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CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. — With energy, ambition and a mission to invest in their future, Chamberlain High School seniors turned the spotlight onto themselves — but not for praise. Instead, they put on a show to give back.
On Wednesday, April 23, Chamberlain High School held its first-ever “Cub Scholarathon,” a two-hour livestreamed telethon organized and emceed by senior and Student Council President Peyton Haugen. The event aimed to raise money for scholarships for graduating seniors pursuing post-secondary education — and it did just that, collecting $10,500 on its debut.
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The idea was Haugen’s, a student deeply involved not only at school but in the wider community. Since the beginning of the school year, Haugen has served as a youth member on the Oacoma Chamberlain Pukwana (OCP) Area Community Foundation. His goal? To establish a sustainable scholarship fund available to all CHS graduates heading to college, trade school or vocational programs.
“I wanted to do something that could make a lasting impact,” said Haugen. “College and trade schools are expensive, and we believe every student should have a little extra help to start their journey.”
Chamberlain High sees an average of 53 seniors graduate each year, with about 70% continuing on to some form of higher education. This year’s class was slightly smaller, with 43 graduates — 36 of whom are pursuing further education. The funds raised during the telethon will be distributed among these students, with half earmarked to begin building a legacy scholarship fund for future graduating classes.
The Cub Scholarathon wasn’t just about raising money — it was about showcasing student stories and talents. Livestreamed on the school’s CubNation YouTube channel, the program included live entertainment, student interviews and appearances by local leaders. A highlight was a surprise video interview with CHS alum and current NFL hopeful Nash Hutmacher, who played football at the University of Nebraska.
“I love when people ask me where I’m from. I’m super proud to be from Chamberlain,” said Hutmacher.
Haugen and Hanzlik took on emceeing duties, adding humor, heart, and enthusiasm to the event.
“I was a little nervous during the first few interviews,” Hanzlik admitted. “But once we got going, it was a lot of fun.”
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Superintendent Justin Zajic applauded the effort and vision of the student-led initiative.
“This will impact this year’s seniors, next year’s seniors, and the following years. This was a huge success,” Zajic said.
The concept of the telethon came together with the help of the Chamberlain School District, principal Jeff Steckelberg and teacher Jaylen Uthe, and guidance from the OCP board members. Community members, family, alumni and businesses were invited to call in during the live event to pledge donations. Many even proposed friendly challenges — asking others to match or outdo their contributions.
“The support has been amazing,” said Sheena Larsen of the Lake Francis Case Development Corporation. “Every pledge makes a difference and is a step toward reaching the goal. Together, the OCP Community Foundation and Chamberlain High School can ensure that every graduate has the financial support they need to take the next step.”
Haugen, who plans to attend Montana State University to study civil engineering while competing on the rodeo team, hopes the Cub Scholarathon becomes an annual Chamberlain tradition.
“Our goal is for this to grow each year,” he said. “If every class adds to the fund and supports the next, we’ll create something that lasts far beyond our time here.”
Community members who wish to support the scholarship fund can do so by reaching out to the student organizers or any member of the Oacoma Chamberlain Pukwana Area Community Foundation. Donations may be dropped off with Sheena at the Chamberlain Community Center or mailed directly to PO Box 526, Chamberlain, S.D. 57325.
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