Local women receive scholarships from P.E.O. Chapter JE
October 31, 2023 |
Parsons, KAN. (October 26, 2023) - Parson’s P.E.O. Chapter JE, a philanthropic organization,
presented three local women with scholarships on October 26.
The 2022-2023 scholarships were awarded to Anita Jackson, Mary Matlock, and Kyla Reyes, all of Parsons.
Jackson shared her excitement for this scholarship. “I am so grateful for this scholarship and what it means. I am returning to college after many years, and am thankful for the support from my family, friends, LCC, and this PEO Chapter. I have the inspiration and grit to succeed in my educational journey, and I am excited to graduate in May 2024,” said Jackson.
All three recipients shared how much this scholarship meant to them. They expressed their gratitude for community support. “I was surprised to receive this scholarship, and I am so grateful,” said Matlock.
“The committee was impressed by the hard work and tenacity displayed by Anita, Mary, and Kyla as they pursue their educational goals,” stated Daneen Landis-Coover, P.E.O. scholarship committee chair. “Each recipient is dedicated to their education, and their inspiring accomplishments remind us of the boundless potential that exists within each of them.”
P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization of women in the community who celebrate the advancement of women through educational efforts of scholarships, grants, and awards. Their goal is to support and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.
“This scholarship means so much. There is nothing more powerful than women supporting other women, and I am honored to have been chosen for this scholarship,” said Reyes.
LCC Vice President of Student Affairs Kelly Kirkpatrick, sharing congratulatory remarks, closed the presentation. “Each of these recipients exemplify exceptional dedication, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. These women not only possess outstanding academic abilities, but also demonstrate strong leadership, and a profound sense of responsibility. Congratulations to each one of you.”
The scholarship committee of Chapter JE reviewed applications submitted through the LCC
Foundation. Members of the chapter voted to award the $500 scholarship to local non-
traditional female students attending Labette Community College. Nominations were reviewed
first by the committee and approved by a chapter meeting.
True to the mission of promoting educational opportunities for women, Chapter JE President,
Connie Goodnight explains the legacy of these scholarships. “Our chapter continually works toward building sisterhood, friendships and supporting women through the educational assistance programs, such as these scholarships,” concluded Goodnight. “Education continues to be the primary philanthropy of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, and Chapter JE is honored to support these three deserving women in their educational endeavors. We wish them every success on this journey, and may they continue shining brightly as tomorrow's leaders.”
Chapter JE P.E.O. Sisterhood is a local chapter of P.E.O. International. The chapter raises money for the annual scholarships by selling evergreen wreaths and holiday swags. Please visit the Facebook page, P.E.O. Chapter JE Parsons, KS, to learn more.