Today at 4:04 a.m.
by Hailey Grillo
The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce recognized two Cutter Morning Star High School seniors with scholarships Thursday morning.
The awards were presented by the high school principal, Adam Stage, and Chamber of Commerce Vice President Vickie Gilliam and Communications Manager Hannah Rohrer.
The chamber awarded the scholarships in two separate categories — one for a student going to college and one for a student preparing to enter right into the workforce post-graduation.
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“We actually do this at several schools around Hot Springs, not just CMS,” Gilliam said. Scholarship awards were made Friday at Lakeside High School, according to Rohrer.
Brianna Marlar was the recipient of the academic scholarship and Ruby Hendrix was awarded the career technical education, or CTE, scholarship. Both students were supported during the scholarship assembly by their fellow peers and educators.
“We emphasize that you do well academically here, and also that you have a plan for after school,” Stage said to the students. “We are preparing the next generation to go out and be leaders.”
He encourages non-senior students to “work hard and have a plan” for their future academic and career goals.
Gilliam said she has a special place in her heart for the Cutter Morning Star School District, as she and her daughter are both alumni.
“When I graduated from CMS when I was your age, I didn’t have the path guidance you have now,” she said.
“When you finish college we want to make sure there is a good career waiting for you at home. This (scholarship) will help you with some of your needs along the way.”
The hope for the student receiving the CTE scholarship is that it will be used toward a trade school, a reliable vehicle to drive to work, or supplies the student may need for their new career.
The Chamber of Commerce said it believes in offering equal opportunities and immense support for both college and trade-bound students. “We just really want these kids to be successful and to realize we want to help them,” Gilliam said.
The selected students, Marlar and Hendrix, both described their surprise at receiving their scholarships.
“I really did not expect anything, I would have dressed better,” Hendrix said with a laugh. “I’m still unsure of my exact path, so I’m excited to have this to help guide me in my post-graduation decisions now. I know I’d love to work with kids.”
Marlar plans to attend nursing school, but recently had a car wreck making class commutes a potential struggle. She now plans to use her scholarship money to help support her purchase of a reliable vehicle, and use the rest for tuition.
The funds for the scholarships come from the Chamber of Commerce’s annual golf tournament in October. Those interested in participating in this year’s tournament to raise funds for students’ education can contact Gary Jackson by calling the chamber at 501-321-1700.
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