Helen Whalen Scholars

The D123 PTA/PTSA Council held its annual scholarship dinner this past Tuesday evening at Sward Elementary School. Four scholarships were awarded in honor of the Helen Whalen Annual Scholarship Fund.

Congratulations to Haley Widel, Adam Smith, Michael Marcione, and Kiersten Bergquist.

Haley Widel
•Oak Forest High School
•Top 9% of Graduating Class
•GPA 5.4 
•Attended Covington School and OLHMS
•Will pursue a career in Biomedical Engineering / Pre-Med to become a Neurologist

Most Inspirational Teachers:
Ms. Jacqueline Selmeister, Covington School
Mrs. Heidi Tiechert-Divizio, OLHMS

“I have been an avid reader since the age of three and science has always intrigued me. My first and favorite books were a children’s anatomy book. I knew in 2008, when best friend was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis I wanted to save lives like the doctors who saved her . . .
but it is my genuine thirst for knowledge that will cause me to succeed and achieve my goals.”

Adam Smith
•Oak Lawn Community High School
•Top 4% of Graduating Class
•GPA 4.298
•Attended Covington School and OLHMS
•Will pursue a career, through the Honors Program, as a Physical Therapist

Most Inspirational Teachers:
Mrs. Sandy Kenny, OLHMS
Mr. Chris Scarnavack, OLHMS

“Church, family and education have been the three major priorities I have been raised to focus upon. Along with service to the community, these values have been incorporated into all areas of my life. I feel the experiences and education within my formative school years have developed the foundation of the education standards I hold today.”

Michael Marchione
•H. L. Richards High School
•Top 6% of Graduating Class
•GPA 4. 79
•Attended Kolmar School and OLHMS
•Will pursue a career in Biology / Pre-Dentistry to become an Orthodontist

Most Inspirational Teacher:
Mrs. Sophia Georgelos, OLHMS

“As I entered high school, I was worried if I truly could keep up with the challenges honors classes would entail, but I soon found that I excelled. I feel that it was because of the excellent educators which were part of my early developmental years that I am the person I am today and this will continue to influence my future successes.”
 
Kiersten Bergquist 
•H. L. Richards High School
•Top 3% of Graduating Class
•GPA 5.13
•Attended Kolmar School and OLHMS
•Will pursue a career in Environmental Science with a Minor in Performing Arts

Most Inspirational Teachers:
Mrs. Sandy Kenny, OLHMS
Mrs. Heather McCarthy, OLHMS

“I am an incredibly passionate person with several areas of interest that . . . include environmental science, the performing arts, and social justice. Those life-long interests will influence and motivate my choices and decisions. I am looking towards the future with unbridled optimism. I am excited to become an environmental scientist who sings.”