All-Academic Team: Kelsey Dinger, Malvern

Malvern does not have the school's valedictorian give a speech at graduation.

But, if Kelsey Dingler had the opportunity to do so, the valedictorian would thank her teammates, coaches and parents. She'd also have a message for her classmates.

"I want them to follow their dreams," Dingler said. "It's not too big or too small. We can do anything we want to do. Do the best that you can. That's what I would say."

Dingler was scheduled to take part in Malvern's graduation ceremony Saturday, which was delayed from May after the coronavirus pandemic forced the closure of schools across the state.

She posted a 4.33 GPA at Malvern, and had a 32 on the ACT.

Dingler played soccer for four years, and also joined the golf team for her senior season. She also was on the cheerleading squad.

Outside sports, Dingler was Malvern's Honor Society president and Beta Club treasurer, was a class officer for three years and was a senator at Arkansas Girls State.

She will attend the University of Central Arkansas and plans to major in exercise science. She wants to become a physical therapist.

"I want to help people," Dingler said. "I want to make a difference in people's lives. I want to be hands-on."