Green Lake Seniors Win Nearly $1M in Scholarships

The class of 2026 at Green Lake School walked into their awards ceremony as high school seniors and walked out with nearly $1 million in scholarship support for their next chapter.

On Wednesday, May 20, the small Wisconsin community gathered to celebrate 14 graduating seniors who collectively earned $954,052 in scholarships. Local businesses, service groups, alumni organizations, and universities all contributed to make college dreams affordable realities.

Principal Katie James honored valedictorian Lukas Lo and salutatorian Francisco Ferrero before addressing the packed room. She reminded everyone that success looks different for each student, whether they're heading to college, careers, or new adventures.

The scholarships ranged from $250 to over $150,000, with some students receiving multiple awards. Madelynn Marx received the most substantial support, earning $178,500 total including the Thomas E. Caestecker Foundation Scholarship and awards from Milwaukee School of Engineering. Mairead Kavanaugh received $158,042, primarily from Ripon College's Faculty Scholarship.

Every student received recognition for something unique. Some earned awards for academic excellence, while others were celebrated for community service, work ethic, or leadership. Organizations like the American Legion Auxiliary, local banks, education clubs, and even the Thrasher Opera House stepped up to support these young people.

The Ripple Effect

When a community invests nearly $1 million in 14 students, they're investing in their own future too. These scholarships mean students can pursue healthcare, engineering, music, and technical careers without crushing debt. Many will likely return to serve communities like the one that believed in them first.

The ceremony also celebrated students who earned Presidential Fitness Awards and National Honor Society membership. James emphasized that the night recognized more than just achievements, it honored effort, resilience, and the meaningful progress that prepares young people for what's ahead.

Green Lake's investment shows what happens when an entire community decides that education matters. Local businesses didn't just write checks, they wrote permission slips for dreams. Service groups didn't just give money, they gave messages: We see you, we believe in you, and we're betting on your success.

These 14 students will head to universities across Wisconsin and beyond this fall, carrying not just financial support but the knowledge that their hometown invested everything in their potential.