Kirkwood honors Washington student with award

WASHINGTON — Washington High School Senior Samantha Hunger has been named Kirkwood Washington County Regional's Outstanding Student of the Year. Samantha was selected by Kirkwood staff based on exceptional academic performance, completion of at least half of her coursework toward a degree, current enrollment, and her qualities of character and leadership. She will be recognized at an awards ceremony and reception on April 7, 2023 in Cedar Rapids at Kirkwood Community College.

Hunger said she was honored to receive the award.

"Kirkwood has allowed me to explore many careers, but the most important thing I learned was how to balance school and activities … and I am very grateful for the opportunity to have saved money as I worked toward my degree," she said.

Hunger spoke highly of her Kirkwood instructors but admitted she had one that really stood out.

"Aaron McGlynn [ACE Academy instructor] is my favorite teacher of all time,“ she said. ”Even though I don't plan to pursue an ACE-related career, he taught me skills that I will use for the rest of my life."

Samantha Hunger has been earning College Credit in High School (CCHS) since she was a freshman. She has earned 46 hours of free college credit through the Liberal Arts Academy, ACE Academy, and companion courses resulting in a tuition savings of $9,200. After graduation, she plans to take a semester to finish her associate degree at Kirkwood Community College. Later, she will complete an 18-month church mission trip and then return to college to become a pharmacist.

Samantha is the daughter of Russ and Melanie Hunger. While in high school, Samantha played volleyball and was active in National Honor Society and church activities. She was a Kirkwood for Kids and Camp Exploration volunteer, as well as a Kirkwood Student Ambassador. She enjoys reading, playing piano, and spending time with family and friends.