GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Abigail Beightol, a senior at Conneaut Area Senior High School, has been awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Thiel College, becoming the first recipient of five such scholarships the College will award for the 2026–27 academic year.
The scholarship was presented during a ceremony held Thursday, Jan. 15, at Conneaut Area Senior High School.
Beightol, of Harmonsburg, Pa., plans to major in early childhood and special education at Thiel College. She is the daughter of Monte and Patricia Beightol and has one brother, Gage.
For the Beightol family, the scholarship, worth $158,080, alleviates concerns about the cost of college and affirms Abigail’s long-held goal of continuing her education.
“She was worried about how we were going to get her college taken care of. We are very excited for her,” said her father, Monte Beightol, adding that the scholarship means everything to her.
An accomplished student, Beightol has earned numerous academic and extracurricular honors throughout her high school career. Her recognitions include the Star Greenhand Award, the Drum Major Award, the Sophomore Choral Award, the Gold Star State Meat Judging award, and selection as Crawford County Fair Queen. She is also a District 10 lacrosse champion and has participated in district and regional band competitions.
Beightol’s involvement extends across academics, leadership and service. She serves as secretary of the Conneaut Area Future Farmers of America, is a member of National Honor Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society and has been recognized through Future Educator and Future Leaders programs. She has also participated in Campus Ministry, marching band, concert band, square dancing competitions, and has been named a Student of the Month.
“Abigail exemplifies the type of student we seek to support through this scholarship—someone who combines academic strength with leadership, service and a clear sense of purpose,” said Sonya Lapikas, director of admission at Thiel College. “Her commitment to education and to serving others aligns well with Thiel’s mission, and we are excited to welcome her to campus.”
The full-tuition scholarship program is designed to recognize exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership and a commitment to service.
At Thiel, we believe a great education should be affordable. That’s why we go out of our way to support students through generous merit aid and scholarships—so cost never stands in the way of opportunity, Lapikas said.
Students and families interested in learning more about other scholarship opportunities at Thiel College should contact the Thiel College Office of Admission at 724-589-2345 or admissions@thiel.edu.
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