For seven exceptional Laramie High School seniors, the University of Wyoming Trustees Scholars Award represents more than just financial assistance—it is a gateway to their dreams, a reflection of their hard work, and a testament to the support they have received along the way. Each of these students has walked a unique path, shaped by challenges, mentors, passions, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
For Henry Andersen, who plans to double major in political science and economics with a minor in French before heading to law school, the road has not been without obstacles. “The most challenging part of my academic career so far has been the math classes I’ve taken,” he admitted. “But at Laramie High School, we are blessed with a really excellent math teacher, Mr. Street. I think he’s done a really good job of just providing support whenever we need it.” It is that kind of encouragement, combined with his own perseverance, that has propelled Henry toward his ambitions.
Claire Bunning, who plans to study psychology with a potential minor in ceramics, sees the Trustees Scholarship as an opportunity to explore the breadth of her academic interests. “Getting the Trustees for me means that I get to explore all the different subjects I’m interested in,” she said. “I have free rein to take a bunch of different classes and explore my opportunities.”
That same sense of opportunity fuels Elijah Coulter’s drive to make a difference. With plans to double major in sociology and business and minor in jazz performance, his long-term goal is to work in nonprofit management. “I think with a master’s degree in nonprofit management, I will be able to combat homelessness in America,” he explained. “There’s a lot of different ways we can do that, and hopefully this scholarship will help me explore my options and continue to pursue a degree and pay for graduate school in the future.”
For Fisher Froude, the journey has been shaped by the mentorship of coaches who pushed him to strive for excellence. “Whether it was football coaches or my pole vault coach or various track coaches, they’ve all pushed me to be the best version of myself,” he said. “Through their guiding, I’ve formed good habits that have led to success, not only athletically but also academically.” Now, he is set to pursue architectural engineering at the University of Wyoming, carrying those lessons of discipline and resilience with him.
Music has been a defining force in Morgan Gelwicks’ life. A dedicated trumpet player and drum major in the marching band, she has traveled extensively, performing in Washington and even Europe. “It’s just been a really great, enriching arts experience that has added a lot to my high school experience,” she said. That passion for both music and science will continue as she embarks on a double major in trumpet performance and chemistry.
As these students celebrate their achievements, they also offer advice to those following in their footsteps. Paulo Mellizo, who plans to double major in statistics and finance, emphasizes the importance of dedication from the very beginning. “My biggest advice would be to try hard, even from the first class in your freshman year,” he said. “The scholarship is based off of every single class you’ve taken in high school, so there’s not really any time to slack off.”
Growing up in Laramie has given these students more than just a strong academic foundation—it has provided them with a close-knit community that has supported and guided them. Selma Piri, who will study chemical engineering, recognizes the advantages of growing up in a town like Laramie. “It’s small enough where you can form a lot of good connections within your own high school and within the university before you even get to college,” she said. “I was able to participate in a lot of great opportunities like research and music, travel, and all kinds of things.”
As they prepare to take their next steps, these seven students embody the spirit of dedication, passion, and ambition. The University of Wyoming Trustees Scholars Award is more than just a scholarship—it is a recognition of their hard work and an investment in their future. With the support of their school, mentors, and community, they are ready to embrace the challenges ahead and make a meaningful impact on the world.