The Rotary Club of Shades Valley announced the recipients of its 2026 scholarship awards at a luncheon on May 4, at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The scholarships recognize outstanding high school seniors for their academic achievement, leadership and commitment to service. Each of the nine students will receive a $10,000 award (for a total of $90,000 for the group) to further their education.
This year’s scholarship recipients are:
• Mackenzie Jackson, Shades Valley High School—plans to attend Montevallo
• Kimberly Acosta, Shades Valley High School—plans to attend UAB
• Gabriella Brown, Shades Valley High School—plans to attend Brenau
• Avery Kononchek, John Carroll Catholic High School—plans to attend Auburn
• Lily Trinh, Homewood High School—plans to attend UAB
• Isaiah Shull, Homewood High School—plans to attend Auburn
• Willa Turner, Homewood High School—plans to attend UAB
• William Wallis, Homewood High School—Undecided
• Jack Weinrib, Homewood High School—plans to attend Alabama
“These students exemplify the ideals of Rotary through their dedication to scholarship, leadership and service,” says Bill Dean, president of the Shades Valley Rotary Club. “We are proud to recognize their achievements and support their continued education.”
On May 11, the Shades Valley Rotary Charitable Foundation will present scholarship awards to students pursuing trade school, community college or certificate programs. Approximately 20 students will receive those scholarships, which are $2,500 each, for tuition and fees.
The Educational Foundation of the Shades Valley Rotary Club was established on September 15, 1971, through the vision of Rotarian Dan J. McKiever. Founding members included McKiever, Arthur L. Walker and Elton B. Stephens. Scholarships are available to students from Homewood, Shades Valley, Mountain Brook and John Carroll Catholic high schools. Applicants submit an application, résumé, transcripts, FAFSA documentation and a written essay. Finalists are interviewed by Rotarians. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, interview performance, leadership and financial need.
During its first 20 years, the foundation awarded 221 scholarships, beginning with a $750 award in 1971. By 1991, 12 scholarships were awarded annually at $1,500 each. From 1991 to 2003, approximately 144 scholarships were awarded, ranging from $1,500 to $3,100.
Since 2004, more than 583 students have applied, with 237 scholarships awarded. Over the past 55 years, the foundation has awarded more than 570 scholarships to deserving students from area schools, totaling an estimated $1.3 million.
The Shades Valley Rotary Club is part of Rotary International, a global network of community leaders dedicated to service above self.
