GENOA – Victoria Hensley of Genoa is one of 20 state finalists in the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award program.

The 1,451 Illinois applicants were narrowed to 20 finalists who embody the Heisman spirit of hard work and dedication through their outstanding achievements in athletics, academics and community or school leadership.

In the next level of the competition, one boy and one girl from each state will be named state winners. Of that pool of 100 contestants, 12 national finalists will be chosen. National finalists will receive gold medals and awards of $2,000 for their high schools. Two national winners – one boy and one girl – will be chosen to receive a crystal trophy, a $500 gift certificate to Wendys and a $10,000 award for their school. National winners will also be recognized during the collegiate Heisman Trophy broadcast on ESPN Dec. 8.