This month’s National Renaissance Student of the Month is Zadiana Duarte from Mohave High School in Arizona. Nominator Kathleen Giannamore wrote:
At Mohave High School our school motto is Rise Above. Zadiana (Zadi) is the epitome of the motto. Over her four years at Mohave High School, Zadi has proven time and time again that Rise Above is in her DNA. At the end of Zadi’s Junior year, she ran for student body president. She did not win and the day she found out was Renaissance Field Day. This was our first ever field day, we did not have a Renaissance club at the time, so it was hosted by the administrators. We purchased three water slides for the students, set up bubble soccer, games and activities. The admin team was understaffed and Zadi, instead of being sad about losing student body president, stepped up to help make our field day a success. Zadi was dragging extension cords, hoses and blowing up bubble soccer balls; not complaining, but smiling and wanting things to be great for her peers. After I saw Zadi step up, especially after hearing the news of losing, she told me she wanted Mohave High School to be inclusive to all, a place where all students want to be, and host activities during the school day. I knew in that moment she was who our Renaissance Club needed. I presented the idea to her, explained the Results Formula, and her eyes lit up. She had found her calling. Zadi spent half of her summer break at school planning and growing our Renaissance leadership team. She is an inspiration to our students and Staffulty her positive attitude has completely changed the culture on our campus.
What are you involved with at your school?
Renaissance Leadership, Student Council, National Honor Society and Varsity Softball
What is something you appreciate about your school’s culture?
One aspect I truly appreciate about our school’s culture is the increased student engagement and improved academic performance. We have fostered greater involvement through initiatives such as Club Rush, the distribution of Renaissance Cards, and offering free tickets to athletic events and plays. Academically, students who are passing their classes have the opportunity to participate in Renaissance Time once a week, which serves as a valuable incentive and support system.
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
One of my favorite moments is the opportunity to reward students, whether through lunchtime birthday treats, activities that recognize maintaining good grades at Field Day, or during our Mini Renaissance Rally.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
Renaissance has personally impacted me by broadening my perspective on the importance of ensuring that every student feels seen and heard. It has reinforced the value of providing students with a supportive presence on campus. Through Renaissance, I have become more accessible and approachable, creating a positive environment that aligns with our program’s mission of welcoming everyone. Serving as a Renaissance leader has also helped me develop my ability to listen to others’ opinions and collaborate effectively to achieve the best outcomes.
What’s something that helps you feel Better Than Good?
Serving others and making them feel important. It was rewarding to be able to tell September birthday kids “happy birthday” while our group played music and gave out birthday treats. Including our exceptional students in our activities is something that always brightens my day.
What’s something you do to help others feel Better Than Good?
Making them feel special.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to be more optimistic?
There is always a positive in every situation. You might have to look for it, and it might not be easy to find, but it is there.
Zadi will receive a water bottle and a decal in recognition of her achievement.