Two North Kitsap High School students are recipients of the West Sound Spirit of Community Scholarship Award.
Michael Hemmett and Katie Stuart each received $1,000 and were recognized for their work in the community as well as their academic achievements. Hemmett and Stuart are seniors at NKHS and plan to attend college following graduation in June.
Hemmett plans to attend Westmont College in California, studying health and immigration law. At NKHS, Hemmett has held leadership positions in multiple student organizations as well as maintaining a 4.0 grade point average and competing as a varsity athlete. Hemmett is active in his church and has participated in local political campaigns and is in the running to earn the state LEO of the Year award from Lions Club District 19.
Stuart plans to attend Pomona College in California where she will pursue an undergraduate degree in French and her Masters in Education. Stuart offers her time to create equal access to education for students with special needs by tutoring, holding book drives and supporting Little Free Libraries. Stuart is also a member of the city of Poulsbo’s Community Services Committee. At NKHS Stuart has held positions as co-captain of the cheer squad, treasurer for the Associated Student Body and secretary for the National Honor Society with her most-recent achievement being named valedictorian.
The scholarship was conceived by the Miss West Sound Scholarship program at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when all the Miss America affiliated competitions were canceled. “The Miss West Sound Board of Directors felt it was important to acknowledge the remarkable young people in the community who excel academically and through extracurriculars while giving their limited free time in service of their neighbors,” said Amanda Cheatham, co-executive director.
Students had to submit an essay describing their career ambitions and how they will impact their community. They also needed to obtain letters of recommendation from teachers and community members. The selection committee, made up of 12 people with a variety of backgrounds, received 19 applications.
