Strong Work Ethic Scholarship Winners

As a law firm that serves Minnesotans in a variety of different legal matters, we value the importance of hard work. For this reason and to give back to those pursuing incredible academic aspirations, we created the Strong Work Ethic Scholarship. To learn more, please visit our scholarship page and read about our past winners.

2024 Scholarship Winner: Chloe Lasek

Chloe grew up in the NE corner of Illinois, later attending the University of Illinois to earn her Bachelor’s degree in political science. After working in politics in Iowa for two years, and corporate law at Kohl’s Headquarters for three years, she finally felt ready to begin her journey into the legal profession. Chloe will be starting law school this fall at Marquette University Law School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She began doing pro bono legal work this summer at Marquette Law’s Volunteer Legal Clinic, providing legal services and resources to those who cannot afford legal counsel around the city of Milwaukee. After working at this clinic, her interests have piqued in areas of law such as immigration, family and employment disputes. Chloe is excited to explore these interests more in school and dedicate her career in law to serving others. A few fun facts about Chloe: She is constantly watching documentaries, is getting married in July of 2025, and has a labrador retriever named Red.

Reaction Statement: “I am honored to have been chosen to represent the interests of BK Law Group and receive this distinguished scholarship award. In my scholarship essay, I wrote about the impossible task of grieving after losing my father to his battle with mental health. My father’s loss cast a dark shadow upon my life, but instead of letting it lead me down a path of mistakes and suffering, I forced it to motivate me to take the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) again, and truly give it my all. I studied for at least two hours every night after working my full time job, and after six months of this rigorous schedule, I scored 10 points higher than I had when I originally tested. My father’s validation regarding my choices is something I always felt I needed, and now, I know it’s only my own that I should seek. Receiving this award validates the hard work I have put into pursuing a legal career as well as, most importantly, the choice I have made to persevere despite adversity.”

2023 Scholarship Winner: Elijah Penix

Elijah Penix, a.k.a. Elijah Logan, is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Columbus, Ohio. He is a performer in every sense of the word and is his most comfortable and authentic self when on stage. While that claim might not sound unique, it’s all the more compelling for Elijah, who, at age 3, was diagnosed with Autism.

Like any musician, Elijah has big aspirations and is undeterred in chasing after them. However, he also has a dual purpose – to use his talent and voice to encourage others, especially those who might be labeled with a diagnosis or disability. He is also doing that by studying to be an American Sign Language Interpreter at Columbus State Community College. His message is as straightforward as his music – be yourself, be determined without limitations, and invite others in to see who you will become.

Reaction Statement: “Wow, what a blessing. This scholarship is a gift. God’s got us. He’s providing the money for college through others. I’m humbled.”

2022 Scholarship Winner: Taft Foley

Taft is a 19-year-old from Houston, Texas, and a freshman at Harvard University. Taft wrote about his efforts in aiding the COVID-19 response and the importance of community during difficult times.

Reaction Statement: When I realized I won the scholarship, I was initially surprised but quickly humbled myself, and a sense of humility and gratitude washed over me. I feel ecstatic, humbled, and honored by winning your scholarship.

2021 Scholarship Winner: Samantha Salinas

Samantha is from Orange County, California. This fall she will attend the University of Redlands. She has always been passionate about human and animal rights, which led to my decision to double major in Political Science and Public Policy. She plans on working for a non-profit organization or the Government after graduating with a master’s degree.

Reaction statement: I am extremely thankful that the BK Law Group has given students an opportunity to receive scholarships. I am beyond excited to have won this particular scholarship. The past year and a half have been difficult and shocking, especially with college right around the corner. It is rewarding to receive accolades regarding my work ethic since I have been working through issues concerning the pandemic. Winning this scholarship reminds me of all of the reasons I kept going and worked even harder due to adversities.