Geneseo High School recognized three outstanding seniors during a fine arts signing day held on Friday to celebrate their accomplishments and future plans in music, performance and the arts.
GHS Assistant Principal Brooke Emmerson praised the students–Nina Schmedding, Kate Lehman and Jackie Milem–for their dedication and impact on the school’s fine arts programs.
“Fine Arts Signing Day is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate our graduates who are continuing their studies and/or their involvement in the fine arts at the college level,” said Emmerson. “We have incredibly talented students who are auditioning and being selected for college-level competition. It is so rewarding to watch all of their hard work and dedication lead to scholarships and opportunities they never dreamed possible.”
Presented by Mrs. Edwards, senior Nina Schmedding, daughter of Jennifer and James Schmedding, was recognized for her extensive involvement in fine arts activities including Jazz Choir, Madrigal, Marching Band, Musical, MWACDA Honor Choir and Thespians. In addition to the arts, Nina also participated in track, Maplettes and served as a Dance Marathon captain at GHS. She was inducted into the National Honor Society in 2026. This fall, Nina will attend University of Missouri, where she plans to double major in Vocal Music and Forensic Science. She also received the Vocal Performance Scholarship at Mizzou.
Presented by Mrs. Edwards, Kate Lehman, daughter of Tim and Emily Lehman, was honored for her participation in Flags/Color Guard, Marching Band, Choir, Concert Band and Honors Band during her high school career. Kate also participated in basketball, soccer and yearbook. She was inducted into the National Honor Society in 2025. Kate will attend University of Northern Iowa this fall to major in Middle School Math Education. She plans to continue her involvement in the arts as a member of the UNI Panther Marching Band Color Guard. Kate received both the Advanced Award and the Live 2 Succeed Scholarship from UNI.
Also presented by Mrs. Edwards, Jackie Milem, daughter of James and Tammy Milem, was recognized for her participation in Fall Play Crew, Madrigal, MWACDA Honor Choir, Thespians and Musical. Jackie, who also participated in basketball, will attend Augustana College this fall, where she plans to double major in Music Education and Vocal Performance. Jackie also intends to audition for the Oratorio Society, the Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble and the Chamber Choir at Augustana. She received both the GC Promise Scholarship and a Music Scholarship from Augustana College.
Congratulations to these students for their dedication and achievements, and for pursuing continued excellence in the arts at the collegiate level!