James Finch of WashingtonWilkes has been named a United States National Award Winner in the field of science by the United States Achievement Academy.

The award is a prestigious honor very few students can ever hope to attain. The Academy recognizes fewer than 10 percent of all American high school students in this field.

James is a senior at WashingtonWilkes Comprehensive High School and was nominated for the award by Jennifer L. Atkinson, a teacher at the school.

"Recognizing and supporting our youth is more important than ever before in America," said Dr. George Stevens, Founder of the United States Achievement Academy. "Academy winners should be congratulated and appreciated for their dedication to excellence and achievement.

The Academy selects winners on the exclusive recommendation of teachers, counselors and others qualified by the standards set forth by the Academy. Criteria include a student's academic performance, interest and aptitude, leadership qualities, motivation to learn, citizenship, attitude, dependability as well as recommendation of a qualified sponsor.

James is the son of Dr. and Mrs. James B. Finch of WashingtonWilkes. His grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Irvin A. Cato and Mrs. Laura Finch, all of Grovetown.