PEO Sisterhood announces two scholarships

The Whitefish Chapter D of the Women’s Philanthropic Education Organization (P.E.O.) awarded two $1,400 scholarships this year.  

Whitefish High School seniors Ella Idleman and Elizabeth Holien were selected as recipients of the $1,400 P.E.O. Local Scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year.  

The P.E.O. Local Scholarship recognizes the accomplishments of graduating women planning to pursue post-secondary education based on the following criteria: leadership, academics, extracurricular activities, community/volunteer service and potential for future success. 

Idleman is an accomplished student who has challenged herself by completing Advanced Placement coursework while earning a spot in the National Honor Society and participating in the band and swim team. Idleman has been actively pursuing her goal of becoming a wildlife biologist by volunteering at Glacier National Park and with Project Freeflow in numerous citizen scientist projects. She plans to attend Oregon State University this fall. 

Holien has been balancing work with school while being a dual enrollment student with FVCC, to pursue her goal of becoming a physical therapist. She is a three-year varsity tennis athlete and qualified for the state music festival in four consecutive years, earning several superior ratings. She is an active volunteer at her church. She plans to attend Montana State University this fall. 

The P.E.O. Sisterhood is one of the largest community-based women’s organizations in North America.