Once a year, we try to be as discreet as possible, entering a school with a large check, while trying not to be seen from the windows. Then we hide until the time is right. There are lots of behind-the-scene laughs and anticipation.
This year the surprise took place at Green Bay Preble High School when Halle Dessart received the $10,000 Brian LaViolette Scholarship.
Halle will be attending UW-Eau Claire next fall to pursue a degree in education and teach in the middle or high school setting. During her interview, she mentioned she wants to instill in her students the mindset that "they don't have to do something but they get to do something." In every day life, that is sometimes hard to remember, but it can be really powerful when you are able to shift your focus.
The process is always a heartwarming one and we can't thank Eric and Leah of the Greater Green Bay Chamber enough for being with us each step of the way.
Halle is pictured here with Eric Vanden Heuvel (left) and Renee and Doug LaViolette.
17 schools in the Partners in Education district nominates one student to apply. From there, five finalists are selected and interviewed.
The decision is never an easy one, but the entire process makes us so hopeful for the future. There is no doubt there are some amazing young men and women ready to make a difference in the world.
