Albert Lea High School has nominated Alexandra Ciota and Cody Hansen for the ExCEL (Excellence in Community, Education and Leadership) Award.

Sponsored by the Minnesota State High School League, ExCEL is a unique recognition program designed exclusively for Minnesota high schools juniors.

Students who are active in fine arts and/or athletic activities, who show leadership qualities, and who are model citizens in their community are eligible for the award.

ExCEL Award recipients are selected through a multi-level process that involves League member schools and an independent panel of judges from schools throughout Minnesota. Award recipients will be recognized on KSTC TV (Channel 45) during the 2007-2008 winter tournaments.

Ciota participates in soccer, dance and track. She has received the Gold Spotlight on Scholarship Award for each season. Ciota

participates in orchestra and chamber strings making all-state orchestra last year.

She is a member of the National Honor Society, Link Crew, student council and serves on the prom committee. Alexandra volunteers her time as a Sunday school teacher, serving in the church orchestra and plays in the community theatre. Ciota is an &8220;A&8221; honor roll student.

Hansen participates in football, wrestling and baseball. He has achieved four letters already and has achieved the Gold Spotlight on Scholarship Award for every season. Hansen is a two-time state participant in wrestling, placing second

individually last year.

He participates in choir and volunteers his time doing numerous activities at his church. Hansen is a member of the National Honor Society, student council and served on the homecoming committee. He is an &8220;A&8221; honor roll student.

&8220;The ExCEL Award program is an excellent opportunity for high school juniors who have excelled to receive statewide recognition for their leadership and community service,&8221; said Al Root, high school principal.