Ottinger receives PEO scholarship

Farragut High School Class of 2023 graduate Ava Ottinger has received a $1,500 Philanthropic Education Organization Women Advancing Women scholarship.

It was awarded by PEO Chapter R to “an outstanding female high school senior based on academics, community service and leadership,” according to a PEO press release.

Candidates are required to complete an application, provide references and transcripts and participate in interviews as part of the scholarship selection process.

Ottinger has been a “dedicated member of the FHS Marching Admirals throughout high school, and has also volunteered with the Young Williams Animal Shelter, the Knoxville Humane Society, Boo at the Zoo and Knoxville Area Rescue Ministries,” the release further stated. “She will be attending the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, this fall, where she has been admitted to the college of nursing and plans to earn a Bachelor of Science (degree) in nursing, then continue her education to become a nurse practitioner. She would like to work in neonatal intensive care units to provide care for medically fragile newborns.”

Ottinger credits her experience in FHS’s Clinical Internship program and the support from her family and from her teacher, Gina McNeer, with helping her solidify her goal of becoming a nurse, the recent high school graduate said.

“While working toward my Certified Nursing Assistant certification at NHC Farragut, I knew I was in the correct line of work because of how much I enjoyed helping my patients and learning new skills,” Ottinger added.

PEO Chapter R is dedicated to helping women advance in their educational goals, the release stated. It is part of the International PEO organization which has nearly 6,000 chapters.

Additionally, PEO is a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards and loans; and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations, the release further stated.

PEO has provided more than $366 million in grants, scholarships, awards and loans.