Two Amos Alonzo Stagg High School seniors are heading into the next chapter of their lives with a little extra support thanks to the Palos Park Woman’s Club.
The organization recently awarded $1,600 scholarships to graduating seniors Olivia Newman and Gabriela Wnek, recognizing their academic achievements, leadership, volunteer service and commitment to making a difference in their communities.
Members of the club said selecting recipients was not an easy task, but both students stood out for their character, dedication and future goals.
Newman received her scholarship during Stagg High School’s Honors Night on May 7. This fall, she plans to attend the University of Kentucky, where she will study animal sciences on the pre-veterinary track with hopes of becoming a large-animal veterinarian.
Her passion for animals has been shaped by years of hands-on experience and community involvement. Newman has volunteered extensively, participated in fundraising efforts and taken part in environmental cleanup projects. She is also a leader in the Saddlebred Riders United Youth Group, where she has developed skills in teamwork, responsibility and advocacy.
Those experiences, combined with time spent shadowing veterinarians and volunteering, helped prepare her for a future in veterinary medicine while strengthening her leadership and communication abilities.
Wnek, meanwhile, learned about the scholarship while working at Biggby Coffee, where she first saw information about the opportunity posted. She later received her scholarship from members of the Palos Park Woman’s Club and said the award will help support her educational goals.
She plans to pursue a career in healthcare and hopes to become a radiologist, using medical imaging and patient care to serve others.
Wnek has been active in HOSA, formerly known as Future Health Professionals, and has participated in volunteer work, fundraising efforts and leadership activities throughout her high school years. Through those experiences, she has developed a strong sense of responsibility, compassion and teamwork.
As she prepares for college, Wnek hopes to continue building her scientific knowledge, gain hands-on medical experience and remain involved in service opportunities.
Palos Park Woman’s Club members said both scholarship recipients embody the values the organization seeks to encourage through its annual scholarship program.
“Both students demonstrated exceptional promise, strong character and a genuine commitment to using their education and talents to help others,” the club said in a statement.
The scholarships are part of the club’s ongoing efforts to support education and invest in the future of local students. Members also plan to share video updates from Newman and Wnek this fall during future meetings and on social media, allowing the community to follow their journeys as they begin college and work toward their career goals.
Founded in 1902, the Palos Park Woman’s Club has long supported educational, civic and charitable initiatives throughout the community. This year’s scholarship recipients continue that tradition, representing the next generation of leaders eager to make an impact both locally and beyond.