Congratulations to Hailey Howard and Joel Cairns who were named Independent Bank Student-Athletes of the Month for January.  Both student-athletes were recognized by Independent Bank at our January student awards ceremony for their accomplishments.  The award is presented to seniors based on leadership, academics, and athletics.  Each student-athlete now qualifies for a chance to win the $1000 Independent Bank Student-Athlete of the Year scholarship presented on senior night to one male and one female athlete.

January Female Athlete of the Month: Hailey Howard

Parents: Saundra and Mike Howard

College: Michigan State University

Major: Business

Sports: Dance team 4 yrs., team captain.

Academics: IHS National Honors Society, IHS Scholar Athlete, IHS Honor Roll student, IHS Citizen of the Month, IHS Student of the Month, and Underclassman Scholar.

Leadership: Ionia Athletic Advisory Committee, Student Council, SADD, NHS, PSAC, Interact Club, Road Map Return to Learn Committee, and  Student Section Leader.

January Male Athlete of the Month: Joel Cairns

Parents: Steve and Laura Cairns

College: University of Michigan

Major: Business

Sports: Tennis 3 yrs., Swimming and Diving 4 yrs., and Honorable Mention All-Conference 2020 Swim

Academics: IHS National Honors Society member, CAAC Scholar Athlete, IHS Scholar Athlete, and IHS Honor Roll student.

Leadership: Captain of the Quiz Bowl Team, NHS, and PSAC 2 yrs.

Both Hailey and Joel are not only successful in their respective sports but in the classroom as well, and serve as great role models for our younger athletes.  Congratulations to both of them for being recognized as the Independent Bank female and male student-athletes of the month for January and thank you to Independent Bank for their continued  support of our student-athletes.