Nomination Statement
Irene, daughter of Jeremy and Emmalea Ernest of Ellendale, is a committed and hardworking student. When she undertakes a task or project, Irene gives it her all. She currently has a cumulative GPA of 103.9%. Irene is completing the Structures pathway, attends Academic Challenge Classes at DTCC, and is completing her 3rd level of Spanish. In college she hopes to specifically learn about wetlands and the interaction between engineering and the environment. She has been both a member and captain of the cross country and track teams for the last four years. She is also active in her local church.
“If I have learned anything, it is that I cannot look inside myself to find inspiration. Inside, I find a convoluted black hole. Outside myself, however, I can draw inspiration from the people around me. They have creative solutions and senses of humor. I can also draw inspiration from the natural world. It too has creative solutions and a sense of humor. Both are beautiful.”
