This year's local and statewide winner was Eric Zeltwanger of Bremen High School. As the overall winner, Eric received $2,500 for himself and an additional $2,500 for Bremen High School.
"Eric stood out obviously with his involvement and what he has done in the community, his school achievement," Jim Wagner, Embarq public affairs manager, said.
Eric is the son of Ron and Lana Zeltwanger of Bre-men. He is involved in three sports: football, basketball and baseball. He is the president of the National Honor Society and a member of Student Council, Key Club and participates in choir, musical and drama productions. Outside of school he volunteers at Hope Rescue Mission in South Bend, HOBY, Hoosier Boys State, Camp Ray Bird, Project Help, Adopt a Friend and Marshall County Teen Court. He is also a Stay In Bounds mentor through the IHSAA.
Between all of these activities, Eric has still managed to maintain all A's and make it to the top of his class. He has narrowed his college choices to Notre Dame or Purdue, and plans to major in engineering and business.
Statewide more than 270 students were nominated by teachers, principals, parents, counselors and others for Leaders of Tomorrow.
"I feel really honored," Eric said. "I've been blessed with a good community and the school has been really supportive. I've been able to do a lot."
Eric's parents expressed their pride in their son's accomplishments.
"We're very thankful. Anybody that's a parent knows it takes more than your support," Ron Zeltwanger said. "It's the school, the teachers the administration ... it's a real sacrifice. I'm just very grateful that he's had that experience here at the school."