(This is the first of a two-part series highlighting Lincoln Parish’s two Student of the Year finalists)
by Hanna Singh
Lincoln Parish High School student of the year, Melissa Le has advanced to State in the Louisiana Student of the Year competition. The Ruston High School senior will represent her school and her community as a state finalist.
An esteemed award, the Student of the Year achievement is given to one high school, one middle school, and one elementary school student at each school every year. After Le received the title at Ruston High School, she advanced to the parish level and then the regional level.
After being named the high school regional student of the year, she advanced to the state competition. This achievement is narrowed down to only 8 students in each category from around the state.
Le described her experience in moving through the stages of the competition.
“I’m still at a loss for words at how grateful I am for this recognition. This would not be possible without my parents, Ruston High School, especially Mrs. Tatum Mitchell and Mr. Dan Gressett, Mr. Brandon Sutherland, the Lincoln Parish School Board, and the entire Ruston community,” Le said. “After many rounds of essays, interviews, and portfolio review, I feel like I’ve been able to show each panel who I am and what it means to be a product of Louisiana. It means being someone shaped by people who pour into your dreams and aspirations. While I’m up against seven other incredible 12th grade students in this final round, to me it is not about winning in the end. It is about how far I have come and the chance to carry the stories, lessons, and support of my community with me.”
As a highly involved student, STEM advocate, accomplished pianist, and pageant competitor, Le has shown her skill and talent in many areas of expertise. Le is a two-time Louisiana State Piano Champion, Miss LA Teen Talent winner, and founder of the STEM to Bloom organization. She has invested her time and energy into expanding access to STEM opportunities for students of every background.
Le’s mother, Van Tran Le, highlighted the extensive work Le has put into this competition and her other endeavors.
“Melissa is a hardworking and responsible student who tries to do her best in everything she does. She takes her schoolwork seriously and has worked hard to maintain strong grades,” Van said. “She also enjoys being involved in school activities and learning to work with others. As her parents, we are very thankful for the teachers and mentors who have supported and encouraged her along the way.”
At Ruston High School, Le not only maintains excellent grades, but she also provides leadership by being involved in many organizations and competitions that represent her school, including student council and the Miss Louisiana Organization. Principal of Ruston High School, Dan Gressett, expressed his pride in the hardworking student.
“Melissa has been such a joy to have as a student at RHS. By serving as student council president, she and I have worked together countless times on student council initiatives,” Gressett said. “She is one of the most talented students I have ever known. She is also such a wonderful person with an infectious personality. We are so happy for her and we are so glad that she’s a Bearcat.”
