The Summit Performing Arts Resource Committee (SPARC) awards scholarships to graduating seniors who contributed significantly to the performing arts at Summit High School, primarily through their participation in theater, speech and debate, and other related performing arts classes, clubs, and events.

SPARC awards four scholarships of distinction. These scholarships are merit-based recognition for excellence in the performing arts in Summit High School. No financial, testing, or transcript information is required. The scholarships are:

The Mary Snieckus Scholarship

This scholarship, named in memory of a prominent SPARC member and parent who passed away in 2002, is awarded to two graduating seniors who have been involved in the performing arts programs at SHS such as the theater productions, and also in programs including Director’s Showcase and Cabaret, and Speech & Debate. Enrollment in theater classes, and membership in related clubs are also taken into consideration. The SPARC Scholarship Committee will evaluate the student’s participation, leadership, and extent of involvement in these programs.

Technical Theater Scholarship
in memory of Benjamin Zukoff

This scholarship, named in memory of a former SHS student who was heavily involved in the technical aspects of SHS theatre and who passed away in 2013 is awarded to one graduating senior who has been a significant contributor, role model and leader in the technical aspects of theater at Summit High School. This includes the spring and fall theater productions, Director’s Showcase and Cabaret. Enrollment in theater classes and membership in related clubs are also taken into consideration. The Scholarship Committee will evaluate the student’s participation, leadership, and extent of involvement in these programs.

Drama Achievement Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to one senior who demonstrates both dedication and achievement within the Drama program at SHS. The scholarship recipient will have been a significant contributor, role model, and leader within the program and demonstrate this commitment both formally and informally. The Scholarship Committee will evaluate contribution to the spring and fall theater productions, Director’s Showcase and Cabaret. Enrollment in theater classes and participation in the drama club will also be taken into consideration.

Marvin Hecker Speech & Debate Scholarship

This scholarship is named for Marvin Hecker, patriarch of the Hecker family. The Heckers have dedicated incalculable hours to both the Speech & Debate and Drama programs and, more generally, the Summit performing arts community. This is awarded to two graduating seniors who have, like the Heckers, been an integral part of Speech & Debate during their time at Summit High School. Students will be evaluated based on their dedication and achievement in Speech & Debate events, tournaments, related clubs, and leadership positions. The Scholarship Committee will also consider the efforts the student has made to support others in the program whether formally or informally.

2024 Scholarship Recipients

Mary Sniekus Scholarship

Mabel Rieger
Angelina Tung

Technical Theater Scholarship
in memory of Benjamin Zukoff

Mia Aldape

Drama Achievement Scholarship

Emily Huffman

Marvin Hecker Speech & Debate Scholarships

Andrew Cheung (debate)

Isabella Estupinan (speech)

Junior Achievement Awards

Performance

Ben Schachne

Sarah Walsh

Production

Sean Espeland

Speech

Matt Krunnfusz

Debate

Lexie Malik