Pender-Thurston Education & Community Foundation Awards Non-Traditional Scholarships to Local Educators
Cody Volk
Pender, Neb. (September 30, 2025) The Pender-Thurston Education and Community Foundation (PTECF) is proud to announce the awarding of non-traditional scholarships to three dedicated Pender Public School employees who are pursuing their master’s degrees. This year’s recipients are:
Cody Volk – Master’s Degree in Human Movement, Strength and Conditioning, Concordia University
Morgyn Christiansen – Master’s Degree in Literacy, Concordia University
Marin Jetensky – PK-12 Reading Specialist Master’s Degree, Wayne State College
The Foundation’s non-traditional scholarship program is designed to support Pender-Thurston area residents who are furthering their education beyond high school, whether through advanced degrees, certifications, or specialized training.
“We are thrilled to support Cody, Morgyn, and Marin as they take this important next step in their careers,” said Dee Moeller, President of the Pender-Thurston Education and Community Foundation Fund. “Investing in the education of our community members strengthens not only the individuals but also the schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods where they serve.”
Morgyn Christiansen
Since its establishment in 2004, the Foundation Fund has awarded 115 scholarships totaling more than $71,000, helping local students and residents pursue their educational goals.
Applications for the non-traditional scholarship are accepted year-round. Interested residents of the Pender-Thurston area may request an application by emailing ptecffcoordinator@gmail.com or by applying online at www.ptecff.org.
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About Pender-Thurston Education and Community Foundation Fund
Founded in 1994, the Pender-Thurston Education and Community Foundation Fund (PTECFF) is a nonprofit organization and an affiliated fund of the Nebraska Community Foundation. Through ongoing fundraising and support for our unrestricted endowment, we generate lasting impact by awarding grants and scholarships that support local projects, students, and community initiatives. Earnings from this endowment allow us to reinvest in the community year after year.
Marin Jetensky
About Nebraska Community Foundation
Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving more than 265 communities. In the last five years, 45,993 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $517 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
