Seven PHS students received an unexpected surprise this Spring when they learned they were the first to be awarded the Wetzel Family Scholarship, an all new gift given to outstanding students involved in PHS’ College Access Program (CAP). Students were selected based on two main factors – their participation in CAP’s programs, including drop-in sessions, college essay workshops and the College Champions program, and the students’ overall engagement in their community. In April, staff from CAP and PEF, along with Elise & Rick Wetzel, selected seven outstanding PHS seniors to receive the scholarship. The milestone was celebrated in an informal ceremony where, in a surprise moment, students were told of their awards, an honor they didn’t even know they were being considered for.
Elise Wetzel has been a volunteer at College Access Plan for almost ten years, working alongside students to help them enroll in college. As long-time supporters of education, the Wetzels understood that there are outstanding students who needed to close the gaps in financial aid in order to reach their college goals. To help with this need, Rick & Elise collaborated with both PEF and CAP to create the Wetzel Family Scholarship, which provides each recipient with $5,000 a year in financial aid, renewable for up to four years while the students are enrolled in college.
One recipient has even been part of the CAP community since middle school, reflecting years of dedication and growth. This recognition celebrates both their achievements and the consistency they have shown throughout the years… CAP is proud to celebrate these students as they take their next steps and remain connected through the I Heart College (IHC) Alumni Program. Congratulations to these exceptional seniors. Go Bulldogs!–NATALIE HARRIS, College Access Plan High School Program ManagerAll of these students are very active on their campus, in their community, and with CAP. They are true reflections of young minds that are going to change the world because they are passionate about helping others and making meaningful, positive changes. I am honored to have assisted in this process and have been able to share their stories with the Wetzels.–KARLA RAMOS, College Access Plan High School Program Coordinator at PHS
PHS, CAP, and PEF thank the Wetzel family for their continued dedication and support of our public schools.
