Local student in state competition for citizenship
Elizabeth Bailey - Greensburg Daily News
Published December 07, 2007 06:23 pm - The Decatur County Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) have named good citizens each year for as long as many area residents can remember.
Each of the county’s three high schools nominates a senior for the title. All three receive an honor for their achievements, but only one can represent the county for the state competition and the scholarship it offers. This year, that one senior is Mollye Leas of Greensburg Community High School.
Ed Deiwert, GCHS, serves on the committee that chooses Greensburg’s DAR good citizen. In order to select a representative for the high school, the history teachers make lists of potential candidates and come together to compare them. Then, they rank the students by looking at overall scholarship and community involvement.
“Mollye seems to be very well-balanced,” Deiwert noted. “She is a person who really contributes to everything she does.”
Deiwert is not the only person at GCHS who supports Leas in her competition on the state level. Phil Chapple, principal, has noticed outstanding individuals tend to be involved in a number of activities. He also recognizes the organization and brain power required in leading a busy and involved life.
“Mollye is a very outgoing young lady and a great representative for our school,” he said.
Barbara Welch is in charge of the local competition. She explained each good citizen must submit an application including essays, academic records and letters of recommendation. Not only must the student be recommended by their school, but also by a member of the community. Welch went on to say the organization formed a committee of judges to review the applications and choose the person who would best represent the county. Each year, there is a hope that Decatur County will be the home of the state winner.
“It does happen from time to time,” said Welch.
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