2024 Young Citizen of the Year

This Westie is awarded to a high school student in the Westlake area who has contributed time, energy, and heart to both their school community and the Westlake community at large.  It is in recognition of their outstanding contributions through community service activities that have made them an inspirational role model for other students in the Westlake community.

(see below for past winners)

Finalist: Livi Fitzgerald

Livi Fitzgerald is a dedicated leader and advocate, making a profound impact on her community through her roles as President of Westlake Student Council and Best Buddies. As Student Body President, Livi spearheaded major initiatives, including organizing Stride for Life, which raised over $8,500 in its first year to support suicide prevention. She also led the planning of key events like Homecoming and Prom, fostering stronger student connections and a sense of community.

In her role as President of Best Buddies, Livi has worked tirelessly to promote inclusivity for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Under her leadership, Westlake’s chapter has grown to 170 members and earned national recognition. In 2023, she was honored as Buddy Pair of the Year for her compassion and dedication to building meaningful friendships and creating an environment where everyone feels valued.

Beyond her school, Livi’s commitment to service shines through her volunteer work with Provide-A-Ride, Girls Giving Grants, and her ongoing efforts in mental health advocacy. Her passion for inclusivity, service, and student engagement exemplifies the spirit of leadership, making her an inspiring role model and invaluable contributor to her community.

Finalist: Karina Rippy

Karina Rippy, a junior at Westlake High School, is passionately committed to improving the lives of malnourished children worldwide. As an advocate for the Spoon Foundation, Karina supports its mission to empower caregivers with life-saving nutritional solutions for vulnerable children.

Her dedication to this cause began in 2018 during a transformative journey with her family. While visiting the slums of Mumbai, witnessing newborns on the streets of Bangkok, and touring orphanages in her mother’s home country of Kazakhstan, Karina was deeply moved by the plight of children in developing nations. Determined to make a difference, she sought out ways to help.

In 2023, Karina met Cindy Kaplan, founder of the Spoon Foundation, who shared her personal story of adopting two children from Kazakhstan whose disabilities were caused by preventable malnutrition. Inspired by Cindy’s mission, Karina founded The Spoon Club at Westlake High School to raise awareness and support for the foundation’s global efforts.

Through her leadership, Karina raised over $5,000 in 2024, proving the power of one person to inspire change. Her unwavering determination and compassion give children worldwide the chance to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.

Finalist: Zoya Salam

Zoya Salam is redefining financial literacy through her leadership and innovative approach to education. As the founder and president of Westlake High School’s Young Investors Society (YIS) chapter, she has motivated over 50 students to engage with personal finance and investment strategies, empowering her peers to take control of their financial futures.

 

Beyond her school, Zoya launched the SmartCents Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to addressing financial literacy gaps in underserved Austin communities. Through accessible in-person and virtual programs, SmartCents equips high school students and minimum-wage workers with critical financial skills. Her commitment to systemic change is further highlighted in her research paper analyzing financial literacy across cultures, with a particular focus on Hispanic communities.

 

Zoya is also developing StockStories, an app that makes investing concepts more engaging by using storytelling, enhancing financial education for younger audiences. Her innovative initiatives aim to close knowledge gaps and create lasting community impact. Zoya’s dedication to education and finance positions her as an inspiring leader driving meaningful change.

VOTE FOR & PURCHASE YOUR 2025 WESTIES TICKETS HERE

Young Citizen of the Year

This Westie is awarded to a high school student in the Westlake area who has contributed time, energy, and heart to both their school community and the Westlake community at large.  It is in recognition of their outstanding contributions through community service activities that have made them an inspirational role model for other students in the Westlake community.

2024 Winner:  Hadley McDonell, Westlake High School Senior

2023 Winner:  Andrew Depwe, Westlake High School Senior

2022 Winner:  Cade Klubnik, Westlake High School Senior

2021 Winner:  Brooks Jeffers, Westlake Senior Class of 2021

2020 Winner:  Leo Lowin, Westlake Senior Class of 2020

2019 Winner:  Blake Sbrocco, Westlake Senior Class of 2019

2018 Winner:  Julia Breeden, Westlake Senior Class of 2018