For more than a half-century, John Ascuaga and the Nugget have distributed scholarships to college-bound seniors, making it one of the longest-running programs of its kind in the state.
The winners were honored at a ceremony and luncheon last week at the Nugget. Ascuaga, along with members of his executive staff including daughter and CEO, Michonne, and son/COO, Stephen, were on hand to greet winners and their families.
Local students among this year's recipients were: Joshua Barbie, Carson High School; Ariel Endacott, Churchill Co. High School; Lauren Matthews, Damonte Ranch High School; Cody Kiser, Dayton High School; Edna Meza, Douglas High School; Andi Bolstad, Fernley High School; Ashley Stein, Galena High School; Sophie Glogovac, Virginia City High School; and William Smith, Yerington High School.
All winners will receive a total of $1,000, based on continued enrollment and maintaining a minimum grade-point standard.
Applications were reviewed by the Nugget Scholarship Committee and evaluated on scholastic achievement, financial need, community involvement and extra-curricular activities.
Since 1956, the Nugget's scholarship program has awarded more than $400,000 dollars in educational monies to nearly 500 area students. Past winners can be seen in an interactive kiosk located in the Nugget's hotel lobby.