Christopher Hanson, a student at Clarke Community High School, and Allison Peterson, a student at Murray High School, were recognized by Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds for outstanding academic achievement at the 11th annual Governor’s Scholarship Recognition ceremony April 27 at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines.
The statewide program, sponsored by the Iowa Governor’s Office, Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and its title sponsor Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, honored 435 high school seniors from throughout Iowa.
“Iowa Farm Bureau members believe that by investing in our youths and communities, we’re investing in the future of Iowa,” said IFBF President Craig Hill. “We are so proud to honor such exceptional students and proud to be a leading contributor to educational programs and annual scholarships for our youths.”
Each high school was invited to select their senior student or students with the highest academic ranking, based on grade-point average 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 Branstad and Reynolds.
“The values learned through academic success, like those learned from participation in education-based activities, help develop outstanding leaders for today and the future,” said IHSAA Executive Director Rick Wulkow. “The partnership between the IHSAA and the Iowa Farm Bureau, along with the great cooperation of the governor’s office has made this prestigious event possible.”
Ninety-nine percent of those recognized also participate in extracurricular school activities, with more than 80 percent participating in at least one interscholastic sport. More than 60 percent of the group plan to continue their education in Iowa.