Burgaw Chamber Awards Scholarships

The Burgaw Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Committee nominated two outstanding Pender County high school seniors for the 2009 scholarship award. Tierra Morrisey, a graduate of Heide Trask High School, and Aaron Knoerzer a Pender High School graduate are recipients of this year's scholarships. The students were recognized during the chamber's July 16 general membership meeting.

Aaron Knoerzer was a two sport varsity athlete in both soccer and baseball. He served as co-captain of the soccer team for three years, refereed soccer for the Pender Youth Soccer Association four years, and volunteered for the Pender County Humane society for two years. His work experience includes working with the family business - Sparkle Car Wash and employment by River Landing as a golf cart attendant. He plans to attend Mount Olive College to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice/Sports Management.

Tierra Morrisey served as literary magazine editor, Governor's Page, Girl's State participant, captain of the varsity cheerleaders, volunteer cheerleading coach with Brigade Boys and Girls' club, and Special Olympics Volunteer. She received numerous academic honors and awards which include first place in an oratorical contest and was elected as Trask's 2008 Homecoming Queen. In addition to her academic accomplishments and school and community volunteerism, Tierra works for the Great American Cookie Company. She plans to attend Meredith College.

This year's scholarship award of $1000 per student was made possible by the community's support of a barbecue dinner fundraiser. The next scholarship barbecue dinner fundraiser is planned for October. Details will be announced at a later date.

Persons interested in donating to the scholarship fund may do so by sending a check payable to the Burgaw Area Chamber of Commerce, Attn: Scholarship Fund, PO Box 1096, Burgaw, NC 28425.