Nominees from all six Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) chapters in Hastings have been honored with significant scholarships this year, marking a continued commitment to fostering academic excellence among young women. This national program, dedicated to supporting education for women, celebrates the achievements of local high school graduates who are poised to embark on their collegiate journeys. The recognition highlights the community’s investment in its brightest students.
A total of six outstanding graduates from the Hastings area’s class of 2025 were collectively awarded $15,000 through the P.E.O. Star Scholarship program. Each recipient received $2,500 from the international organization, a testament to their exceptional academic performance, leadership qualities, and community involvement. These college scholarships are designed to provide crucial financial assistance as they pursue higher education.
The distinguished Hastings graduates 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. Their selection underscores the rigorous nomination process and the high standards upheld by the P.E.O. Star Scholarships.
Since its inception in 2009, the P.E.O. Star Scholarship program has distributed over $21.8 million in aid, demonstrating its profound impact on women’s education across North America. This year alone, 1,146 scholarships were awarded to deserving students throughout the United States and Canada, reflecting the program’s widespread reach and consistent dedication to empowering future female leaders. This commitment to academic achievement is central to the P.E.O. mission.
Laura Kate Oliver, a graduate of Hastings High School and daughter of Susan and William Oliver, plans to major in biochemistry at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln this fall. Her impressive high school career included three years in the National Honor Society, active participation in Uncaged on Stage Show Choir, Madrigals, Tigerettes Dance Team, orchestra, swim team, and golf. Oliver received the National Choral Award and the National Orchestra Award, and was recognized for being in the top 10% of her class and earning the Most Valuable Student Award from the Elks Club. Her dedication extends to her community, where she is an active member of First Presbyterian Church, involved in the youth choir, bell choir, Sunday school teaching, and youth group activities.
Ruby Schardt, also a recent graduate of Hastings High School, is the daughter of Aaron and Megan Schardt. Her grandmother’s active membership in the nominating chapter underscores a legacy of community support and engagement. Ruby’s involvement spanned Student Council, DECA, varsity tennis (achieving state-level placement), church mission trips, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, among other school and community endeavors.
With a keen interest in finance and investing, inspired by her father’s profession, Ruby aims to assist individuals nearing retirement with their investments and financial planning, aspiring to open her own firm one day. She will further her education at the University of South Dakota. Both Laura Kate and Ruby exemplify the caliber of students the P.E.O. Star Scholarships aim to support, embodying a blend of academic prowess and active community engagement that promises future leadership.
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