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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Spotlight shines on area’s best, brightest


Above: World languages $4,000 grant winner Ruth Ryan, right, from Gonzaga Prep receives congratulations from Dr. Elizabeth Welty during the 16th Annual Spokane Scholars Foundation academic achievement awards at the Spokane Convention Center last week. Pictured, from left, are $3,000 grant winner Emma Perkins from St. George's, $2,000 grant winner Corinna Bockstruck from Cheney and $1,000 winner Lauren Hamill from Mead. Special to 
 (Young Kwak photos Special to / The Spokesman-Review)
The Spokesman-Review

T his time of year, most high school seniors are counting the days. There are just a few more weeks until they graduate and move on.

But 24 lucky and very hard working students, recipients of the 16th annual Spokane Scholars Foundation academic achievement awards, can count the money they will put toward their college education.

An all-volunteer organization, the Spokane Scholars Foundation works through donations from local professionals and businesses to promote and reward academic achievement.

More than 125 students from area high schools – nominated by teachers and principals – gathered at the Spokane Convention Center for the 16th annual awards banquet to be honored for academic excellence.

Students, families and community members listened to a presentation and performance by keynote speaker and world famous fiddler, violinist and composer, Mark O’Connor. O’Connor’s appearance was made possible by longtime Spokane benefactor Dr. Elizabeth Welty. Dr. Welty was also the underwriter supporting O’Connor’s recent appearance with the Spokane Youth Symphony.

After O’Connor performed some of his most recognizable compositions, Spokane Scholars board members awarded each student a medal of achievement. Four students in the fields of English, social studies, mathematics, science, world languages and fine arts were awarded grants of $1,000, $2,000, $3,000 and $4,000. Students stood on the stage while board members read the letters of recommendation nominating each one.

At the close of the banquet board president Louis Rukavina sent each student home with the admonition to set high goals but to go after those goals “one bite at a time.”

The ballroom was packed with proud parents, educators and professionals who value the power and potential of education. And for the students who stood on the stage and faced the crowd, and for the crew that will gather this time next year, that support really counts.