Since it’s founding in 2011, the PROTEC17 scholarship program has awarded $92,000 in awards to help members’ dependents in their pursuit of a higher education. We are proud to announce that our 2026 scholarship winners are Elsa Enger and Hazel Lily Abrahamson-Amerine.
Each year, the PROTEC17 scholarship is open to the children, grandchildren or dependents of members as they enter or continue their studies in college or technical school. The award amount is $5,000 for each of the two scholarships – one for an incoming freshman, and one for a continuing college student.
Scholarship applications were accepted through July 31. In the application, students are asked to demonstrate their academic achievements, educational goals, and extracurricular activities. In addition, applicants submit letters of recommendation and a labor-related essay.
Student essays were evaluated – anonymously to reduce bias – by the PROTEC17 Executive Board. The Board found reading all of the essays very inspiring and rewarding, but a couple of students rose to the top.
Elsa Enger is the child of Snohomish County member Aran Enger, and is our graduating high school student winner. She started at San Diego State University this fall to pursue a degree in Liberal Studies, with dreams to become an elementary school teacher.
In her scholarship application, Enger reflected on her passion for teaching, as well as her supportive family – especially her father, whose union membership demonstrated the importance of compassion, service, and support for others.
“Because of my dad’s PROTEC17 membership, I grew up with stability, opportunity, and parents who could truly be present in my life,” said Enger in her essay. “Those experiences have shaped the person I am today and inspired me to value community, kindness, and service to others. As I pursue my goal of becoming an elementary school teacher, I know that being part of a union will be an important part of my career.”
Hazel Lily Abrahamson-Amerine, child of City of Seattle member Michael Abrahamson, is entering their senior year at the University of Washigton this fall, where they are finishing their degree in biochemistry with a minor in environmental studies. They will be applying to graduate schools this fall to continue their studies in environmental biochemistry with the hopes of tackling climate change impacts on marine life and ecosystems.
“I grew up in the Puget Sound region and am deeply impacted by the culture and economy of this region. I want to use my education to protect waterways like this, and the people and organisms they sustain around the globe,” said Abrahamson-Amerine said in their application.
Both students expressed their gratitude to PROTEC17 for supporting this award and for helping them and their families ease the financial burden of a college education.
Many thanks to the Board for their continued support and participation in this program. And to all of our applicants and our two winners – best of luck this school year and beyond!