Louisa Forward Foundation Awards Scholarships to Two Outstanding LCHS Seniors
Louisa, VA — The Louisa Forward Foundation, in partnership with the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce, proudly awarded two $1,000 scholarships to exceptional Louisa County High School seniors during the school’s annual scholarship ceremony on May 14, 2025.
These awards recognize students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to future careers that support local business and workforce growth—key priorities of both the Foundation and the Chamber.
“Investing in the next generation is one of the most powerful things we can do as a community,” said Jennifer Lehman, Program Chair for the Louisa Forward Foundation and Managing Partner and CEO of Hantzmon Wiebel LLP. “These scholarships are more than financial support—they’re a message to students that we believe in their potential and we’re here to walk alongside them as they build their futures. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve started, and I’m even more excited for what’s to come.”
Bright Future Scholarship: Investing in Business-Minded Leaders
The Bright Future Scholarship is a $1,000 annual award supporting Louisa County High School seniors pursuing business-related studies at an accredited college, university, or trade school. This long-standing scholarship is funded through the Chamber Challenge, a signature golf tournament hosted in partnership with Old Dominion Electric Cooperative (ODEC). Proceeds from the event also support the Foundation’s Legacy Campaign and other initiatives designed to strengthen the business community and economy.
The 2025 recipient, Peyton Pekary, will attend Virginia Tech to study Business and Marketing. Peyton was selected for his outstanding academic record, strong communication and leadership skills, and an essay that highlighted his desire to lead with purpose in the business world. His goals reflect the mission of the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce: "Promoting business, strengthening economic and community development, and serving as a catalyst for improving the overall quality of life in the Louisa community and region."
“We were proud to receive applications from an outstanding group of seniors this year,” said Tracy Hale Clark, Executive Director of the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and Louisa Forward Foundation. “Each student showed incredible promise, and the decision was not easy. We congratulate all applicants and are honored to support Louisa County students as they take their next steps.”
Pathway to PVCC Scholarship: Building Local Workforce Pipelines
Newly launched in 2025, the Pathway to PVCC Scholarship was created through a partnership between the Louisa Forward Foundation and Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) to strengthen workforce development in Louisa County and the region. Funded by the Spring Swing Invitational, this collaborative event brings together business leaders, educators, and community stakeholders—including Louisa County Public Schools’ Career & Technical Education (CTE) program and PVCC Workforce Services—to raise funds for scholarships and other workforce-driven programs.
This year’s inaugural scholarship was awarded to Landon Boerman, who plans to study Mechanical Engineering at PVCC. Landon was selected for his excellent academic performance, meaningful involvement in extracurricular activities, and a clearly defined vision for contributing to the region’s economic vitality through hands-on, industry-focused education.
“This scholarship represents the power of partnerships in action,” said Dr. Scott Jefferies, Vice President of Finance and Administrative Services at PVCC. “We’re proud to be part of an initiative that directly connects students like Landon to meaningful career opportunities. With the support of Louisa Forward Foundation, Louisa County Public Schools, and our regional business partners, we’re laying the groundwork for a stronger workforce and future.”
About the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and Louisa Forward Foundation The Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and its 501(c)(3) affiliate, the Louisa Forward Foundation, work in unison to strengthen the local economy and improve quality of life across Louisa County. Together, they champion business growth, workforce development, and community vitality through strategic programs, partnerships, and advocacy.
While the Chamber advances the interests of the business community through networking, visibility, and policy engagement, the Foundation supports and expands that impact by securing grant funding, cultivating philanthropic partnerships, and facilitating collaborative initiatives that enhance education, nonprofit capacity, and placemaking efforts.
Together, they create a collaborative engine for local prosperity—fueling job creation, leadership development, and a thriving quality of life throughout the region. Learn more at LouisaChamber.org and LouisaForward.org.