50th Anniversary of the PAC of Michigan
Scholarship Fund, Inc.
The 50th Anniversary of the PAC of Michigan Scholarship Fund, Inc. took place on Wednesday August 3, 2022 at Stitts Post in Dearborn Hts., Michigan. Those in attendance had an enjoyable time with delicious Polish food cooked by Halina and her staff. Each guest received a goodie bag filled with items donated by PRCUA, PNA and Stella Szczesny. They also had the opportunity to win a variety of prizes.
Over 100 former scholarship recipients were invited to write a few words about themselves which was included in a brief history of the PAC of Michigan Scholarship Fund, Inc. This book was compiled by Joann Ozog, Recording Secretary. Board Chairman, Ann Bankowski introduced those present (Taylor Withers Beauchamp, Christopher Ozog, Leonard Zabawski and Alec Westphal) and presented each with a plaque of acknowledgement and an inspirational book, “Life is a Journey”. Joann Ozog also wrote this book which is about the many challenges one encounters in their life’s journey.
Wally Ozog, President, then introduced John Swidinski, President of the PA Federal Credit Union. For many years, the credit union donated $500.00 to the scholarship fund. On this special Anniversary year, the PA Federal Credit Union received a plaque of appreciation for their years of interest and support of the future leaders of Polonia.
The 2022 PAC of Michigan Scholarship recipients were then introduced. Christopher Adamczyk, Vice-President, introduced Ian Melnyk who is attending MSU; Bob Bielenda, Treasurer, introduced Grace Ozog who is attending U of M; Member Rick Lapham introduced Caroline Raczkowski, a DePaul University student. Each received $2,000.00, a plaque of Recognition and the inspirational book, “Life is a Journey”.
A special “thank you” is extended to those who joined in the festivities of this milestone anniversary. Without them, this celebration would not have taken place.
We also thank the former scholarship recipients who attended the dinner and also, to those who took the time to write a brief resume for our anniversary book. They are part of the history of the PAC of Michigan Scholarship Fund, Inc. and should not be forgotten.
Lastly, we appreciate everyone who donated to the “Invest in the Future” scholarship appeal. It is because of these donors that we are able to continue to give scholarships. Hopefully, the former scholarship recipients will remember who made a difference for them to attain their degree and they will reciprocate and give back so that future students will benefit from it.
Words that a friend of mine often used and I would like to end my article with is, “If you give with your eyes open, you will be happy and the PAC of Michigan Scholarship Fund, Inc. will continue to exist for another 50 years.
Submitted by Joann S. Ozog (Recording Secretary)
The Polish American Congress (PAC) is a U.S. umbrella organization of Polish-Americans and Polish-American organizations. Its membership is composed of fraternal, educational, veterans, religious, cultural, social, business, and political organizations, as well as individuals.