Civitan Club awards $1,000 in scholarships

TORRINGTON — Civitan Club recently awarded two $500 scholarships to local high school students.

Ashley Cote, a graduate of Oliver Wolcott Technical School, plans to study nursing at Florida Southwestern State College. She chose a path in nursing because she believes that “every life is precious and that saving lives while making a difference is important,” she said. She is the daughter of Timothy and Kim Cote of Torrington.

The other recipient, Nathan R. Zwart, is a graduate of Torrington High School and an Eagle Scout in Troup 1 Torrington. Zwart plans on becoming a theatrical lighting designer. He is considering UCONN and Wagner College, among other schools, for a design and technical management program. He is the son of Keith and Cynthia Zwart of Torrington.

Civitan scholarships are made possible through a variety of fund-raising events held throughout the year, including the Scholarship Fundraiser Dance held in spring.

Scholarship recipients are chosen based upon academic achievement, participation in extracurricular activities, commitment of community service and drive to excel in life.

The Torrington Civitan Club is a group of citizens who volunteer in a wide range of charity projects across Torrington. They conduct fundraisers and charity projects to help others in the community, with a special emphasis on helping people with developmental disabilities.