Chamber honors students

DECATUR — Three Decatur High School seniors - valedictorian Ashley Lor, salutatorian Casey Yang and honor student Mitchell Nelson - were recognized for their academic achievements during the annual Chamber of Commerce Honors Banquet on Monday.

The three students had the three highest grade point averages, ranging from 3.5 to 3.96, in the class of 2011, according to superintendent Larry Ben.

“This is a very big honor and achievement to be the best in their class,” he said.

After the dinner, held at the Gallery Café, Chamber of Commerce president David Flynt presented the students with gift bags. Flynt commended them for their hard work and said that, as a parent, he understood the value of good grades in earning scholarships and helping to pay for college.

All three of the students credited their family for inspiringtheir academic achievement. Lor explained that school work was a priority for her parents because they wanted a better life for her.

Nelson said his older siblings have motivated him and have helped him learn from their mistakes.

“All my brothers and sisters are at least eight years older than me. They have encouraged me to be the best I can … They’ve helped me be straightforward and achieve what I go for,” said Nelson.

Lor, who earned the honor of being named class valedictorian, is involved in FCLA, FBLA, National Honor Society and soccer, and her favorite class is art. Outside of school, she enjoys playing volleyball and taking a break from her busy life.

Lor said she plans to attend the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville next fall and major in medical science.

Yang is involved in FCCLA, FBLA, student council, National Honor Society and soccer. Her favorite classes are physics and foods, she said. Outside of school, Yang enjoys drawing, reading and playing sports.

After graduation, Yang said she plans to attend the University of Arkansas with a major in pre-medicine and possibly a minor in art. She hopes to go on to become a pediatrician.

Nelson is involved in FBLA, basketball, track, baseball, soccer and trap shooting. His favorite classes are transition math and anatomy.

In his free time, Nelson said he enjoys going out with friends, especially watching the UFC Fight at Buffalo Wildwings.

Commencement ceremonies for the 22 students in the class of 2011 will be held at 7 p.m., May 13, in the Lloyd Peterson Gymnasium.