Lee Academy senior Alyssa Vassel has earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs, which celebrate students’ hard work in high school and showcase their strong academic performance. Alyssa is also recognized as a National Merit Semi-finalist by the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.
Alyssa was awarded the NRSTA-National Rural and Small Town Award. The criteria for eligible students include a GPA of 3.5 or higher; PSAT/NMSQT assessment scores that are within the top 10% of assessment takers in each state, or a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP exams in 9th and 10th grade; attend school in a rural area or small town, or identify as African American/Black, Hispanic American/Latino, or Indigenous/Native.
Alyssa scored 35 on the ACT, a 3 on the AP Biology exam in 9th grade, and a 5 on the AP English and Literature exam. Her PSAT/NMSQT scores were within the top 10% of scores in Mississippi. In addition, Alyssa has maintained a straight A average throughout high school, is a Mississippi Governor’s School Scholar, an inductee into Mu Alpha Theta Math Honorary, a member of the National Honor Society, Junior Auxiliary Crown Club President, Editor of the school newspaper, and Founder and President of the Lee Academy Initiative Club.
“It’s been increasingly hard for students to be ‘seen’ during the college recruitment process. We’re exceptionally proud of the National Recognition Programs for celebrating students who are at times overlooked but have shown their outstanding academic abilities, said Tarlin Ray, senior vice-president of Big Future at College Board. “This is a benefit not only for students but also for colleges and universities committed to recruiting diverse and talented students.”
“We are thrilled to recognize Alyssa for the great work she’s been doing. We are proud of her strong academic performance in the classroom and on College Board assessments like the PSAT/NMSQT and AP exams,” said Mrs. Rone Walker, Lee Academy Head of School.
Congratulations, Alyssa!