Recent 2024 graduates of Greene County Community School District, Olivia Hoyt, Georgia Osterson and Ellie Knippers, were recipients of the Hazel Brown Zachar P.E.O. scholarships. The three graduates were awarded over $1,800 each in college scholarships by the Hazel Brown Zachar endowment fund through P.E.O. International Foundation.
Hazel Brown graduated from Jefferson High School in 1939 as valedictorian and had a distinguished nursing and military career. She established the scholarship 30 years ago to recognize top female students from her alma mater. She wanted to ensure that young women who reached high academic achievement had assistance with college costs. Dozens of young women have benefited from this scholarship over the years. It is presented annually by members of the Jefferson chapters CZ and MY of P.E.O.
P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans, and stewardship of Cottey College and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.