Maroons Shine in State and Local Scholarships

Butte Central students earn Mariah’s Challenge Scholarships

Butte Central High School seniors, Will McGree, Ryan Peoples, Molly Peck and Caden Tippett are among this year’s recipients of Mariah’s Challenge scholarships.

The program recognizes students who commit to living drug- and alcohol-free throughout their high school years and uphold that pledge. Created in memory of Mariah McCarthy, Mariah’s Challenge has become one of Butte’s most recognizable youth programs, honoring students who demonstrate responsibility, integrity and a commitment to making positive choices.

For the recipients, the scholarship serves as both recognition and encouragement. It reflects not only their own dedication, but also the lasting influence of a community effort built around Mariah’s memory.

Mariah’s Challenge continues to play an important role in Butte, rewarding students who follow through on their promise and setting an example for others to do the same.

Butte Central Senior Caden Tippett Earns Prestigious Friendly Sons Scholarship

Butte Central senior Caden Tippett, one of the most versatile and celebrated students in the Maroons' Class of 2026, has been awarded a scholarship from the Friendly Sons and Daughters of St. Patrick one of Butte's most storied and respected organizations.

The scholarship was presented at the group's annual banquet, held at the Front Street Station and described as the oldest St. Patrick's Day event in Butte. The evening features humorous tales, memorial tributes, and scholarship awards.

Butte Central students earn Jacob Wheeler Scholarships

Three Butte Central students have been awarded Jacob Wheeler Scholarships in recognition of their achievements and promise for the future. Cadence Pawlik received a $1,000 scholarship, Sophia Gelling was awarded $1,500, and Molly Peck earned a $2,000 scholarship.

The Jacob Wheeler Foundation is a Butte-based nonprofit created in memory of Jacob Wheeler. The foundation honors his legacy by supporting local students through scholarships and promoting suicide awareness and prevention in the community.

For the recipients, the awards provide both financial support and a meaningful recognition of their hard work. The scholarships also reflect the foundation’s commitment to encouraging young people as they continue their education.

The Jacob Wheeler Foundation has become an important part of the Butte community, helping students while keeping Jacob Wheeler’s memory alive through service, remembrance and support for others.

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Butte Central's Molly Peck Earns Statewide Youth Serve Montana Scholarship

Butte Central senior Molly Clare Peck has been selected as a recipient of the Youth Serve Montana Scholarship, a statewide honor recognizing Montana high school seniors who give back to their communities through volunteerism.

The scholarship, administered through the Governor's Office of Community Service in partnership with Reach Higher Montana and the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement, awards 90 seniors statewide a $1,500 scholarship. To qualify, students must complete 100 or more hours of volunteer service in the past year and plan to attend a Montana college or university in the fall.

For Peck, the recognition comes as no surprise to those who know her. The Butte Central senior has spent the last two years embedding herself in the fabric of this community not just as a student, but as a working contributor to the local media landscape.

Kelly Cresswell, Executive Director of Reach Higher Montana, said the scholarships represent more than just financial assistance. "They were created to encourage young adults to play an active role in their communities, now and in the future," she said.

Josh Vanek, Director of the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement, echoed that sentiment. "The Youth Serve Montana Scholarship honors high school seniors for their meaningful volunteerism along with their decision to attend a Montana college or university," he said.