Meet Kari Gasper: Leading by Example

Kari, a senior at Coolidge High School, believes leadership starts with how you show up for others.

Each year, Arizona's top JAG student leaders are selected to serve as the University of Phoenix LEADS, representing more than 1,500 JAG students across the state. Throughout the year, they develop leadership skills and public speaking skills as they represent JAG at events and prepare to compete at the National Career Development Conference (NCDC). The LEADS journey is made possible through generous donors who help fund leadership development, professional clothing, travel, and competition expenses.

Kari Gasper, a senior at Coolidge High School and a second-year JAG student, believes leadership starts with how you show up for others. As a member of the 2026 - 27 University of Phoenix LEADS, Kari is ready to challenge himself and be a positive example for the students around him.

"To me, becoming a LEAD means setting a positive example, helping others, and continuing to grow as both a person and a leader."

Kari values honesty and positivity and doesn't like seeing people give up on themselves. Through LEADS, he is excited to have the opportunity to put his values into action by supporting his fellow student leaders and representing JAG students from across Arizona.

Outside of school and JAG, Kari enjoys fashion, gaming, listening to music, and spending time with friends. Music is also one of the ways he takes time for himself, along with relaxing, and making time for the things he enjoys. Kari credits his family with providing a strong support system; he describes them as supportive and says they make an effort to always be there for one another.

As Kari begins this year as a LEAD, he says growth will require him to push beyond his comfort zone and says he's willing to learn from the people around him.

"During this journey, I expect myself to stay committed, continue learning, step outside my comfort zone, and always do my best."

As he prepares for graduation and life after high school, each new experience through LEADS will give him another opportunity to grow his confidence and become the kind of leader who helps others believe in themselves, too.

Help Kari Reach NCDC

The 2026 - 27 University of Phoenix LEADS are raising $45,000 to support leadership development and travel to Orlando for the National Career Development Conference. Your support gives leaders like Kari the opportunity to represent JAG Arizona, compete on the national stage, and gain experiences that help prepare them for life after high school. You can donate directly to Kari's fundraiser by clicking HERE.

Thank you! Every donation helps invest in Arizona's next generation of leaders.