Hiter earns the first annual Southwest Dubois Education Foundation Scholarships
Southridge High School senior Makenna Hiter spent her high school career demonstrating academic excellence, leadership, service, and a passion for education. Those qualities recently earned her two scholarships through the SW Dubois Education Foundation: the Verla Flick Scholarship and the Thomas and Virginia Schnellenberger Scholarship.
The Verla Flick Scholarship awards one student a renewable $5,000 scholarship for up to four years. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and pursue a degree through a School of Education at an Indiana university. The Thomas and Virginia Schnellenberger Scholarship recognizes a student who exemplifies strong character, academic achievement, and service to both school and community. For Hiter, both scholarships represent an investment in a future she hopes will bring her full circle.
“I am incredibly grateful to my parents and my teachers for their unwavering support,” Hiter said. “Their constant encouragement and guidance have challenged me to strive for excellence and achieve my goals. My ultimate goal is to return to this community, the one that taught me everything I know, and give back. I hope to step into the role of a teacher and mentor, investing in the next generation just as deeply as this community invested in me.”
The daughter of Matt and Amber Hiter and sister to Kensley Hiter, Makenna built an impressive resume during her time at Southridge High School. She participated in golf, cheerleading, track and field, and she served as president of Educators Rising and secretary of the National Honor Society. Her involvement extended to Raider Ambassadors, Spirit Club, Kindness Club, Key Club, Business Professionals of America (BPA), and the Mayor’s Youth Council.
Her dedication to academics was also equally impressive. Hiter graduated with Academic Honors and Technical Honors, completed the Indiana College Core program, earned an Elementary Education Certificate, and an Associate Degree from Ivy Tech Community College.
Hiter plans to attend Indiana University, where she will major in Elementary Education and Special Education. Her long-term goal is to return to Dubois County and serve future generations as an educator. Needless to say, she is an outstanding representative of Southridge High School and will no doubt make an impact on her future students.
The Southwest Dubois County Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting educational excellence throughout Southwest Dubois County schools. Through scholarships for graduating seniors, classroom grants for teachers, and partnerships that enhance educational opportunities, the Foundation invests in students and educators while helping strengthen the future of the community. Community members who wish to support the Foundation can contribute in a variety of ways, including memorial donations, planned gifts, retirement account gifts, and direct donations. Every contribution helps create meaningful opportunities and experiences for Southwest Dubois students both inside and outside the classroom. If you have any questions, please contact edfoundation@swdubois.k12.in.us
