Zach Ryan Myers memorial scholarship awarded to Caitlin Cunningham at graduation ceremony

Under the warm glow of the Southern York County School District auditorium, the community gathered to celebrate the achievements of its graduating seniors during the SHS Scholarship Awards Night on May 16, 2025. The evening was filled with heartfelt stories, inspiring moments, and the recognition of students who have shown remarkable resilience and dedication.

One of the most poignant tributes came in memory of Zach Ryan Myers, a beloved student who battled epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic condition that left his skin as fragile as a butterfly's wings. Despite the daily challenges he faced, Zach's spirit shone brightly, and his legacy was honored through the Zac Myers Hulk Strong Courage Memorial Scholarship, awarded to Caitlin Cunningham. This scholarship serves as a reminder of Zach's courage and the support he received from his family and community.

As the night progressed, various scholarships were awarded, each with its own story and purpose. Sarah Brown presented the Sue Wagner McCoy, Keller Brown Insurance Services Scholarship to Anshie Patel, recognizing her trustworthy and caring nature. Leila Boyce from the York County Community Foundation announced several scholarships, including the Anna Bennett and John Pearson Scholarship, awarded to Emily Marcus for her exceptional character and leadership.

The Doris E. Schwartz Scholarship, honoring an educator's legacy, was awarded to Cassandra Yerkes, while Rachel Kramer received the Dorothy Moore Scholarship for her strong academic performance. The evening also highlighted significant awards, such as the $12,000 scholarship established by Hester Hemminger, which went to Benjamin Hollub, and the $20,000 scholarships from Conewago Enterprises, shared by Hollub and Ella Schlegel.

Other notable awards included the Kohler Company Inspirational Award, presented to Megan Johannessen for her determination to overcome obstacles, and the Southern York County School District Foundation Leadership Scholarship, awarded to Stephanie Walker for her demonstrated leadership skills.

The event not only celebrated academic achievements but also underscored the importance of community support in fostering the next generation of leaders. As the night concluded, the audience was left with a sense of hope and pride, knowing that these young scholars are well-equipped to face the future, inspired by the stories of those who came before them.