South Whidbey High School senior Will Mellish has been selected by the Langley City Council to compete statewide for a scholarship.

Mellish, 17, was chosen by a unanimous vote Monday to be the city’s candidate for a $1,000 scholarship offered through the Association of Washington Cities Center for Quality Communities.

The scholarship is for graduating high school students who are school and community leaders, and who plan to continue their education. Mellish was one of 13 seniors vying for city sponsorship.

“I was really honored to be selected,” Mellish said.

Also awarded a $500 scholarship from the Friends of the Langley Library, Mellish has been an outstanding scholar, a member of the Honor Society, participated in student government, and maintained a perfect a 4.0 grade point average for four years at South Whidbey High School.

He has captained teams in the Knowledge Bowl and Hi-Q competitions, performed in plays and participated in school sports, while also volunteering with two community aid organizations.

He received the Langley Middle School Leadership award in 2008 and has been the recipient of numerous other honors as well. He is currently the high school’s Associated Student Body president and an Eagle Scout.

Mellish said he has been accepted to several schools and plans to major in electrical engineering. Once he graduates, he hopes to eventually work in research and development.

— Justin Burnett