Soroptimist International of Sequim has presented its annual Vocational/Technical Award to Tatum Harris. The $1,000 educational support award is given to a female student enrolled in a non-degree program leading to a certificate or license.

Harris is enrolled in a full-time paramedic training program consisting of classroom training, supervised clinical experience in a hospital setting and a field internship with a paramedic-level ambulance service. She will be eligible to take the National Registry paramedic examinations upon completion of the program.

In her application, Harris said, âÄúCaring for someone in need with only the essential materials and minimal staff is a challenging task. Those first critical moments of medical assistance, helping a patient live or bear intense pain, require great skill and compassion.âÄù

Harris has been an EMT with Clallam County Fire District No. 3 for more than a year and earned praise from her colleagues in the district. She also owns her own home health aide business, assisting clients with everything from physical therapy to nursing assistance.

Soroptimist is an international organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world. The Sequim chapter awards more than $12,000 in scholarships and educational support awards each year.

Cutline: Mary Budke, left, executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs, receives a check for $4,408 from Soroptimist International of Sequim President Deborah Carlson. The donation includes proceeds from the Soroptimist Gala Barn Sale. Submitted photo