This award began in 2018 to recognize outstanding students in our listening area. Nomination forms are sent to approximately 25 schools in our listening area. Eligible candidates must be a junior or senior, have a 3.5 GPA or higher, and be involved in school and community activities.
Jaycee Baruth (SR) – Woonsocket
Jaycee is a true leader in and out of the classroom. If you ask any of her classmates, they all have respect and admiration for her as a student and an individual. Jaycee is President of the National Honor Society, Student Council member, Choir, CBH Academic Festival Participant, Basketball, Honor Student, Track Team, Cross Country, Volleyball and the Vice President of our FFA Chapter. She has volunteered in officiating, score keeping, and concessions at our sporting events. Jaycee belongs to a local youth group led by her church in Alpena that helps the community in many ways. She has also worked at our local daycare. She spends countless hours working for her family farm and business. – Rod Weber, Woonsocket Supt./Principal
Natalie Becker (SR) – Canistota
She is actively involved in Volleyball, Basketball, Track, FBLA, Student Council President, Student Body President, National Honor Society President, quiz bowl, and Yearbook. While participating in these activities, Natalie has maintained her 4.0 while taking dual credit classes. Natalie’s commitment to her education goes beyond maintaining a high GPA. She strategically selects classes that align with her desired major, demonstrating a clear vision for her future. Her dedication to her studies and her pursuit of excellence in all she does are truly commendable. – Nick Olson, Canistota K-12 Principal
Abigail Davis (JR) – Plankinton
Abigail is an outstanding high school junior who consistently strives for academic excellence. In addition to her academic achievements, Abigail is actively involved in the community and extra-curricular activities at school. She has participated in golf, student council, all school play, and is the junior class representative. She is the head of the fundraising committee for the Plankinton Student Council and has put in endless hours of her own time organizing successful fundraisers throughout the year. She is currently taking flying lessons through a private company and has the perseverance to become a successful pilot at a young age. She is a positive role model to younger students and genuinely cares about the well-being of others. – Beth Victor, Plankinton PK-12 Principal
Racquel Driedger (SR) – Mitchell High
Along with being a gifted student, Ms. Driedger also has explored and thrived in various other areas, including the world of music. She has been an active member of the MHS Marching and Concert Band throughout her high school career. She is extremely active in FBI-A, being the Social Media Manager and National Qualifier in 3 events, secretary of the Book Club, being a member of the Art Ambassadors and Caring Closet where she volunteers in several initiatives. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and was a Girls State Delegate for our district. Racquel also finds time in her schedule to be an active member of her church youth group. Racquel Driedger is the exact type of student who any district would like to see represent their district. She is an excellent student, a willing volunteer, and a kind human being. I would never hesitate to recommend her for anything she wished to pursue. – Kimberly Max, Mitchell High School Dean of Students
Rebecca Feldhaus (SR) – Howard
Ms. Feldhaus has had an outstanding career during her time as a student at Howard High School. She has been involved in numerous activities, taken numerous advanced courses, and committed to experiences outside of the typical school involvement. Through these efforts, she has grown to become a leader within her school and community. Her efforts have provided strong evidence as to the probability of her future success. As we took our seniors to visit the 2024 Legislative Session, Ms. Feldhaus was known by name everywhere we went. She has endeared herself to the people serving within state government and was quite popular due to her personality, approachability and attention to detail. Ms. Feldhaus is bright. well-spoken, and confident. She will do extremely well for herself in the years to come. – Travis Aslesen, Howard Principal
Faith Genzliger (SR) – Howard
Ms. Genzlinger has shown strength in many areas, but particularly in her focus toward our agricultural programs, community service and leadership. Ms. Genzlinger has been very involved in our local FFA program with numerous exercises to show her skill, leadership, and dedication to this activity. She has consistently performed with purpose and pride while developing a strong skill set in this area. Her work in leading our annual cancer campaign, which raises significant funds for area cancer patients to use in their challenges, is a great example of not only her leadership skill, but her heart for humanity in general. – Travis Aslesen, Howard Principal
Nicolette Hoffman (SR) – Armour
Nicolette has consistently demonstrated outstanding character throughout her time here. She embodies qualities such as integrity, compassion, and a strong work ethic. Her commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment within the student body is commendable. Nicolette’s involvement in diverse activities such as serving as a legislative page and contributing to the yearbook showcases her versatility and passion for making a positive impact in different facets of school life. Her willingness to take on these responsibilities speaks volumes about her dedication to personal growth and her commitment to having a positive impact on her school and community. – Craig Holbeck, Armour Superintendent/HS Principal
Whitney Payne (SR) – Plankinton
In addition to her academic achievements, Whitney is actively involved in the community and extra-curricular activities at school. She has participated in choir, basketball, volleyball, co President of FCCLA, and Plankinton Student Council President. She is also involved in her church by attending religion class weekly, Vice President of the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO), and actively participates in Sunday masses. She has helped with the Feeding South Dakota organization in her community, as well as a member of the Aurora County VFW Auxiliary. She not only excels in the classroom but shows leadership skills and a strong desire to make a positive impact in her community. I believe that Whitney is an ideal candidate for this award. Her positive attitude, dedication, and desire to succeed, sets her apart from her peers. I am confident that she will excel as she strives to further her education after high school. – Beth Victor, Plankinton PK-12 Principal