Area High School Seniors Named Governor's Scholars
Some of the brightest young minds in Kansas will be honored as Governor's Scholars during an event on Sunday, May 3 in Topeka.
The Kansas Governor’s Scholars Program recognizes the top academic 1% of high school seniors across the state. Students selected for this prestigious recognition have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, leadership and dedication throughout their high school careers.
Area students selected as 2026 Governor's Scholars include:
- Macy Patterson of Russell Junior-Senior High School
- Cale Thompson of Central Plains High School in Claflin
- Julia Schlessiger of Ellinwood High School
- Lainey Peschka of Ellsworth High School
- Melody Braddy of Hoisington High School
- Alyssa Lopez of Lincoln High School
- Ryah Bertuccelli of Osborne High School
- Louis McVey of Otis-Bison High School
- Molly Heller of Sylvan-Lucas High School
- Emma Dinkel of Victoria High School
Complete list of Kansas Governor's Scholars
This program is hosted by Washburn University and coordinated for the Governor by the Confidence in Kansas Public Education Task Force. Sunday’s event prelude music and National Anthem will be performed by student musicians from Lawrence Free State High School. Free State was honored as the 2025-26 KSHSAA Performing Arts School of Excellence Award winner. The event will also feature remarks from 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year Rachel Marlow from the Olathe School District.