News : Area Students Recognized by Governor Reynolds for Academic Excellence

Emmett Colsch, Vinton-Shellsburg

Casey Kirtz, Center Point-Urbana

Alyssa Steinbeck, Belle Plaine

The following students were recognized by Gov. Kim Reynolds and Lt. Governor Adam Gregg for outstanding academic achievement at the 22nd Annual Governor's Scholar Recognition Ceremony on April 28 at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines.

Center Point Urbana - Casey Kirtz

Belle Plaine - Alyssa Steinbeck

Vinton-Shellsburg - Emmett Colsch

Benton Community - Emma Townsley (no photo available)

The statewide program, sponsored by the Iowa Governor's Office, Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and its title sponsor the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), honored 424 high school seniors from across Iowa.

"Iowa Farm Bureau members know that today's students are tomorrow's leaders, and our organization and members are proud to support youth and education in many ways, including more than a half-million dollars in annual scholarships," said IFBF President Brent Johnson. "Our 22-year title sponsorship of the Annual Governor's Scholar Recognition Ceremony is just one way we honor and celebrate Iowa's exceptional high school students who will continue moving Iowa forward."

Each high school was invited to select a senior student with the highest academic ranking for their first seven semesters. Students selected for the award also had the opportunity to recognize their favorite/most influential teacher and will receive a photo plaque of their meeting with Governor Reynolds and Lt. Governor Gregg.

"The principles learned through academic success, like those learned from participation in education-based activities, help develop outstanding leaders and citizens," said IHSAA Executive Director Tom Keating. "The partnership between the IHSAA and the Iowa Farm Bureau, along with the great cooperation of the Governor's Office has made this event possible for many years."

Ninety-seven percent of those recognized participate in extra-curricular school activities, with more than 75 percent participating in at least one interscholastic sport. More than 64 percent of the group plan to continue their education in Iowa.