The Ridgefield Historical Society is pleased to announce Pearce Steele as the recipient of its 2026 scholarship in the amount of $1,000. A graduating senior at Ridgefield High School, Pearce will attend University College London this fall, where she plans to study Geography.
Pearce was selected for her strong academic record, years of volunteer service, and thoughtful commitment to preserving and sharing local history. In her application, she described history as a “living document,” shaped by storytelling, community memory, and the connections between past and present.
“My favorite part of history is not just one time period or event, but how these events are connected to one another and what we can learn about ourselves from the past,” Pearce wrote.
“Pearce’s application captured why local history matters,” said Stephen Bartkus, Executive Director of the Ridgefield Historical Society. “Her curiosity, service, and understanding of history as something living and connected to community make her a deserving recipient of this year’s scholarship. We are proud to support her as she begins this exciting next chapter.”
Established in 2022 as part of the Society’s 20th anniversary, the Ridgefield Historical Society Scholarship is awarded annually to a Ridgefield High School senior who demonstrates a strong interest in history.
