Not every 18-year-old high school senior knows what she wants to do with her life after graduation. That is why the Character Still Counts award was newly established this year by Scot Dickerson, a 1981 PHS grad who now lives in Clive but gives back to the Perry community.
“Recently, I’ve had several conversations with parents and students about graduation and future plans,” Dickerson said. “One thing we can all agree on: too few young people are prepared for their financial future. While many awards and scholarships focus on college-bound seniors, few opportunities exist for those who might be undecided or planning to enter the workforce.”
Dickerson worked with PHS Counselor Tami Valline to build the new award as a way to recognize a graduating senior whose strongest asset is his or her character. Unlike traditional scholarships:
- No college plans are required. Workforce-bound, college-bound or undecided, all are welcome.
- There is no GPA requirement. This award is about who you are, not just what is on your transcript.
- Character is key. The selection committee will consider how candidates demonstrate integrity, empathy, responsibility and positivity.
“The Character Still Counts scholarship was set up by a generous donation from Scot Dickerson to award a student who consistently does the right thing even when no one is watching,” Valline said. “It is designed to give those students who might not necessarily be the most academic or in the most activities or the most popular a chance to be recognized and rewarded for having great character and being an amazing role model for their peers.”
The winning graduate will receive a financial award invested into an IRA as a way to help start their financial journey with a solid foundation. Students can self-nominate or be nominated by a family member, peer or anyone within the community. Applications can be received from Valline at Tamara.Valline@g.perry.k12.ia.us.
