BELLVILLE — Dutchman Hospitality Group recently announced Caylynn Penney, graduate of Madison High School, and daughter of Michael and Charmmy Penney, has been chosen as one of four recipients of the annual Dutchman Hospitality scholarship awards.
Penney has been employed by Der Dutchman Restaurant in Bellville, Ohio for the past three years, working as a hostess when not overseeing the seasonal miniature golf course. While attending Mt. Vernon Nazarene University, Caylynn plans to continue working at Der Dutchman Restaurant on weekends and holiday and summer breaks.
Caylynn’s goal is to be a kindergarten teacher. With a passion to help children succeed in life, Caylynn wants to be the teacher students will remember as someone who supported them, encouraged them, and made a difference in their lives.
“Kids mean the world to me, and if that means going above and beyond to help them succeed, that’s what I will do,” Penney said.
Recipients are chosen by a committee of persons within the company, with funds awarded directly to the applicant’s school of choice.
“We are honored to award these scholarships and be a small part in shaping the future lives of our employees. It is our desire to provide support and encouragement as they work to achieve their personal goals,” said Mike Palmer, president of Dutchman Hospitality Group. “One of the most rewarding parts of managing a company is watching employees grow, learn, and develop life skills that will serve them well into the future.”
Established as an additional benefit for employees pursuing a post-secondary education, Dutchman Hospitality Group annually awards $4,000 in scholarships to employees that apply and meet the following criteria:
Currently employed by Dutchman Hospitality Group.
A senior in high school or already pursuing a post-secondary education.
Holds a cumulative Grade Point Average of at least 3.0.
Has not previously received the DHG Scholarship Award.
Worked a minimum of 500 hours in the previous 12 months.
Dutchman Hospitality Group was founded in 1969. What began with one, 75-seat restaurant in Walnut Creek, Ohio has grown for 51 years and now includes six restaurants, three inns, five retail shops, a market, a theater, and a wholesale food and restaurant supply company. With locations in Walnut Creek, Berlin, Sugarcreek, Bellville, and Plain City, Ohio and Sarasota, Florida, Dutchman Hospitality Group is dedicated to providing its guests with an experience that celebrates the traditional foods, simple comforts, and rural charm of the Midwestern Amish and Mennonite communities.
For more information about all of their locations find them on the web at www.dhgroup.com.
