On Wednesday, June 4, the Glendale Heights Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual scholarship luncheon, celebrating the recipients of the Kathy Guzlas Scholarship.
Established in 2000, this scholarship fund supports graduating high school seniors from Glendale Heights — or those whose parent or guardian belongs to a chamber member organization in good standing — who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, volunteerism, and academic achievement.
Inspired by Kathay Guzlas, who championed the effort to ensure local graduates had scholarship opportunities within their own community, the chamber renamed the fund in her memory and has awarded tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships over the years.
This year, four remarkable students were selected from a competitive group of applicants:
• Ella Formanski, Glenbard West High School, planning to study interior architecture at University of Kansas
• Brianna Kaptur, Glenbard West High School, attending University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with plans to become a forensic chemist or legal professional
• Allison Landgraf, Benet Academy, planning to study nursing at Marquette University
• Ayushi Patel, Glenbard West High School, planning to study dentistry at University of Illinois.
The luncheon brought together scholarship recipients and their guests, chamber members, local officials, and community supporters.
Attendees enjoyed lunch and a heartfelt program, which included remarks from Glendale Heights Village President Rebecca Giannelli and a touching remembrance of Kathy Guzlas delivered by her friend, Debbie McKenzie.
Each recipient was introduced by a member of the chamber executive board and awarded a $1,000 scholarship check to support their college education. The students then shared brief, inspiring remarks about their journeys and future aspirations.
At the end of the event, attendees expressed their pride in these bright and talented individuals who represent the promise and potential of the Glendale Heights community.
