Bio: Knodle, Ellie - Junior Kiwanian (Oct 2017)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Knodle, Seebandt

----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 10/25/2017

Junior Kiwanian Ellie Knodle (October - 2017)

October Junior Kiwanian



Ellie Knodle

In its 50-plus years of existence as a regular feature of the Neillsville Kiwanis Club, the Junior Kiwanian program has always focused on the achievements of highest performing senior students as they prepare to transition into the next stage of their lives. Supporting youth and helping to ensure they have the resources to succeed is a primary mission of Kiwanis, whose motto is “Kids need Kiwanis.”

As the 2017-2018 school year gets underway, the club welcomed Ellie Knodle as its Junior Kiwanian for October. She is the daughter of Clare and Scott Knodle, and is the third member of the family to be selected as a Junior Kiwanian. Kiwanis Club secretary Herman Seebandt made the introduction at the Oct. 2 meeting.

An extensive resume of academics, extra-curricular activities and community involvement characterizes this highly motivated student. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, High Potential, has attained the straight A honor roll and served on student council. Additionally, Knodle performs in band, has served as class officer, Concert Choir officer, Fine Arts Club secretary, and BLAST officer. Other extra-curricular activities include Youth in Action, History Club, Show Choir choreographer/member, state vocal solo and ensemble, state forensics, Missoula Children’s Theater and community theater acting. She was selected as this year’s Badger Girls state delegate, and was chosen to interview Governor Walker during Listening Session 2016.

Athletically, Knodle has been a member of the successful girls’ cross-country team throughout high school, as well as running track all four years. She has maintained an interest in dance since 2003.

Involvement in 4-H has been ongoing for the past 10 years. She has volunteered in numerous activities, participated in camps as both camper and counselor, acted in drama festivals, and made fair entries in many class areas.

In the community, Knodle has been active in church choir, Salvation Army bell ringer, and Child Development Fair. She has volunteered for blood drives, the public library, CART Center, Tufts’ Mansion, and the Clark County Area Food Pantry.

Following graduation from Neillsville High School, Knodle is making plans to attend either UW-Madison or Montana State to pursue studies in earth sciences or conservation biology.

The Junior Kiwanian program gives recognition to top-performing students like Ellie Knodle who have demonstrated strong academic achievement, shown good leadership qualities and strive to make use of their talents. Through their participation in the Junior Kiwanian program, students are provided an introduction to the concept of a service organization such as Kiwanis, which encourages active participation in the community throughout the lifespan.

The Neillsville club wishes continued success to this outstanding individual.