Pearle Peterson, a 2024 Sequim High School graduate and long-standing member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula, was recently awarded the $2,500 Chapter HM Foundation scholarship from the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.).

The scholarship recognizes Peterson’s outstanding academic achievements and commitment to community service.

Peterson has been an active participant in the Boys & Girls Club for 12 years, where she has engaged in a variety of programs aimed at personal development and community involvement. Her dedication culminated in her participation in the Youth of the Year program.

Peterson will be continuing her academic journey at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana this fall, pursuing a major in lyric theater.

Her commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement makes her a deserving recipient of the scholarship, P.E.O. HM representatives said.

“We are thrilled to award Pearle with this scholarship,” said Roberta Clausen, president of the P.E.O chapter HM. “Her dedication to both academic excellence and community service exemplifies the values we hold dear. We are confident that Pearle will continue to thrive and make significant contributions to her community and beyond.”

Mary Budke, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula, said the organization is grateful for the local P.E.O. chapter’s benevolence.

“We are grateful … for their commitment to investing in the education of women through the awarding of college scholarships,” Budke said. “For many of the youth we serve, these generous investments are critical to providing the opportunity for young people to pursue their dreams after high school.”

For more information about P.E.O chapter HM or the scholarship, email Roberta Clausen at robertaclausen@icloud.com.