Soroptimist International awards recipients selected

This year, Soroptimist International of Carson Valley is presenting its Women's Opportunity Award to Rebecca Nielsen. The award helps give a deserving woman the resources she needs to improve her education, skills and employment prospects. The winner must be providing the primary financial support for her family and be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program.

Nielsen was selected to win the $1,500 award because of her outstanding motivation, dedication and work to achieve her educational and career goals. Nielsen is a parent and is employed by Western Nevada Community College. She also attends classes at Western Nevada Community College and is pursuing a degree in education. Nielsen plans to become a high school history teacher.

Soroptimists is an international volunteer organization for business and professional women who work to improve the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world. The Women's Opportunity Awards program is the organization's major service project.

The local club, Soroptimist International of Carson Valley, also used the same criteria to select two Landis award winners. Tracy Hildman, who is working toward obtaining a two-year associates of science in nursing degree from WNCC, was selected for the high motivation she has while supporting her family. Hildman was awarded $5,000. Bridgett DeBoer also received a $5,000 Landis award from Soroptimists. Hildman has completed two years at WNCC and obtained an Associate of Arts Degree. She is now attending the University of Nevada, Reno, and wants to become a clinical psychologist.

For more information about these awards contact Jody Laxague, 782-8754.