Meghan Laurie Editor’s note: Senior standouts are compiled from questionnaires filled out by the students themselves.

Meghan Laurie

Meghan Nicole Laurie, daughter of Jonathan and Pamela Laurie, said her parents have had the biggest influence on her life.

“They encourage me to strive to do my best in everything,” she said. “They love me unconditionally and have supported me through all of my goals in life. They have given me a foundation in the Christian faith and have taught me to make my faith my own and grow closer to my savior every day.”

Meghan, 17, served as ASB treasurer and played soccer at Grace Brethren and on an AYSO club team.

She graduated with highest honors and was named a Laurette Scholar. She was president of California Scholarship Federation and was vice president of the National Honor Society.

Kyle Hampson Meghan also found time to volunteer at StoneBridge Community Church, the Samaritan Center and at Simi Valley Cleanup Days. She also leads worship and teaches Sunday school.

Having earned a presidential scholarship to attend Seattle Pacific University in the fall, Meghan plans to begin the premedical program and eventually become a pediatrician.

Kyle Hampson

Kyle Hampson, son of Daniel and Jacque Hampson, said his future lies on Broadway.

The 18-year-old is attending the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles in the fall and plans to get his bachelor’s degree in musical theater.

In 10 years, Kyle said, he’d like to be performing on Broadway or be a part of a nationwide musical tour.

Kyle said singer and friend Sandie Hall Brooks has been a major influence in his life.

“She has always been there to guide me in my life,” Kyle said. “She’s also been a great mentor in my singing career. There is so much she’s done for me, and I’m glad that I’ve gotten to know her.”

Becky Gourley Kyle was named Distinguished Christian High School Student in academics and fine arts. He was also given the outstanding senior student award and was nominated for the Seymour Memorial Award.

Kyle was president of his school’s choir and the National Honor Society. He was vice president of the Thespian Society.

Becky Gourley

Becky Gourley, daughter of Terry and Laurie Gourley, juggled numerous commitments while serving as Student Council president throughout high school. She’s involved with the California Scholarship Federation, the National Arts Honor Society and the National Honor Society, and plays basketball, softball and volleyball.

Brian To Becky, 18, plans to attend Moorpark College before transferring to UCLA, where she wants to participate in the honors program and complete a degree in graphic design.

“Even though it was hard, my favorite class in high school was English,” she said. “I was always challenged, and it made me try harder.”

Becky said her entire family has influenced her greatly.

“I have so many family members who support me and give me useful wisdom so that I will always make the best decisions,” she said. “They have influenced me to become a better person as a whole.”

Becky said she looks forward to her graphic design career as well as eventually starting a family.

Brian To

Brian To, son of Long and Minh To, said his favorite teacher, Scot Nandor, helped prepare his mind for college work.

“He encourages us to think for ourselves and welcomes arguments,” Brian said. “I looked forward to his class and enjoyed being challenged and learning to understand what I actually believe.”

The 19-year-old was named to the Grace Brethren honor roll and received the Lancer Award of Christian Leadership. He served as ASB chaplain and junior high staff at his church.

Brian was also a member of the California Scholastic Federation and the National Honor Society.

He called his youth pastor, Brent Hisayasu, the greatest influence in his life. Brian said he’s known Hisayasu since he was in eighth grade and calls him a “trusted friend and mentor.”

Brian plans to attend Cal State Long Beach, where he will likely study biology. In 10 years, he said, he may be working in the medical field, and he hopes to be happily married and enjoying a family.

—Joann Groff