Eight get scholarships at banquet

PATTERSON — The St. Mary Chamber of Commerce awarded scholarships to eight high school graduates at its annual education and appreciation banquet. The event is held in partnership with the 16th Judicial District Attorney’s office.

The Chamber Scholarship Fund started around 20 years ago with contributions from the late Charles Roe and chamber members.

Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate high academic achievement, involvement and leadership in both school and community activities. These qualities distinguish selected winners as a future leader in the community.

The scholarship totaled $12,000. One student at each St. Mary Parish high school was selected to receive an award of $1,500. This year’s scholarship recipients are:

Berwick High School — Gabrielle Adams

Central Catholic — Emma Thomas

Centerville High — McKaila Darden

Franklin High — Aisha Ortiz

Hanson Memorial — Dominique Montecino

Morgan City High — Ayana Allen

Patterson High — Aaliya Stewart

West St. Mary — Myria Ashani Druilhet

Additional monetary awards were given at the banquet. Franklin High graduate Lo’Raisha Jones received the St. Mary Parish Arts & Humanities Council Award.

Morgan City High graduate Ayana Allen was selected as the 2016 Student of Year.

The chamber recognized local contributions of post-secondary education in the community.

South Central Louisiana Technical College, Young Memorial Campus, Director Earl Meador and Dean Anthony Baham were present to receive the chamber’s contribution of $2,000.

Teachers in St. Mary Parish schools were recognized for their commitment and excellence in K-12 education.

St. Mary Superintendent of Schools Leonard Armato announced the 2016-17 Teachers of the Year:

Bayou Vista Elementary School — Brooke Quick

Berwick Junior High School — Laura Rentrop

Patterson High School — Nannette Millet

Silent and live auctions were held as chamber fundraising activities during the banquet. Ed “Tiger” Verdin served as the auctioneer for the evening. All auction proceeds go the Charlie Roe Chamber Scholarship Fund.