STUDENTS OF DISTINCTION FUND
Founded in 2003, by The Peninsula Gateway, the Students of Distinction program has honored more than 560 graduating seniors from the Peninsula School District. The program came under the Foundation in 2013. Investment in higher education generates significant social and economic returns that strengthen our communities and our nation. Higher education is an appreciating asset.
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Annually, approximately 30 to 36 high school seniors are selected as Students of Distinction finalists. Typically, more than 175 students are nominated each year by teachers, peers, parents, or community members in seven categories. In April, finalists meet with interview panels comprised of community leaders. Over the years, The Peninsula Gateway and more recently Gig Harbor Now dedicate a section featuring vignettes on each Student of Distinction, highlighting the student’s accomplishments in the weeks before the awards ceremony held in mid-May.
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Sponsors as Kitsap Credit Union, Peninsula Light Company, The Peninsula Gateway, Umpqua Bank, CHI Franciscan, Ocean5, Greater Gig Harbor Foundation, Pilkey-Hopping & Ekberg, The Mecham Foundation, and numerous individual donors have helped to provide more than $12,000 in scholarship funds annually - over $276,000 to date.
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Through the Students of Distinction Fund, everyone can join in building a permanent endowment to help guarantee the perpetuity and strengthen the capacity of this community scholarship program. Your support of the Students of Distinction Fund is an investment in higher education, which in turn strengthens our community. Every dollar makes a difference.
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