Congratulations to the 2025 PNWSEF Scholarship Recipients

Jane Henry Scholarship - Izzy Bielen (MHRTA athlete) 

We are honored to recognize Izzy Bielen as a recipient of the Jane Henry Scholarship, awarded to individuals who demonstrate extraordinary resilience, character, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Izzy’s journey in ski racing has not only shaped her as an athlete, but as a person. In April 2024, she sustained a traumatic brain injury during a training run at the Mammoth speed series. The severity of the injury required an emergency airlift and intensive care. With strength, courage, and the support of her coaches, friends, and family, Izzy made a full recovery and returned to racing—ultimately qualifying for senior U.S. Nationals.

Her recovery revealed a powerful inner drive and helped clarify her next goal: to pursue a career in service to others. Izzy is now preparing to study engineering at Montana State University while participating in ROTC, with the aspiration of joining the U.S. Air Force. Her commitment to overcoming adversity, coupled with her passion for helping others, reflects the exact spirit the Jane Henry Scholarship seeks to uplift. Congratulations Izzy!

Jane Henry Scholarship - Vanessa Stevens (CMAC athlete)

Vanessa Stevens has been selected as a recipient of the Jane Henry Scholarship, in recognition of her exceptional dedication to ski racing and her potential as both an athlete and future leader in the sport.

Vanessa has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to improving her performance over the years with CMAC (Crystal Mountain Alpine Club). Her persistence, even through moments of frustration, has led to notable breakthroughs in her racing this past season. Coaches have consistently praised her strong work ethic, positive attitude, and leadership—especially when mentoring younger athletes during practices.

A high school senior preparing for college, Vanessa is working hard to continue her ski racing career while managing the growing financial responsibilities of higher education. This scholarship will help ease that burden, allowing her to pursue both academic and athletic goals with focus and determination. Congratulations Vanessa! 

Bruce Holyoke Scholarship - Kyle Larsen (MSSRT coach) 

This year’s Bruce Holyoke Scholarship has been awarded to an outstanding individual whose dedication to ski racing and commitment to developing the next generation of athletes truly embodies the spirit of this honor - Kyle Larsen (coach at Mt. Spokane).

From a young age, Kyle has demonstrated an unwavering passion for ski racing—first as an athlete, and now as a coach with the Mount Spokane Ski Race Team. Through this journey, he's shown resilience, discipline, and a strong desire to give back to the community that shaped him. Kyle recently completed his Level 100 coaching certification and is actively pursuing his Level 200 certification. He's invested deeply in mentoring and inspiring young athletes. Attending college in Spokane while also coaching for the Mt. Spokane Ski Race team, this scholarship will help ease the financial challenges of higher education, allowing Kyle to continue growing as a coach and a role model in the ski racing world. Congratulations Kyle!