12 students with two administrators on a stage
Pictured above are all 12 Pioneer nominees with Supt. Greg Nickoli and Mr. Carmean. Credit: Pioneer

SHELBY — Pioneer Career and Technology Center celebrated student success in a big way at its annual awards ceremony held Wednesday, April 23.

Students, families, and staff came together to recognize outstanding achievements, commitment to education, and the bright futures ahead for Pioneer students.

A highlight of the evening was the announcement that students had earned over $1.1 million in scholarships to further their education.

In addition to scholarship awards, students were honored with the prestigious Director’s Attitude Awards, Citizenship Awards, and recognition for those who have enlisted in the military.

The evening’s highest honor, the Byron H. Carmean Character, Dedication, and Service Award, was presented to Lita Frost, a senior from Ontario High School.

Pioneer Superintendent Greg Nickoli, Ontario senior Lita Frost, and Ontario Superintendent Keith Strickler. Credit: Pioneer.

Frost has excelled in Pioneer’s Homeland Security program under the leadership of Commander Eric Winbigler. The Carmean Award recognizes a student for outstanding character, dedication, and service to education.

During her time at Pioneer, Frost has been an active member of the SkillsUSA Pioneer Chapter, served on Student Council, and represented the school as a Student Ambassador.

She has earned numerous certifications and was recognized with the Statesman’s Award and the Scholastic Award from the Mansfield Rotary Club.

At Ontario High School, Frost has also distinguished herself by earning the Citizen of the Year Award, being named Most Improved Performer in show choir, and consistently achieving Honor Roll and Merit Roll recognition.

Her accomplishments reflect a strong commitment to excellence as she continues to build an impressive foundation for a successful future.

Pioneer Career and Technology Center is proud to honor all students who exemplify dedication, leadership, and a passion for learning.

This year’s other deserving nominees for the Carmean Award who also received a scholarship with their nomination:

 Cerlyn Beverhoud – Dental Assisting, Willard
 Abby Evans – Graphic Arts, Northmor
 Chevelle Jones – Exercise Science & Sports Medicine, Northmor
 Katie Keffalas – Exercise Science & Sports Medicine, Mansfield Senior
 William (Will) Naylor – Precision Machining, Northmor
 Josie Rank – Early Childhood Education, Plymouth
 Brennen Reber – Industrial Electrical Technician, Colonel Crawford
 Grace Rietschlin – Horticulture, Shelby
 Angel Shelton – Home Remodeling, Wynford
 Chloe Sturts – Welding, Lucas
 Brianne (Bri) York – Medical Technologies, Northmor

About Pioneer Career and Technology Center

Pioneer Career and Technology Center has been providing quality career-technical education to high school juniors and seniors for over 50 years. We serve over 1,100 students representing over 35 Career Tech Programs and 14 partner schools and offer adult education programs.

Visit the website at www.PioneerCTC.edu.