Each year the Congregational Church of Boothbay Harbor awards a one-time scholarship to a graduating high school senior who: have been part of the life of the congregation for at least three to five years; are heading to a college, university, or vocational school; and are willing to come back and talk to the Sunday School and/or Youth Group(s) about their educational experience and plans for the future.

This year’s scholarship recipient is Ellie Hilscher, daughter of Bob and Debbie Hilscher of Boothbay Harbor. Ellie graduated from North Yarmouth Academy with a Diploma with Distinction in both Global Citizenship and Music and will be attending Boston College in the fall to study elementary education. She was recently recognized as a two-year member of the Cum Laude Society as well as for her leadership with both the Maine Principals Association Award and the Executive Council Leadership Award.

Ellie has been a very involved and reliable member of the church since she was a small child, attending Sunday School and participating in youth events, pageants and the annual Talent Show. When Ellie aged out of Sunday School, she became a Youth Group member and Sunday School helper, as well as participated in a mission trip to Safe Passage in Guatemala. She has often been the narrator for the annual Christmas pageant and has shared her beautiful singing voice with us on many special occasions including the annual Christmas caroling to shut-ins in our community.

Congratulations, Ellie, and Godspeed!