Two Pendleton students awarded full scholarships to Whitman College
By Terry Murry on Friday, March 20th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – Two members of the Pendleton High School class of 2026 have been awarded full-ride Šináata scholarships to Whitman College in Walla Walla. Ella LaMere and Sheldon Joseph are the recipients of the scholarships offered by a memorandum of agreement between the college and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.
The scholarships can be offered to as many as five applicants each year with first preference to students who are enrolled Tribal members. Both LaMere and Joseph are enrolled members of CTUIR. The scholarship covers the full cost of attendance including tuition, food, housing, books, supplies, and a transportation allowance.
“I’ve never been prouder of two kids who deserve a scholarship like this,” PHS Principal Pat Dutcher said.
Joseph has applied to six colleges and has decided to attend Whitman. He likes that Whitman has a golf team and is close to home.
“This is really exciting,” he said. “It’s a really good opportunity. A lot of hard work I put in is paying off now.”
LaMere is excited about the scholarship offer and she also likes that Whitman is closer to her family members. She has applied to eight schools and is considering other options before she makes a decision.
Photo of (L-R) Sheldon Joseph and Ella LaMere provided by Pendleton School District
