Elizabeth Menches is Miss Massillonian; Nicholas Bumgardner is Outstanding Senior Boy

MASSILLON — Elizabeth Menches and Nicholas Bumgardner were named Miss Massillonian and Outstanding Boy at Washington High School's annual awards ceremony.

Menches is the daughter of Thomas and Susan Menches. The 2023 graduate plans to attend Ashland University. She plans to become a physician assistant.

Washington High School:Miss Massillonian, Outstanding Senior Boy candidates announced at Rose Assembly

During her time at Washington High School, she served as vice president of student council, treasurer of the Advisory Board and was a member of the National Honor Society. For the past 14 years, she has been a competitive dancer at The Dance Movement.

Bumgardner heads to Ohio University to pursue a degree in energy engineering.

The son of Andrew and Angela Bumgardner, he was a member of the tennis team, engineering CTE program, National Technical Honors Society and the Tiger Swing Band.

The pair were among 23 seniors - 12 girls and 11 boys- who sought the coveted titles.

Candidates were announced in December during the Rose Assembly.

The longstanding tradition dates back to when Carol Bell was selected by Bing Crosby as the school’s first Miss Massillonian. Outstanding Senior Boy was added years later.

Seniors eligible for the honor must maintain a 3.3 grade-point average.

Those chosen are selected based on involvement in extracurricular activities throughout their high school career, a vote by fellow seniors and an essay.

During the formal assembly in April, the candidates dressed in formal dresses and tuxes and answered random questions in front of their peers, family, friends and a panel of judges.