Lions award $15K in scholarships

Annual event recognizes students for their service work

By JEFF LARRISON
Westfield Lions Club

On May 7, the Westfield Lions Club held its annual Scholarship Awards Night, presenting a total of $15,000 in scholarships to nine graduating seniors from Westfield High School.

This tradition demonstrates the Lions Club’s enduring commitment to supporting the Westfield schools and the students within the community. Over the years, the amount awarded has grown, reflecting the club’s dedication to education and service work.

The evening began with the presentation of the Male and Female Athlete of the Year Scholarships. Caleb Haney and Gracie Czubik received $500 each in recognition of their achievements as outstanding student athletes and leaders at Westfield High School.

The Florence Benson Memorial Scholarship, valued at $2,000, was awarded to Benjamin Hocker. This scholarship honors Flo Benson, a beloved Home Economics teacher at Westfield High School, remembered for her excellence in education and lasting impact on her students. The award recognizes academic achievement and dedication to community service. Flo’s husband, Bob, has served as a Westfield Lion for nearly 57 years, and her son Rodney for over 10 years, continuing her legacy of service.

The Lester Tudor Memorial Scholarship, also $2,000, is named for a former Westfield Lion and principal of Westfield High School in the late 1950s. His son, Dave, was also a dedicated club member. This year’s recipient, Tori Bluto, was honored for her extensive community service work, along with her involvement in the WHS Theater & Choir program and Westfield Youth Hockey Program.

Don Russel, a past Westfield Lion, is celebrated as the founder of the club’s signature fundraising event, the “Poker for Sight” ® Texas Hold ‘Em tournament. The $2,000 scholarship bearing his name recognizes students who exemplify commitment to service and academic achievement. Maggie Pasztor was chosen for her tireless work in the community and her academic success.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Westfield High School combined its service clubs into the Service Over Self (SOS) Club. The Lions Club partnered closely with this new organization, whose mission aligns with the Lions motto, “We Serve.” To honor students who dedicate themselves to helping others, two $2,000 scholarships are awarded annually to SOS Club members. This year, Olivia Foor-Lecea and Khadiga Moawad were recognized for their commitment to service.

Recognizing the needs of graduates pursuing trade and vocational education, the Lions introduced the Trade & Vocational School Scholarship in 2022. This year’s recipient is Abigail Kraus.

The Lions Club has long supported the Westfield High School Culinary Arts program, choosing it as their “official caterer” for club events. To celebrate achievement in this field, a $2,000 scholarship is awarded to an outstanding culinary arts student, with Jayden Belyew receiving this honor for 2026.

Join the Westfield Lions Club
Anyone interested in joining the Westfield Lions and contributing to their work with the schools and in the community can visit WestfieldLions.org. The club welcomes men and women who are passionate about serving others.