Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Cascade graduate earns state leadership award for leadership, inclusion

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LEAVENWORTH — Cascade High School graduate Cruz Martinez was the only North Central Washington student to receive the Student Leadership Award from the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) this year.

Each year, WASA recognizes students who have created or played a significant leadership role in initiatives or programs that prompt inclusivity, access, equity or social justice in their school and community. The selected students are those who have exemplified integrity, displayed strong work ethic, evoked hope by seeking ways to enrich the future, and demonstrated the ability to inspire, motivate, and impact the growth of others.

When Martinez Nieto and his friends noticed a lack of diversity in the associated student body (ASB), he decided to take initiative. While he stepped into a number of leadership roles, his most significant was senior class president.

“Honestly, like a lot of my friends, we didn't see our voices heard a lot. And I was like, ‘Well, I got time.’ No, I didn't…It was a lot, but I just wanted to have our voices heard mainly,” Martinez Nieto.

With co-vice presidents Sophia Oropeza and Jocelyn Olguin, and secretary Grace Redman, Martinez Nieto felt accomplished in making the CHS student government more inclusive.

“I feel proud, and I feel like I had a lot of people tell me that they felt heard,” said Martinez Nieto.

The award was presented to Martinez Nieto by Cascade School District (CSD) Superintendent Tracey Edou during the June 23 school board meeting. According to Edou, Martinez Nieto received three separate nominations for the award.

“So the nomination from Cascade School District was very strong, because it was informed by a lot of people who really admire and respect Cruz and his story, and also what he wants to accomplish in the future. So we’re just really proud of you, Cruz,” said Edou.

Martinez Nieto was also one of the CHS valedictorians this year, graduating with a 4.0 GPA, 53 college credits, and nine scholarships. He was also a member of MEChA club, and participated in state tournaments for cross country, track and field, and wrestling. He plans to attend the University of Washington - Seattle to pursue pre-medicine, with the goal of one day becoming a dermatologist.



Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media

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