Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (EASTERN) Culinary Arts/Hatboro-Horsham 2014 graduate, Lauren Bissig, is the recipient of the newly-created Thomas W. O’Brien Memorial Scholarship. The award was established by the friends and colleagues of Thomas W. O’Brien in partnership with the PA Association for Career and Technical Education to benefit a career and technical student who will be continuing their education in their chosen field.
Lauren was selected from close to 100 applicants to receive the scholarship. She was presented this award at an awards dinner at the Pennsylvania Career and Technical Education Conference on June 19, 2014. This $1,500 award was made payable directly to Drexel University, where Lauren will continue her culinary education.
Mr. O’Brien was an educator dedicated to career and technical education (CTE). His passion for education and strong belief in CTE were evident in his involvement at local, state, and national levels. In 2003, Tom retired from Indiana University of Pennsylvania after a long and distinguished career in CTE. His leadership, enthusiasm, and compassion were an inspiration to all who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him. This scholarship is offered in his memory and to continue his spirit of generosity and support of career and technical education.
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“I am extremely honored to be selected as the first recipient of this award,” said Lauren. “At the awards presentation I had the opportunity to meet Mr. O’Brien’s friends, family and coworkers. It was a very emotional night for everyone involved. I truly appreciate this scholarship and look forward to continuing my education at Drexel.”
Lauren was encouraged to apply for the award by her Culinary Arts instructor at EASTERN, Chef Marucheck. Lauren is currently interning at Mica Restaurant in Chestnut Hill. After completing her education, she plans to become a Sous-Chef at a restaurant in the Philadelphia area.
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EASTERN is a public school serving students in nine Eastern Montgomery County school districts. Those districts include Abington, Bryn Athyn, Cheltenham, Hatboro-Horsham, Jenkintown, Lower Moreland, Springfield, Upper Dublin and Upper Moreland. Students benefit from specialized career programs that give them a competitive edge in college or in a career. The campus is at 3075 Terwood Road in Willow Grove. For more information, please contact Amy Shields, Organizational Advancement Director, at 215-784-4806, or visit the school’s website at www.eastech.org. Like Us? Become a fan on Facebook – www.Facebook.com/EasternCenter, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram @EasternCenter.
Photo: Lauren Bissig
