Three York County students recognized with leadership scholarship

Three Saco - area high school students have been awarded a total of $1,500 in college scholarships from the Chenette Scholarship Fund.

The foundation’s Leadership Scholarship is awarded each year to students at Thornton Academy, Old Orchard Beach High School, and Bonny Eagle who exemplify qualities of community leadership and civic engagement. This year’s recipients are Tyler MacVane, Derrick Webber, and Gregory Brunk.

“Their passion for helping others is truly their authentic form of self-expression,” said Justin Chenette, York County Commissioner and founder of the scholarship. “No matter their chosen path in life, their futures will involve making a difference and improving the quality of life of those around them.”

Tyler MacVane of Saco is this year’s recipient at Thornton Academy. Tyler received this award recognizing his efforts volunteering in the community with various causes and working his way to become an Eagle Scout. His Eagle Scout work involved building picnic tables for community members to enjoy. Tyler takes the time to appreciate the service of others through efforts like Honor Flight Maine, Wreaths Across America, and placing American flags at Laurel Hill Cemetery for Memorial Day. He will be attending Southern Maine Community College this Fall.

Derrick Webber is the scholarship recipient this year from Old Orchard Beach High School. Derrick completed at least 130 hours of community service over his time in school for various causes, including volunteering with the school’s Interact club. He has helped out at community events organized by the town’s recreation department, and he participated in Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), which is an intensive leadership experience organized by Rotary clubs where students develop skills as a leader. He will be attending Maine Maritime Academy in the fall.

Gregory Brunk of Buxton is Bonny Eagle High School’s scholarship recipient. This recognizes his efforts volunteering through his church and youth group as well as his commitment to his studies with a 4.0 grade point average. He also excelled in sports, placing 3rd in the state championship for wrestling. Gregory will be attending Maine Maritime Academy later this summer for marine engineering, with hopes of applying his knowledge to working on various ships.

Since 2015, the Chenette Scholarship Fund has provided over $12,000 worth of college scholarship awards to students at Thornton Academy, Old Orchard Beach High School, and Bonny Eagle. Learn more about the scholarship at www.ChenetteScholarships.org.