SHORE September/October 2024 by APG Chesapeake

CELEBR AT ING CONSER VATION FOR53YEARS

As thegoldenhues of autumnsettle overEaston, Maryland,the town gears up forits most anticipated annual event: theWaterfowl Festival. Nowin its53rdyear, thefestivalisset to return from November 8-10,2024, transformingthischarmingtownintoa vibrant hubofwildlife art, sportingheritage, andconservationefforts.

TheWaterfowl Festival, foundedin 1971 ,was conceivedasaway to celebrateand preservethe richtraditions of theChesapeake Bayregion. Over theyears,ithas grownintoa premier eventthatattracts wildlifeenthusiasts, artists, andfamilies from all overthe country.The festival’smission remains steadfast: to raisefunds forwaterfowl habitatconservationwhile providing aplatformfor artists to showcasetheir worksand forvisitors to engage with thenatural world.

The WaterfowlFestivalgratefullyacknowledgesthe suppor tofour 2024 Legacy Conser vation Partners.

EDITORS’ NOTE

I liked school growing up. I even liked a lot of my college classes and I especially enjoyed my time being a part of the student newspaper. I’ve always personally valued the experiences learned in a classroom, beyond what was inside a textbook.

That’s what made this such a fun issue to put together for you, our audience. The incredible journeys of people in these stories, the resources available to students and families, and the opportunities to grow are endless on the Mid-Shore. You’ll see that inside.

We also take a quick trip down memory lane with some of our team behind the scenes at Shore and what went into their college decision. It is a fun peek behind the curtain, but it relates to a story we did in 2021 (and in this edition — surprise!) featuring some students who benefitted from a local scholarship program.

The other day I said to someone that the morning chill reminded me of going to school. Even though it was going to be in the 90s later that day, something about the slight crispness and promise of autumn had me reminiscing about my K-12 years.

We are excited for you to be reading this edition, but then again when are we not? Shore magazine is a fun product that is always a joy to plan and publish. We hope you agree and would love to hear your thoughts — send us an email: info@shoremonthly.com.

President Jim Normandin

Executive Editor Eli Wohlenhaus

Assistant General Manager/Sales

Betsy Griffin 443-239-0307

Creative Director

Jennifer Quinn

Page Design

Jennifer Quinn

Meredith Moore

Community Coordinator

Amelia Blades Steward

Contributing Photographers

Jennifer Quinn

Tom McCall

Eli Wohlenhaus

Contributing Writers

Amelia Blades Steward

Cecelia Shilling

James Young Niambi Davis Eli Wohlenhaus

Editorial Contact 240-801-2258

Submissions submissions@shoremonthly.com

29088 Airpark Drive Easton, MD 21601 www.shoremonthly.com

Shore Magazine is published by The Star Democrat.

No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission from the publisher.

Eli Wohlenhaus

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Checking in with former cover models

In the Sept. 2021 issue of Shore, we had a story about College Placement Consulting in Easton, which featured owner Betsy Greaney and her business to help local high school students find the right place to seek higher education.

On the cover of that edition were four students who utilized the help of Greaney: Charlie Shifrin, Tyler Redman, Lexi Schwarz and Lucy Morris.

As they are now all entering their fourth year of college, we decided to catch up with them to see what they are up to and how their life has changed since they posed on the playground back before they had even attended their first day of school.

Local Students find their dream colleges!

Pictured top to bottom: Tyler Redman, Charlie Shifrin, Lucy Morris and Lexi Schwarz

Charlie Shifrin

PURDUE UNIVERSITY

EXPECTED GRADUATION, MAY 2025

HOW HAVE YOUR PLANS CHANGED SINCE 2021? WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME?

While my degree path has stayed the same, my plans have changed significantly. I no longer plan on joining the Air Force and instead intend on using my degree to pursue a product development position in industry. I’ve also fallen in love with outdoor sports which may lead me in a totally different direction.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE MOST VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE IN COLLEGE?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in college has been time management between school, extracurriculars and personal time. I’ve also learned so much about how to make connections in my major to help pursue my career goals.

WHAT IS A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE YOU’VE HAD WHILE IN SCHOOL?

One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had since coming to college is participating in the Purdue Outing Club Adventure Race or POCAR. It’s a 48-hour orienteering race in the middle of winter that my team managed to take third place in last year. It’s the most fun you’ll ever want to have again.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WISH YOU COULD TELL YOURSELF BEFORE GOING TO COLLEGE?

I wish I could tell myself to take things seriously but not too seriously. Academics are important but remember to have fun and let go a little. You’ll feel much better when you do decide to sit back down and do that homework.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOU?

To be honest, I’m not sure. Hopefully, a job using my degree at a company I’m interested in but maybe a job guiding in the outdoor industry while I really figure out what I want to do.

Photo by Eli Wohlenhaus

Lexi Schwarz

UNIVERSITY

OF SOUTH CAROLINA EXPECTED GRADUATION, DECEMBER 2024

HOW HAVE YOUR PLANS CHANGED SINCE 2021? WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME?

Since 2021, I have turned my past aspirations and dreams into real life career goals that now feel within arm’s reach. I can confidently say I would never have expected to be graduating a whole semester early, allowing me to begin my nursing career journey. My desire to become a pediatric nurse has persisted to stay the same throughout the past few years.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE MOST VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE IN COLLEGE?

I have learned several valuable life lessons as a college student that have shaped me into the person I am today. For instance, college has taught me how to be independent and take responsibility for myself and my future. I also have learned to embrace new experiences and value the opportunities that have allowed me to grow as an individual.

WHAT IS A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE YOU’VE HAD WHILE IN SCHOOL?

My most memorable experience that I’ve had while in school would have to be meeting the people who have made college all it is made out to be. I look forward to one last semester with my best friends, filled with lots of college football and many more memories.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WISH YOU COULD TELL YOURSELF BEFORE GOING TO COLLEGE?

If I had to pick one thing to tell myself before going to college, it would be to live in the moment. I would like to tell any incoming college students to not put so much pressure on yourself. Finding a balance between academics and enjoying college is all part of the experience.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOU?

After graduating this December, I plan to focus on passing the NCLEX and begin pursuing my nursing career. I hope to be hired on a pediatric oncology floor at a medical center in Maryland. I look forward to my future providing nursing care in the pediatric patient population.

Lucy Morris

WASHINGTON COLLEGE EXPECTED GRADUATION, 2025

HOW HAVE YOUR PLANS CHANGED SINCE 2021? WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME?

I planned on attending Miami University and graduating with a degree in psychology. I finished my freshman year in Ohio and transferred to Chesapeake College for my sophomore year. I then transferred to Washington College where I will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business management. Although my school has changed, my goal of graduating in 4 years has not.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE MOST VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE IN COLLEGE?

You are not stuck in a decision and can change your path and goals. Be honest with yourself about what is best for you.

The daunting conclusion that I would not return to the same college where I had started was terrifying yet liberating.

WHAT IS A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE YOU’VE HAD WHILE IN SCHOOL?

One of my most memorable experiences was being able to take Professor Chauncey’s sociology class at Chesapeake College. It provided much smaller class sizes that enhanced my learning experience. I was pleasantly surprised to have a professor who was deeply invested in his subject as well as his students. Working with Professor Chauncey was not only a wonderful learning experience, but a life experience that has forever impacted my worldview.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WISH YOU COULD TELL YOURSELF BEFORE GOING TO COLLEGE?

I wish I could tell myself that although ‘adulting’ and changes in your anticipated plan can be scary, overcoming these challenges will make you a stronger and more confident person.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOU?

I am currently a summer intern at Easterseals (New Castle) where I have learned about the fulfilling work of helping others. I have simultaneously had

the opportunity to live on my own for the first time and enhance my life experience as a young adult. As for my future, I plan to continue this fulfillment by investing in my community.

I maintain my commitment to graduating in four years and have been extremely grateful for Washington College, and everyone along my journey, who have helped me get to where I am today. While I remain unsure of what my future has to hold for me, affirming opportunities such as being initiated into the Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society in Business, Management, and Administration, lobbying Congress with fellow peers at the Spring 2024 lobby weekend, and interning at Easterseals have assured me that I am on the right path.

Tyler Redman

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, EXPECTED GRADUATION, MAY 2025

HOW HAVE YOUR PLANS CHANGED SINCE 2021? WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME?

Going into my freshman year, I was pretty unsure what I wanted to do or what I’d major in. I had debated Sociology, Communications and English but didn’t have a clear career trajectory in mind. After spending my freshman year abroad through Verto, I discovered a passion for writing and its potential to enact social change. I’m now a rising senior at the University of Maryland, working on a major in English and a minor in Sociology.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME

THE MOST

VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE IN COLLEGE?

Communication is the most important tool in anyone’s arsenal, whether in professional or social settings. As someone who’s struggled to communicate my needs and values, being a writer and writing daily really helps me organize my thoughts and develop that inner voice that helps me speak with intention and confidence and advocate for myself and others.

WHAT IS A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE YOU’VE HAD WHILE IN SCHOOL?

One of the most memorable experiences of my year abroad had to be our trip to La Carpio, the largest slum in Costa Rica. Located right beside a massive landfill, La Carpio is mainly composed of Nicaraguan immigrants looking for better economic opportunities in Costa Rica.

We met with community leaders to learn about their fight for basic human rights and overcoming environmental racism, something we got to witness firsthand. The resilience of this community was incredibly inspiring, and such a trip perfectly highlighted the lessons Verto intends to instill within its program.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WISH YOU COULD TELL YOURSELF BEFORE GOING TO COLLEGE?

To not get so hung up on the small things that might, at the time, seem so huge. Roommate trouble, feeling homesick, or just the weight of being somewhere completely unrecognizable. These are all good problems to have, things that’ll put you out of your comfort zone

and are necessary for any meaningful growth.

I think studying abroad was such a valuable experience in my own development as a young adult, something I encourage to any college student regardless of their experience traveling.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOU?

Well, as I finish up my studies at the University of Maryland, I’ll start this final year as a member of the Writers House, a living-learning program on campus full of other writers like myself. I hope to infuse my past experiences and passions, to help write stories and articles, fiction and nonfiction alike, to help push for social change, and to bring people together despite different backgrounds, borders, countries and cultures. S

Photo by Eli Wohlenhaus

Success THE non-traditional students of

STORY BY NIAMBI DAVIS

They’re parents, older students, part of the workforce, or transfer students with “critical soft skills” developed from life experiences. To serve these students, colleges and universities have created programs to meet their unique needs. And there is no better indicator of success than praise from its students.

At Washington College, a four-year residential college in Chestertown, “a nontraditional student is enrolled parttime and lives off campus,” said Dr. Hilary Bateman, Assistant Dean of Advising and Academic Advocacy. “But one of the benefits of serving nontraditional students at a small college like ours is the ability to do individualized outreach.”

Kennedy Thomason, set to graduate Fall 2024, has a 2-year-old daughter, a job and commutes from an hour away.

“I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Thomason said. “Dr. Bateman was the first face I saw when I was first accepted to WC [Washington College]. I had been on the fence about going back to school and I waited until the last second to apply. She never once made me question if WC was the place for me, she made sure I was heard and comfortable and enthusiastic. She has never turned me away or made me feel like a burden. She’s an expert in getting me into the classes I need, and seeks out classes she knows I will like.”

Thomas continued, saying that Dr. Bateman does her best to make sure she thrives and is actively searching for opportunities she would have never had access to otherwise.

“And she never forgets I’m a mom first,” Thomason said. “I bring my toddler in almost every time we meet because Dr. Bateman loves to see her and always has toys, cookies, and chocolate ready so I can focus on planning my schedule rather than wrangling my daughter. In short, she’s

amazing, and I'm so appreciative of her. It’s easy for non-traditional students to feel like outcasts or out of the loop, but she makes me feel just as much a part of Washington College as any traditional student.”

At Chesapeake College in Wye Mills, age defines the nontraditional student.

“Anyone older than 24 fits the category” Danielle Darling, Director of College Relations and Marketing, said. “Many of our students are first-generation college students. And most of our nontraditional students are taking non credit college classes, seeking workforce training [as a] Certified Nursing Assistant [or other] certifications [such as] HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), and the welding, electrical and marine trades.”

Darling pointed out that barriers exist for some of their students, including tuition.

“The college has been awarded significant grant funding to help our skilled trades and noncredit students seek out the training they need,” Darling added.

Ben O’Donnell, a former Chesapeake student, describes the college as a place of open arms where everyone — from counselors, advisors and teachers to the college president — is committed to student success. After experiencing active addiction for 14 years, O’Donnell transformed his life.

To give back to the community and to better himself, he researched Chesapeake College and its Human Services and Addiction Counseling Program.

“I met Katrina Johnson, who has probably been my biggest support in my search,” he

“This was my first day; I had a 9 month old and a dream!”

I wouldn’t change it for the world

Kennedy Thomason, Washington College.

Photo by Tom McCall

After Chesapeake, O’Donnell established Kingsdale Transport, LLC which grew from a pet-sitting business to a pet transport company that delivers 500-600 dogs to every state in the United States.

Johnson herself is in the unique position of being a former student and current director of the TRIO Student Support Services, a Chesapeake College program that serves the needs of students with life experiences that mirror her own. Originally from Baltimore, she moved with her family to the Eastern Shore.

“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study,” she said. “I changed my major eight times.”

With the support of her advisors she settled on a path of study and graduated in 2010, followed by employment in the college’s offices of financial aid and admissions. When she was granted a scholarship to the University of Baltimore. Johnson never looked back, even as a mother with two children, a full class load and a daily commute from the Shore to Baltimore.

Submitted photo

Ben O’Donnell; Student, Professional Technical Studies

Submitted photo

She earned a Bachelor’s Degree with a 3.7 GPA. An online course of study at Wilmington University earned Johnson a Masters in the Administration of Human Services and the ability to teach as an adjunct professor at Chesapeake.

“I absolutely love to teach,” she said. “As a young woman with two children, Chesapeake prepared me for what I wanted to be. Right now I’m at Bowie State University seeking my PhD in educational leadership.”

As Director of TRIO, Johnson is able to relate to her students and develop relationships with them.

“I’m your auntie in this program,” she tells them. “I’ll make sure you have all the resources you need — from filling out applications to finding money and providing a center where food and snacks are readily available. It has been a joy and I’m going to stay in this position until the Lord says otherwise.” S

Katrina Johnson, Director, TRIO Student Support Services, Chesapeake College

A+ WORLD ACADEMY

A high school on the high seas

STORY BY AMELIA BLADES STEWARD

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LUCY OLAVSRUD

Take a group of kids who want to sail the Chesapeake Bay long past summer’s end. Add a group of dedicated parents who worked to make it happen. From this commitment, the Kent Island High School sailing team was created in 2014. It grew from a few cast-off racing boats to ownership of 12 identical 420s, (14 ft two-person sailboats rigged with jib and main for high school sailing) purchased from the United States Naval Academy.

While a typical high school student’s junior year may include prom, after school clubs and team sports, students in A+ World Academy are trading that learning experience for a “rigorous, exhausting, and amazing” 10 months at sea.

Lucy Olavsrud of Easton decided to leave St. Peter and Paul High School in her junior year to see the world aboard the world’s oldest active fully rigged Norwegian tall ship, The Sørlandet, through a program called A+ World Academy. A family friend told Lucy’s father, Stein Olavsrud, who is Norwegian, about the program and Lucy’s desire to see the world factored into her decision to take the plunge and apply.

“I thought getting to travel would be amazing. I had wanted to do a semester in Norway my junior year, but that didn’t work out because of the transfer of credits. I also wanted to learn about Norwegian culture since it was part of my family’s heritage. I wrote an essay, had an interview, and was accepted,” Lucy recalls.

A+ World Academy is a high school and gap year program from August through June each year. The program exposes students to a unique educational program that creates strong academic achievement in its students while developing the whole student. Students sail aboard The Sørlandet, which was built in 1927, to 20 cities in 14 countries on four continents. The countries included Norway, France, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, the Canary Islands, Cabo Verde, Grenada, Guadeloupe, St. Marten, Puerto Rico, Bermuda, the Azores, Ireland and the Netherlands.

Written on the A+ World Academy website is this: “While the world still clings to the industrial model of education, we know that experiential learning, placebased curriculum, and community learning models, when combined with traditional methods, provide far more opportunities for deep, constructive learning. We believe the practical hands-on experience expands a student’s understanding beyond memorization and test-taking.”

Students learn to sail the tall ship while taking standard high school or AP-level courses at sea. At each port, students engage in excursions and field experiences, opening their eyes to things they’ve only read about. Students are also given free time (shore leave) to explore each city with their fellow students. Because it is very common for Norwegian students to take an exchange year, 45 out of 66 students participating in Lucy’s year were Norwegian. American students were the second largest in number, followed by Brazilian, Spanish, German, Chinese, and Dutch students. The majority of the students were 17 years old.

Established in 2014, the program depends on community and shared responsibility. Students learn to function in a system (the ship) and understand the importance of the motto Ship, Shipmate, Self. The motto infers that students take care of their community and home (the ship), take care of others (their shipmates), and think of themselves last.

Another student, Hans Hess of Carmel, Calif., who participated in this year’s program shared, “Travel was my biggest reason for doing it and breaking up the routine of normal life.”

The students were away from their families from late August through November. Except for occasional phone calls, most of the time the students did not have use of their cell phones.

Lucy shares, “Our families had to trust everybody completely taking care of us – we were in the ocean

and not in a dorm room somewhere. That’s sort of big.”

Lucy and Hans had met right away on the ship.

“I was starting to hang out with him because he was an American and we could talk,” she said. “A group of us all sat together for dinner because we just felt comfortable talking to each other. Everyone else was speaking their languages.”

Neither Lucy nor Hans had ever sailed before.

“For some reason I had in my head that I was getting on a huge ship, like a cruise ship, but it was much different than I ever expected,” Lucy said.

Hans added he remembers noticing the furniture and the surroundings but “not the 200 ropes over our head that we would have to learn and be tested on.”

All the students slept in one large room on hammocks that they took down every morning. There was a curtain dividing the guys and the girls so they could change. There was one shower room with three showers, three sinks and three toilets for the girls and another shower room with the same for the boys.

Students were woken up at 6:50 a.m. each day. They fed 86 people three meals a day and had four classes that ran from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The students rotated responsibility between cooking, watch, cleaning, and caring for the historic ship.

“It was communal living – we slept, ate and did our schoolwork in that one large room,” Hans said. “We just had to figure it all out by ourselves.”

“The food wasn’t good,” Hans recalled. “It would pretty much be every other day between rice and potatoes

For some reason I had in my head that I was getting on a huge ship, like a cruise ship, but it was much different than I ever expected

and chicken and pork. Leftovers were put in a stew for lunch. Breakfast was usually porridge. When we got into port, I would just eat so much. I’d order like three entrees in the restaurant.”

The program included five pillars of learning: communal living, global studies, academics, maritime training and reflective learning.

There were faculty available to talk with students having difficulties with the challenges presented by the program. Lucy recalled the doctor on the ship as being like a mother figure to the students and her when she got pneumonia on board. This was the first year that all the students in A+ World Academy stayed the entire 10 months without anyone being expelled or leaving the ship.

“My biggest challenge was thinking I could not do it – selling myself short,” Lucy said. “But I was able to do it. And even in the bad times, I just kept pushing through until it was over. There were also good times that helped with that. I learned through this experience that I was capable of so much more than I thought I could do.”

“I learned I am a much stronger person than I thought I was. I made friends in the difficult moments. Although we were all from different countries, we were all more similar than different –we all were thinking and feeling the same things.”

The professors with A+ World Academy were from all over the world, including Guatemala, Mexico, America, Venezuela, the Philippines and England. Lucy said being able to learn about something that has happened in the world and then being able to go see it helped them really understand it.

“In France, we saw the beaches of Normandy and learned what happened there,” she said.

“In addition to academic learning, you learned about the people in different parts of the world

like in Cape Verde where they didn’t have as much as we do materially and they were still happy, did good work, and were proud people,” Hans added.

The North Sea was probably the roughest sea the students encountered. With 21-foot seas, everyone was seasick on the boat.

“At first, we would see if we would fly across the room,” Lucy said. “We thought that was fun. And then we realized, oh wait, we could get hurt.”

Students had to memorize the names and functions of over 200 ropes on the ship. The crew, which included Ordinary Seamen, Able-Bodied Seamen, one Bosun, a Second Mate, a Chief Mate, and the Captain, were the teachers for the ropes, chores and watches.

There were six watch groups that each did two-hour watches in three different watch areas on the ship during the day and at night. The longest time at sea was 21 days between Dublin, Ireland, and the Azores. Some scary moments included the ship’s main sail ripping in the middle of the English Channel and sailing through a hurricane off Portugal.

“I learned more patience this year,” Hans said. “The personal skills that you learned in communal living gave us compassion for others — it expanded our emotional intelligence and how to do the things we didn’t want to do.”

Lucy said she experienced more of a spiritual growth.

“For me, it was about learning how to be self-sufficient and not always relying on my parents,” she said. “I learned to rely on things within myself.”

For some reason I had in my head that I was getting on a huge ship, like a cruise ship, but it was much different than I ever expected

Photo by Jennifer Quinn

Carrie Ross, left, with Lucy Olavsrud (wearing hat) and Maya Sundling Chapman while in Dublin, Ireland.

Hans Hess and Lucy Olavsrud while in Amsterdam.

ALocal Family Owned and Operated Company

Large Supply of pool toys, floats, coolers and ProTeam Chemicals at our location in Easton.

Chesapeake Bay

The schools that shaped us

Get a background on the staff of SHORE

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY ELI WOHLENHAUS, JENNIFER QUINN AND JO ANN GEIGER

While we were planning this education edition, it occurred to us that maybe there were some fun stories we as a staff could share. So here are just a few snippets from some of those that are working behind the scenes to make this magazine into the award-winning publication that it is.

Eli Wohlenhaus

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Growing up in a small town in southwest Missouri, I watched most people around me stick close to home. For me to go over 80 miles away to a Division I school was a big deal, which seems silly to write now.

I chose Missouri State University over a lot of other options, and what mainly hooked me was the opportunity at a larger school in a bigger city that was still not too overwhelming. I came from a town of less than 2,400 people, so going to a town of 170,000+ was a big step.

I was attracted to the Department of Media, Journalism and Film, and what sold me on it was receiving a broadcast journalism scholarship directly from the school. Being a part of the student newspaper, The Standard, was one of the best parts of my college experience. I believe the opportunities afforded me while there provided me the stepping stones to get to where I am today.

Jo Ann Geiger

REGIONAL ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

My biggest consideration for college was to go far away to a metropolitan area. We had moved to Florida during my sophomore year of high school, and I was determined to head back north.

I discovered Duquesne University (pronounced DueCane for those wondering) at a college fair. My parents were from Pittsburgh, and we still had family there. It hit all my marks and the deal was sealed when I was awarded an academic scholarship.

I started out in pre-law but had to declare an official major. The journalism program was recommended, and I was immediately drawn to the advertising tract. Never made it to law school, but I’ve been working in the field since I graduated, and I’ve never looked back.

MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY

DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY

Jennifer Quinn

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Being from rural Kent county, I knew I wanted to get out of the area to try something new and different. Ending up in Owings Mills somehow fit the bill. I actually knew that Stevenson University was the place for me after a tour where the tour guide encouraged us to ask any question and I asked “what is the meaning of life?” A few weeks later, I received a postcard with an answer.

Stevenson University interested me because of the fashion program and biology program but I ended up going in undecided, wanting to explore my options. During my freshman year I found my passion for graphic design and photography.

During my time there, I was able to continue colorguard with the marching band, be co-president of the photography club and travel abroad. Everything I learned and experienced there changed my perspective of my home and people.

STEVENSON UNIVERSITY

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Scholarships shore on the

STORY BY JAMES YOUNG

As the summer comes to a close and the new school year begins, many high school students will be getting serious about their college search. This is also the perfect time to look for scholarship opportunities to help cover the cost of higher education, which can be a barrier for many students.

Fortunately, there is no shortage of organizations in the Mid-Shore region which offer thousands of dollars in scholarships for great students, especially those who are involved in their local community. Continue reading for a list of just some of the best scholarships available to Mid-Shore students.

MID-SHORE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

The MSCF offers dozens of scholarship opportunities to students in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties. By completing one online application, students can apply for several scholarships at once; these include the Jump Start Award for students participating in AP or dual enrollment courses, the Blue and Red Scholarship for students interested in becoming first responders, the B.A.A.M. College Scholarship for African American male students, and many others.

The application period closes on Feb. 1, 2025, and some scholarships require an essay in addition to the application. Details can be found at mscf.org.

The Elks National Foundation, represented locally by the Elks Lodges of Easton, Cambridge, Chestertown, and Stevensville, awards over $3 million in scholarships each year. Two main categories of scholarships are included: the Legacy Awards are available only to students who are the child or grandchild of an Elk, while the Most Valuable Student scholarships are available to any high school senior. Awards are given on the basis of academic performance, leadership, and financial need.

Applications are due by Feb. 8, 2025, and further details can be found at elks.org/scholars or by contacting your local Elks Lodge.

MID-SHORE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

The Rotary Club, an international organization dedicated to fostering local activism, offers scholarships through its local branches in Easton, Cambridge, Denton, Chester and Centreville. Over the past few years, local Rotary Clubs have given over $10,000 in scholarships to MidShore high school students. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of GPA and community service; past recipients have volunteered for programs such as Johns Hopkins Children’s Center and Operation Christmas Child, exemplifying the Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Details can be found by contacting your local rotary club.

ELKS LODGE

The Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office offers scholarships annually to graduating seniors of Queen Anne’s County High School, Kent Island High School and private schools in the county. Sheriff Hofmann has served Queen Anne’s County for nearly thirty years and has been a constant advocate for the importance of education.

To apply for this scholarship, students must be pursuing a career in law enforcement, public safety, or a related field; awardees are selected on the basis of academic standing and community involvement. Chosen students will receive up to $500 per semester.

For the fall semester, applications are due by April 30, and for the spring semester, Nov. 30. The application form can be found at queenannessheriff. org/resources/scholarship.

TALBOT SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRICT

The Roy R. Scott Memorial Scholarship Program, provided annually by the Talbot Soil Conservation District, is available to high school students pursuing a degree in agricultural or civil engineering or other agriculture-related programs.

To apply for the $1,000 award, students must reside in Talbot County and maintain a GPA of 3.0. Further information and the application form can be found at talbotscd.com.

The Frederick Douglass Honor Society of Easton provides a yearly award of $500 to one African American graduate of Talbot County Public Schools. FDHS also helps to connect scholarship recipients with mentors and alumni for guidance and internship opportunities.

To apply, students must maintain a GPA of 2.5 and submit an application form, an essay and two letters of recommendation. More information can be found at frederickdouglasshonorsociety.com. S

SHERIFF GARY HOFMANN SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

FREDERICK DOUGLASS HONOR SOCIETY

Simpa tico It al y’sF inest

Annual Italian Wine &Food Festival!

Join us as we celebrate“All Things Italian”

•Wine Tastings of Italian winesfromour Italian Impor ters! Receive Tasting glass!

•Food Tastings of delicious Italian specialtiesincluding cheeses,sauces, and more!

•Add aLunchTicket toyour online order with aglass of wine,a$20 value for$15!

•LiveAccordion Ar tist,Sergio Fresca,will be here Saturday playing all your favoriteItalian songs!

•Bocce Ball on the lawn forkids of all ages!

•TrattoriaSimpaticoRestaurant,check out our dining and private event space

•Special discounts up to 15% on selectedwinesfoods and gif ts

ForFestivalTickets go to simpaticostmichaels.com

See youthere! Saluti!

Saturday,October 5th, Noon -5 St.Michaels,Mar yland You’ll Feel Like YouAre in Italy: Wines, Liqueurs, Foods, Gif ts &More Wine &Food Events, LunchonWeekends Free Wine &EVOO Tastings Ever yDay

•Italian Wines:Over350 from Ever yRegion

•Italian Foods :Pasta,Sauces, Extra Virgin Olive Oils,One PotMeals -ToCook or Take -Out

•Gif tBaskets -WeShip Too!

Please contact us for moreinfomation or for apersonaltour of campus Open HouseSunday, Oc tober2 7 from1:0 0- 4: 00 pm . High School Open House Sunday,Oct .27, 1- 4pm

Please contactusfor more information or forapersonaltourofcampus

School 900HighStreet Easton, MD 21601 (410) 822-2251

sspp ea ston. or g Elementary School 900HighStreet Easton, MD 21601 (410) 822-2251

High School 1212 S. Washington Street Easton, MD 21601 (410) 822-2275

High School 1212 S. Washington Street Easton, MD 21601 (410) 822-2275 www. sspp ea ston. or g

ANew Active Lifest yle 55+ Communit

Women’s

PROVIDES scholarships Network

STORY BY CECELIA SHILLING

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHESAPEAKE WOMEN’S NETWORK

is a women’s professional organization in Queen Anne’s County for women looking to network, learn from guest speakers and to make more female friends in Queen Anne’s professional community. The organization hosts monthly events designed for busy and diverse schedules and awards scholarships to women who are typically above college-aged and are making a change in their lives.

Like many members of CWN, Liz Verhelle, a financial advisor at Edward Jones, was looking for networking

Stoops remembers being invited to join the organization back in the 90s. She had recently opened her organization, Chesapeake Environmental Labs, when she learned about the group. Her first meeting was very informal and welcoming, she said. Since then, Stoops has held the positions of member, scholarship chair, vice president and president of the organization.

“I’ve been a member since 1993,” she said. “I was newly into my own business for a couple of years and this

was a very welcoming organization for women in business to be with other like-minded women and give support. That’s where it all started.”

Heather Bacher, Summit Community Bank market president, joined to learn more about the women in her market, she said. She regularly attends CWN’s monthly events that are scheduled to fit the needs of working moms or women with particularly busy calendars.

“We have events every month, and the timing of those events rotates between breakfast, lunch and after hours,” Bacher said. “Specifically we do that because as women, we tend to have challenging, diverse schedules. Some of us need to get kids to school [or] take kids after school. Some of us can't get out during the day because we're working. Those events are

typically focused on networking, and getting to know each other better or bringing in speakers to help us grow our personal business brand network.”

Towards the beginning of each year, the Chesapeake Women’s Network annual scholarship application opens and is available until May 1. The scholarship is available for women in Queen Anne’s County who are at least 22 years old and are going back to school, are going to school for the first time or are changing careers. This year, the scholarship was awarded to four women.

“One is going to technical school [to be an] esthetician,” said Kim Montooth, CWN’s scholarship chair and assistant vice president at M&T Bank in Chester. “One is going to Anne Arundel Community College for an associate’s degree to be an

RN, one is getting a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance at Wilmington University and the last one is getting a master’s degree in Television and Media Management at Drexel University.”

Women who apply for these scholarships often have powerful stories of struggle or perseverance, said Bacher.

“We interview the women and get to hear their stories,” Bacher said. “Every single woman has a story that tends to tug at your heartstrings. Doesn't mean that it's a negative story, but sometimes they are, you know, trying to change a situation that they're in and be able to empower themselves.”

Women who apply for the CWN scholarship must have an acceptance letter from a school or certificate program and two letters of recommendation.

They are then required to go through an interview process before being selected for the scholarship. After they are selected, they are honored at an annual dinner to celebrate and take photos with the group.

The organization hopes that helping these women make a change will inspire them to join the group in the future and pay it forward, said Bacher.

“Some of them came back and joined the membership because they ended up in a professional career,” Stoops said. “It was so wonderful to see that. I know probably five people right off the bat that have done that. It’s so rewarding knowing you’re making a difference. Chesapeake Women's Network is not just about enriching your business and professional and personal life, but it's also about raising up the person next to you.” S