October Student of the Month - Fiona Myers
By Bruce Karnick - Hastings Journal
Two Hastings High School seniors were honored for their leadership, service, and character during the Hastings Area Rotary Club’s weekly breakfast meeting held Thursday, Dec. 11, at the 2nd Street Depot. The gathering brought together Rotary members, school representatives, and family members to celebrate the October and November Students of the Month in one shared presentation.
The combined recognition came after October honoree Fiona Myers was unable to attend her original presentation date due to surgery. Rotary members took the opportunity to recognize both students together, allowing time for extended remarks from teachers and coaches who have worked closely with them throughout their high school careers.
The Rotary Student of the Month Award is presented to Hastings High School seniors who exemplify the Rotary motto of Service Above Self. The program also serves to strengthen relationships between the school and the broader community, while highlighting students who lead through their actions, character, and commitment to others.
Fiona Myers was named the October Student of the Month and was nominated by Ms. Benson, Ms. Massmann, and Mr. Haneberg. Each spoke about a student who sets a high standard in the classroom, in athletics, and in how she treats those around her.
“It is truly an honor to nominate Fiona Myers for the Rotary Student of the Month,” her nominators said. “Fiona is an extremely dedicated student-athlete who inspires others with her unwavering discipline, work ethic in the classroom, example she displays in sports, and her leadership throughout the school.”
Myers is a three-sport athlete, competing in soccer, wrestling, and track and field. Her schedule is equally demanding off the field. She serves as a Link Crew leader, is a member of National Honor Society and Best Buddies, and leads as an FCA huddle leader. Despite the busy calendar, she maintains a perfect 4.0 grade point average.
Her academic load includes multiple Advanced Placement and college-level courses, including AP Chemistry, AP Language, AP Statistics, AP U.S. History, AP Calculus AB, college macroeconomics, college psychology, college public speaking, college writing, landscaping, and Unified Physical Education.
Teachers described her as someone who never cuts corners and consistently shows up prepared. Mr. Haneberg said, “Fiona is a phenomenal young woman and an amazing support person for fellow students. She is a student-athlete who is the definition of both leadership and character.”
He added that her influence is felt beyond wins and grades, noting that she models leadership and integrity in everyday interactions. “Her ability to be a positive role model to her teammates and peers allows them to analyze situations that high school students are faced with and make moral decisions,” he said.
Ms. Massmann highlighted Myers’ work welcoming younger students into the school community. “Amongst other things, Fiona has served as a Link Crew leader for the past two years, playing an important role in welcoming our new ninth graders to the building and helping to set the tone for a positive school culture,” she said.
She added that Myers balances energy and dependability, saying she “brings a great energy and sense of humor as a leader while also consistently showing up as a steady and reliable presence.”
Ms. Benson reflected on Myers as a student in AP Chemistry. “She came to class ready to learn each day,” Benson said. “Even when the material was difficult, she approached the class with a positive attitude and worked hard to reach her goals.”
Benson added that while Myers earned a passing AP exam score, the growth she showed along the way stood out most. “She improved her problem-solving skills, and her grit to succeed continued to shine,” she said. “She was a delight to work with every single day.”
Outside of school, Myers works at Dairy Queen and enjoys spending time with friends. Looking ahead, she plans to attend the University of Wisconsin, where she hopes to major in exercise science.
2025 November Student of the Month - Ryder Ashcraft
By Bruce Karnick - Hastings Journal
Two Hastings High School seniors were honored for their leadership, service, and character during the Hastings Area Rotary Club’s weekly breakfast meeting held Thursday, Dec. 11, at the 2nd Street Depot. The gathering brought together Rotary members, school representatives, and family members to celebrate the October and November Students of the Month in one shared presentation.
The combined recognition came after October honoree Fiona Myers was unable to attend her original presentation date due to surgery. Rotary members took the opportunity to recognize both students together, allowing time for extended remarks from teachers and coaches who have worked closely with them throughout their high school careers.
The Rotary Student of the Month Award is presented to Hastings High School seniors who exemplify the Rotary motto of Service Above Self. The program also serves to strengthen relationships between the school and the broader community, while highlighting students who lead through their actions, character, and commitment to others.
Ryder Ashcraft was recognized as the November Student of the Month and was nominated by Mr. Olson, Mr. Lutz, and Mr. Feikema. Their remarks focused on Ashcraft’s consistent selflessness, leadership, and ability to lift others without seeking attention.
“I would like to nominate Ryder Ashcraft for Rotary Student of the Month,” Mr. Olson said. “Ryder is probably in the top 1% of just all around amazing kids that I have had the chance to work with.”
Olson has known Ashcraft through coaching basketball and teaching AP Statistics. He described a student who puts team success ahead of personal recognition. “He truly embodies being a servant leader,” Olson said.
Recalling Ashcraft’s time playing JV basketball, Olson noted that “Ryder prided himself on doing everything possible to help the team be successful and that usually meant things that didn't show up in the box score.” He added, “You could always count on him for playing hard and being a great teammate.”
Ashcraft’s encouragement of others stood out just as much as his effort. “No matter how he played he was always encouraging to his teammates and picking them up when they were down,” Olson said.
That same approach carries into the classroom. Olson described Ashcraft as someone who naturally helps others learn. “He works great with others in the class and has no problem helping when other students need a nudge in the right direction,” he said. “He is almost another teacher or coach.”
Mr. Lutz spoke about Ashcraft’s leadership beyond sports and academics. He described Ashcraft as “not only a fantastic student-athlete who has taken a number of our most challenging courses HHS offers and has given his very best effort in 3 varsity sports, but is also an All-Conference Human Being.”
Ashcraft is one of the few students to serve as a three-year captain for FCA. According to Lutz, he played a key role in reshaping huddle meetings and growing participation. “He serves with purpose and grace, and is genuine in his love for others and commitment to service,” Lutz said.
Mr. Feikema echoed those sentiments, focusing on Ashcraft’s character. “Ryder is one of the finest young men you could ever hope to meet,” he said. “Ryder is driven to be successful in his own right, but his primary focus has always been the well being of others.”
Feikema added that Ashcraft is always looking for ways to help those around him, saying he is “constantly searching for ways that he can help students and staff, and is willing to go above and beyond to make someone else's day a little bit better.”
As the morning concluded, Rotary members applauded both students for the example they set. Myers and Ashcraft were recognized not just for their achievements, but for the way they quietly influence their school and community through service, integrity, and care for others.
2025 December Student of the Month - Bobby Wargo
By Bruce Karnick - Hastings Journal
Bobby Wargo does not spend much time seeking attention. Most days, he is more comfortable behind the scenes, helping a classmate finish a project, lending a hand to a teacher, or quietly solving a problem with his tools. That steady approach to school and community life is what recently earned him recognition as the Hastings Area Rotary Club’s Student of the Month.
Wargo, a senior at Hastings High School, was selected for the honor based on his involvement in technical education, his leadership in the school’s Tech Club, and a reputation for hard work that follows him from classroom to classroom. Teachers who nominated him described a student who shows up ready to work, treats people with respect, and sets an example without needing to be asked.
During the Rotary Club meeting where he was recognized, Abby Meyers offered a brief introduction before reading remarks from his teachers.
“Bobby is a genuine, hard working student who has great work ethic and a positive attitude,” Meyers said. “He is always respectful, dependable and willing to help others, whether that be a teacher or another student. He sets a great example for everyone around him.”
Those words fit comfortably with how Wargo describes himself. When given the microphone, he kept his comments simple and to the point, thanking the group for the award and talking about the classes that have shaped his plans for the future.
“I like to help my teachers and classmates with various projects,” Wargo said. “I’ve been involved in a lot of tech ed classes, such as woodworking, electronics, drafting, metals, small engines, wrecked vehicles and house wiring.”
He also talked about his role in the Tech Club, which meets after school and gives students hands on experience with tools and technology.
“I also help run the technology club after school with Mr. Davenport and my classmate Jack McGregor,” he said.
That exposure to practical skills helped Wargo discover what he wants to do after graduation. While he did not initially expect it, one class in particular changed his direction.
“I took the house farm class, and it was actually fun,” he said. “And then after I took the class, I’m like, you know, I want to become an electrician now. It’s kind of fun.”
Wargo plans to attend Dakota County Technical College and hopes to secure an apprenticeship after earning his high school diploma. He told Rotary members he is looking forward to learning on the job while continuing his education.
Family members in attendance spoke about the values that shaped his work ethic. One speaker shared a short reflection that drew smiles from the room. The message was simple, be kind to everyone and work hard, and if you keep at it, stuff like this happens.
Teachers echoed that sentiment, noting that Wargo’s reliability and willingness to try new things stand out. One educator said having him in class was a benefit to everyone, not just academically, but personally as well. They spoke on having Bobby in classes being a blessing and Bobby is a person to look up to, that he makes people want to be a better person.
Beyond the classroom, Wargo stays busy with a wide range of activities. He plays golf, shoots trap and is part of the school’s archery team. Outdoors, he enjoys hunting and fishing, especially ice fishing, a hobby he admitted can get expensive but remains worth it.
He also has a creative side. Through drafting classes, he learned computer aided design and discovered a love for 3D printing, a hobby that has become popular at home as well.
“My mom especially likes to 3D print,” he said. “I probably had my printer for about a week, and then she took it over.”
When asked about favorite school projects, Wargo pointed back to woodworking. One assignment, a nightstand he built two years ago, still sits beside his bed and gets daily use, a small but fitting symbol of his practical approach.
As the meeting wrapped up, Rotary members and school staff thanked Wargo and his parents for the example they set. The recognition, they said, was not just about grades or awards, but about service, responsibility, and preparing for life beyond high school.
Wargo accepted the applause with a smile, clearly more comfortable returning to work than standing in the spotlight. For a student who prefers action over attention, the honor served as a reminder that steady effort, kindness, and a willingness to help do not go unnoticed.
2026 January Student of the Month - Charlie Reamer
By Bruce Karnick - Hastings Journal
The Hastings Area Rotary Club recognizes Hastings High School seniors who exemplify Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self through its Student of the Month program. Each school year, eight senior students are nominated by their teachers for demonstrating leadership, character, and a commitment to serving others. The program also helps strengthen relationships between the school and the broader community. Selected students are invited to a Rotary meeting for breakfast and recognition, along with their nominators, family members, a school board representative, and the school superintendent.
The Rotary Club recently honored two students during a combined recognition meeting, celebrating January Student of the Month Charlie Reamer and February Student of the Month Ellie Magnus. The joint event was held due to a scheduling conflict in February, giving both students the opportunity to share their stories and reflect on their involvement in school and the community.
Charlie Reamer, the January Student of the Month, was nominated by teacher Miss Kerner, who described him as a student dedicated to creating a positive environment for his classmates. In the nomination materials, she wrote that “Charlie is a bright light for HHS. He wants to create a positive high school experience not only for himself, but for ALL of his peers. He is a leader of several school programs including Student Council and uses those platforms to create the positive experiences he wants for all. He is hard working, thoughtful and dependable.”
During the Rotary meeting, Reamer spoke about the many ways he stays involved in school life.
“So, I got nominated by Miss Kerner right over here. Like stated, I'm involved in Student Council. I'm an officer for student council. I'm also an officer for NHS, and I am a link crew Commissioner through the link crew club, and then I'm also a member of the Red Cross Club. So, I'm kind of involved in many different aspects of the school.”
He noted that Student Council is one of his most significant commitments, helping organize major school events such as prom and homecoming.
Outside of school, Reamer balances his academics and activities with two jobs.
“I have two jobs now currently; kind of my main job is I am a heated yoga instructor. So, I teach over at Bodie studios in Prescott, Wisconsin. I teach yoga sculpt. So, I have my certification in 50-hour yoga sculpt. And then my second job, now, I used to work at the Hastings public house, kind of on and off there now, but then I did just get another serving job down at the new corner Italian place in Prescott.”
Reamer also shared his plans for the future. He will attend the University of Minnesota Duluth next year, where he plans to study cellular molecular biology on a pre-med track, with an interest in genetics if his path shifts.
Looking back on his school experience, Reamer reflected on what advice he might give his younger self.
“Well, personally, I feel like I stress out a lot over like very minor inconveniences, and like even now I'm still working on that, but I'd say like if I could go back, I'd try to rethink that and learn based off that mainly.”
Hastings High School Principal Scott Doran praised Reamer’s leadership and presence in the school.
“Watching Charlie come up for the last four years and now being a senior, this time last year I wasn’t panicking at all, because I knew we had Charlie and a couple of his buddies. The transition was seamless. Watching it with Student Council and being around the building as much as you are, was pretty cool.”
Congratulations to both Charlie Reamer and Ellie Magnus. As part of their recognition, each student receives a check for 250 dollars to help with their post-high school education.
2026 February Student of the Month - Ellie Magnus
by Bruce Karnick - Hastings Journal
The Hastings Area Rotary Club recognizes Hastings High School seniors who exemplify Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self through its Student of the Month program. Each school year, eight senior students are nominated by their teachers for demonstrating leadership, character, and a commitment to serving others. The program also helps strengthen relationships between the school and the broader community. Selected students are invited to a Rotary meeting for breakfast and recognition, along with their nominators, family members, a school board representative, and the school superintendent.
The Rotary Club recently honored two students during a combined recognition meeting, celebrating January Student of the Month Charlie Reamer and February Student of the Month Ellie Magnus. The joint event was held due to a scheduling conflict in February, giving both students the opportunity to share their stories and reflect on their involvement in school and the community.
Following Reamer’s recognition, the Rotary Club honored February Student of the Month Ellie Magnus, who was nominated by teachers Mr. Lutz and Mr. Olson.
In their nomination, they described Magnus as an exceptional student and role model, writing that “Ellie Magnus is a rock star in every way, in the classroom, in athletics and as a representative of our Hastings school community. She is kind and compassionate. She is a leader and a great role model for her peers. She does things the right way no matter the situation.”
Magnus is involved in a wide range of activities at Hastings High School.
“Yeah, so like they said, I'm in FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), I'm a huddle leader, and then I'm in National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Best Buddies and unified ed kind of go together. And then I was a soccer captain, and I'm track captain.”
Her leadership extends into athletics as well. Magnus has earned seven school records in track, competing in sprint events and relays.
Next year she plans to attend the University of South Dakota, where she will study math education and compete on the track team.
“I'm going to University of South Dakota next year for math education. That's my plan right now. And I'm also running track there.”
Magnus said her interest in teaching grew through the encouragement of several teachers during
middle school and high school.
“I had Mrs. Peterson, and then had Mrs. Abel and I have Mrs. Kerner. So, it's just like, they all just seem like they like what they do, and like I like math, so I feel like it would be something that I would have fun doing.”
One of the experiences that stands out most to Magnus is her time helping students in unified physical education classes where the standard student body mixes with special education students.
“They just know how to have fun, and they don't care what anyone thinks. They just try their best to do whatever we're doing that day.”
Doran noted that many staff members were eager to see Magnus receive the recognition.
“Every staff member I talked to, oh hey who's the Rotary student of the month, and I would tell them. It was almost kind of like, it's about time.”
When asked what advice she would give her younger self, Magnus offered a simple but meaningful message.
“I'd probably just say it'll all work out. I feel like I stressed over stuff like where I was going to go to school and that kind of stuff, but it all worked out.”
Congratulations to both Charlie Reamer and Ellie Magnus. As part of their recognition, each student receives a check for 250 dollars to help with their post-high school education.
2026 March Student of the Month - Ellie Magnus
by Bruce Karnick - Hastings Journal
Hastings High School senior Kimberly King has been named the March Student of the Month by the Hastings Area Rotary Club, an honor recognizing students who show strong commitment to service, leadership, and academic effort.
King’s nomination highlighted a high school career shaped by steady involvement and a willingness to support others, both in and out of the classroom. A four-year participant in the AVID program, she has taken on leadership roles while also contributing behind the scenes in several school activities.
“Kim King is a deserving student for this honor,” her nomination read. “She has been a part of our AVID program for all four years of high school, and she’s really taken those AVID values to heart. She uses her academic drive to achieve her own goals AND she looks for opportunities to help others. She serves as a writing coach, is part of the student council, performs with the color guard, and works hard behind the scenes on the theater stage crew. Kim is the kind of student who leads by example without needing a spotlight, and after four years of pure hustle, she’s beyond deserving of this Rotary award.”
At the Rotary recognition event, King shared that her school involvement spans a wide range of activities, each helping shape her experience and future plans.
“So, as you heard, I was involved in the student council as an officer. I'm a writing coach in the Writing Center. I'm a member of the Youth Ambassadors. I was a captain in the color guard. I'm the stage manager and part of the set crew with our musical. And then I'm also part of NHS,” she said.
Her next step after graduation will take her to Concordia College in Moorhead, where she plans to study nursing with a long-term goal of entering anesthesiology.
“I am going into Concordia College, Moorhead for nursing with a hope to go into a doctorate in anesthesiology,” King said.
Service has remained a consistent focus throughout her high school career. One recent example is a student led safety training session she organized for classmates through an AVID service-learning project.
“I also want to take this moment to recognize my avid service-learning project I'm doing student saving lives at the high school,” she said. “I'm going to teach high school students how to handle some like medical events and emergencies such as seizures, fainting, high and low blood sugar and overdosing.”
Planning the event required coordination with school staff and local emergency responders, including the fire department.
“A lot of it was a lot of emailing,” King said. “I had to talk to our assistant principal, Mr. Moore, to make sure that I could actually make it happen and actually have an event during our like our Raider connect time.”
School staff noted the session marked a milestone.
“I believe you are the first student planned run complete session that we're doing. Out of the last five years we've been doing it,” Principal Scott Doran said during the recognition event.
Outside the classroom, King said color guard became one of the most meaningful parts of her high school experience, especially in her leadership role as captain.
“Color Guard was one of my favorite activities,” she said. “I was a captain with a color guard, so I really got to interact with everybody and having such a positive light, and every single one of them just brought me so much joy each day.”
She also reflected on the relationships she built during marching band, calling one final shared moment with classmates especially memorable.
“I probably have to say our last day of marching band,” she said. “I feel like I just felt like so much love and just like that wrapping up.”
King said her interest in healthcare developed gradually during high school as she explored different options before settling on nursing.
“In nursing, I really chose nursing just because I always wanted to be in healthcare,” she said. “I always loved helping people. I always loved talking with people.”
Along the way, she also earned a Horatio Alger scholarship worth $10,000, which supports students who demonstrate perseverance and commitment to their education.
Family members attending the recognition event described King as creative, thoughtful, and supportive of those around her. One relative noted her interest in baking and crafting, including crocheting handmade gifts for others.
“She is a quite an accomplished Baker,” a family member said. “She likes to bake and brings all sorts of treats to family functions and things like that.”
Another family member recalled her outgoing personality from an early age.
“She still likes to say hello to everybody,” she said. “Always just fun to be around.”
King encouraged younger students to get involved in school activities, even if they prefer to stay out of the spotlight.
“I'd say, get involved,” she said. “You don't have to be loud about it, but making those connections is really what's going to drive you to actually come to school every day and actually, like, be happy that you're actually there.”
The Rotary Student of the Month program recognizes seniors who reflect the organization’s commitment to service, leadership, and positive community involvement. Students selected for the honor are those who demonstrate initiative, support their peers, and contribute meaningfully to school life.
During the ceremony, King closed by thanking the family members and mentors who supported her throughout her high school journey.
“I'm extremely grateful to every single one of you,” she said, “and just like how you've pushed me forward in my life.”
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