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Eli Thiele, a senior at Summerland School, has been named one of 48 finalists in the U.S. Bank and Nebraska School Activities Association Believers and Achievers program.

Thiele, the son of Jim and Leenda Thiele, attends the Clearwater campus.

To be eligible for the award, seniors must have a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.50 and take part in NSAA-sponsored activities.

Scholastic achievement, activity participation, school and community involvement and citizenship are considered.

Thiele is active in cross country, wrestling, track, National Honor Society, quiz bowl and student council.

Being selected as a finalist means a lot to Thiele.

"My sister was selected two years ago, so it's pretty cool to also be selected," he said.

In September, NSAA released names of students who were local nominated by local school districts.

Kaci Wickersham and Avery Cheatum were also nominated by Summerland officials.

On Sept. 30, NSAA released names of 48 finalists selected. On April 25, eight of the 48 finalists will receive $500 scholarships from U.S. Bank to the college or university of their choice. Scholarships will be awarded during a banquet.

Throughout the year, finalists will be recognized on NSAA social media sites and via posters sent to all NSAA member schools, in addition to U.S. Bank branches across Nebraska.

"It always feels good to be recognized for my hard work, effort and achievements, Thiele said."