Bath girl wins essay contest, scholarship

BAROODY

Bath resident Katelyn Baroody, first prize winner in the "Suave Essay Contest," believes her mother paved the road for her to enjoy a better life through education and learning. Her mother taught her one of the most valuable lessons: to dream big and reach for her goals.

"By promoting my learning in every way possible, my mom has helped me to do things I could have never dreamed up on my own," Baroody wrote in an essay that honored her mother. "She took every opportunity she could to give me knowledge that I needed to succeed."

Baroody's essay, which stood out among more 5,000, moved judges to award her the first prize, a $5,000 scholarship. She currently attends Haverling Central High School and plans to pursue a Masters Degree in Music Education. In addition to the scholarship, Baroody will have the opportunity to meet Fantasia Barrino, who is starring in the Broadway production of "The Color Purple."

"Dollar General believes that education is the first step in the journey to a better life," said Beryl Buley, division president of merchandising, marketing and supply chain, Dollar General. "We are proud to reinforce our commitment to education through the essay scholarship, which helps people to reach their dreams."

"Suave is proud to award scholarships to the four winners of the 'Suave Essay Contest," added Lisa Klauser, vice president of Unilever, Brand Building and Marketing Excellence. "Each of the winners displayed passion for and devotion to education and we look forward to watching them continue to achieve great things in their education and beyond."