BLAKELY, Pa. (WOLF) — One lucky high school graduate was recently surprised with a $2500 scholarship from a local business.
Valley View Graduate Reilly Sprague was chosen by NEPA Builders in their annual scholarship giveaway.
Valley View Graduate Reilly Sprague scholarship recipient and owner of NEPA Builders Toby Grzenda | photo: FOX56
The local contractor took nominations for student-athletes from District 2, which encompasses Luzerne, Lackawanna, Susquehanna, and parts of Wayne County.
The owner of NEPA Builders, Toby Grzenda, says this program stands by its motto, “Building a better northeast.”
Reilly will be attending West Chester University in the fall with aspirations of becoming an educator. She hopes she can make a meaningful impact as a teacher in underserved communities in the future.
Grzenda says:
A little bit of a circle that we feel the community supports us, hires us to do the work that they need at their home and at the same time. Because of that, we’re able to turn around and give back to the community. So it’s difficult. Every year is difficult, but also every year it’s a clear winner. And Riley was the clear winner because of her commitment to her family and putting other people first, and what she intends to do with her experience from life, why she’s going to school and what impact she wants to have.
Sprague stated:
Very surprised. Was not expecting that at all. Very grateful though. It means like I can completely focus on my academics and building a social life and making connections, rather than the financial stress of being a student and trying to make ends meet while still trying to get an education.
Reilly will be attending West Chester University in the fall with aspirations of becoming an educator. She hopes she can make a meaningful impact as a teacher in underserved communities in the future.