Annual Cotillion for Achievement recognizing outstanding highschool seniors

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Sixteen of the area's top high school seniors were recognized Saturday at the annual Cotillion for Achievement, a formal event celebrating excellence in academics, athletics, leadership, and community service.

Held at the St. Joseph Country Club, the long-standing tradition brings together students and their families for an evening of recognition and celebration.

Since 1987, the cotillion has honored young people who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to making St. Joseph a better place through volunteering, scholarship, sportsmanship, and even etiquette.

"It's one of my favorite things," said Dr. Caroline Merrigan, Public Relations Chair for the event. "Students are judged on academics. They have to write an essay also to apply. And they participate in several leadership training opportunities, etiquette. They all have waltz lessons with their parents."

Each of the 16 honorees received a $1,000 scholarship.

From this distinguished group, one young woman and one young man were named Winners of Distinction, each receiving a $2,000 scholarship.

This year's Winners of Distinction are Mallorie Wilcox from St. Joseph Christian School and Cole Kelley from Benton High School.

The event aims to help prepare students for life after high school, giving them both financial support and valuable experience as they take their next steps into the future.

Congratulations to all of this year's outstanding honorees!