SEATTLE – For the first time, state-based think tank and public policy research organization, Washington Policy Center (WPC), has selected co-winners of the Jennifer Dunn-Thomson Scholarship. Kayla North of Bellevue and Daria Dolgova of Auburn were each chosen for the top award. The scholarship provides aid for tuition or an internship opportunity in Washington, DC. and has been awarded every year since 2011. The scholarship rewards female college students who exemplify Jennifer Dunn Thomson’s leadership, commitment to public service, and personal values.
In June Daria Dolgova graduated from the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business with a degree in finance and accounting. She was on the Dean’s List and will use her scholarship to help with her tuition at UW to receive her Master of Science in Taxation this fall. Daria moved to the United States from Russia when she was eighteen years old. She thrived even in the face of challenges like succeeding in school while learning English and finding employment.
Kayla North is a rising junior at Seattle University where she is studying marketing and economics. Like Daria, Kayla will use the scholarship to pay for tuition. In her application, Kayla said that “throughout the past year, I have realized that just saying what we believe is not enough. We must also dedicate ourselves to the actions of our words and be a leader of our beliefs. I was often reminded that I am in control of my actions and can push for change.” She believes the scholarship will provide her support to continue to grow in her education and leadership.
Jennifer Dunn-Thomson, who passed away in September 2007, served as the Representative from Washington’s 8th Congressional District from 1993 – 2005. During her time in Congress, she served on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, championed fiscal reform, and rose to become Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference. At its 2005 Annual Dinner in Seattle, WPC honored Congresswoman Jennifer Dunn-Thomson with its annual Champion of Freedom Award, “For her contributions throughout her distinguished Congressional career advocating for her constituents and our entire state on the important policy issues facing our region. Honoring her strong leadership, support of free-market principles and being a friend to small businesses and taxpayers on the death tax repeal and other tax reforms.”
WPC is accepting applications for the 2021 Jennifer Dunn-Thomson Scholarship now. The deadline is April 15, 2021.