It seems like every time “ethics” is in the news, the stories are about an investigation, a violation of a law or a moral breach of conduct. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Nebraska, South Dakota, The Kansas Plains and Southwest Iowa is working to change this by focusing on the positive.

The BBB Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization offers an annual scholarship program recognizing “Students of Integrity.” These scholarships are designed to promote ethics and integrity among young people, so they may be motivated to continue incorporating moral values into every aspect of their lives. Public, private and home schooled high school seniors from BBB’s service area were invited to participate.

Twelve graduating seniors who have demonstrated outstanding community service, leadership and personal integrity receive $2,000 scholarships for their post-secondary education expenses at any accredited institution. There are three award winners from South Dakota, three from metro Lincoln/greater Nebraska; three from metro Omaha/southwest Iowa and three from The Kansas Plains. They were chosen by independent panels of judges in Sioux Falls, Lincoln, Neb., Omaha, Neb. and Wichita, Kan. Judging was based mainly on the content of a required essay about an ethical dilemma in business, politics or a community issue. School and community references and activities were also used by the judges in making their final decisions.

BBB is pleased to announce that the students selected for these prestigious awards from the applicants who reside in South Dakota are: Nathan Linke, Woonsocket High School; Noah Keime,  Dakota Valley High School, North Sioux City; and Anne Knoff, Yankton High School, Yankton. In the fall, both Nathan and Anne will be going to South Dakota State University in Brookings. Noah will be attending Creighton University in Omaha, Neb. 

“These ‘Students of Integrity’ personify all of the best aspects of ethical behavior and fine character in their personal choices and actions. They serve as role models for others to emulate,” said BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty. “Unlike many other scholarships, grades, financial need and ethnicity are not factors in selecting the recipients. Noah, Nathan and Anne are receiving these scholarships because of their commitment to honesty and accountability inside and outside of the classroom.”