By Kim McDarison
Twenty Fort Atkinson High School Class of 2022 Top Scholars were honored Sunday by the Fort Atkinson Rotary Club for their academic achievements.
The students and their families were invited to a banquet held in the students’ honor at the Fort Atkinson Club community center, Fort Atkinson.
With about 100 people in attendance, Rotary club members, students and their guests were treated to a meal as prepared and catered by the Fort Memorial Hospital catering department, featuring grilled chicken breast stuffed with spinach and cheese, which was served by members of the hospital’s catering department and the Fort Atkinson High School’s Pro-Start students who also were responsible for preparing the dessert, according to their teacher Kevin Duncan. Guests were presented with a dessert choice of flourless chocolate cake or turtle cheesecake.
During the meal, guests were entertained by nine members of the Fort Atkinson High School Chamber Orchestra, which was conducted by music teacher Bill Callaway.
During the event, several speakers address the students and their families. Among them were Margaret Bare, president of the Fort Atkinson Rotary Club; Dr. James Fitzpatrick, retired superintendent of the School District of Fort Atkinson; Michael Knutson, a Fort Atkinson High School class of 2011 graduate and a fourth-grade teacher at Barrie Elementary school; Amy Oakley, School District of Fort Atkinson director of curriculum, and Dr. Rob Abbott, superintendent of schools at the School District of Fort Atkinson.
Additionally, the 20 students were introduced, along with their parents, to dinner attendees and a bio describing each student was read aloud. Each student received a Top Scholars certificate.
Students honored include: Joseph Barganz, Lily Belzer, Karlie Blanchar, Claire Haffelder, Katharina Kessler, Mackenzie Kuska, Andrew Meacham, Anton Saucedo, Jenna Schwab, Tayanna Schwefel, Elee Sharp, Jessica Sharp, Lydia Smith, Braden Traxler, Jennifer Tumbarello, Preston Whitcomb, Spencer Whitcomb, Kiara Wolfram, Nolan Zachgo and Jada Zorn.
Remarks and speeches
During her opening remarks, Bare told guests that Sunday’s dinner was the Rotary Club of Fort Atkinson’s 62nd such occasion, adding that it was a privilege to honor the students and their families. She expressed gratitude to be able to once again hold the event after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19.
Delivering words of inspiration, Fitzpatrick, addressing student honorees, said he wanted to issue a series of challenges.
“Following this banquet, I hope before this evening is over, each of you will give thanks to your parents and families for the love, support and sacrifices they have put forth on your behalf and the direction they have provided you. I had to become a principal at 26 before I ever realized just how lucky I was to have the parents I had, and tell them so.”
As a second challenge, he said: “Send a note or email to that influential educator, director or coach who really left a wonderful impression on you, taught you great lessons, or mentored you in a most special way where you knew they were invested in you.”
Fitzpatrick next shared an inspirational thought which, he said, originated with Muhammed Ali: “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”
He added: “Be kind, be selfless and be compassionate in sharing your immense talents and gifts with others.”
Bare next introduced guest speaker Knutson, noting that he earned his bachelor’s degree in communication studies from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse in May of 2016. He earned his master of arts degree in elementary and middle school education from Cardinal Stritch University of Milwaukee in August of 2020.
His career in the Fort Atkinson school system began in 2019, when he served as a long-term substitute teacher that spring, and then as a special education aide in the fall of that year. His student teaching assignment was at Barrie Elementary School teaching fifth grade, she said.
Knutson was hired at Barrie Elementary School in the Fall of 2020.
Bare further described Knutson as the “star pitcher” of the Blackhawk baseball team in the spring of 2011, during which time the team won the WIAA district and sectional games and went on to the state playoffs.
Knutson continued his baseball career at Riverland Community College in Austin, Minnesota, where he was the team captain, and named Male Athlete of the Year, Bare said.
He was also a player with the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse baseball team where he and his teammates played in three College World Series.
Knutson serves today as the assistant baseball coach at Jefferson High School, and has been an instructor in youth camps in Whitewater and Delafield, Bare said.
Addressing students, Knutson said: “I was in your seat at this same time in May of 2011.”
He described his high school career and graduation as an exciting time, studying for AP and final exams, pitching in the WIAA baseball tournament games and anticipating a career in college.
Knutson reminded students arriving on college campuses this fall to keep some practical ideas in mind, like remembering to eat their vegetables.
“Know about your food groups, and bring an umbrella,” he said, because professors don’t cancel classes on account of rain.
“Most of you — like me when I was your age — got good grades and really didn’t encounter too many great obstacles, largely due to the support group you have,” he said, citing parents, family and friends.
In the next stages of life, he said, “You will likely now be challenged like you never have been before, but if you work hard, stay focused, try new things, you will be okay and find your path.”
Knutson said, some students might already have a defined pathway, adding that when he graduated from high school, he thought he did, too.
He said he thought he wanted to be a trainer, but discovered in college that studying biology wasn’t his passion.
He next thought about studying accounting, he said, noting that he was good at math, but ultimately concluded that the confines of a desk job did not excite him either.
He also changed schools, he said.
“So my point is that along your journey from next fall on, you may find it a winding road with some stops, starts, and restarts, and that is OK.”
Knutson said he discovered he was most comfortable in a career as a teacher and coach.
“It’s a career where I can give back, and serve others,” he said.
Knutson advised students that, most importantly, they should be themselves.
“Be you. You are unique with your own special gifts. With social media and all the noise around us, sometimes we may be tempted to act like someone else — be you, and be proud of what you have to offer and give back to others in the way of service and support of others,” he said.
He urged students to make an impact in the communities where they live.
Oakley next introduced each student honoree and invited them to the podium where they received their Top Scholar certificate from Bare and Abbott.
Concluding the ceremony, Abbott said: “On behalf of the School District of Fort Atkinson Board of Education, administration, teachers, and staff, I am pleased to once again congratulate each of our students as well as their families in earning the well-deserved recognition this evening as the graduating class of 2022 Rotary Top Scholars.
“As superintendent of schools, I am excited to be part of this event given that you are evidence of our district’s vision being actualized as we strive for all students ‘to achieve distinction in all they do.’”
In Addition, Abbott said: “I would also like to acknowledge Margaret Bare, the Fort Atkinson Rotary Club, and my fellow Rotarians for making this event possible, mentoring, and modeling a Rotarian’s motto: ‘Service Above Self.’ There are more than 1.2 million Rotarians all over the world in more than 35,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries in all geographic areas. Fort Atkinson’s chapter has a storied history of supporting public education.”
Student introductions and bios, as shared during the ceremony, follow.
Joseph Barganz
Joseph Barganz, pictured above and son of Todd and Stacci Barganz, plans to attend MSOE where he will major in computer engineering. He is also considering double majoring in computer science or software engineering. His fondest high school memory was when the band went to the State Capitol building on a field trip and played in the rotunda, and explored Madison for the day. Joseph said his most meaningful activities were cross country, wind ensemble, and building friendships with his fellow band members.
Lily Belzer
Lily Belzer, pictured above with her certificate and daughter of Mason and Stephanie Belzer, said her favorite high school memories are of the senior officer meetings with Dr. Sperry and Mrs. Knutson. Her meaningful experiences are varsity swimming, varsity basketball, and student senate. Lily said she would have never made it this far in life without the support of her mom and dad. She said that she owes her successes to them and she will continue to work hard to make them proud. Lily will be attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison to study interior architecture and design.
Karlie Blanchar
Karlie Blanchar, at left, and daughter of Mitchell Blanchar and RyAnn Bixler plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she will major in either interior architecture or elementary education. Three high school activities that have been meaningful to her include National Honor Society, the Big Buddy Program and Optimist Club. Karlie’s fondest memory at Fort Atkinson High School stems from making new friends and meeting new people. “High school has made me figure out who I am and who I want to be,” she said.
Claire Haffelder
Claire Haffelder, pictured above and the daughter of Dorian and Andrea Haffelder, will be attending Northern Illinois University where she will be majoring in elementary education. Her meaningful high school experiences have been Tri M Music Honors Society, Unified Champions Club, and being a dancer and instructor at the Main Street Dance Studio in Fort Atkinson. Her fondest high school memory was supporting Fort Atkinson teams as a participant in the student cheering section. Contributed photo.
Katharina “Kat” Kessler
Katharina “Kat” Kessler, pictured above and the daughter of Rudy and Miranda Kessler, said her fondest high school memory was being in the student section with all her friends at different sporting events. She identified three activities that she found meaningful as part of her high school career: soccer, cross country, and link crew. Her future plans include attending UW-Madison where she will be majoring in business.
Mackenzie Kuska
Machenzie Kuska, pictured above and the daughter of Kyle and Kimberly Kuska, plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Contributed photo.
Andrew Meacham
Andrew Meacham, shown above with his Top Scholar certificate and son of Jim and Stacey Meacham, will be attending Purdue University as a first year engineering student with a goal of double majoring in computer science and biomedical engineering. His meaningful high school experiences are being the captain of the debate team and being selected for the Wisconsin Leadership Seminar. These activities have taught him valuable life skills, especially leadership, which he plans to continue to use as an elected official on the Alumni Association Board, he said. His fondest memory was breaking the school record in Intro to Engineering class by designing and executing the strongest bridge.
Anton Saucedo
Anton Saucedo, pictured above and the son of Arthur and Jennifer Saucedo, will be attending the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where he plans to study music and instrumental music education. He hopes one day to teach high school band, jazz, and music theory courses. His three most meaningful activities are: jazz groups, pit orchestra, and friends. The jazz ambassadors helped him improve musically, plus provided a way to expand his music talents, learn more musically, and enriched his life. The pit orchestra provided a group of musical people who became his good friends that could make professional, quality music, which was such a unique experience for him, he added. Anton’s fondest Fort Atkinson High School memory, he said, couldn’t be defined by one simple moment, but rather it is a portrait of many moments that shaped the nostalgia to his years, including: friends, shopping, antiquing, driving around, and his many, many friendships. Anton is an Eagle Scout, Knights of Columbus member, and loves anything vintage. He is often called an “old soul,” he said.
Jenna Schwab
Jenna Schwab, pictured receiving her certificate from Fort Atkinson School District Superintendent Rob Abbott and the daughter of Jerry and Lori Schwab, said her most meaningful experiences in high school include Interact Club and National Art Honors Society. Jenna’s fondest high school memory was pushing herself to initiate a friendship with a foreign exchange student and developing a strong, lasting relationship. Jenna also enjoyed the opportunity to work on murals throughout the community as she felt it was such a unique way to express her artistic skills. She will be attending UW-Whitewater where she plans to study business.
Tayanna Schwefel
Tayanna Schwefel, pictured above and the daughter of Jessie and Rachel Schaefer, will be attending the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse where she plans to major in psychology and minor in at-risk child and youth care. Her meaningful high school experiences include being a part of orchestra, a member of the Unified Champions Club, and being a part of track and field for all four of her years in high school. Tayanna said she doesn’t have a single fond memory of her high school journey, citing her time in high school as extremely memorable, with laughs, good times, and hard work. She believes her teachers and classmates have supported her throughout the years and have shaped her into the person she is today.
Elee Sharp
Elee Sharp, pictured receiving her Top Scholar certificate and the daughter of Troy and Renee Sharp, will be attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she plans to major in studio art. Her meaningful high school experiences include orchestra, National Art Honor Society, and Archery Club. Elee’s fondest high school memory was going on a field trip to the Milwaukee Art Museum and Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design with her art class.
Jessie Sharp
Jessie Sharp, pictured above and the daughter of Troy and Renee Sharp, will be attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she plans to study studio art. Jessie’s favorite high school memory is sitting in the high school gym during homecoming pep rallies watching the event called: “What’s in my bucket?” Her most meaningful activities in high school were National Art Honor Society, Girl Scouts, and Archery Club.
Lydia Smith
Lydia Smith, pictured above and the daughter of Timothy and Andrea Smith will be attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she plans to study biology with the goal of becoming a physician’s assistant or receiving her doctorate in occupational therapy. Her meaningful high school experiences were cross country for four years, track and field for two years, National Honor Society, Tri-M Club, and Orchestra for four years. Lydia’s fondest high school memories include going to football and basketball games with friends. Contributed photo.
Braden Traxler
Braden Traxler, pictured above and the son of Wayne and Teresa Traxler, plans to attend UW-Whitewater to study business and run track and field, with hopes of transferring to a Division-1 school for track. His meaningful high school experiences have been running cross country, being in track and field, and playing in the band, especially with his friends. Braden’s fondest memory was when he returned to track after he broke his collarbone to run regionals.
Jennifer Tumbarello
Jennifer Tumbarello, pictured above and the daughter of Terry and Cheryl Tumbarello, plans to attend UW-Madison where she will double major in biology and dance. Jennifer’s favorite high school memory is planning school dances and events with fellow class officers and committee members. Her meaningful high school activities include being a dance student and instructor at Main Street Dance Studio, class treasurer for the last three years, and a participant in the Big Buddy program. Contributed photo.
Preston Whitcomb
Preston Whitcomb, pictured above and the son of Benjamin and Terry Whitcomb, said his most meaningful high school experiences are track and field, boys swimming, and the many friendships he has built throughout the years. One of Preston’s fondest memories was completing his first year of swimming, although he had no prior experience, he had a very successful season, he said. Preston will be attending the Milwaukee School of Engineering where he will study actuarial science. He plans to run cross country and track and field.
Spencer Whitcomb
Spencer Whitcomb, pictured receiving his certificate from School District of Fort Atkinson Superintendent Rob Abbott and son of Benjamin and Terry Whitcomb, said his meaningful high school experiences include playing soccer for four years, band, and orchestra. His fondest memory is participating in the pep band during homecoming and getting the students section “pumped” with spirit. Spencer will be attending MSOE where he plans to major in business administration.
Kiara Wolfram
Kiara Wolfram, at right, the daughter of Brett and Jodi Wolfram, will be attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she plans to major in biochemistry on a pre-med track. Her meaningful high school experiences were basketball, forensics, and Spanish Honor Society. Kiara said her fondest high school memory was beating Stoughton at home senior year.
Nolan Zachgo
Nolan Zachgo, pictured above and the son of Brian and Tara Zachgo, said his fondest high school memory was the day he found out he passed his AP exams. He has been a part of three meaningful activities: Math Club, football and track, and the National Honor Society. Nolan plans to attend UW-Stout where he will be majoring in applied math with an emphasis in education, and he also will be participating in track.
Jada Zorn
Jada Zorn, pictured above and the daughter of Todd and Rachelle Zorn, plans to attend Montana State University where she will be majoring in something math-related. She also plans to participate in cross country and track. Jada identified three meaningful high school experiences: cross country, track, and National Honor Society. She said her fondest high school memories include track meets with her friends.
Following are photos from the event.
Margaret Bare, Fort Atkinson Rotary Club president, delivers opening remarks.
James Fitzpatrick delivers comments of inspiration.
Guest speaker Michael Knutson shares his experiences as a Fort Atkinson High School Class of 2011 graduate and his career path choices made in college. He is a fourth-grade teacher at Barrie Elementary School in Fort Atkinson.
School District of Fort Atkinson Superintendent Rob Abbott offers concluding remarks during Sunday’s banquet and recognition ceremony.
School District of Fort Atkinson music teacher Bill Callaway, at left, directs the Fort Atkinson High School Chamber Orchestra. Nine members of the orchestra performed during the Fort Atkinson Rotary Club’s Top Scholars Banquet held Sunday.
Three photos above: Members of the Fort Atkinson High School Chamber Orchestra perform Sunday during the Fort Atkinson Rotary Club Top Scholars Banquet.
Sixteen of 20 Top Scholars gather Sunday on the steps of the Fort Atkinson Club community center. They are: Nolan Zachgo, back row, from left, Andrew Meacham, Braden Traxler, Anton Saucedo, Jenna Schwab; middle row, from left, Lilly Belzer, Kiara Wolfram, Elee Sharp, Spencer Whitcomb, Joseph Barganz, Jessica Sharp, and front row, from left, Jada Zorn, Katharina “Kat” Kiessler, Preston Whitcomb, Karlie Blanchar and Tayanna Schwefel. Also honored, but unable to attend Sunday’s banquet and ceremony were Claire Haffelder, Mackenzie Kuska, Lydia Smith and Jennifer Tumbarello. Kim McDarison photo.
Photos by Kim McDarison unless otherwise indicated.
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