Washington High School senior Samantha Hunger has been named Kirkwood Washington County Regionals Outstanding Student of the Year. Hunger was selected by Kirkwood staff based on exceptional academic performance, completion of at least half of her coursework toward a degree, current enrollment, and her qualities of character and leadership. She was recognized at an awards ceremony and reception on April 7th in Cedar Rapids at Kirkwood Community College. Hunger has been earning College Credit in High School (CCHS) since she was a freshman. She has earned 46 hours of free college credit through the Liberal Arts Academy, ACE Academy, and companion courses resulting in a tuition savings of $9,200. After graduation, Samantha plans to take a semester to finish her associate’s degree at Kirkwood Community College. Later she will complete an 18-month church mission trip and then return to college to become a pharmacist. Samantha is the daughter of Russ and Melanie Hunger. While in high school Samantha played volleyball, and was active in National Honor Society and church activities. She was a Kirkwood for Kids and Camp Exploration volunteer, as well as a Kirkwood Student Ambassador. She enjoys reading, playing piano, and spending time with family and friends.