ALBANY, N.Y. — Twelve industry professionals have received scholarships to attend the upcoming National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) Summit in Portland, Ore., Oct. 30 to Nov. 4.
Ten scholarships donated by Zonar Systems went to:
• Brenda Shaffer of Chelan, Wash.
• Pat Jensen of Crescent, Calif.
• Leonard Swilley of Jackson, Miss.
• Leon Langley of Baltimore
• Yvonne Carpenter of Shoreline, Wash.
• J. Renee Davis of Houston
• Tracie Chandler of Lynnwood, Wash.
• Laura Sigmund of Inchelium, Wash.
• Peggy Whitacre of Romney, W.Va.
• Donna Haney of Santa Fe, Texas
Each scholarship will cover the cost of one conference registration. Recipients will be responsible for all other expenses, as SBF previously reported.
Priority was given to applicants who justified the scholarship as a determining factor for their ability to attend the summit.
Another scholarship was awarded to two people: Lynda Nunez of Tucson, Ariz., and Nancy Kessler of Houston. These women received a scholarship created by Peter Lawrence, director of transportation for Fairport (N.Y.) Central School District, and his wife, Linda.
The Peter and Linda Lawrence Training Scholarship will cover the conference registration fee. Applicants were required to submit a cover letter that contained a brief statement of financial need and two letters of recommendation.
The letters were required to detail how the candidate’s professional capabilities and personal integrity justified receiving the scholarship. A description of why he or she wanted to receive the scholarship, what he or she hopes to achieve by attending the conference and how the training would enhance the applicant’s effectiveness as a trainer was also required, as SBFpreviously reported.
NAPT Summit scholarship winners announced
Ten industry professionals receive a scholarship from Zonar Systems that will cover the cost of registration to this year's event in Portland, Ore. Two receive the Peter and Linda Lawrence Training Scholarship, which will also defray the registration cost.
More Management

Changing Lanes: EverDriven, ADROIT, DeVivo Companies, School Bus Logistics, Zum, & Dorman
Check out some of the latest personnel moves from across the school bus industry, including new leadership appointments, various promotions, and major restructuring.
Read More →
School Bus Fleet, Refreshed: New Website, New Look, Same Commitment
A cleaner layout, improved organization, and a better reading experience are here. Explore what’s new on schoolbusfleet.com!
Read More →
Why Representation Matters in Transportation Leadership
A firsthand look at how diverse leadership in school transportation builds trust and drives stronger systems.
Read More →
Nominations Open for 2026 Contractor of the Year
We're looking for an amazing school bus contractor executive who embodies dedication, excellence, and innovation. Nominate the greats you know for SBF's 2026 award! Nominations close March 31.
Read More →
Honoring Heroes Behind the Wheel: Award Nominations Open
Nominations are now open for the second annual 2026 School Bus Driver Hero Award. Help us honor the drivers who selflessly dedicate themselves to ensuring the safety, well-being, and success of the students they transport every day.
Read More →
A New Chapter for Tennessee Pupil Transportation: A Vision Grounded in Service, Partnership, and Purpose
Check in with Tennessee’s new state transportation manager, Josh Hinerman, as he reflects on his journey, path to leadership, and priorities for student-centered transportation.
Read More →
Bobit Business Media Launches B2X Rewards for School Transportation Professionals
The new program rewards B2B audience readers for engaging with trusted content and suppliers, earning them points toward events, travel, and more.
Read More →
8 Ways To Simplify and Streamline School Bus Fleet Operations
What if your fleet technology actually worked together? Learn eight practical strategies to integrate multiple systems into one platform, unlocking clearer insights, stronger safety standards, and smoother daily operations.
Read More →
NAPT Announces Two New 2026 Regional Directors
NAPT announced the results of its 2026 special election, naming new regional directors for Regions 3 and 6.
Read More →
Building Stronger Partnerships: How School Transportation Can Improve Relationships With School Boards
Strong communication and trust between transportation leaders and school boards are essential to safe, effective operations. Here’s how to build a better partnership.
Read More →
