The Soldotna Chamber of Commerce held a special meeting last week at the Soldotna Regional Sports Complex to honor the final students of the month for this school year and to present the chamber’s scholarships. “Our Scholarship Committee this year was Chair Esther Chambers, and our committee members included Laura West, Sara Crapuchettes, Billie Hardy, Barbara Olson, Sherri Nyitrai, and Lisa Roberts. They did a great job and deserve a huge thank you,” reported Sara Hondel Visitor Center Coordinator.

Addressing the chamber meeting, Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Superintendent Sean Dusek thanked the chamber for their efforts in recognizing students of the month through the school year as well as their generous scholarship program.

“I think the more people learn about what’s happening in our schools on a daily basis the more impressed they are and the chamber and our key communicators are helping that happen. Business people understand a good investment and we believe these kids are our future and an excellent investment. We have more to do in the way of career readiness and we need the community involvement to make that happen,” Dusek said.

Receiving the Soldotna Chamber High School Scholarships were Kayla Haeg, Halen Wells, and Abbie Carter. All are Soldotna High School students who were in attendance and received their certificates.

The Soldotna Chamber Current College Scholarship was awarded to Madison Orth, who is attending Calvin College in Grand Rapids. Madison’s certificate was received by her mom, Rhonda, on her behalf. The two, Vera Howarth Memorial Scholarships were awarded to Kendra Brush and Evelyn Burnett.

Vera Howarth was the first member of the Soldotna Chamber when it was founded, and in her memory the Vera Howarth Memorial Scholarship was started to exemplify her spirit and love of community. The $1,500 award is given to two applicants each year.

“Awards are made to students with a positive-upbeat personality and demonstrated community involvement, including civic activities, volunteerism, a general willingness to participate and determination to overcome difficulties while retaining a positive attitude.”

The award is open to High School Seniors residing in the City of Soldotna who meet the criteria.

Evelyn Burnett accepts the Vera Horwarth Memorial Scholarship.

Kayla Haeg will attend UAF then wants to return to Soldotna.

KPBSD Superintendent Sean Dusek expresses appreciation to Soldotna Chamber for awarding student scholarships and student of the month program.