De Queen Public Schools is proud to recognize two outstanding Class of 2026 graduates, Rylee Vaught and Tristan Marrufo, who will continue their education at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville after earning two of the university’s most prestigious academic scholarships.
Both students have been awarded the Fellowship Scholarship, valued at $80,000, and the Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship, valued at $40,000, totaling $120,000 each in scholarship support. These highly competitive awards recognize exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and involvement in school and community activities while also providing significant financial support and academic enrichment opportunities.
Rylee Vaught, an Honor Graduate and daughter of Caitlan Vaught and Dustin Cano and granddaughter of Lori and Joey Vaught, has been actively involved throughout her high school career. She serves as President of Interact and is a member of FCCLA, National Honor Society, and Gifted and Talented, and is a member of Old Center Church. She also earned a 33 on the ACT.
Through the Leopard Launch program, Rylee has completed concurrent college coursework and will graduate high school with her Associate’s Degree. She has also participated in the DHS Pageant during her sophomore and junior years and performed in the De Queen Christmas Play her junior year.
Rylee will attend the Honors College at the University of Arkansas, where she plans to study pre-law in preparation for law school and looks forward to opportunities such as studying abroad.
Tristan Marrufo, De Queen High School’s Class of 2026 Valedictorian and son of Leonel Marrufo and Anabel Torres, will also attend the Honors College at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, majoring in Biology with a minor in Psychology.
Tristan serves as Vice President of Student Council and is a member of the National Honor Society, Technology Student Association, FCCLA, Spanish Club, and Interact Club. He has represented De Queen on the national stage as a TSA competitor.
His academic achievements include AP Scholar with Honor recognition, recognition in the National Merit Program, and a Platinum ranking with a 34 ACT composite score. Tristan also competed in Battle of the Books, earning first place as both a sophomore and a junior.
He is an active member of St. Barbara Catholic Church and plans to pursue a career as an anesthesiologist.
Both students exemplify the dedication, leadership, and academic excellence that define De Queen graduates. Their accomplishments reflect the strength of De Queen Public Schools and the bright futures ahead for these students.
De Queen Public Schools congratulates Rylee and Tristan on these outstanding achievements and wishes them continued success at the University of Arkansas.
#LeopardPride #LeopardFamily