By Bridget Gordon, CHS Counselor — Carson High School senior Betsy Campbell-Richards is a young woman whose ambition, drive and compassion shine as brightly as her achievements. Known for her resilience and maturity beyond her years, Betsy has blazed an impressive path, choosing to graduate early while maintaining a 4.49 GPA in a demanding course load of AP and honors classes as well as taking two, currently, at Western Nevada College.
She has earned varsity letters in both swim and tennis — despite having no experience in either sport when she began — and qualified for the state competition in swimming.
She is also a student leader, serving as Student Body Public Relations Officer, volunteering with Blue Crew to support incoming freshmen, helping with Early Childhood Education events, supporting work at her church and participating in National Honor Society and FCCLA, where she placed at the state level in Culinary.
What makes Betsy truly remarkable, however, goes far beyond accolades. She is the product of a legacy of strength and perseverance, inspired by generations of resilient women in her family. Her grandmother, and namesake, was a well-known and much-loved nurse in the community before her death.
In Betsy’s personal essay, she shares: “As I find my place in this world, discover who I am, and create my own version of the ‘American Dream,’ I am assured of the pillar of strength and bolstering encouragement of this chosen family my mother has provided.”
Betsy’s story is deeply rooted in the values of hard work, family and compassion. She has faced personal challenges with courage. She has never shied away from hard work, and she works a part-time job at Glen Eagle’s all while also encouraging her twin brother, August, to thrive as well.
Her counselor, who has known her since childhood, describes her as “a fierce, determined and wildly ambitious force of nature,” and adds, “Betsy has consistently demonstrated an inspiring ability to take on substantial challenges and complete them with remarkable competence and excellence.”
After living in North Carolina last summer, with her uncle, retired Marine Col. Jade Campbell, Betsy realized she’s ready for academic challenges beyond her original beliefs.
Betsy will graduate in June and plans to attend the University of Nevada, Reno to study public health in pursuit of a career as a physician assistant or educator. As the daughter of a single mother and dedicated educator, she will be relying on scholarships to make this dream a reality.
“I am determined,” she writes. “My work ethic speaks for itself, and I know that one day, I will be a light for others as the women in my life have been to me.”
There is no doubt that she already is.
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.
