Hundreds of students, parents and community leaders attended the West Orange Chamber of Commerce (WOCC) Education Awards to honor students for their accomplishments in and out of the classroom on Monday, May 9 at West Orange High School. Orlando Health, Bright Future Electric, and Trophies Unlimited sponsored the event. 

Two high school seniors were awarded the Danniel J. Petro Scholarship.   The Danniel J.  Petro Scholarship Awards are provided through the West Orange Foundation, Inc. (WOF) and administrated by the West Orange Chamber of Commerce (WOCC). The scholarship fund was established to make it possible for eligible students from local high schools in Orange County (public or private) to further their education at Valencia College (any campus), Orange Technical College, or the University of Central Florida. The West Orange Foundation is able to fund the scholarships through the generous contributions of the Petro Family Foundation.

Nearly 50 students received S.O.A.R. (Students of Achievement and Renown) awards.   Students were nominated by their teachers for their academic achievements combined with good citizenship and commitment to personal growth.    Students received a medallion compliments of Trophies Unlimited and gift cards to Twistee Treat and Chick-Fil-A. 

J.T. McWalters, Chairman of the West Orange Chamber Board of Directors, says “The most valuable investment we can make in today’s students is education.”

Photo compliments of Cannonfire Photography

Pictured are students who received a S.O.A.R. Award accompanied by OCPS Board Chair Teresa Jacobs, OCPS Board Member Melissa Byrd, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, Josh Goehring, Bright Future Electric, J.T. McWalters, WOCC Chairman and Stina D’Uva, WOCC President/CEO.

Photo compliments of Cannonfire Photography

Pictured: Stina D’Uva, WOF President/CEO; Danniel J. Petro Scholarship recipients Isabella Alves and Stephanie Da Silva; Dr. Kim Hardy, WOF Board Member and J.T. McWalters, WOF Chairman.