WHEELING — More than $8 million in scholarships was awarded to Wheeling Park High School’s Class of 2024, and from that, nearly $180,000 came from the Phyllis A. Beneke Scholarship Fund.

Beneke Scholarship winners were announced during Wheeling Park’s graduation ceremony May 19, when more than 330 seniors walked across the stage with their diplomas.

On May 19, Wheeling Park High School graduated a little more than 330 seniors. As they gathered around the back of WesBanco Arena waiting to enter, students fixed their honor cords, adjusted their caps, and enjoyed the company of their now former classmates.

Over $8 million dollars in scholarships was awarded to this class, and nearly $180,000 comes from the Phyllis A. Beneke Scholarship Fund.

The annual scholarships were established in the memory of WPHS’ second principal, Phyllis A. Beneke, the school states. Since the scholarship’s inception, more than $4.44 million dollars has been distributed to the students of Wheeling Park High School, making this scholarship program one of the largest single scholarship programs in America.

A total of 20 scholarships are provided. Patriot Scholars will receive a one time award of $3,000 or $1,000.

These winners include Maya Collins, Seth Franke, Devin Lew, Harrison Wolfe, Fatima Ahad, Ella Benner, Carson Miller, Lance Miller, Lily Osborne, Faith Randolph and Shannon Wack.

Outstanding Achievement Scholars are awarded $16,000 or $12,000 over four years. These winners include Jenna Carpenter, Chloe Humway, Jackson Kiziminski, Kendyll Shreve and Josaphine Vosvick.

Distinguished Scholars are awarded $20,000 over four years. These winners include

Taylor Andrews and Lauren Erwin.

Beneke Scholars are awarded $24,000 over four years. These winners include Rylee Birkett and Jared Marsh.

The Patrick A. Clutter Scholarship, a scholarship with an emphasis on career and technical education, was awarded to Hudson Davis and Joseph Farmer.

Grant Kenamond was recognized as a Presidential Scholar for the State of West Virginia.

This year’s valedictorian was Marin Hedges, and co-salutatorians were Merritt Delk and Kathryn Prather.