In a proud moment for South Dakota, two outstanding students have been honored as U.S. Presidential Scholars. The U.S. Department of Education, in September, announced the prestigious list of distinguished graduating high school seniors. Among them were Bryn Marietta and Ernest Ting, two exemplary figures hailing from the heart of South Dakota.
Each year, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes the nation’s most exceptional high school seniors for their academic, artistic, and technical prowess, as well as their contributions to their communities. Established by a presidential executive order in 1964, this award stands as one of the highest honors a high school student can achieve in the United States.
Bryn Marietta, a recent graduate of Rapid City Stevens High School, has embarked on a promising academic journey at the University of South Dakota. Enrolled in the honors program, she has focused her studies on Physiology, Cell and Molecular Biology, disciplines that reflect her keen interest in the natural world. The University of South Dakota, known for its strong emphasis on research and academic excellence, provides an ideal environment for Bryn’s ambitions.
Bryn Marietta
Ernest Ting, a graduate of Brookings High School, has taken his talents to the prestigious California Institute of Technology (Caltech), where he is immersing himself in the field of Information and Data Sciences. Known for its cutting-edge research and innovation, Caltech offers Ernest a platform to hone his academic skills while contributing to the technological advancements that drive our modern world. In addition to his academic pursuits, Ernest is also a member of the Caltech track and field team, balancing his athletic talents with his academic pursuits.
University of South Dakota
South Dakota’s educational landscape has long been committed to nurturing talent and creating leaders who will serve the future needs of both the state and the nation. The acknowledgment of Bryn and Ernest as U.S. Presidential Scholars speaks volumes about the quality of education and community support young South Dakotans receive. Such achievements inspire local communities, underscoring the belief that talent from South Dakota can indeed find its place on the national and international stage.
The broader South Dakota community has rallied behind these scholars, as their success embodies the values that the state prides itself upon – resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. With strong educational foundations built within their respective high schools, both students have showcased how South Dakota cultivates future leaders capable of contributing significantly to various fields, from biology and technology to athletics and community service.
Holly McKernan, news director and the author of this compelling article, extends her congratulations to Bryn and Ernest for their remarkable achievements. In a message to the broader audience, she expressed, “Their stories of academic excellence and dedication are a source of inspiration for many budding scholars across the state.”
To learn more about Bryn and Ernest’s journey or to keep up with ongoing educational achievements in South Dakota, you can reach out to Holly McKernan at holly.mckernan@kxlgradio.com. For continued updates and news, be sure to follow our news stories as we document the achievements and contributions of South Dakotans.
As the world increasingly turns its attention to emerging talents, South Dakota remains a beacon of potential. With students like Bryn and Ernest leading the way, the state is sure to nurture many more scholars who will shape the future with their intellect and integrity.