Lee Chamber of Commerce Awards Scholarships to Four Graduating Seniors
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| Bob Nason Community Service Award recipient Madelyn Kotek with Lisa Sloan, widow of Bob Nason. |
LEE, Mass. — The Lee Chamber of Commerce proudly awarded $4,500 in scholarships to four graduating seniors during its annual Scholarship Awards Dinner on June 24 at Greenock Country Club, following the Chamber's annual Golf Tournament.
The scholarship program recognizes students who exemplify leadership, academic achievement, athletic excellence, community service, and dedication to the skilled trades. The scholarships are made possible through the generosity of the Sorrentino, Toole, and LePrevost families, Jeffrey Cohen of Eagle Mill Redevelopment, and the many golfers, sponsors, and supporters whose participation in the annual Golf Tournament helps invest in the future of Lee's students.
Bob Nason Community Service Award
Madelyn Kotek received the $1,000 Bob Nason Community Service Award for her outstanding commitment to serving others. A dedicated student leader, Maddy served as Senior Class President and participated in the 1Berkshire Youth Leadership Program. Through the P.E.E.R. program, she mentored younger students while fostering a positive school environment, and she has volunteered with organizations including Lee Bank and the Lee Kiwanis Club. This past year, she organized a holiday gift drive for children living at the Pittsfield homeless shelter, coordinating donations and volunteers to brighten the season for local families. Maddy will attend Quinnipiac University this fall, where she plans to pursue a career working with children in the healthcare field.
Marie K. Toole Academic Scholar Award
Natalie Hall received the $1,500 Marie K. Toole Academic Scholar Award in recognition of her exceptional academic achievements and leadership. A consistent High Honor Roll student, Natalie earned both the Cornell Book Award and the Dartmouth Book Award while serving as co-president of the Social Justice Club and participating in National Honor Society, theater, and numerous school activities. In her scholarship essay, Natalie reflected on the importance of strengthening educational opportunities so future generations will continue to invest in the Lee community. She will attend the University of Connecticut this fall to study psychology.
Joe Sorrentino Scholar-Athlete Award
Jacob Cooper received the $1,000 Joe Sorrentino Scholar-Athlete Award for his excellence in academics, athletics, and leadership. President of the National Honor Society and Vice President of the senior class, Jacob also captained both the varsity basketball and tennis teams. Beyond his athletic accomplishments, he has mentored younger players through the Biddy Basketball program and promoted inclusion through Unified Basketball. Jacob will attend Northeastern University this fall to study business while continuing his athletic career as a member of the men's tennis team.
Jerry LePrevost Skilled Trade Award
Devon Keefner received the $1,000 Jerry LePrevost Skilled Trade Award in recognition of his initiative, determination, and strong work ethic. Seeking hands-on experience before graduation, Devon secured an internship with R.W.'s Inc. in Lee, where he earned praise from his supervisors for his dependability, willingness to learn, and commitment to excellence. He plans to attend Porter and Chester Institute in Chicopee this fall to pursue training as an electrician.
"The Lee Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize these remarkable young people and to invest in their futures," said Chamber Board President and Scholarship Committee member Erik Williams. "Each recipient has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in a different way, and together they represent the talent, character, and promise of the next generation. We are deeply grateful to our scholarship sponsors and to everyone who participates in our annual Golf Tournament for making these opportunities possible."
