Pioneer Day Committee awards scholarships to local students

By Staff Report · Sun Sep 13 2026

PASO ROBLES — The Paso Robles Pioneer Day Committee awarded scholarships to five graduating seniors pursuing higher education, vocational training and careers in heritage, industrial arts and agriculture.

The committee awards scholarships annually to graduating seniors who attended a Northern San Luis Obispo County high school and are pursuing a degree or certificate program at a two- or four-year college, trade or vocational school, or other certified program.

Students may apply in one of two categories: the Heritage Scholarship or the Industrial Arts/Agriculture Scholarship.

Heritage Scholarship applicants are asked to write about their family’s pioneer heritage of 75 years or more, including how that history has shaped their values, identity and connection to the Northern San Luis Obispo County community. Applicants also provide examples of traditions, contributions or experiences that demonstrate their commitment to preserving and honoring their family legacy.

Industrial Arts/Agriculture Scholarship applicants are asked to describe their interest in industrial arts or agriculture and their future career goals. Essays highlight relevant experiences, leadership roles and community involvement, as well as how the scholarship will help the student achieve their educational and career objectives.

The committee received more than 15 applications from graduating seniors for the 2026 scholarships.

The 2026 Heritage Scholarship recipients are Cody Sill, who will attend Cuesta College, and Parker Dusi, who will attend the University of Colorado Boulder.

The Industrial Arts/Agriculture Scholarship recipients are Christopher Jewett, who will participate in the “ThinkBIG” Program, a Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician Training Program; Luke Stetz, who will attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo; and Mark Mitchell, who will attend UC Davis.

Pictured are Joseph Sill, Cindy Wittstrom, scholarship recipient Cody Sill, Karl Wittstrom, McCoy Sill, Paso Robles Pioneer Day Chairman Sarah Kramer and Heidi Wittstrom-Sill. Scholarship recipients Parker Dusi, Christopher Jewett, Luke Stetz and Mark Mitchell were not pictured.

For more information about the Pioneer Day Committee and its scholarship program, visit PasoRoblesPioneerDay.org or follow the organization on social media.