From the schools, 37 seniors were recognized for their academic achievements. This is the 58th year the New Ulm Rotary has sponsored the event.

“I want to congratulate each of you students on your academic accomplishments during your high school career,” New Ulm Rotary President Duane Laffrenzen said. “I want to congratulate each of you parents in your guidance and encouragement of these students throughout their school and personal life.”

He encouraged them to maintain academic and civic endeavors in their future careers and lives.

New Ulm Mayor Kathleen Backer served as the keynote speaker for this year’s event. She asked the students at each school to think about who they will be later in life.

The 2025 New Ulm High School’s Rotary Club scholars. Front: (L to R) Leticia Adame, Hadley Batt, Adeline Ringhofer and Josie Stade Middle: (L to R) Kaelyn Eikanger, Addison Haynes, Isabelle Miller, Ramsey Hopp, Addison Hage, Schelby Seifert, Brooklyn Reed and Preston Holm. Back: (L to R) Samuel Chalakov, Eli Gieseke, Brody Wenner, Dain Barie, Jaxon Buegler, Samuel Ibberson, Cullen Slette, Isaiah Correa, Benton Groebner and Britton Beran. (Not in Photo: Abby Christensen).

“Who are you, and what will you share when you stand at this podium 61 years after you graduate? Think about who you will be,” Backer said. “What are you going to tell people, what is your story?”

Backer said she and every student was the sum and summary of their life experience. She warned that each would face failure and rejection in time. Backer gave examples of failures she experienced in life including her first campaign for mayor, which she lost. She had to run for mayor a second time before being elected.

“Don’t give up, keep on going and some day you might realize what it is you are looking for,” Backer said.

She said her role as mayor came about through many decisions in life. Backer encouraged the students to be intentional with their actions.

“Don’t let life happen to you,” she said. “Be engaged, make decisions for yourself and own them.”

The 2025 Minnesota Valley Lutheran’s Rotary Club scholars. Front Row: L to R: Julia DeWitt, Olivia Enter, Nathaniel Lukasek and Karlee Prahl. Back row L to R) Natalie Schumann, Claudia Weisensel, Drew Witte and Claire Woller.

At the close of the ceremony, The New Ulm Rotary bestowed the Service Above Self Award to students from each school. The award is given to students who possess outstanding qualities in academic achievement, leadership amongst their peers, and participation in extra curricular activities.

The Service Above Self award went to Brooklyn Reed of NUHS, Drew Witte of MVL, and Mason Wilmes of CHS.

Brooklyn Reed served with baseball and girl’s hockey management, student council and music aid assistant classes. She plans to attend Bemidji State University, for Sports Management and Marketing. NUHS Principal Mark Bergmann said Reed had an unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Bergmann described Reed as thoughtful and resilient, especially in her campaigning for anti-bullying programs.

“She is a strong voice for kindness,” he said “using her own experience to inspire other and standup for those who do not have a voice.”

Cathedral High School’s Rotary Club scholars. Front Row: (L to R): Elissa Ries, Mason Wilmes and Colin Anderson. Back Row: (L to R) Will Marti, Jaden Helget and Brennan Glawe

Drew Witte, is involved in cross country, Knowledge Bowl and student council. He plans to attend Milwaukee School of Engineering, majoring in chemical and bio molecular engineering.

MVL principal Dr. Tim Plath said outside of school, Witte has worked with Pioneer Caterers, volunteered at Treasure Haus and helps with a youth group at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Plath said Witte’s teachers describe him as an independent and charismatic student who does not accept mediocracy.

“His unique perspectives and ability to take care of himself and others along with curiosity and academic aptitude, make him a blessing in every class,” Plath said.

Mason Wilmes, participated bowling, baseball, inter-mural basketball and Vex robotics. He plans to attend Minnesota State University, Mankato and will major in civil engineering.

Cathedral principal Erica DeVries said Wilmes embodies the Rotary Club’s values of selflessness, leader and dedication to others. She said Wilmes was a big part of the school robotics program and was known for taking younger students under his wing.

“Mason has demonstrated a rare combination of leadership, expertise and humility,” DeVries said. “His ability to teach and inspire younger student has undoubtedly contributed to their success and in turn, continues to strengthen the robotics program.”

DeVries said Wilmes willingness to lend a hand has gone beyond school. He works with New Ulm’s Park and Rec Department, helping repair glockenspiel figurines.

“Mason is a shining example of what it means to lead with services,” she said.