Dr. Roger Berg, chairman of the Northampton Exchange Club's "Youth of the Month" program, described Northampton Area High School seniors Rachel Young and Gregory Casse as students who excel both in and out of the classroom.

Young was recognized as the November Girl of the Month and Casse was recognized as the November Boy of the Month during a Jan. 2 dinner reception at the Northampton Memorial Community Center. They were given the club's Lamp of Knowledge plaque, framed certificates and a pen from the club's Service to Youth Committee.

In his address, Berg referred to academic excellence and using one's intellectual ability in the classroom. Excellence requires leadership, character, communication and, most importantly, commitment.

"They made a commitment to excellence," Berg said of the honorees.

Young is a member of the National Honor Society and German Club, where she serves as president. She was also its treasurer last year. She participated in the GAPP (German American Partnership Program) student exchange. She is a member of the field hockey and track and field teams, a member of the Math Club and captain of the Scholastic Scrimmage team. She was also JV Scholastic Scrimmage captain last year. She participates in the Science Olympiad and is an Angel 34 volunteer.

Casse is president of the National Honor Society. He is a member of the soccer team and indoor and outdoor track teams and holds a school record. He is a member of the German Club and participated in the GAPP (German American Partnership Program) student exchange. He participates in the Science Olympiad, is a member of the Math Club, is a Powder Puff cheerleader and a volunteer with the Exchange Club's projects. He also participates in the annual Dakota Galusha Basketball Tournament.