Student of the Month sets sights on Marine Corps

Natalie Martian earns award from Heartland Energy and KJAM Radio

Howard High School senior Natalie Martian has been named Heartland Energy and KJAM Radio’s Student of the Month for September. She’s recognized for her academic excellence, athletic involvement, and ambitious plans to serve in the United States Marine Corps after graduation.

Martian, daughter of Larry and Emily Martian, is currently carrying a 4.0 GPA while taking on a demanding schedule of advanced courses. A standout in both academics and athletics, she participates in volleyball, cross-country, track, softball and cheerleading.

She’s also active in several extracurricular organizations, including FFA, student council, band and quiz bowl. In her free time, she enjoys fishing, weightlifting, swimming and sewing quilts.

Among her many accomplishments, Martian earned third place in the 2023 State FFA Forestry Management Proficiency, was a state finalist in the 2023 South Dakota Conservation Speech Contest, and was named the Voice of Democracy Regional Winner in 2022. Martian is a three-time recipient of the President’s Academic Awards Program from 2019-2021 and a member of the National Honor Society. She also received the American Legion Auxiliary Citizen Award in 2021 and was crowned Miner County Jr. Snow Queen in 2022.

After graduation, Martian plans to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps with hopes of becoming an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Specialist. Her long-term goal is to pursue a bachelor’s degree and eventually transition to military officer.

“Natalie is a student who exemplifies both academic and personal excellence,” said Howard High School Principal T.A. Aslesan. “Her work ethic, involvement and commitment to her future are admirable. We are proud of her accomplishments and excited to see her continue to grow and succeed.”

The “Student of the Month” is awarded through a partnership of Heartland Energy and KJAM Radio in Madison and recognizes exceptional students in one of five area school districts. Heartland Energy provides wholesale power to the cities of Arlington, Colman, Howard, Madison and Volga, all of which are in the KJAM listening area.

Each month of the school year, Heartland Energy presents an outstanding student from one of these schools with a recognition certificate and small token, and advertisements announcing the winning student air on KJAM Radio. Officials from each participating school nominate students for the award.