Clarkston Foundation honored Clarkston students for exceptional achievement in performing and fine arts with a breakfast at the Deer Lake Banquet Center.
Thirty-two students, grades 6-12, were recognized for their work in the arts.
Alaina Bur, 14, received a $1,300 scholarship to Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. After two years of attending the summer camp, Bur was invited by the camp to accompany them on their trip to Europe this summer. She will travel to Budapest, Germany and Denmark.
‘I’m really, really excited!? she said.
Michael Peterson, Clarkston High School’s vocal and instrumental music teacher, recommended Bur for the grant when the Clarkston Foundation asked him for students he thought deserved it.
‘It’s an honor to have someone of her caliber. This will be an opportunity of a lifetime,? said Jim Evans, president of the Clarkston Foundation.
Evans said for students who want to attend the prestigious schools, they have a greater chance of getting in if they participate in summer programs. The foundation still has money left over for scholarships for summer programs. Interested students and parents should contact the organization.
Presenting awards were Vince Licata, Clarkston High School principal; Billie Pambid, director at Renaissance High School; Shawn Ryan, Clarkston Junior High principal;and Linda Foran, Sashabaw Middle School principal. The foundation honored students in math and science the week before.
The Clarkston Foundation is a nonprofit charitable trust organization. They host events and fundraisers to earn money that is put in an endowment fund. The fund is used to increase educational opportunities for the children of Clarkston in math, science, music and arts. Currently the fund has over $250,000. Their long term goal is $1 million.
‘With declining revenues it’s hard to get money allocated from the general public for higher level scholarships,? said Evans.
The foundation is hosting a golf outing Aug. 4 at Oakhurst Golf and Country Club to raise money for the fund. Last year, $20,000-$30,000 was raised at the outing. For more information or to make a donation, call 248-623-5475.