Edgemont High School senior Anna Hansen attended last week’s 33rd annual Academic Excellence Recognition luncheon in Pierre where she met Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden and Gov. Kristi Noem. Also recognized at the luncheon but unable to attend in person were Hot Springs senior Jaylen Nachtigall and Oelrichs senior Shayna Otteson.

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PIERRE – 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 in Pierre. Included on the list of students recognized were Anna Hansen of Edgemont High School, Jaylen Nachtigall of Hot Springs High School and Shayna Otteson of Oelrichs High School. 

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 on Monday, April 24. 

Students designated as their high school’s honoree received a certificate, South Dakota pin and the opportunity to meet and have their photo taken with Governor Noem, who also encouraged the students to take challenges head on. 

Hansen attended the luncheon and was able to meet with Gov. Noem. Nachtigall and Otteson were unable to attend but received the certificate by mail.

“Look at challenges as opportunities. An opportunity to find out who you were meant to be,” Gov. 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 expressed 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.