Somerset's Vanasse selected for national scholarship program

• PHOTO: Vanasse

Eleanor “Ellie” Vanasse is handed her certificate for being nominated to compete in the National Leadership Award scholarship program by Somerset High School Principal Shawn Madden. Vanasse’s parents, Dan and Mary, are also pictured.

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Eleanor Vanasse, a Somerset High School senior, has been nominated to compete in the National Principal’s Leadership Award (PLA) scholarship program, co-sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) and Herff Jones, Inc.

Principal Shawn Madden, Somerset High School, announced the nomination which places Vanasse in the national competition. One hundred National PLA winners will be chosen this spring to receive college scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $12,000.

Madden noted that Eleanor is an exceptional young lady of character and integrity who consistently strives for and achieves high academic goals and meets each new challenge with a positive attitude. Eleanor is a team player and has a willingness to help out her fellow classmates, teachers, and her school. One aspect of Eleanor’s leadership skills is her willingness to serve as well as lead.

In the area of athletics Eleanor has participated in basketball: four-year letterwinner, team captain and All-Conference. She also participated in volleyball: two-year letter winner, Most Improved Player 2011 season, captain, All-Conference 2011, Conference Player of the Year 2011, selected to Tri-State All-Star Team 2011 (Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa). In addition, Eleanor played softball for three years. Her other school and community volunteer activities included National Honor Society, High School Yearbook, Prom Committee, STAND (Students Taking Action in New Directions), Mock Trial, Spartan Mentors, mission trips, various youth group activities, religious education, sports tournaments, volleyball coaching, basketball coaching, parish festival and Relay for Life.

High school principals from across the country were able to nominate one of their student leaders. Nominees were selected based on their leadership skills; participation in service organizations and clubs; achievements in the arts and sciences; employment experience; and academic record. They were also required to write an essay.

“Every year the nominees for the Principal’s Leadership Award are just phenomenal and Eleanor Vanasse is no different,” said JoAnn Bartoletti, executive director, NASSP. “She is an excellent example of what a true student leader embodies and deserves to be commended for her excellence in the classroom and community.”

Eleanor is the daughter of Dan and Mary Vanasse. Eleanor’s future plans include attending the College of St. Benedict this fall, and she plans on obtaining a nursing degree. We congratulate Eleanor on her nomination, and best wishes on her future endeavors.

Tags: somerset schools, communities, education, somerset