2007 Scholars Winners

Our Scholars continue to achieve an amazing balance of high academic standards, community service, and leadership. This year’s winners are National Honors Society members, class valedictorians, athletes, scientists, and musicians. Their service and leadership experiences include the Humane Society, Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE), Big Brother Big Sister, 4-H, and mission work. In their communities they have helped develop library programs and Habitat for Humanity homes, coached youth sports, and volunteered in their churches. Clearly these winners continue to be some of the “best of the best” students in America and we are proud to honor them as 2007 Scholars.

Each winner receives a $2,000 scholarship, intended to help cover the costs of tuition, books and/or supplies. The annual awards are given to graduating high school seniors in pursuit of a four-year degree from an accredited college or university. The emphasis on excellence in academic and extracurricular activities, personal merit, and background are clearly recognized in each winner. The scholarships are open to children and grandchildren of ACMA member companies and their employees. 

Laura Carol Christobek is a graduate of Olentangy High School in Lewis Center, OH. Sponsored by Ashland Inc. (Dublin, OH) Laura plays the violin and field hockey. She was a part of the National Honors Society, the Service Club, and volunteered for Big Brother Big Sister, Trick or Treat for Cans, and many other associations throughout her four years of high school. Laura co-founded the Olentangy Library Advisory Club where they offer suggestions on how to improve their library and hold an annual “Poetry Bash” showcase. She received many awards for her service work and was awarded the AP National Scholar Award.	Laura Carol Christobek
Julie Conway, sponsored by Bedford Reinforced Plastics (Bedford, PA), is a graduate of Bedford High School. Julie is a member of the National Honor Society, and plays the flute and saxophone. She played tennis all four years of high school, was awarded with three letters, was district double champion and won 2 district team championships. She volunteered many hours to PA Cleanways, Vacation Bible School and participated in a mission trip to Haiti. Julie took first place in the State Envirothon Team Competition and Miss Team Pennsylvania for the General Awareness Test.	Julie Conway
Alec O’Neal Daily is a graduate of Arthur High School in Arthur, IL. Sponsored by Carstin Brands, Inc. Alec graduated high school as valedictorian of his class. He was vice president of the National Honor Society and participated in school council.  He earned the Illinois State Scholar Award and many Leadership and Academic Awards. Alec also played Basketball and Football for all four years of high school and Track & Field for three years.  His volunteer service includes two mission trips, Habit for Humanity, and served as a youth representative on his church council. Alec is a registered pharmacy technician and will be continuing his education at pharmacy school.	Alec O’Neal Daily
Bradly James Parker, a graduate of Caro High School is sponsored by Pro-Set Inc. (Bay City, MI).  Bradly is a member of the Flying Tigers team which was accepted into the NASA Student Launch Initiative. His team was awarded with the Team America Rocketry Challenge Award for the most engines used in a successful launch. Bradly wrote an article found in EPOXYWORKS Magazine on this experience. He was apart of the National Honors Society, French Club, Band, and many school clubs. He participated for four years on the varsity swim team and in the Michigan Youth in Government. Bradly has been actively involved in the Saginaw Bay Community Sailing Association, 4-H, and serving his community.	Bradly James Parker
Jessica Ann Underwood is a graduate of West Stanly High School in Oakboro, NC and is sponsored by Tarheel Marble Company (Midland, NC).  She is a member of the Science, Math, HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) Club, and SAVE (Students Against Violence Everywhere) Club, serving as president for 2 years. Jessica volunteers with the Ridgecrest Youth Association, and serves as an assistant softball and baseball coach. With many trials in her life, Jessica has successfully completed high school and will be attending UNC-Pembroke in the fall.	Jessica Ann Underwood

The winners were selected from a talented pool of over 70 applicants. Serving as judges were Terry McCabe, Interplastic Corporation; Ron Reichard, Structural Composites, Inc.; Timothy Hill, Syn-Mar Products, Inc.; and Jenell Slack, ACMA. Applications for the 2008 ACMA Scholars Awards are available at www.acmanet.org.

As appeared in the September issue of Composites Manufacturing, Official Magazine of the American Composites Manufacturers Association. For a free subscription, visit Composites Manufacturing.