Recognized by Iowa Governor for academic excellence ...

A pair of local high school students were recently recognized by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and Lt. Governor Chris Cournoyer for outstanding academic achievement at the 23rd Annual Governor’s Scholar Recognition Ceremony held April 27 at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. Waukon High School senior Taylor Kiel is pictured at right in the photo at right with Governor Reynolds during the recognition ceremony.

Kee High School senior Addyson Rankin was not able to attend the event. The statewide program, sponsored by the Iowa Governor’s Office, the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and its title sponsor the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), honored 424 Iowa high school seniors.

“Iowa Farm Bureau has a long history of supporting students in their educational journey knowing they represent the leaders of tomorrow,” said IFBF President Brent Johnson. “From providing more than a half-million dollars in college scholarships annually, to long-time title sponsorship of the Annual Governor’s Scholar Recognition Ceremony, we’re honored to support and celebrate outstanding students.”

Each high school in Iowa 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.

“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-eight percent of those recognized at this year’s Governor’s Scholar Recognition Ceremony participate in extra-curricular school activities, with more than 82 percent participating in at least one interscholastic sport. More than 63 percent of the group plan to continue their education in Iowa. Submitted photo.