The academic achievements of the best and brightest students from the Class of 2023 were recognized recently at the 33rd Annual Academic Excellence Recognition luncheon.

Governor Kristi Noem and the Associated School Boards of South Dakota (ASBSD) honored students who were identified as the top one percent of their senior class, from the state’s public, private and Tribal/BIE schools.
Students designated as their high school’s honoree(s) received a certificate, South Dakota pin and the opportunity to meet and have their photo taken with Governor Kristi Noem and Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden, who also encouraged the students to take challenges head on.

“Look at challenges as opportunities. An opportunity to find out who you were meant to be,” Governor Noem told the seniors. “When you hit a challenge, you become a problem solver.”

ASBSD President Lisa Snedeker noted the day was a celebration of the students and their achievements.

“Before you head out on your next adventure, we celebrate your hard work. Today we celebrate your achievements,” Snedeker said to the students.

“Today, we celebrate you, the best and brightest of the Class of 2023.”

The event was sponsored by A&B Business Solutions, School Administrators of South Dakota, South Dakota Board of Regents, South Dakota Education Association and Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Musical entertainment was provided by the Woonsocket High School Choir.

Cori Birkel, De Smet High School

Mason Bottum, Hitchcock-Tulare High School

Lexy Burma, Iroquois High School

Abby Hasart, James Valley Christian High School

Eric Ames, Miller High School

Ellie Evans, Sanborn Central High School

Rylee Nelson, Sunshine Bible Academy High School

Madison Burke, Willow Lake High School

Leah Williams, Wolsey-Wessington High School

Tristan Jensen, Woonsocket High School

Not pictured: Avery Miles, Doland; Samantha Winker, Howard; Charley Nuhsbaumer, Redfield; and Kirstie Munsen, Wessington Springs