The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Number 1533 partnered with Schuylkill Technology Center to honor thirty-two exceptional students during the Annual Students of the Year Awards Banquet held on Wednesday, May 9, 2024, at the Elks Lodge Number 1553 in Frackville.
Four students were honored with recognition as Students of the Year.
From the list of thirty-two STC students, four were honored as Elks Students of the Year; two from the STC North Campus and two from the STC South Campus.
Jeffrey Petzold and Brendan Melochick were chosen as the two students of the year from the STC South Campus.
Jeffrey is a senior from Tri-Valley Area School District enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at the South Campus. Jeffrey is a past President and member of STC SkillsUSA, the National Technical Honor Society, the Aevidum Club and a Student Ambassador as well as the Tri-Valley Quiz Bowl Team, National Honor Society, AFC Club, and Wrestling Team. Jeffrey plans to enter the workforce upon graduation.
Brendan Melochick is a senior from Pottsville Area School District enrolled in the Welding program. Brendan is a member of STC SkillsUSA and the National Technical Honor Society. Upon graduation, Brendan plans to attend Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology with a major in Welding and Metals Fabrication.
Keily Chavez Zunun and Hannah Hepler were chosen as the two students from the North Campus.
Keily Chavez Zunun is a senior at Pine Grove School District enrolled in the Health Careers program at the North Campus. Keily is a member of the National Technical Honor Society, the Pine Grove National Honor Society, Aevidum Club, Big Impact, and Students Against Destructive Decisions. Keily completed the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Training Course and currently works at Tremont Nursing Home after school. She completed a dual credit class at Alvernia University. Upon Graduation, Keily will attend Messiah University in the Registered Nursing Program.
Hannah is a senior at Tri-Valley School District enrolled in the Early Childhood Care & Education program. Hannah is a member of the STC SkillsUSA, the Tri-Valley FFA Vice President, and former 4-H Secretary and Sentinel. Hannah plans to attend an Animal Science Apprenticeship Program and continue to assist with her family farm.