Ajay Nicholas (Visual Arts 2026) Receives Rotary Scholarship

May 12, 2026

Ajay Nicholas (Visual Arts 2026) has been awarded the Golden Valley Rotary Club’s Senior Scholarship, recognizing his leadership, service, and academic achievements at Perpich Arts High School.

After graduating with honors on May 22nd, Ajay plans to attend DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois, where he will pursue a double major in Psychology and Spanish.

Ajay Nicholas (Visual Arts 2026)

“I’ll be exploring the diverse culture and striving to make a change in the community around me,” Nicholas said.

Throughout his time at Perpich, he has been recognized by staff for his leadership, dedication, and positive impact on the community.

“Ajay Nicholas stood out to me from the very beginning of his time here at Perpich,” said Carol Syvertsen, Counselor. “Ajay is outstanding and a genuinely positive human who is friends with many! Such a deserving recipient!!”

Rebecca Bullen, Principal, also praised Nicholas for his commitment to others. “I have worked closely with him through National Art Honor Society (NAHS) and am so impressed with his leadership and advocacy for others,” Bullen said. “He truly puts service above self!”

Ajay said the scholarship will help ease the financial challenges of continuing his education.

“I am extremely thankful for the opportunity that has been presented to me through the Golden Valley Rotary Scholarship,” he said. “It will truly help me decrease the financial burden that weighs on my ability to pursue an education.”

Reflecting on his experience at Perpich, Nicholas shared his gratitude for the opportunities that helped shape his future.

“I’m so happy to have received this scholarship, especially through a school that has played such a significant role in my development,” he said. “It is because of both these opportunities that I feel more confident to pursue my next chapter.”

Ajay Nicholas is from St. Paul, MN and is the child of Trever and Mary Nicholas. He previously attended Saint Anthony Village High School in St. Anthony Village, MN.

The scholarship is given to a student that exemplifies service above self, the motto that 1.4 million members of Rotary International embrace. The Golden Valley Rotary Club was founded in 1973 and the members are dedicated to the youth and natural environment of Golden Valley. This year’s scholarship is valued at $1,000.