Women’s Service League has presented two $1000 Athena Scholarships to high school seniors at St. Joseph and Niles high schools.
Founded in 2002, the Athena Education Fund was created to acknowledge and reward local Berrien County students. The WSJL says these two students embody the altruistic spirit shared with The Women’s Service League. The League says the graduating seniors who have received this honor in past years comprehend the vital role that volunteering plays in every community.
Women’s Service League is proud to announce Clara Berry from St. Joseph Public Schools as an Athena Scholarship recipient this year.
Clara is an exceptional student, a leader in athletics and active volunteer.
Women’s Service League is impressed with her desire to be a role model for other members wanting to amplify their servant leadership.
– Key Club member (4 years)
– Builders Club member
– Kiwanis Service Leadership Program
– Michigan District of Key Club Governor & Lieutenant Governor
– Vice President of Key Club International
– Outstanding Love for Key Club Michigan Distriction 2024 awardee
Clara plans to attend Western Michigan University and major in public and nonprofit administration. She is already a community leader and there is no doubt Clara will embrace philanthropic work as part of a life-long endeavor.
Women’s Service League also is proud to announce one of this year’s Athena Scholarship recipients – Ethan Chambliss of Niles High School.
Ethan Reid Chambliss is Creative, Equitable & Passionate. He is constantly asking “What can we do?” to make things better. He enjoys watching kids form new friendships, learn how to respect themselves and others, and learn to work together towards a singular goal.
“Ethan’s commitment to his family, competitive nature and extensive list of academic and volunteer achievements are the foundations of his pursuit of excellence. That said, he also has a rare gift of humanity. Ethan has a certain strength of character and integrity that is seen, felt, and undisputable.”
He is an Athena Scholarship recipient due to his incredible service record:
– Camp Counselor Volunteer
– Referee of Youth Sports
– Founder of the Culture Club at Niles High School and submitted a proposal to the Board of Education for a Cultural Studies course.
– Spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. Award Recipient
– National Honor Society member
– Captain of basketball team (2x)
– State finalist for track and field
– YMCA Teen Advisory Council volunteer
– AP Scholar and Big Future National African American Recognition
– Student Council member
– Participated in high school musicals
– 5 time winner of the Respect, Responsibility, and Resilience Award
– School ambassador
– Senior Class President
– QuestBridge College Prep Scholar
Ethan plans to attend the University of Notre Dame in the fall to study Biochemistry on the Medical track to become an Orthopedic Surgeon.
Previous beneficiaries, as well as future recipients, should have a proven track record for integrating philanthropic work as part of their high school career. The students awarded will have demonstrated a commitment to volunteerism through many avenues including school, church, private youth groups, community organizations and charities. Preference is given to females but males are eligible to apply. Through this program, the WSL hopes to encourage every applicant to include philanthropic work as part of a life-long endeavor.
Headline photo: Clara Berry accepts award check from WSL
