The Valley High School graduate even worked on Pardee construction sites during past summers to gain experience in the construction field.

"It is gratifying to know that lives are impacted positively by the Pardee Community Building Scholarship," said Dan Hale, vice president of community development for the builder. "Furthermore, many past recipients have chosen to enter a construction-related field."

Created in conjunction with the builder's 50th anniversary in Southern Nevada in 2002, the Pardee Community Building Scholarship supports seniors who demonstrate an interest in home building and community development and plan to attend an accredited college or university in Nevada.

Pardee Homes recently awarded $7,500 in scholarships to five local students who are interested in careers in home building and community development, according to Hale.

This year's students will receive $1,500 for each of four years that they continue to qualify for the funds. Recipients include Alex Amoroso of Coronado High School, Taylor Basso of Bonanza High School, David Beisswenger of Cimarron-Memorial High School, Ashly Gaytan of Desert Pines High School and Francisco Loredo of Rancho High School.

Working with the Clark County Public Education Foundation, students were invited to submit a typed essay related to development in Las Vegas.