Talan Denson named a top national scholar

Canyon Lake’s Talan M. Denson, a senior at Temescal Canyon High School, has been distinguished with membership in The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS). This honor, announced by NSHSS Co-founder and President James W. Lewis, recognizes Talan’s exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and commitment to the community.

“On behalf of NSHSS and Claes Nobel, a family member of the Nobel Prizes founders, we are honored to acknowledge the hard work, passion, and commitment Talan has shown,” James W. Lewis said. “He is now part of a unique community of scholars, representing our very best hope for the future.”

“We have lived here in Canyon Lake since our son was six years old,” Talan’s mother, Jennifer Denson, said. “We couldn’t be happier with such an amazing community to raise our son.”

Talan has an impressive record of maintaining a high GPA and receiving Academic Honors throughout his school years, even amid the challenges of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He was accepted into Temescal Canyon High School’s Engineering Academy in his freshman year and has been actively involved in community service. His contributions include volunteering with the PLUS (Peer Leaders Uniting Students) organization, which works with special needs students and peers, and raising funds to build a water well in Sudan.

An avid tennis player, Talan has played for Canyon Lake’s national USTA teams and his high school varsity team. He was named The Most Improved Player by his high school coach last year and continues to excel in the sport, receiving the Raincross League Certificate for maintaining a 3.5 or higher GPA.

In addition to his academic and athletic achievements, Talan has been a dedicated volunteer with the Canyon Lake Tennis Club, participating in various events since he was seven years old, including tennis camp, USTA Tournaments working on the tennis courts as a ball kid during finals matches, volunteering in the Fiesta Day Parade, throwing tennis balls to the spectators, and helping sell water bottles at the Fiesta Day booth.

NSHSS, established in 2002 by James W. Lewis and Claes Nobel, aims to recognize and advance the aspirations of high-achieving students like Talan, offering lifetime membership that connects them with valuable resources throughout their academic and professional journeys.