Carson High School's Hannah Budd is this week's Rotary Club of Carson City Senior in the Spotlight. Credit: Carson City School District

By Nicki Hendee, CHS Counselor — This week, the Senior Spotlight is Carson High School Senior Hannah Budd. Hannah shines as a true example of perseverance, leadership and service. Ranked in the top 1 percent of her class, Hannah balances academic excellence with athletics, extracurriculars and her deep commitment to faith and community.

Hannah’s journey as a runner is one of both triumph and resilience. A dedicated cross-country athlete since middle school, this year would have marked her seventh season. However, after breaking her femur last year, she was sidelined from competition — a challenge that tested her determination.

Despite the setback, Hannah’s legacy on the team is remarkable. She placed third at state as a sophomore and helped lead the girls’ team to back-to-back state championships in 2022 and 2023. She is looking forward to finishing her college career strong. In track, she has also excelled, placing fourth in the state in the 800m as a freshman and competing at the varsity level for three years.

Outside of athletics, Hannah is equally accomplished. Recently named a National Merit Semifinalist, Hannah boasts a 4.9 GPA. She balances several Advanced Placement classes with her Career and Technical Education health science classes.

A member of HOSA: Future Health Professionals, she served as chapter secretary and won the state-level sports medicine competition. She is also a three-year member of the National Honor Society, demonstrating her dedication to leadership and academics.

Hannah’s impact extends far beyond the classroom and the field. At her church, she helps organize activities, including a hiking and camping trip for young women, and enjoys serving as a mentor and role model. This past summer, she traveled on a short-term mission, where she helped build a classroom, basketball court, cafeteria and kitchen for a school in need.

When she’s not studying or serving, Hannah embraces the outdoors, from hiking to camping, and loves teaching younger children how to swim and play the piano. Looking ahead, she plans to attend Brigham Young University (BYU), where she will study medicine. She also intends to serve a mission through her church before pursuing her long-term goal of helping others through a career in healthcare.

Whether in the classroom, on the trails or in service to others, Hannah Budd exemplifies perseverance, leadership and compassion. Carson High is proud to celebrate her as a senior in the spotlight.

All students named as a weekly Senior Spotlight are featured at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Carson City. The Rotary Club of Carson City is a vibrant and dedicated group of professionals and community leaders committed to making a positive impact. The club welcomes individuals who are passionate about service and enjoy opportunities for personal and professional growth, networking and fellowship.