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Sophomore Kat Walker Named A 2026 Chime Workforce Scholar

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College sophomore Kat Walker has been named a 2026 Chime Workforce Scholar, joining 200 students nationwide recognized for their academic achievement and pursuit of career-focused education.

Funded by the Chime Scholars Foundation and administered by the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, the Chime Workforce Scholarship supports students pursuing career and technical education at two-year colleges.

Each scholar will receive a $1,000 scholarship to help cover educational expenses as they complete a certificate or associate degree, preparing them to enter the workforce in a high-demand field.

“It’s an honor to receive this award,” Walker stated. “It is meaningful to me because I feel that all the hard work and dedication I put into my studies is being recognized with this scholarship. As a non-traditional, first-generation college student, my goal is for my son to see that you can follow your dreams no matter what age you are. Penn Highlands is helping me realize my dream of obtaining an associate degree, and there is no place I would rather be.”

Walker was born and raised in Windber, PA. She is a Culinary Arts major at Penn Highlands and set to graduate in Spring 2027. At the College, Walker has maintained a 4.0 GPA, been named to multiple Dean’s Lists, and is on the Student Engagement & Success Committee, all while earning multiple Foundation scholarships.

Upon graduation, she plans to enter the workforce in the field of Hospitality Management.

Outside of Penn Highlands, Walker currently works as a caregiver. She is also a member of the Penn State Master Gardeners of Cambria County and the Master Naturalists of Pennsylvania.

“At the Chime Scholars Foundation, we believe that career and technical education opens doors to financial progress and long-term opportunity,” stated Jeni Izuel, President of the Chime Scholars Foundation. “We’re proud to support students who are working hard to gain in-demand skills and build better futures for themselves and their families.”

The Chime Workforce Scholarship supports students preparing for high-demand careers that strengthen their communities and local economies. By helping students complete their education and earn workforce credentials, the program helps create a stronger pipeline of skilled workers in fields where they are needed most.

Penn Highlands contributes a strong foundation of academic excellence, innovative curricula, and a steadfast commitment to student success. With experienced educators and modern infrastructure, the College cultivates an environment that encourages critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and lifelong learning.

Kat Walker