On June 7,the 2022 Protect Geauga Parks Bob McCullough Memorial Scholarship program was held in the Blue Heron Lodge at the Rookery with PGP supporters, community members and students’ families present. This year’s recipients, Madalyn Couch, Chagrin Falls High School, Michael Soltis, Cardinal High School, and Frances Connors, Hawken School each gave a short presentation on what has inspired their commitment to conservation and their future plans.

Madalyn Couch spoke about her interest in hiking, encouraging others to reduce their ecological footprint, volunteering in the parks and leading walks with her peers, teaching them to identify flora and fauna in the natural world. She will be attending Miami University to study Zoology and hopes to work with a research organization on conservation projects to protect endangered animals.

Michael Soltis has extensive background with all aspects of farming on his family farm and  has participated in 4-H  where he received both leadership and community service awards.  He spoke about his interest in learning about how to make agriculture practices more sustainable and environmentally friendly.  He will attend Wilmington College to study Agri-business and Sustainability.  

Frances Connors spoke about her environmental activity experiences, including organizing a school walk-out, inspired by Greta Thunberg, to bring attention to climate change, working and participating in a local Ted Talk program speaking on the impact the climate crisis on weather events and possible solutions. She plans to study Environmental Science and Public Policy at Harvard University.  

All three recipients showed great passion, determination and focus on their commitment to conservation and were an inspiration to all in attendance.

Thank you to PGP supporters and a generous donation from the Foundation for Geauga Parks for funding these scholarships.