2025-2026 NDHSAA/Farmers Union Insurance Distinguished Student Named

JAMESTOWN, N.D. – Brynn Hanson, a junior at Des Lacs-Burlington High School was named the 2025-2026 North Dakota High School Activities Association and Farmers Union Insurance Distinguished Student. Interviews were held Wednesday, April 30 at Farmers Union Insurance Headquarters in Jamestown.

Elizabeth Pinke, of Northwood High School was chosen runner up. The other finalists interviewed were:

Ava Peterson, New Rockford-Sheyenne High School
Finnegan Kielty, Fargo North High School
Bryce Larson, Kidder County High School
Aubrey Middlestead, Ellendale High School

The six finalists were selected from applications sent in by high school principals from across the state.

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 Farmers Union Insurance sponsored $2,000 scholarship. The NDHSAA Distinguished Student serves as the NDHSAA spokesperson for High School Activities Month, promotes the values of activity programs and participates in the awarding of trophies at NDHSAA state contests throughout the school year. The runner-up will receive a $1,000 scholarship. The other four finalists receive a $500 scholarship to the college of his/her choice, publication in the NDHSAA Bulletin and other recognition in connection with NDHSAA events including the presentation of awards.

A full list of students who submitted applications as their school’s 2025-26 Distinguished Student can be found at ndhsaa.com/awards/distinguished-students

Way to go, Aubrey!

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