STUDENT OF THE MONTH

September 2023

Yankton High School senior, Ben Merkwan, has been named September Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. He was nominated by a teacher at Yankton High School, who says he has a commitment to academic excellence. Ben recently notified that he was a semifinalist in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship program and eligible to continue in the scholarship program.

“The nationwide group of Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. This is an incredible honor and is a testament to Ben’s commitment to academic excellence.”

– YHS Nominator

Ben is involved in symphonic and jazz band at YHS, student council, and also holds an officer position with the Yankton High School’s chapter of National Honor Society, and on the Roll of Excellence.

In his free time he enjoys music and bodybuilding.

Ben’s parents are Valerie and Joel Merkwan of Yankton. After high school he plans to attend South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in an undecided major.

The “Student of the Month” is awarded through a partnership of Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1 in Yankton, South Dakota and recognizes exceptional students in the Yankton School District. Horizon Health Care offers health care and dental services to the cities of Yankton, Elk Point, and Alcester in the Hot Country 93.1 listening area.

Beginning January of 2022 a student of the month is selected each month of the school year. Horizon Health Care selects an outstanding student and awards them with a recognition certificate and a small token, and is recognized on Hot Country 93.1 radio. Officials from Yankton High School nominate students for the award.