The Devils Lake Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs came together on Tuesday, May 2 to recognize the top students from the class of 2023 from five local communities.
Students from Devils Lake High School, Edmore High School, Four Winds High School, Minnewaukan High School and Warwick High School were recognized for their many achievements which included both academic excellence and school organization involvements.
Devils Lake High School kicked off the proceedings recognizing nine honor students although only six were able to be present: Caroline Belleque, Kayla Britsch, Cassandra Christensen, Hallie Fritel, Cadence Jenssen and Simon Schlenker. Recognized, but not present were Reese Brown, Casia Stenhaus and Malcolm Stubbe.
Edmore High School recognized honor students Ethan Okeson and Madison Knoke.
Four Winds High School recognized Valedictorian Reka Longie and Salutatorian Analissa Cavanaugh.
Minnewaukan High School recognized Christina Schneider and Breyah Lawrence, both as Valedictorian, and Julius Yankton as Salutatorian.
Warwick High School recognized Mark Fasset, Jr., as Valedictorian and Jason Lenoir, Salutatorian.
The guest speaker for the luncheon was Dr. Art Malloy, Vice President of Student Affairs at UND. In his address, Dr. Malloy gave the graduates some good advice; “Take time for those you love. Make intentional relationships. Practice active listening.”
He encouraged students that “kindness should start with you” and he told the young people gathered there to build relationships and to give back to their community, like the members of both clubs sponsoring the luncheon do, the Rotary and Kiwanis.
He challenged the young people to “accept the mantle of leadership, your time will come!” His message was one of encouragement that emphasized the lasting impact that comes from being involved in community service and remembering where you came from.
“You are ready!”
