Students can participate by bringing their original report cards to any of the six Clement Auto Group locations. Entries are awarded based on academic performance and attendance. There are three opportunities throughout the school year to submit report cards and earn entries. After the third submission period, 20 finalists will be drawn to participate in the grand prize event.
3 entries for each A
1 entry for each B
3 bonus entries for perfect attendance
Clement Auto Group is proud to host the annual Drive For Excellence, an academic incentive program rewarding local high school juniors and seniors with the opportunity to win a brand-new Ford Mustang. Now in its third year, this exciting initiative encourages students to pursue academic success while fostering community pride.
Each year, 20 finalists are selected based on their grades and attendance. One student drives away in a brand-new Mustang — a thrilling reward for academic dedication.
Sign-ups for the 2026 Drive For Excellence open with the new school year in August 2025. Details will be available at participating Clement dealerships and online.
School: McCluer North High School, Florissant, MO
Prize: 2025 Ford Mustang Coupe
In an unforgettable moment at the third annual Drive For Excellence event, Ian Hughes became the latest winner to drive away in a brand-new Mustang. As the ninth finalist to try his luck with the key, Ian’s turn proved to be the winning one. A straight-A student with a deep interest in Computer Science and Cyber Security, Ian plans to use the Mustang for commuting to college and traveling to e-sport tournaments — a perfect blend of function and celebration.
“My parents were hoping to buy me a car for college and to participate in e-sport tournaments, and now I have a car of my own,” Ian said.
Ian’s story is one of focus, perseverance, and passion. As he moves into higher education, his academic drive and vision for the future embody the purpose behind the Drive For Excellence initiative.
School: Holt High School, Wentzville, MO
Prize: Ford Mustang Convertible
The 2024 program brought excitement and inspiration as Jesse Kopp, a senior from Holt High School, became the second Drive For Excellence Mustang winner. Jesse, the 16th participant to step up to the vehicle during the event, successfully unlocked the door to a brand-new Mustang convertible, igniting cheers from the crowd.
Jesse, who plans to study Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) in Rolla, exemplifies the characteristics of a future innovator: smart, driven, and humble. He shared the spotlight with his proud mother, Tammy Cayer, as they celebrated a well-earned reward for his academic achievements.
Jesse’s story resonated across local media and TV, showcasing how determination and academic excellence can lead to life-changing opportunities.
School: Liberty High School, Wentzville, MO
Prize: Ford Mustang Coupe
The inaugural Drive For Excellence in 2023 set the tone for what would become one of the region’s most talked-about student recognition events. Trent Stuerman, then a junior at Liberty High School, emerged victorious as the 17th contestant to test his key during the final ceremony. A brilliant student with straight A’s, Trent was also honored as a Missouri Scholars 100 Honorable Mention — a prestigious recognition for high-achieving students in the state.
Trent plans to pursue a double major in Physics and Mathematics at Washington University in St. Louis, and his future is nothing short of bright. His win not only celebrated his academic record but also inspired hundreds of other students across the region to set ambitious goals.
Bring your report card to any of these Clement Auto Group locations:
1075 W. Terra Ln, O’Fallon, MO 63366
971 Wilmer Rd, Wentzville, MO 63385
1790 N. Hwy 67, Florissant, MO 63033
3621 Veterans Memorial Pkwy, St. Charles, MO 63303
For more information, email us at events@clementautogroup.com
Penuel ‘Raj’ Clement
President of Clement Auto Group
The Clement Ford Drive For Excellence Program is our way of promoting educational excellence among high school juniors and seniors. We believe in giving back to the community, and what better way to do so than by investing in its students, who are our future leaders.
Brian McKinney
Mayor of Lake St. Louis
This was my first experience with Drive for Excellence. These kids are going to be world-changers! That’s a wonderful thing the Clement Auto Group is doing for these young men and women. Well done!
Traci Nave
Principal Riverview Gardens High School
Hard work pays off. I’m proud of my Riverview Garden High School students who participated this year, and grateful to Clement Auto Group for providing a program to encourage students to excel in high school.
Experience the thrill of the Drive For Excellence event:
Program Rules