A wave of local pride washes over Hastings as six exceptional high school graduates have been officially named recipients of the highly coveted P.E.O. STAR Scholarships, a national program dedicated to fostering academic excellence and empowering young women.
The Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), an international sisterhood committed to supporting educational opportunities for women, has recognized these remarkable students from all six of its Hastings chapters. This year, the six winners collectively received a significant $15,000, each earning a $2,500 scholarship to aid their pursuit of higher education and future career aspirations.
Since its inception in 2009, the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship program has made a profound impact, distributing over $21.8 million to deserving students across the United States and Canada. This year alone, the program awarded an impressive 1,146 scholarships, underscoring its widespread dedication to academic achievement and female empowerment.
The distinguished 2025 Hastings area high school graduates honored with this scholarship include Brooke Baker, nominated by Chapter HT; Eliza Borer, nominated by Chapter GK; Hannah Fiala, nominated by Chapter FH; Isabella Kvols, nominated by Chapter G; Laura Kate Oliver, nominated by Chapter DA; and Ruby Schardt, nominated by Chapter GZ. Each of these young women has demonstrated outstanding dedication and potential throughout their academic careers.
Laura Kate Oliver, daughter of Susan and William Oliver and a Hastings High School graduate, exemplifies academic excellence and diverse engagement. She is set to attend the University of Nebraska in Lincoln this fall, majoring in biochemistry. Her extensive list of high school accomplishments includes three years in the National Honor Society, participation in Uncaged on Stage Show Choir, Madrigals, Tigerettes Dance Team, orchestra, swim team, and golf. Oliver’s commitment to her studies and community was further recognized with the National Choral Award, National Orchestra Award, and the Most Valuable Student Award from the Elks Club, placing her within the top 10% of her graduating class.
Ruby Schardt, another proud graduate of Hastings High School, is the daughter of Aaron and Megan Schardt, with her grandmother notably a member of her nominating P.E.O. chapter. Ruby’s high school journey was marked by active involvement in Student Council, DECA, and varsity tennis, where she achieved state-level placement. Her dedication extends to her community through church mission trips and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, showcasing her commitment to both personal and social development.
Driven by a long-standing interest in financial literacy and investment, inspired by her father’s profession, Ruby aspires to a career in financial planning, particularly aiding individuals nearing retirement. Her ambition includes the eventual goal of establishing her own firm, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and desire to positively impact others’ financial well-being. Ruby will further her studies at the University of South Dakota, laying the groundwork for her future in finance.
These scholarships represent more than just financial aid; they are a profound recognition of these young women’s hard work, leadership potential, and commitment to making a difference. The P.E.O. STAR Scholarship not only eases the financial burden of higher education but also serves as a powerful affirmation of their capabilities and encourages their continued pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.
The Hastings community celebrates these accomplished graduates, anticipating the significant contributions they will undoubtedly make in their chosen fields and beyond. Their success stands as an inspiring example for future generations, highlighting the rewards of dedication and the invaluable support provided by programs like the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship.
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