Wheatfield Business Association awards scholarships

Submitted by Danny Maerten

WBA Scholarship Chair

The Wheatfield Business Association awarded three $500 scholarships at its May 16 meeting.

The annual WBA scholarship program is presented to graduating seniors residing in the Town of Wheatfield with an interest in a future involving business. The scholarship committee received 13 applications for the 2023 gift.

This year’s recipients are Niagara Wheatfield High School seniors Minna Cederman-Kobayashi, Katelyn Dena and Emma Binga.

Minna Cederman-Kobayashi is planning on attending D’Youville University, majoring in business. She is a member of Job’s Daughters International Triangle organization, Jewish Club, Japanese Club and DECA business honor society. Minna has blackbelts, received the Falcon Pride award and is a DECA state qualifier, among numerous accolades. She was born in Canada, migrated to Japan, moved to Seattle, and now lives in Wheatfield. Minna is well versed in the Japanese language. She is employed at Platters.

Katelyn Dena is planning on attending SUNY Geneseo with majors in business administration and Spanish. She participated in varsity soccer, basketball and soccer. Katelyn is the class salutatorian and historian, a member of DECA, student council, Niagara Wheatfield Advisory Committee and LYNC. She received Falcon Pride and scholar athlete awards and other recognitions. Katelyn started her own tutoring service for fellow students who fell behind during the pandemic. Her employment includes Remington Tavern & Seafood Exchange, Lumberjack’s Patio & Grill, Antonio’s Banquet & Conference Center, and St. John summer camp.

Emma Binga is planning on attending SUNY Geneseo and majoring in communications. She is an officer with DECA and involved in DECA nationals. Emma participated in Niagara Wheatfield lacrosse and volleyball, serving as captain. She is employed at Primerano Fitness and is also a nanny for Ron and Crystal Primerano. In addition, she is involved with Distributive Education Clubs of America, preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools around the globe.

Unfortunately, the WBA’s scholarship recipients were unable to attend the planned scholarship dinner because of rescheduling of their sports meets. The certificates and checks were presented in person at the Niagara Wheatfield Senior Awards Night on June 5.