Olivia Kahn-Boesel from Needham High School and Asma Sheikh from Newton North High School are both recipients of $2000 scholarships from the Newton-Needham Regional Chamber.

“The chamber’s scholarship committee received a record number of applications this year from candidates with exceptional high school records and very compelling circumstances,” said Kevin Ruddy, the committee’s chair. “Among these applications, there was a student with a 5.0 GPA and another with acceptances from multiple Ivy League schools. The committee’s criteria were first and foremost a sense that a scholarship might make a difference in whether the student could attend college and a demonstration of good character and hard work.”

Kahn-Boesel’s family experienced difficult circumstances in 2009, causing them financial difficulties, but she maintained an excellent record in school and volunteered extensively. Sheikh also experienced difficulties and challenges and Asma’s dream is to become a doctor in her native Pakistan after she finishes her schooling.

The awards were $2,000 each this year, up from $1,500 last year and $1,000 in the years prior. In addition to Ruddy, from PTC, the selection committee includes Alison Borelli of the Needham Historical Society, Barry Brown from Mount Ida College, Mark Loveless of The Village Bank, Bryan Manandhar from Brookline Bank and Josephine McNeil of CAN-DO.

Student award winners, picture left to right below: Oliva Kahn-Boesel from Needham High School and Asma Sheikh from Newton North High School.