UNL recognizes Distinguished Scholars of 2006

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recognized top Nebraska seniors for their academic excellence at the 2006 Omaha World-Herald Recognition Dinner this fall. These distinguished scholars have demonstrated a high level of ability and a strong commitment to superior performance in academics as indicated by their class ranking, combined with their ACT or SAT test scores. All Nebraska National Merit semi-finalists National Hispanic Scholars and National Achievement Scholars were also recognized.

The Omaha World-Herald sponsors the recognition dinner, as well as two of the most prestigious and financially rewarding scholarships that the university awards. Duane Polodna, vice president and chief financial officer of the World-Herald, presented UNL freshmen Aaron Fluitt and Sarah Arthur with this year's award of World-Herald Honors Scholars.

Fluitt is a National Merit Scholar and graduate of Lincoln East High School. He is a chemical engineering major with minors in mathematics and Spanish. Fluitt is active in the UNL Chapter of American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Chem-E-Car Competition, University Honors Program, and the Cornhusker Marching Band.

Arthur is a National Merit Scholar and graduate of Aurora High School who majors in mathematics, and physics and astronomy. She is involved in the University Honors Program and is interested in undergraduate research and plans to attend graduate school.

The recognition dinner culminated an entire day of events for the distinguished scholars. Distinguished Scholars Day gives students the opportunity to learn more about the academic programs offered at Nebraska through the University Honors Program. Students and parents also join in on a Creation of Knowledge Tour where they get a glimpse of research and other academic opportunities for undergraduate students. They learned about music, journalism and engineering. All students interacted in small seminar classes on subjects including ethics in business, history, language and images, philosophy, photojournalism, biotechnology, political science, management and chemistry.

The link below is to a list of Distinguished Scholars by high school. The student's hometown is included in parentheses where appropriate.

CONTACT: Carrie Myers, Office of Admissions, (402) 472-8892