Caps Off to the Class of 2024:
Honoring Our High School Graduates
Photo: Jonathan Betz Photography
Andrew Tran
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER
With a passion for business development and accounting that he developed during an internship in Massachusetts, Andrew has his sights set on the Leeds School of Business at CU Boulder. As a member of both the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), Andrew's accolades speak volumes. His achievements include clinching first place in Banking and Financial Systems at the 2023 FBLA district competition and securing victories at the Old Town Throw Down Invitational and DECA Vail Invitational in 2023.
Beyond academics, Andrew enjoys hitting the slopes, embracing the thrill of snowboarding with friends. Looking back on his time at DCC, Andrew reminisces about the opportunities he gained through FBLA and DECA. He's grateful for the tight-knit community that nurtured his love for learning at DCC, from supportive teachers to fellow classmates that made DCC feel like more than just a school.
John Primavera
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
John Primavera is bound for the University of Alabama to pursue engineering. Throughout his high school years, John showcased his athleticism in football, ice hockey, and track & field, alongside his academic achievements as an Eagle Scout and member of the National Honor Society. While bidding farewell to his friends and the memories of his high school sports career, John eagerly anticipates the challenges and opportunities that await him in Alabama.
Annjonette Rose
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO
UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO
Embarking on a journey at the University of Idaho, AJ has her sights set on a future in Exercise Science and Athletic Training with a Minor in Art. AJ's high school career was marked by a number of activities, including leadership roles in Rocketry Club and as President of the National Art Honors Society (NAHS). A pivotal moment for her at DCC was beginning art classes, which ignited her passion and encouraged growth. "I've always loved art and at DCC they push you past your comfort zone to create wonderful pieces," AJ recalls. "The teachers Lynn and Craver made my high school experience so much fun through art. They were such amazing teachers and helped me grow within my art and as a person."
Beyond academics, AJ enjoys weightlifting and outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking. Reflecting on her path, AJ credits DCC for uncovering her passion for exercise science. "I found so much passion within the gym and DCC's SPEX class has let me learn such interesting information about training and the human body, as well as what an athlete needs. DCC helped me find my passion for the future."
Vanessa Dominguez
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLIN
Vanessa Dominguez has left an noticeable impact on DCC during her high school career. From leading Yearbook as Editor-in-Chief to clinching two first place awards in Speech and Debate, Vanessa's dedication is unwavering. Their involvement in four honor societies, including Spanish, English and Art, and involvement in the No Place for Hate Club showcases their commitment to inclusivity and advocacy.
Choosing the rigorous Diploma Program at DCC was a pivotal moment, setting Vanessa on a path of academic excellence. They credit their teachers for fostering a supportive environment and nurturing meaningful connections. "I am mentally and academically prepared to go off to college with almost a year of credits," Vanessa says.
Reflecting on their time at DCC, Vanessa shares, "It takes a while to build up a good relationship with those who are meant to teach you, but I have that with most of the teachers I have had these last few years. I feel confident when I need to ask clarifying questions, determined when I read assignment rubrics, and open to receive feedback on my work."
Outside of school, Vanessa is a first-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, an English Horse Rider, and a dedicated community volunteer. With a passion for literature, gaming, and art, Vanessa's diverse interests reflect their vibrant personality.
Parnika Shankar
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
RICE UNIVERSITY
Throughout her high school years, Parnika immersed herself in a number of activities, leaving an indelible mark on the school community. From serving as the Senior Class Vice President to spearheading initiatives as the President of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), her commitment to excellence and service was unwavering. Parnika also spent four years on the Honors Biomedical Pathway (Project Lead the Way) and attended the UC Health Junior Medical School Program in 2023.
Parnika's involvement also extended beyond the school walls; she founded and hosted Azia Podcasts, showcasing her passion for communication and connection. Her achievements also include the National American Choral Directors Association Honor Choir 2023, International Honor Choir at Royal Festival Hall, London 2024 (vocal performance), and service as a volunteer and trainer at UC Health Memorial North and Children’s Hospital Colorado in Colorado Springs.
Parnika shares that a pivotal moment that impacted her life during high school was being affected by a severe health condition. "It taught me the value of acceptance and community. I hope to take this forward with me in the future to make a positive impact on the people around me."
As Parnika bids farewell to DCC, she reflects on the various experiences that defined her time there. From the choir program and the opportunities it presented to sing music of various styles to the enriching biomedical science classes, each aspect of DCC contributed to her growth and development. Above all, she will miss the community created by dedicated teachers and administrators.
Jackson Barrows
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY
Whether on the lacrosse field with the Air Academy Lacrosse team, raising his voice with DCC's Varsity Choir, or engaging in meaningful community service with organizations like Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), The Tribe at the Road Church, or the worship team at Church in the City Beth Abraham, Jackson embraced every opportunity to make a difference during his high school career.
Looking back, Jackson treasures the countless moments of camaraderie and laughter shared with friends. From the everyday interactions to performances with the choir, each experience shaped his high school journey. Jackson shares, "A few recent memorable experiences include the Jubilate Deo Masterwork Concert performed with a professional orchestra in Denver, as well as bidding a farewell song to our fellow students at the DCC High School luncheon."
As he prepares for his next chapter at Oral Roberts University, Jackson is grateful for the memories created at DCC — the friendships made, lessons learned, and the support of his teachers. As he quotes, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7
As he prepares for his next chapter at Oral Roberts University, Jackson is grateful for the memories created at DCC — the friendships made, lessons learned, and the support of his teachers. As he quotes, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7
Logan Young
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
BELMONT UNIVERSITY
Logan Young bids farewell to Discover Canyon Campus as he sets his sights on a new chapter at Belmont University in Nashville, majoring in Music. During his time at DCC, Logan was involved with DCC's Engineering Pathway, where he cultivated invaluable problem-solving skills. Logan also participated in the School of Rock program, where he honed his musical talents, learning to play and perform various genres alongside his peers. As he prepares to take the stage at local venues this summer, Logan reflects on the teachers who guided him along the way. "I definitely will miss the teachers I have had at DCC and all the fun projects I got to make," he shares, expressing gratitude to mentors like Mr. Bluff and Mr. Kinney.
Camryn Lindsey
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
CREIGTON UNIVERSITY
Camryn Lindsay is the perfect example of a student who has seamlessly balanced her academic pursuits alongside her passion for sports and community involvement. As she enters the next chapter of her journey at Creighton University, she plans to pursue a degree in Nursing, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Throughout her high school years, Camryn has participated in a variety of activities including Student Senate, Varsity Soccer, Club Soccer, JV Basketball, National Honor Society, and National Charity League. She shares that a pivotal moment in her life came during her freshman year in 2020 while she was navigating online learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Her experience taught her the value of in-person connections. "It shaped how I tackled the remainder of high school. Every moment we got to share in person going forward was treasured even more." As she bids farewell to DCC, Camryn says she'll miss the bonds she formed with friends, her soccer teammates, and the teachers that she's connected with throughout her four years, as well as the overall inviting and friendly environment of the DCC Thunder Family.
Meghan Storch
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY
Throughout her time at DCC, Meghan Storch has not only excelled in the classroom but has also showcased her leadership skills through active involvement in Senate, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, and National Spanish Honor Society. Beyond her academic pursuits, Meghan participated in basketball, soccer, cross country, and club soccer.
Some of her favorite memories of her high school years were on the field, specifically a victory over Cheyenne Mountain during her Junior year of soccer. Meghan also said that the vibrant energy of Thor Wars is a memory she will cherish after leaving DCC. "I will miss the community and the friends I made the most," she shares. "I have made some lifelong friends and the teachers have taught me so much." Megan is ready to embark on her next journey at the United States Naval Academy, where she will pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering.
Some of her favorite memories of her high school years were on the field, specifically a victory over Cheyenne Mountain during her Junior year of soccer. Meghan also said that the vibrant energy of Thor Wars is a memory she will cherish after leaving DCC. "I will miss the community and the friends I made the most," she shares. "I have made some lifelong friends and the teachers have taught me so much." Megan is ready to embark on her next journey at the United States Naval Academy, where she will pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering.
Brooke Kucharski
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
FURMAN UNIVERSITY
Throughout her high school tenure, Brooke has excelled both academically and athletically. While showcasing her athleticism as a dedicated ice hockey player and demonstrating agility on the field hockey and softball fields, Brooke’s commitment to sportsmanship and teamwork has stood out. Beyond sports, her caring nature led her to dedicate her time to volunteering at the Humane Society and providing invaluable support in elementary classrooms at DCCES.
When asked to name something that impacted her high school experience, Brooke mentioned Mr. Heise as a supporting and caring mentor who helped her during unforeseen challenges she faced in her Junior Year. "Mr. Heise was always supportive and would help me work through whatever I was struggling with." There's no doubt his mentorship became a beacon of hope for Brooke during a tough year.
As Brooke prepares to embark on the next chapter of her academic journey at Furman University in South Carolina, her sights are set on majoring in Health Sciences, minoring in Medicine, Health and Culture, and pursuing a Pre-Medical track. Reflecting on her journey, Brooke fondly reminisces about participating in spirit weeks, particularly the unforgettable Thor Wars during homecoming week. It’s these cherished memories of unity and celebration that she will carry with her as she begins her next adventure.
Kai Balltrip
DISCOVERY CANYON CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
Despite facing unimaginable adversity at a young age with the untimely loss of her father, graduating senior Kai Balltrip's spirit remained unbroken, a testament to her strength, courage and resilience. Throughout her high school years, Kai not only conquered her personal grief but also excelled academically and athletically, leaving a lasting impression on the DCC community.
As a dedicated member of the track and field team her sophomore year, Kai showcased her athleticism and tenacity on the field. Additionally, she embraced the spirit of entrepreneurship as a member of DECA, channeling her passion for business into real-life projects. Yet, amidst her accomplishments, Kai’s most cherished memories are the lifelong friendships she formed during her time at DCC. From kindergarten through high school, these bonds have been her pillars of strength, guiding her through life’s ups and downs. She also valued developing relationships with the coaches and staff who made such a positive impact on her.
Now, as Kai embarks on the next chapter of her journey at Arizona State University, where she will pursue a degree in Business, she carries with her the lessons of resilience and perseverance learned at her time at DCC. Although she will undoubtedly miss the familiar faces and nurturing community, Kai is eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for her in Arizona.
Maggie DeFischer
COLORADO SPRINGS CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL
ABILENE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
Maggie DeFischer, a standout graduate from Colorado Springs Christian High School, is poised to embark on an exciting new chapter at Abilene Christian University. Pursuing a degree in the College of Business Administration, Maggie is eager to dive into the world of accounting, finance, management, marketing, and technology.
Maggie DeFischer, a standout graduate from Colorado Springs Christian High School, is poised to embark on an exciting new chapter at Abilene Christian University. Pursuing a degree in the College of Business Administration, Maggie is eager to dive into the world of accounting, finance, management, marketing, and technology.
Throughout her high school journey, Maggie wasn't just an academic achiever, she also left her mark on the athletic fields and within various student groups. As a varsity soccer player, her agility and tenacity on the field earned her respect among her coaches and teammates. Beyond sports, Maggie was deeply involved in the school community, serving as a mentor in the Peer Leadership program and participating in the Key Club, where her she learned valuable skills in service and leadership.
Despite some challenges she faced during high school, including the loss of her grandparents, Maggie's determination and resilience have remained constant. She always faced academic hurdles with grace, pushing herself to work harder and get additional support in certain subjects that required more attention. Now, as she sets her sights on Abilene University in Texas, Maggie is ready to embrace any new opportunities that come her way.