Voelker named homecoming king at DWU

KateLynn Slaamot
NLJ Correspondent
 
Wyatt Voelker, graduate of Newcastle High School and son of Ryan and Donna Voelker, recently was crowned homecoming king at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, South Dakota. 
“It was a very humbling and warming experience,” Voelker said, saying he was when he was crowned at DWU’s Blue & White Days on Sept. 21. 
The DWU senior is majoring in wildlife biology and an active member of the school. He’s part of the golf team, vice president of McGovern Engagement Group and a member of the Student Ministry Council, in addition to other involvements. According to staff and students, Voelker is also actively engaged in student life, friendships and encouraging others. 
“Wyatt is one of those kids who always has a smile on his face and a positive influence on underclassmen,” said Curt Hart, assistant athletic director at DWU. “It goes to show a homecoming king can be someone who makes a difference.”
At the coronation of homecoming king and queen, quotes from students regarding the honored DWU royalty were shared. 
“He is the most respectful, genuine and kind human being I have ever met.”
“If you ever need a laugh, just talk to him.”
“Every time I see him, there is nothing but a smile on his face.”
These are just a few of the sentiments expressed about Voelker by his fellow students and friends. People can watch the DWU coronation video and hear the quotes about the crowned royalty on the Dakota Wesleyan University Youtube page. 
Voelker’s parents are also extremely proud of him, his accomplishments and the kind of person he is, according to Donna. 
“He is always busy doing something, whether it is hunting, trapping, homework or just hanging out with friends and family,” Donna said. Voelker was also an involved NHS student. Student council and FFA were just a couple of his activities. He just has a contagious zest for life, according to Donna.
“We (Ryan and Donna) are proud that he enjoys life and lives it to the fullest,” Donna said. 
Voelker is also a natural-born leader, Donna said, and he is “confident” and “sincere.” Voelker is willing to listen to others, and he is also eager to rise to any challenge and express his views in an articulate manner. 
Ryan and Donna always made it a priority to communicate with their children and encourage them in whatever they set their mind to, according to Donna. 
Voelker credits “God, family and friends” for the person he is today. One of Voelker’s goals is to attend graduate school for a master’s degree in predator ecology. DWU has helped make his dreams a reality, Voelker said, and the staff members have all been a support to Voelker in one way or another. 
“Everyone here at DWU has made an impact,” Voelker said. “They’ll do everything in their power to make you succeed and achieve your goals.” 
Ryan and Donna, along with Voelker’s sisters, Lexus and Mercedes, are grateful and proud for the kind of person Voelker is, and Donna said she hopes he passes on his exemplary character to the next generation.
“We are proud of all his accomplishments and the young man he has become. His future is bright,” Donna said.