Soroptimist International of Yakima recently awarded several scholarships.

Amber Baumgarden, a senior at Naches Valley High School, received the Violet Richardson Award and $500 in recognition of her volunteer work in the community.

Mireya N. Galvez, received the Women's Opportunity Award and $1,500 from the local chapter. She also received an additional $3,000 at the organization's regional conference. The awards will help her to achieve her goal of becoming a nurse.

Ken Zontek, a history instructor at Yakima Valley Community College, was given the Making a Difference for Women Award. He received this award for his work to help develop and expand a women's shelter in Afghanistan. Because of his efforts, two young women will be coming to Yakima to attend college this fall, and many other women are being protected in the shelter.

Esther Tkacz and Alisse Urlacher, both seniors at West Valley High School, won $1,000 academic scholarships. Tkacz plans to attend the University of Washington and major in English; she wants to become an editor. Urlacher plans to attend Eastern Washington University. She hopes to obtain a degree in radiation and imaging technology with a minor in Spanish.