2008-09 NDHSAA/US Bank Distinguished Students

Stephanie Barnhart, a junior at Kenmare High School, has been selected as the 2008-09 North Dakota High School Activities Association/U.S. BANK Distinguished Student at interviews held in Valley City on the morning of Friday, May 9th. John Kenney of Shanley High School (Fargo) was chosen as the first runner-up.

The other four finalists were Katie Dressler, Richardton-Taylor; Tyler Swenson, Dickinson; Nicole Woinarowicz, Grafton and Evan Eide, Mayville-Portland CG.

Pictured L-R: Evan Eide, Mayville-Portland CG; Tyler Swenson, Dickinson; John Kenney, Shanley; Stephanie Barnhart, Kenmare; Nicole Woinarowicz, Grafton; Katie Dressler, Richardton-Taylor

The NDHSAA is proud to have U.S. Bank as a partner in this program as they provide the $5000 for scholarships awarded the six finalists.

Stephanie Barnhart received a $2000 scholarship, John Kenney a $1000 scholarship, and the other four finalists each received a $500 scholarship.

The Distinguished Student Award program recognizes outstanding high school juniors for activity, participation and leadership within their schools and communities. These students were chosen because they are in many school activities, and have been positive role models and peer motivators. These students are the first to admit they may not be the best at any one activity, but have high self esteem and are willing to share their gifts by tutoring, leading or by just rolling up their sleeves and helping get things done!

These finalists were the top six of fifty-four juniors statewide that were nominated by their schools in March.

All six Distinguished Students will receive an all-expense paid trip to Indianapolis to attend the 2008 National Federation Student Leadership Conference at the Indianapolis Hilton in July.

The six finalists will also be student ambassadors for the NDHSAA this spring and during the next school year. They will be invited to help present awards at various events as well as lead the "Parade of Champions" held in March of each year. They will also help promote High School Activities Week, and the values of high school activities participation.

Past Distinguished Student Recipients

2008 Distinguished Student Public Service Announcements