Lisa Lewin left Lawrence High School’s Senior Recognition Ceremony on Tuesday night with an award in her hand and a single mission on her mind: to finish a 15-page paper due today.

It’s the LHS senior’s ability to successfully juggle such tough assignments with her involvement in cross country, choir, debate and community service that earned her the Kansas State High School Activities Assn. Citizenship Award. Classmate Jamie Peterson also received the award.

“It’s a really nice honor,” Lewin said. “It means a lot that my teachers hold me in high regard.”

Lewin plans to attend Kansas University and major in history and international relations. She said she hopes eventually to pursue a career in international law and foreign diplomacy.

Peterson, who left quickly after the ceremony, has excelled academically while volunteering in the community and taking on extracurricular activities, LHS athletic director Ron Commons said. Peterson played soccer and basketball at LHS.

“He’s done an excellent job as a leader of both squads,” Commons said.

Lewin and Peterson were among hundreds of graduating LHS seniors recognized Tuesday for their accomplishments during high school and for the opportunities they have created for themselves to succeed in college or the working world after they graduate in ceremonies on Sunday afternoon. School officials and area organizations and businesses announced academic and athletic scholarships earned by LHS seniors.

LHS principal Dick Patterson credited parents for their help in supporting the students’ endeavors and commended the students for their hard work.

“It’s amazing every year how much our students accomplish,” he said.