Students earn $37,000 at Thillen EducationFoundation recognition receptions

Senior students recognized by their career coaches.

Sanaa Faust, Sarah Fultz, and Robert Fultz.

The Thillen Education Foundation, in collaboration with Greene College & Career Academy, recognized the recipients of Dave Dollar Awards during its second-semester receptions.

The most recent Student Recognition Reception was held March 17, when student earnings exceeded $37,000. The event, hosted at Greene College & Career Academy, brought together career coaches, parents, family members, friends, and school staff.

Attendance award — Tiffany Gresham and August Haynes.

The celebration included career coach accolades for student performance, recognition of community service involvement, praise for exemplary attendance, and acknowledgment of financially rewarding progress on individualized career plans.

Additionally, on May 18, the Class of 2026 will attend Senior Honors Night, when the Thillen Education Foundation will award one-third of a million dollars to graduating seniors.

Adriana Mauriello and Mia Mauriello.

The Dave Dollar Awards program is a unique initiative designed to reward students for their dedication and hard work throughout high school. These “Dave Dollars” convert into real dollars upon graduation from Greene County High School. In addition to providing each student with a career coach for all four years of high school, this financial assistance helps students take the next step in their education or careers.

Parental involvement recognized as key to student success

Denver McCommons, Jerry Seyfert (coach), and Shannon Hurt.

Receptions emphasize the vital role of parental involvement in student success. As a testament to the importance of family support, more than 40 parents in attendance were each awarded $25 in Dave Dollars to present to their son or daughter, reinforcing the value of encouragement and motivation in achieving educational and career goals.

Flexibility for post-graduation success

Cornelius Ward and Trevor Ward.

Students who earn Dave Dollars have the flexibility to utilize their funds based on their chosen path post-graduation:

• Education Scholarship – Funds are awarded as a scholarship to assist with college or trade school expenses.

• Workforce Career Start – Funds can be used to purchase professional supplies needed for their chosen career.

• Entrepreneur Start Up – Funds to assist students who choose to start their own business.

• Military Service – Funds remain available for up to six years for educational opportunities, career advancement, or post-military entrepreneurial aspirations.

Felicia Callaway, Kelin Callaway, Thomas Tunnicliff (coach), Jaxxon Armour, and Tracnesa Randolph.

Amanda O’mara, Madyson O’mara, Brian O’mara, and Rob Bosart.

Please share your thoughts on this post in the comments section below. After typing your comment, click "Publish," then "Publish as Guest." Check the box to confirm that you are not a bot.