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An independent panel of judges from West Virginia selected this year's winners of the EQT Students of Excellence scholarship.

Those judges — Liza Cordiero with the W.Va. Department Education, Kelsey Clough with the Higher Education Policy Commission and Jessica Wintz with the Education Alliance — had the challenging task of picking just 58 students out of more than 250 applications that were submitted by teachers, principals, family members and others.

"We can't thank the judges enough for dedicating their time and energy to the Students of Excellence program," said Rebekah Hogue, director of circulation for The State Journal. "Many worthy students were nominated for this scholarship, and all three of the judges took their job very seriously."

In particular, judges looked for students who showed good academic aptitude, a dedication to their community and involvement in extra-curricular activities. 

"The program aims to help and honor well-rounded students who are passionate about the Mountain State," Hogue said. 

"Judges did not just consider students' grade point average, but how involved they were in the communities that helped to shape them into upstanding young men and women."

Judges couldn't have done their job, however, without the help of the state Higher Education Policy Commission, the Department of Education and guidance counselors, principals, teachers and family members throughout the state who helped to get the word out about the scholarship and encourage students to apply.

"On behalf of The State Journal, I thank everyone who took the time to encourage a student to apply for the scholarship," said Beth Ryan, the newspaper's managing editor. "Sometimes it isn't easy for a student, especially ones who are busy balancing classes, clubs and sports, to take time to apply for scholarships. Other times, students don't think they will win, so they don't even try. But thanks to the support and encouragement from teachers, family members and friends, the 58 students recognized this year will receive financial help to go to college and accomplish their dreams."