VALLEY CITY, N.D. – The North Dakota High School Activities Association and Farmers Union Insurance are proud to announce the finalists for the 2019-2020 Distinguished Student Award.

The six interviewing for the NDHSAA/Farmers Union Insurance Distinguished Student Award are:

Emily Dinius, New England High School
Philip Dowdell, Fargo North High School
Macy Jordheim, Thompson High School
Cassandra Rostvet, Northwood High School
Lauren McLean, Minot High School
Addison Hoornaert, Carrington High School

These students have been selected from an outstanding group of juniors from across the state. These six will be interviewed on May 1. The final results will be announced at a noon luncheon that day.

The NDHSAA Distinguished Student program was developed to recognize deserving young people who are the “backbone” of interscholastic activities, not necessarily the leader, but the individual whose participation in high school activities strengthens the program for participants, the school and the community. Applicants are students entering their senior year. The student must be a participant as a player, manager, statistician or other role in at least one NDHSAA sponsored activity. The student must be a good citizen and role model to his/her peers as well as a contributor to his/her school and community.

The NDHSAA Distinguished Student recipient receives a medallion and a Farmers Union Insurance sponsored $2,000 scholarship to the college of his/her choice. He/she is invited to be the Grand Marshall of the NDHSAA “Parade of Champions” as well as participating in other activities such as serving as the NDHSAA spokesperson for High School Activities Month, promoting the values of activity programs and participating in awarding of trophies at major NDHSAA state contests. The runner-up will receive a medallion and a $1,000 scholarship. The other four finalists receive a medallion, a $500 scholarship to the college of his/her choice, publication in the Bulletin and other recognition in connection with NDHSAA events.

By Tom Mix, NDHSAA Media Specialist