Shady Side Academy senior Nichole Poltinnikov has been recognized by the National Speech and Debate Association with its Academic All-American award, which recognizes academic rigor, competitive speech and debate success, and personal excellence.

From more than 141,000 student members of the NSDA, fewer than 1% earn the Academic All-American award every year. The award recognizes students who have completed at least five semesters of high school; earned the degree of Superior Distinction in the NSDA Honor Society (a total of 750 or more points); achieved rigorous criteria for GPA and/or test score requirements; and demonstrated outstanding character and leadership.

Poltinnikov is currently ranked No. 1 in Pennsylvania and No. 4 in the nation in the Lincoln-Douglas Debate event by the NSDA. Last year, she qualified to compete in the NSDA National Tournament, placing sixth in Lincoln-Douglas Debate and earning the third most speaker points in the group of 264 competitors. 

The National Speech & Debate Association connects, supports, and inspires a diverse community committed to empowering students through speech and debate.

Congratulations, Nichole!