Written by Palmetto Bluff
Jun 20, 2025
We are thrilled to introduce the inaugural winners of the Inspiring the Arts Scholarship—three extraordinary young women pursuing their artistic dreams through higher education! Katherine Donahue has been named our first official scholarship recipient, with Emma Peeples and Ryleigh Severide recognized as Honorable Mention awardees. Their continued dedication to the arts and their inspiring journeys will be made possible in part by the generosity of the Palmetto Bluff community. We hope you’ll join us in honoring their achievements and bright futures in the arts.
Introducing the 2025 Inspiring the Arts Scholarship recipients:
Katherine Donahue
As the first official scholarship recipient, Katherine Donahue will study architecture at Clemson University with a focus on historic restoration. Passionate about revitalizing old buildings, she sees her work as a way to preserve beauty while helping communities reconnect with their histories and growth.
Emma Peeples
Honorable Mention awardee Emma Peeples will attend Western Carolina University’s Honors College to study studio art. With aspirations to teach at the college level, Emma aims to inspire students from all backgrounds to express themselves through art and develop a deep connection to their creative work.
Ryleigh Severide
Honorable Mention recipient Ryleigh Severide plans to pursue Illustration and Cartooning at Savannah College of Art and Design. Inspired by the role art has played in her personal journey, she hopes to create meaningful work that reveals the power of storytelling and helps others better understand the impact of art in everyday life.
