Her winning essay addressing the question “Why should we protect plants, animals and our environment?” earned her the title of first-ever Environmental Youth Ambassador for the state of Nevada.
Cothrun was recognized for her efforts on April 1 at an awards ceremony at Foothill where second place essay winner Callie Nielson and third place winner Kabir Suri received $500 and $300 respectively. Cothrun received a trip to Thula Thula, home to one of the largest game preserves in South Africa.
The contest’s purpose was to influence students to learn more about the protection and conservation of animals and the environment while also supporting academic standards. Other top CCSD participants included Cindy Guerro of Las Vegas High School, Megan Hermansen of Green Valley High School and Northwest Career and Technical Academy students Makaila Otjes, Jared Rezendes, Euripides Westfall and Elmer Gonzalez.