HAYS, Kan. — Two Hutchinson students attending Fort Hays State University are among 47 nominated for two academic awards.

Trinity Catholic High School graduate Josh Hermes is a Torch Award nominee. The Torch Award is the highest student honor at Fort Hays State with the winner chosen from 35 finalists.

Jared Ridder, completing a Master of Science in biology, is a Lighthouse Award nominee. The Lighthouse Award honors the outstanding student completing graduate studies. Ridder is one of 12 finalists for the award.

Torch Award and Lighthouse Award candidates are nominated by members of the faculty on the basis of classroom excellence, participation in professional organizations and involvement in student, civic or research activities.