AAUW to host dinner for scholars

Seven young women have been named by their respective high schools as scholars to be honored by the local Ritzville Branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW). The seven young women, their parents and a teacher, chosen by each to share in the honor, are guests for a dinner meeting Wednesday, April 11, at the Emanuel Lutheran Church social room. Each recipient receives a certificate awarded by the Washington State AAUW. These young women join the larger group of nearly 250 others recognized by 25 local AAUW branches throughout the state.

Each of the students have been selected by the faculty to receive recognition for outstanding achievement in the STEM disciplines of science, technology or mathematics. AAUW is a national group whose mission is to promote education and equity for women and girls. In recognizing these young women, each is encouraged to continue her education and careers in these fields.

Named by Lind High School are Andrea Bennett, Micheala Doyle and Kaytlin Phillips. Ritzville’s honorees are Amalia Perez, Ashley Ambers, and Corin Eckley. Sprague High School honors Amber Rodriguez.

Bennett is a senior, honored for achievement in science. She is the daughter of Blake and Janet Bennett. Bennett plans to attend University of Idaho to attain a degree in early childhood education and development. A further goal is to pursue a Master’s degree in school counseling.

Doyle is a senior, named for achievement in technology. She is the daughter of Michael and Tamara Doyle. Doyle plans to attend Spokane Community or Spokane Falls Community College to pursue a degree in Secretarial Administration to be followed by furthering her education at a university.

Phillips is twice honored, last year for achievement in science, this year for achievement in mathematics. Phillips is the daughter of Janet Phillips and the late Jim Phillips. Upon graduation, Phillips plans to attend Eastern Washington University to attain a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.

Perez, honored for achievement in science, is the daughter of Maria Chavez and Raul Perez. Ambers, honored for achievement in mathematics, is the daughter of Betty and Steve Ulrich. Both Ashley and Amalia are juniors and plan to attend college to further their education after high school, with Perez expressing interest in becoming a teacher or a counselor.

Eckley, the daughter of Dr. Valerie Eckley, is recognized for achievement in technology. After graduation, she plans to attend Seattle Pacific University to study political science and Spanish. She further plans to go to law school.

Rodriguez, a senior, is honored for achievement in mathematics and science. Rodriguez is the daughter of Larae Rodriguez. She plans to attend Washington State University and would like to become a become a clinical psychologist.