Choir Scholarship Honors Teen Lost In Eubank Wreck
On July 16, 2021, Carlee Whitis’ life came to a tragic end at the age of 19. Despite this heartbreaking loss, Carlee’s spirit lives on.
Carlee, known for her love of singing and her active role in the Pulaski County High School Choir, inspired the creation of a scholarship in her honor. At the recent spring concert of the choir, held this past Thursday, Parker Sellers, a close friend and former classmate of Carlee’s, became the inaugural recipient of this special scholarship.
“Carlee Whitis was an exceptional student and a cherished member of our choir,” said Meredith Brown, the choir director. “She held a unique place in our hearts. I remember many mornings during her junior year when she would join me during hall duty, sharing stories about her brother, her friends, or her latest crush. Sometimes, she would surprise me with coffee or even a whole cheesecake on my birthday. She was thoughtful, mature beyond her years, and deeply committed to her faith. Her presence was truly irreplaceable.”
Carlee’s life took a tragic turn in July 2021 when she and her boyfriend Ethan Carter were involved in a serious car accident at the intersection of US 27 and Ky. 70. Despite efforts to save her, Carlee passed away, prompting her community to advocate for safety improvements at the intersection. Their efforts bore fruit when a traffic light, Carlee’s preferred solution, was finally installed in January.
Following Carlee’s passing, her initials “CW” adorned the cleats of soccer players at her school, a gesture that deeply moved her mother, Dana, during Carlee’s hospitalization and in her memory afterward. This led to the establishment of the CW Teen Mission, a nonprofit organization dedicated to Carlee’s legacy. The organization’s initial endeavor was to create a $500 annual scholarship for a Pulaski County High School choir student, with plans to expand to other local schools in the future.
“It was Penny Rizenbergs’ vision to create this scholarship,” Dana shared. “Carlee had been a significant part of our lives since birth, and we wanted something enduring to honor her memory, something that would touch lives and help others—a reflection of Carlee herself.”
The scholarship, initiated by the nonprofit’s board, received applications from three choir seniors. Parker Sellers was selected as the first recipient based on his essay and qualifications as a senior and choir member at PCHS.
“This scholarship will ensure Carlee’s impact endures for years to come,” commented Meredith Brown. “The Whitis family continues to inspire us with their dedication to honoring Carlee’s legacy, hoping to support those in need and share their faith.”
Carlee’s absence is keenly felt by her fellow choir members, who often reminisce about their shared experiences and songs with her. In preparation for their recent concert, junior Chamber Singer Elizabeth Dalton proposed honoring Carlee’s memory with the song “For Good” from the musical Wicked. The lyrics resonated deeply, encapsulating how Carlee had touched their lives and changed them for the better.
“While we await the day we can reunite with Carlee in Heaven,” Dana remarked, “we find comfort and purpose in continuing her work on Earth. The Christian Walk initiative and the scholarship in her name serve as channels through which Carlee’s legacy lives on, bringing warmth to my heart.”
Reflecting on Thursday’s concert, Dana expressed gratitude for the opportunity to award the scholarship to one of Carlee’s dear friends in the choir, recognizing the profound significance music held in Carlee’s life and the positive influence she had on others.
“It was an emotional evening,” Dana concluded, “but it also brought me peace, knowing that Carlee’s passion for music continues to inspire and support future generations of talented musicians.”
Through the scholarship and ongoing efforts of the CW Teen Mission, Carlee Whitis’ memory remains a vibrant force for good in her community, a testament to a life well-lived and deeply cherished.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the choir scholarship?
The choir scholarship aims to honor the memory of the teen who passed away in the Eubank wreck by supporting students with a passion for choral music.
Who is eligible to apply for the choir scholarship?
High school seniors or recent graduates who demonstrate dedication to choral music and show financial need are eligible to apply.
How can students apply for the choir scholarship?
Applications can be submitted through [specific application portal or contact information], including details such as academic achievements, musical involvement, and a personal statement.
What is the selection criteria for the choir scholarship?
Selection is based on musical talent, commitment to community service, financial need, and the applicant’s reflection of the values cherished by the teen who lost their life in the Eubank wreck.
Who established the choir scholarship?
The choir scholarship was established by [organization or individual’s name] in memory of the teen who tragically passed away in the Eubank wreck, aiming to celebrate their love for choir and music.
