Top Achievers 2026

El Dorado County Association of Realtors

TOP ACHIEVERS OF 2025

STARS STRIPES SUCCESS

Selling the American Dream

• Top Realtors of 2025

• High School Scholarship Recipients

Executive committee

SHOULDERING RESPONSIBILITY WHILE BEING TOP ACHIEVERS THEMSELVES…

Steering committee

PRESIDENT’S

Congratulations to our El Dorado County Association of Realtors

In a rural community like ours, real estate is about far more than transactions — it is built on relationships, trust, and helping families find places they are proud to call home. Success in our market demands resilience, deep local knowledge, adaptability, and a genuine passion for serving others. Your commitment to personalized service, honest guidance, and tireless e ort truly reflects the spirit and values of our community.

Through your dedication, you have helped families secure homes and have contributed meaningfully to the longterm vitality and growth of our region. Your achievements are measured not only in sales, but in the confidence you inspire and the lasting relationships you build. You play a vital role in supporting responsible growth while preserving the character and values that make our area so special.

You inspire your colleagues and the next generation of professionals entering our field. We commend your leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

In 2025, EDCAR Top Achievers proudly awarded $20,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors. With your continued support and generosity, we look forward to sustaining — and even surpassing — this impact in the years ahead. Thank you for giving back so meaningfully to our community.

We are truly grateful for your dedication and for the example you set within our industry. It is an honor to celebrate your success, and we look forward to recognizing your achievements at our annual luncheon.

EDCAR Top Acheivers Committee President

donated $20,000 in Scholarships to 29 local high school seniors.

SPEAKS VOLUMES

2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Aida Wilkes

Pacific Crest Academy

Aida Wilkes is a 2025 Pacific Crest Academy graduate who attends Abilene Christian University, majoring in musical theater.

“Deepening my skills as an actress, learning the intricacies of theater and tangibly prepping for my future are all possible within my major,” Aida explained. “Even in my first semester of college I have already been able to take many classes pertaining to my major which has been so encouraging.”

Aida’s career goal is to be a part of youth theater and use it as a ministry.

Growing up I experienced how theater can teach kids valuable life skills and help them to mature as a person while having a strong community built on uplifting one another,”

Kaydence Carroll

Cottonwood Charter School

Kaydence Carroll graduated from Cottonwood Charter School and currently attends, West Texas A&M University, majoring in agricultural business.

“Agriculture has always been a major part of my life and future career goals. Growing up involved in livestock, horses and agricultural programs showed me that agriculture is not only a lifestyle but also a business that requires strong financial, marketing and management skills” Kaydence said.

“I wanted a degree that would help me understand the economic and operational side of agriculture while still keeping me connected to the industry I am passionate about,” she added, noting her career goal is to become a successful real estate agent who specializes in farm, ranch and equine properties.

“I want a career that allows me to work with land, livestock producers and horse owners, while also giving me the independence and financial stability to continue competing in rodeo, teaching riding lessons

and growing my own agriculturerelated businesses,” Kaydence said.

She’s a member of the West Texas A&M rodeo team. “Rodeo is a big part of my life, especially events like goat tying and roping, and I enjoy the discipline and dedication that comes with it,” she shared. “Outside of rodeo, I like spending time outdoors, traveling and being around friends and family.”

When it comes to thinking about her future, Kaydence noted, “I am most excited about building a future where I can combine my passion for agriculture, horses and business into a career I truly enjoy. I look forward to becoming a successful real estate agent specializing in ranch, land and equine properties while continuing to compete on the WT rodeo team and stay involved in the western lifestyle. I am also excited about growing my riding lesson program and other business ideas, gaining financial independence and creating a life where I can work hard, stay connected to agriculture, and do what I love every day.”

she explained. “I would truly love to give this opportunity for love and growth to as many kids as I can. Whether this looks like leading youth theater, being a theater teacher at a school or taking on some other title, I plan to bless others with the gift of performing that has been so instrumental in my life.”

When she’s not on stage, Aida enjoys road trips, being outdoors, thrifting, reading a good book, watching films or grabbing co ee with a friend. She’s also interested in all things theology.

“I’m most excited to find out where Jesus leads me,” she shared. “I am excited to see His plans for me and to one day see how He uses all things for his good.”

Keili Brewington

El Dorado High School

Keili Brewington is a 2025 El Dorado High School graduate currently attending University of California, Santa Cruz, and majoring in molecular, cellular, developmental biology.

“I selected this major because i love studying DNA transcription and molecular processes,” Keili said, adding her career goals is to become a dermatologist. When she’s not looking at skin cells under the microscope, Keili loves reading and listening to music. Regarding her future, she shared. “I’m most excited to see where I end up in the medical field and what I decide to do.”

2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Alec Jolly

Ponderosa High School

Alec Jolly is a 2025 Ponderosa High School graduate attending the University of Utah and majoring in mechanical engineering.

“When I was young, my favorite pastime was building LEGOs. Over time, I started helping my Dad build things, like a chicken coop, a pond and a house for our ducks. I also started using software to help design and plan projects, one of which was my Eagle Scout project,” Alec shared. “In the past few years, my interest turned from building and creating anything to specifically cars. This came about once I started watching Formula 1 and other motorsport competitions.

“Based on all of this, I decided my college path should be mechanical engineering, and plan to pursue something in the automotive industry,” he continued. “I would like to start in engineering, but eventually manage engineering projects for an automotive company. Eventually, I transfer that knowledge into a job where I can travel the world while working for a Formula Motorsports team fighting for a championship.”

In addition to watching for that checkered flag, Alec enjoys skiing, music, working out and outdoor

Diana Mora

El Dorado High School

Diana Mora is a 2025 El Dorado High School graduate currently attending University of California, Davis, and majoring in human biology

I selected this major because it completes most of the prerequisites of having a career in the medical field,” Diana said. “My career goal is have a job in the medical field. I am still deciding what is it specifically I want to do.”

When she’s not in class, Diana said she enjoys listening to music, reading, collecting plants and going to a good co ee shop. Thinking about the years ahead, she shared, “What I am most excited about the future is having a job I actually enjoy and dedicating time with my family and friends.”

activities like camping and hiking. “I also joined the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at college this fall, where I am excited to expand my social and leadership skills,” he said.

“I’m very excited to continue college and enjoy the time with my friends and fraternity. I will take challenging classes that will help me gain the knowledge I need to secure an internship and eventually a good job,” Alec added. “I hope to become successful in my work and gain many opportunities through my job. Being successful will open opportunities to let me travel the world, try new things and meet new people.”

Addison Barbour

Golden Sierra High School

Addison Barbour graduated from Golden Sierra High School in 2025 and currently attends Azusa Pacific University, majoring in Nursing.

“I chose to pursue nursing because it truly feels like my calling,” Addison said, noting her career goal is to be a pediatric ICU nurse. “I have always been drawn to science and healthcare, and during high school I explored several college-level courses to better understand potential career paths.

“After witnessing the care my younger brother received during multiple hospital stays, I felt a strong and personal connection to the nursing profession,” she continued. “Those experiences solidified my desire to serve others through compassionate, patientcentered care.”

When she’s not studying, Addison participates in cheer and loves drawing, going to the beach, working out and spending time with friends and family. When thinking about her future, she shared, “I am most excited to see the results of all my hard work, because I know it will be so rewarding!”

At Cali Homes, we’re your neighbor just as much as we are your real estate partners. We operate with integrity, take your needs personally, and work diligently to achieve your goals as if they were our own. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just seeking some sound advice from honest experts, we are committed to providing exceptional customer service from start to finish and intend to earn your business for life.

to helping others succeed. Throughout her career, Voelker has consistently demonstrated a dedication to both her clients and her colleagues — a dedication reflected in her remarkable achievement of being recognized as a Top Achiever for 30 consecutive years.

Serving communities throughout Placerville and the surrounding foothill region, Voelker has helped countless families navigate the home buying and selling process. Her experience spans a wide variety of property types, from established neighborhood homes to the rural and acreage properties that make El Dorado County unique.

Those who have worked with Voelker often point to her calm, thoughtful approach and deep knowledge of the local market. Over the years, she has guided buyers, sellers and fellow real estate professionals with a level of patience and professionalism that has become a hallmark of her career.

Lori Ingram has worked alongside Voelker for many years and praised her colleague.

“Early in my real estate career, Lori Voelker was someone who truly helped shape the path I would take in this industry,” Ingram said. “She leads with integrity, professionalism and a genuine heart for helping people. Lori has always been someone who shares her knowledge freely and supports those around her.”

Beyond her work with clients, Voelker has also played an important role as a mentor to other Realtors in the community. Many professionals credit her willingness to share knowledge

and offer guidance as they built their own careers.

Ingram said that mentorship had a direct impact on her own start in real estate.

“When she gave me my first transaction; it was a very good one,” Ingram said. “She trusted me with a client that really helped kick-start my career and gave me a clear understanding of what real estate was all about.”

That spirit of mentorship is something many say reflects the collaborative nature of the El Dorado County real estate community. Over the years, Voelker has not only built strong relationships with clients but has also contributed to the growth and professionalism of the industry locally.

Her career has taken place during a time of significant change in real estate, including evolving market conditions, new technology and shifting regulations. Through it all, Voelker has remained focused on the same core values that first drew her to the profession — serving clients with honesty, clear communication and dedication.

As El Dorado County continues to grow and attract new residents drawn to the beauty of the Sierra foothills, experienced professionals like Voelker remain an important part of the region’s real estate landscape.

Through decades of service, mentorship and commitment to her community, Voelker has built more than a successful real estate career; she has helped shape the professional community around her and continues to leave a lasting impact on the people and place she serves.

Congratulations

Manny Cazares #00969767

37th Year Consecutive (916) 804-1400

Emily Valdez #01966542

10th Year Consecutive (530) 409-0045

Trent Andra #01453724

21st Year Consecutive (916) 220-9966

Laura Hogan #01706986

9th Year Consecutive (916) 955-0810

Andi Wagner #01706844

2oth Year Consecutive (530) 409-3984

Renee Friedrich #01796570

8th Year Consecutive (707) 592-5227

Dawn Baltar #01150790

13th Year Consecutive (916) 879-0428

Lori Holzer #0153513

8th Year Consecutive (916) 947-8888

Terry Jensen #01704538

13th Year Non-Consecutive (916) 812-1710

Susan Wise #01952707

8th Year Consecutive (530) 409-5887

Angie Carocci #01947556

10th Year Consecutive (530) 306-8837

Terri Cicchetti #02075629

7th Year Consecutive (530) 919-1747

eXp Top Achievers for 2025!

#02060957

(916)

TOP ACHIEVERS SPONSORS

$1,000 PLATINUM SPONSORS

$500 CORPORATE SPONSORS

$250 GOLD SPONSORS

$150 SILVER SPONSORS

2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Alisa Koltsova

Oak Ridge High School

Alisa Koltsova is a 2025 Oak Ridge High School graduate attending University of California, Berkeley, and studying molecular and cell biology.

“I am fascinated by the potential within synthetic biology research and its capability of changing existing solutions in many industries, especially with environmentallyfavorable results,” Alisa shared. “I wanted to further understand the power behind reprogramming living systems —manipulating gene expression, engineering cellular behavior and designing biological solutions with real-world applications.

“In high school, I was already drawn to chemistry, biology and mathematics on a surface level,” she continued. “In college, I am able to explore these subjects to a deeper, more meaningful extent. By understanding living systems and the current limitations of our knowledge of them, I am establishing a basis on which I can base future research that will hopefully yield significant results. Alisa plans to become a bioengineer. “Many systems, technologies and medications that exist today can be enhanced with

the use of synthetic biology, and my goal is to be on the forefront of the next generation of engineers who make these changes happen,” she explained. “I hope to lead change to environmental sustainability; by designing bio-based alternatives to fossil fuels, developing microbes that break down plastic waste or engineering crops that require fewer chemical inputs, I can help build a future where technological progress coexists with environmental responsibility.”

When she’s not considering lifechanging science possibilities, Alisa enjoys dancing with a contemporary-centered dance troupe called Movement, attending dance workshops, reading, writing poetry and hiking.

She does it all while thinking about how to positively impact the world.

“I am enthusiastic about embarking on a career that allows me to apply my skills in bioengineering toward greater sustainability, improved health treatments and innovative technology in the industry,” she said.

“I am looking forward to engaging with my peers in the field and forming lasting friendships with similar-minded engineers.”

Elliot Eastman

Union Mine High School

Elliot Eastman graduated from Union Mine High School in 2025 and currently attends University of California, San Diego, majoring in mechanical engineering.

“I selected this major because I’ve always been drawn to learning how things work, as well as finding problems and fixing them,” Elliot said, adding that his career goal is to be an automotive engineer, hopefully in motorsports.

His hobbies include skiing, working on cars, surfing, Ultimate frisbee, going to the gym, among other activities. “I am most excited about club involvement at UCSD, from sports clubs to engineering clubs such as FSAE (a club where you build a race car),” he shared. “I just think they’re all so much fun and I get to meet new people and make memories.”

Molly Tillotson

Union Mine High School

Molly Tillotson is a 2025 Union Mine High School graduate attending University of Nevada, Reno , and studying public health with the focus of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

“By my junior year summer I completely dedicated myself to being a dental assistant. It is through this job, and my time spent with Golden Grove Dental, I found a love for patient care and helping others,” Molly shared. “I look forward to expanding from dental to nursing, and being able to curate solutions for more people’s lives.

“I look forward to obtaining my bachelors of nursing, and hope to continue my education beyond this,” she shared. “I eventually would like to look into becoming a nurse practitioner.”

When she’s not focused on her education, Molly loves spending time with family and friends, hiking and fishing.

Thinking about her future, she said, “I am most looking forward to beginning my career and a family.”

2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Heidi Schneider

El Dorado High School

Heidi Schneider is a 2025 graduate of El Dorado High School who currently attends Folsom Lake College, studying pre-nursing.

“Throughout my childhood, I was very exposed to healthcare environments, and being able to see first-hand how much medical professionals can impact patients and their families inspired me to want to do the same,” Heidi shared, noting her career goal is to become a registered nurse in either the ICU or NICU. “Being a part of a community that works to help others is an incredibly rewarding experience, and I know it’s something I want to be involved in throughout my career.”

When she’s not studying anatomy, Heidi said she enjoys staying active. “I love to swim, go on hikes with friends and travel when I have the opportunity,” she shared. “In my free time, I am fortunate enough to be able to volunteer at a local hospital, which is not only something I enjoy, but it also allows me to gain experience in the medical environment while giving back to my community.”

When it comes to her future, Heidi said she’s focused on her education and her passion to help others. “I’m thrilled to see where this path will take me in life, and I’m confident that the best is yet to come!”

Nola Boucher

Oak Ridge High School

Nola Boucher is a 2025 Oak Ridge High School graduate attending University of California, Los Angeles and studying computational biology.

“I am on the pre-med track, but I also have a passion for technology and computer science,” Nola explained. “Computational biology is the perfect fit because it allows me to blend my interests in life sciences, programming and statistics. It’s a very flexible major across di erent departments.”

Nola hopes to become a neurologist or medical researcher.

“The brain has always fascinated me; its incredible complexity, its power to control everything we do, and how much of it remains a total mystery,” she explained. “I’m especially interested in how modern technology can help us decode it. Computational models, machine learning, artificial intelligence and neural simulations are going to revolutionize how we understand the human brain.”

When she doesn’t have the brain on her mind, Nola loves running, trying new foods, reading, watching anime, 3D printing, electronics and spending time with family and friends.

Thinking about her future, she shared, “I am most excited to see and hopefully eventually be a part of the next big wave of technological innovations in medicine. I can’t wait to see how bridging the gap between so many di erent fields of study will build on today’s breakthroughs to change the way we treat/diagnose patients.”

Aubrey Lembach

Aubrey Lembach is a 2025 graduate of El Dorado High School and currently attends Colorado Mesa University, majoring in nursing

“I chose this major because I’ve always wanted to be in the medical field,” Aubrey said. “My dad has been in the medical field my entire life and currently is a surgical tech and working on getting his nursing license, I’ve always looked up to him.

“My career goal is to become a pediatric intensive care nurse, where I can help care for critically ill children and support their families during some of the hardest moments of their lives,” she continued. “I’m passionate about making a di erence in people’s lives, and I believe this career will allow me to combine compassion, skill and dedication to help others when they need it most.”

When she’s not hitting the books, Aubrey can be found participating in rodeo or outdoors snowboarding and hiking

“Traveling is another interest of mine because I enjoy experiencing new environments and adventures,” she shared. “When I’m not outside, I also like shopping and spending time with friends and family.”

With a planned career in the medical field, Aubrey said she hopes to find time for her career and hobbies.

“I hope to train horses and pursue rodeo professionally, since it’s something I’m very passionate about,” she explained. “Being able to balance a career I care about while continuing to compete in rodeo and work with horses is something I hope to achieve.”

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Our 2025 Top Achievers!

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2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Camila Catron-Castillo

Camila Catron-Castillo graduated from Union Mine High School, salutatorian of her class, and currently attends California State University, Long Beach, studying biochemistry.

“I have always been deeply interested in science and understanding how things work,” Camila said. “Biochemistry answers many of the ‘why’ and ‘how’ questions behind biological and chemical processes, especially those related to the human body.

“While I know that I want to pursue a career connected to science, I also chose this major as a foundation to hopefully get into medical school and become a doctor,” she explained. “This major allows me to explore many opportunities in science and research while still preparing me for a future in medicine if I continue on that path.”

Gemma Inks

El Dorado High School

Gemma Inks graduated from El Dorado High School in May 2025 and now attends the University of California, Santa Cruz, majoring in biology.

“I chose to major in biology because I love science and wish to explore the many fields that a biology degree has to o er. I also chose this major in hopes of becoming a forensic biologist, because of my passion for criminal justice combined with my love for science,” Gemma said. “Though that is my current career goal, I am keeping an open mind and plan to explore many di erent fields as I dive deeper into biology here at UCSC.”

When she’s not hitting the books or in the lab, Gemma loves reading mysteries, cooking, baking, arts and crafts, weight lifting and anything outdoors.

Thinking about her future, she shared. “I am most excited to become an intelligent adult with a career that is harbored out of passion,” she shared.

Union Mine High School

As a doctor, Camila hopes to become an oncologist or orthopedic surgeon.

“My experiences as a patient with hip dysplasia, including undergoing a PAO hip surgery on my right hip, and having a father who passed away from cancer, have shaped this goal,” she shared. “These experiences helped me understand how important compassion, communication and support are in healthcare. I want to become a doctor who not only provides excellent medical treatment but also ensures that patients feel informed, understood and supported during di cult moments.”

In addition to studying, Camila enjoys long-distance running, often running along the beach to clear her mind and stay balanced. She has also joined a sailing club.

As a freshman, Camila said college has

thus far “been an incredible experience.” “I have been fortunate to meet many amazing people and begin building meaningful connections with classmates and mentors. Being surrounded by motivated and supportive individuals has pushed me to grow both academically and personally,” she shared.

“Looking ahead, I hope to one day become a successful doctor who can achieve the goal I have always had of helping others while also supporting my family,” Camila continued. “After the loss of my father (Robert Catron) this past December, my mom (Yamileth Catron) has been an incredible source of strength for our family. I hope that through my education and career, I will one day be able to give back and take care of her the way she has always taken care of me.”

Madison Blair

El Dorado High School

Madison Adeline Blair is a 2025 El Dorado High School graduate attending University of California, Davis, and studying applied chemistry.

“I chose chemistry as a major because I find it so fascinating and I am curious to keep learning more about it,” Madison shared. “I enjoy chemistry and I want to enjoy what I do in life so I am both pursuing a passion of mine and keeping more doors open in the future.”

When she’s not in the chem lab, Madison enjoys reading and knitting. She recently joined the UC Davis Fiber Arts Club where like-minded students meet weekly for a few hours to chat and work on fiber art projects. Madison said she’s excited about learning and the college experience. “Each day I learn so many interesting things and it’s been overwhelming but also amazing,” she shared. “A specific event I am excited for is recently I volunteered for Picnic Day on April 18, where we will be making sorbet using liquid nitrogen. There are so many new opportunities that I can’t wait for what the future may hold.”

2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Lauren Spiess is a 2025 Ponderosa High School graduate currently attending San Jose State University, studying animation/illustration.

Lauren shared that her interest in her major was born out of her struggle to connect with high school classmates “and with my own identity.”

“Art was my respite during this time; I would have been miserable without it,” she said. “Following it eventually led me to a community I felt supported in and allowed me to contribute my skills to work that was larger than myself. Art gave me friends and a purpose. I began taking courses in animation online around this time, and realized I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. To be able

Lauren Spiess

Ponderosa High School

to pursue something that gives me both passion and community meant everything to me.”

The former Bruin said she hopes her skills will transition into a film career. “Right now I’m most interested in either storyboarding or character animation, but I’m looking forward to trying out more aspects of the pipeline in my classes.”

In addition to animation, Lauren has pursued other forms of art — sewing clothes, painting leather, woodburning designs and making stu ed animals.

Sean Vargas is a 2025 graduate of Ponderosa High School, currently attending University of California, San Diego, and studying bioengineering.

“My interest in math and science throughout my life developed my fascination with engineering, Sean shared. “Ever since I was a kid, I have always enjoyed inventing and building new things, whether it was with blocks or through designs on paper. Moreover, my dad’s job in medical device sales sparked a fascination with being a doctor.”

Sean’s career goal is to enter the medical device industry as a bioengineer who designs innovative products used in orthopedic medicine.

Sean Vargas

Ponderosa High School

“I hope to help develop technologies that enhance recovery and support doctors in providing better care,” he explained. “Through this work, I aim to contribute to advancements that make a meaningful di erence in people. Hobbies beyond building the next great thing include playing volleyball, skateboarding, and video games, as well as spending quality time with friends and family.

“I enjoy activities that keep me active, challenge me and allow me to connect with others,” Sean shared. “Volleyball, in particular, has helped me develop strong teamwork and communication skills. My other hobbies provide a balance between

Aside from art, she confessed her favorite hobby learning. “Not necessarily the textbook kind, but just trying new things and building skills I didn’t have before,” Lauren said.

In addition to her career goal, Lauren said her future will include a furry friend. “It sounds silly, but I’m most excited to be able to get a cat one day,” she confessed. “I can’t have one in my family’s house, and I’ve always used it as my marker of ‘being a real adult.’ It allows me to look forward to when I leave home for real, even though that’s something I know will be di cult.”

“I’ll try anything, but I most consistently do plain drawing and painting. I draw characters, animals or whatever interests me in the moment,” she shared. “I especially love animals, both my pets and wild ones. You can often find me stopped in the middle of the street staring at any nearby bird.”

competition, creativity and relaxation, allowing me to stay motivated while also enjoying time outside of school and academics.”

Sean said he looks forward to future opportunities, challenges and experiences, “as well as the lessons I will learn along the way.”

“In particular, I am excited about the possibility of designing medical devices that can improve patients’ quality of life and help doctors provide better care,” he said. “With confidence in my abilities and dedication to my goals, I am eager to grow both professionally and personally as I work toward making a meaningful impact in the field of orthopedic medicine.”

Selling the American Dream

Selling the American Dream

Selling the American Dream

Selling the American Dream

Patti Smith Real Estate Team!

2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Isabella McRitchie

Union Mine High School

Ever since I was little, I’ve witnessed family members deal with various medical conditions,” Isabella said. She explained that she didn’t have a true grasp on what that meant until a family member was hospitalized with a serious medical condition during her junior year of high school. “I realized then that what truly made both my family members and myself at ease was the care and attention the nurse gave,” she shared. Watching those nurses work with a blend of skill and empathy solidified her career path. “It truly made me want to become a nurse and help others in a time of need, just like they did.” When she’s not taking anatomy and physiology and honors classes, she’s enjoying dorm life with her two roommates and exploring the outdoors. She took up snowboarding for the first time this year and loved it, has been camping with friends and with the honors college students, and been to the Boise State Bronco’s college football games as they won the league championship. Looking toward her future in healthcare, Isabella is driven by the same compassion she witnessed firsthand, aiming to be the steady hand for families navigating di cult times. “Right now I’m focused on my studies and progressing from undergraduate work into the clinical part of the nursing program. I’ve enjoyed my classes so far and can’t wait to see how my future in nursing will unfold.

Zachary Nicholson

Oak Ridge High School

Zachary Nicholson is a 2025 Oak Ridge High School graduate attending the University of Notre Dame and majoring in fi nance and business analytics

“I intend to pursue fi nance as a career with investment banking, and business analytics will teach me the ‘hard skills’ of fundamentals required for that fi eld,” Zachary said. “Venture capital fascinates me, and my current goal is to eventually become a managing director at a large tech venture fund.”

When he’s not looking for the next big business boom, Zachary enjoys watching documentaries on early human civilizations, golfi ng and attending Real Estate Club of Notre Dame) meetings. “Every time I hear a Realtor or investor speak on their strategy, it fascinates me,” he admitted. “Although I intend to pursue investment banking, I see real estate as a venture that I will approach in my life.”

Thinking about his future, Zachary said he’s focused on self-improvement. “Each day presents some new challenge. I like to have a positive outlook that the issue makes life interesting and rewarding as well,” he shared. “Beginning my career after undergrad will create di erent situations that I will have to tackle; however, I know that I will succeed through having an open and diligent mindset.”

Lily Barnhart

Union Mine High School

Lily Barnhart is a 2025 Union Mine High School graduate attending Johnson and Wales University, RI campus, and studying baking and pastry arts and entrepreneurship.

“I selected baking and pastry arts because I love the science and art aspects of the job,” Lily explained. “I have been baking and making dishes since I was little and I love seeing all the components come together.

“As of now, I am focused on gaining more skills in the field and being proficient in things like gluten-free pastries so I can make pastries more accessible,” she continued. “I hope I can use these skills to open a patisserie in the future.”

When she’s not perfecting her recipes, Lily enjoys dancing, singing reading and exploring her new home — especially the coffee shops, where she can catch up with friends.

Thinking about her future, she shared, “I am most excited to see what I decide to do with my skills, as in what type of establishment I choose to work in. I have an idea of what I want to do now, but things will change over the next three years when I get more experience in the field.”

2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Sophia Sumimoto

Oak Ridge High School

Sophia Sumimoto is a 2025 Oak Ridge High School graduate currently attending University of California, Berkeley, and majoring in molecular and cell biology with an emphasis in cell biology, development and physiology.

“Through this major, I am on the medical biology and physiology track, which allows me to study the mechanisms behind disease and treatment,” Sophia explained. “As a pre-med student, I am especially interested in gaining both scientific knowledge and research experience that will help me better understand the complexities of medicine.”

Sophia plans to become a cardiothoracic surgeon, “while also contributing to research that examines the relationship between mental health and physical health.”

“I am particularly interested in how mental health conditions can influence heart disease and other cardiovascular outcomes,” she shared. “I aim to ensure that mental health is recognized as an integral part of disease prevention, specifically cardiovascular diseases.”

When she’s not thinking about her future in the operating room, Sophia is involved in Cal Rotaract, with which she participates in service projects that benefit underserved communities, and the Associated Students of the University of California’s Mental Health Commission, for which she promotes mental health awareness and advocacy on campus. She also enjoys spending time with friends and exploring di erent parts of the Bay Area.

“Looking ahead, I am most excited about my future in medicine and the opportunity to continue helping others. I hope to further my passion for helping underserved communities and to make a meaningful di erence in my community,” Sophia said. “My goal is to contribute to a healthcare system that improves the wellbeing of the communities it serves and advocate for better health resources.”

Katie Tadayeski

Oak Ridge High School

Katie Tadayeski is a 2025 Oak Ridge High School graduate who attends Texas Christian University, majoring in nursing with a minor in child development.

During my first year of high school, I had a medical emergency that required me to be hospitalized and undergo spine surgery. I spent time in the hospital during my recovery, and with the support of nurses, I felt beyond supported,” Katie shared. “This experience gave me a deep appreciation for the care and compassion healthcare workers provide, and I want to pursue a career in nursing so I can support others during di cult moments in their health journeys.”

Her career goal is to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. “This career is a good fit for me as it combines my fascination with anesthesia and my desire to build meaningful connections with patients, all while hoping to make a positive impact in my community,” she explained.

When she’s not studying, Katie enjoys hanging out with family and friends, swimming, going on walks and sewing — all while thinking about the impact she will have on other people’s lives.

“As a nurse and CRNA, I can help be the light in someone’s health journey and bring people back to a healthy state, which is so powerful,” Katie said. “Besides medical care, I’m excited to get to know my patients better. I want to turn a regular hospital visit into a real connection that actually improves their lives, and I am eager to have that privilege daily when I begin my career.”

News release

For over 20 years, the Food Bank of El Dorado County and the El Dorado County Association of Realtors have teamed up tor the holiday CanTree celebration. This long-standing event, supported by local Rcaltors as well as mortgage and title companies, has become a cherished tradition.

The Food Bank is honored to receive a $13,000 donation from EDCAR this year. Thanks to this partnership, countless families were able to have food on their tables during the holidays and throughout the year.

The CanTree celebration is more than just an event, it’s a symbol of community spirit and generosity.

For more information contact the Food Bank of El Dorado County at (530) 621-9950 or info@foodbankedc. org.

Chapman Real Estate Group has proudly served the Greater Sacramento Region for over 24 years. Our team of experienced Realtors has over 75 years of combined experience in buying and selling both commercial and residential real estate. We specialize in Luxury Homes, First-Time Buyers, Short Sales, Investment Properties, and 1031 Exchanges, and we enjoy helping buyers and sellers at every stage of their journey.

At Chapman Real Estate Group, our mission is to exceed our clients’ expectations and earn their trust and referrals. By going above and beyond for every client in doing the UNEXPECTED extras, we’ve built a thriving referral-based brokerage and remain committed to delivering exceptional service every step of the way. Ranked among the Top 50 Realtors in El Dorado, Placer, and Sacramento counties, it would be an honor and a privilege to serve you. Give us a call and experience the difference!

DRE# 01342346

1020 Suncast Lane Suite 101

El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 (916) 798-0740

www.chapmanreg.com

Congratulations

Top Achievers Danielle Dutton

Luxury is a Level of Service

22 years of experience. Having lived in El Dorado Hills for the past 10 years, I can personally attest to the beauty and charm of this community. It’s not just a place I work in; it’s my home. So, whether you’re a buyer searching for your dream home or a seller looking to make a successful sale, I’m here to provide personalized guidance. Let’s embark on this journey together and turn your real estate goals into reality. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me — I can’t wait to get started!

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