. His goal is to bring Powersoccer to paralympic status. Already, Dale has given individuals in wheel-chairs the opportunity to participate in a new sport. Dale, you are blazing a new trail for others with disabilities.
Athletics

John Rovetto
New Jersey

John Rovetto, 20, is a champion on and off the court. This young man with multiple disabilities is a valued basketball player. John earned a starting position on his school’s junior varsity team and contributed valuable playing time on the varsity team — and led both teams in blocked shots in 2005-2006. John impacts the team in other ways, too. His teammates never give up when he is around. John also works and sends money to his family in Haiti each month. John, you have a winner’s heart and soul.

Community Service

Christopher Ball
New Jersey

Christopher Ball, 16, makes a difference. Christopher, who has Attention Deficit Disorder, is working toward his Eagle Scout badge, the Boy Scout’s highest honor. One of his projects is saving the Clevenger Brothers Glass Factory. In addition, Christopher volunteers for D.A.R.E., delivers donations to needy families as Santa Claus, promotes fundraisers and assists at the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and helps the SADD Club with their toy drive. Christopher even raises money on his own to buy presents for needy children. Christopher, thank you for reaching out to so many.

Heather Scott
Mississippi

Heather Scott, 18, believes in giving to others. She volunteers for Habitat for Humanity, Autism Awareness, Feed the Homeless, Toys for Tots, the community food drive, SADD, D.A.R.E. and Lighthouse Enrichment. Heather, who has a learning disability, also is a mentor for Special Olympics competitors and a counselor for children with disabilities. She has completed over 1700 hours of service, for which she received the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Congressional Medal of Honor for Community and Volunteer Service. She plans to become a special education teacher. Heather, we will proudly welcome you to the profession.

Employment

Collette Elmore
Ohio

Collette Elmore, 19, is a stellar employee. A cognitive disability in expressive language has receded into the background as Collette has grown in the work-place. At the Food Service/Hospitality Program of the Mayfield Excel program, she has received numerous awards for her work. Collette’s outstanding performance continued at Heinens Grocery Store, where she has won six Diamond Standards, which are given to employees who show exemplary work habits. Heinens has now hired Collette full-time in their bakery. Congratulations, Collette, for a job well done.

Daniel Geathers
South Carolina

Any employer would be glad to have Daniel Geathers, 20, on staff. Daniel works at Jones Ford, where he advanced from maintenance of the warranty area to “Parts Specialist.” Also, Daniel recently earned his Forklift License. Daniel is known not only as an exemplary worker, but also as an employee who is willing to take risks every day. And, to improve communication, Daniel, who is deaf, taught his co-workers sign language. He is completely independent and supports himself. Daniel, you set an example for all of us.

Joseph A. Sheddan
Florida

Joseph Sheddan, 22, is a productive and contributing member of the community. Joseph, who has a cognitive disability, so impressed his supervisors at his volunteer job that they offered him a full-time position. Within 1 ½ years, Joseph was promoted to Nutrition Coordinator. As further proof of his outstanding performance, Joseph received the “Do the Right Thing Award,” which is presented to students for their positive attitude and commendable actions. Joseph was also named a Student of Character in the area of Responsibility. Joseph, you are an exemplary employee.

Extracurricular Activity

Kelsey Andrews
Ohio

It’s hard to keep up with Kelsey Andrews, 19. This young lady with Down syndrome volunteers at Kroger, Grandview Public Library, CVS Pharmacy, March of Dimes, Blindness Society, and Grant Hospital; and she is active in the Down Syndrome Association PALS group. At school, she is a member of the marching band, Cats’ Club, and dance club. Kelsey is also an avid athlete, participating in Special Olympics, Challenger Little League Baseball, and multiple sports. Kelsey, through your activities, you give of yourself to others.

Sara Elizabeth “Lizzy” Solomon
Tennessee

At 13, Sara “Lizzy” Solomon, is already a successful business woman. Her greeting card business, “Lizzy’s Lines,” highlights children with disabilities engaged in everyday activities; and Lizzy donates a portion of her proceeds to Easter Seals. Lizzy, who has cerebral palsy, is also a Girl Scout, pianist, and guest speaker at universities. Lizzy has won several awards for her work, including 1st and 2nd place at the National Youth Business Competition and the Outstanding Youth Leadership Award. Lizzy, your entrepreneurial spirit and caring will create a better world.

Independent Living Skills

Emily “Em” Lawless
Ohio

Emily Lawless, 22, has an indomitable spirit. Em, who has multiple disabilities and suffered a stroke her freshman year, is now a thriving senior. She attends biology in a resource room, socializes with her peers, and regularly meets with the school principal and counselor to check on school matters. She also works on a career site, copying papers, delivering mail, and running errands. Congratulations, Em, on your excellent progress.

Theresa C. Sauter
Ohio

Theresa Sauter, 18, epitomizes the “can do” attitude. To prepare for her life after high school, this independent young lady who has cerebral palsy requested that her attendant services be discontinued. On her own, Theresa has conducted a successful academic and social life. She maintains a 3.5 GPA, participates in class, uses a computer to complete assignments, navigates the school’s crowded hallways, and attends school functions. Theresa’s goal is to get a degree in computers at Wright State University. Theresa, you’ll take Wright State by storm!

Self--Advocacy

Taylor Drake Boykin
Kansas

Taylor Boykin, 17, makes the world better for himself and others. Taylor, who has cerebral palsy, gets accommodations made for those with disabilities to participate fully in life. From his efforts, switches will be installed on his school’s doors, enabling him to access the entire building. Other improvements are planned to make football games, physical education classes, and the new auditorium accessible. Additionally, Taylor is an honor student and has won several awards for academics and leadership. Taylor, you make the path easier for those who follow you.

Stephanie Snow
California

Stephanie Snow, 16, exemplifies self-advocacy. By becoming a spokesperson
for Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (a degenerative bone disease), she helps inform others about her disease and raises funds to find a cure. Stephanie has appeared on TV and was featured in a film about FOP. She also is an accomplished self-advocate. She takes general education classes and lets others know when she needs assistance. Stephanie also participates in 4-H, cheerleading, dance, and the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Stephanie, your work helps foster understanding of all individuals with disabilities.

Katherine “Katie” Wallace
Virginia

Katherine Wallace, 21, has a dream — to be an ambassador for people with autism, special needs, and disabilities. Katie wants people to know that she and others with disabilities are “normal, just different.” Katie proves this with her many activities: member of student government, National Honor Society, Vice President of the Future Child Care Leaders of America, cheerleader, thespian, and school chorus. And, Katie was elected Homecoming Queen. Katie also gives speeches to organizations about autism. Katie, you prove that those with disabilities are very capable.

Technology

Casandra M. Taylor
Wisconsin
 
Casandra Taylor, 17, who has multiple disabilities, uses technology to succeed in school and life. Casandra uses an augmentative communication device to communicate with others and participate in class discussions. As a Wisconsin Easter Seal Ambassador, she wrote and gave speeches to multiple groups through technology. With her device, Casandra also presented at a Closing the Gap Technology Conference. Additionally, she helped a student with autism learn to communicate by loaning her one of her communication systems. Casandra, your mastery of technology is impressive and admired.