St. Lucy High School senior Devon Guthrie trilled to first place at the 16th annual Spotlight Awards held April 17 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

As one of the 96 semifinalists, Guthrie competed in the classical voice category, one of 12 performing arts categories. She was selected from more than 800 hopefuls who auditioned earlier in the year. Gutherie, along with other winners, received $6,000; runner-ups earned $3,000.

On the classical judging panel were mezzo-soprano Suzanna Guzmán of the Los Angeles Opera; Paul Salamunovich, music director emeritus of the Los Angeles Master Chorale; and Greg Fedderly, a principal artist at the Los Angeles Opera.

Begun in 1988, the Spotlight Awards program is a premiere artistic competition for Southern California's most gifted high school students who plan performing or visual arts careers.

The program is a support project of the Fraternity of Friends, a volunteer membership organization of businessmen and entertainment professionals who support the Music Center. In 1993, the Fraternity began the Spotlight Mentor Program that paired student finalists with members who provide support, encouragement and direction.