Scholarship Helps WV Student Focus On The Future

Jan 14, 2026

By Katharine Jefcoats

Vaylee Olack’s chosen career of optometry began to take shape as a compassionate fourth-grader.

“My interest in vision care stems from a personal experience,” she said. “My fourth-grade teacher, has an eye condition that limits movement in one of her eyes and currently has no cure. Her condition inspired me to dedicate my future to finding solutions that could help her and countless others.”

A native of Martinsburg, W.Va., Vaylee Olack is a daughter of First Sgt. Dean Olack of the West Virginia State Police, who retired in 2023 after 30 years. She is pursuing her nursing degree at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va., with the goal of becoming an optometrist.

Vaylee Olack with her parents, Amy and Dean Olack

Her dad’s background in law enforcement and his membership with SSPBA made Vaylee eligible for a PBF scholarship. She is one of 20 students awarded this year.

“Receiving the PBF scholarship is such incredible honor and a tremendous help as I pursue these goals,” she said. “For me, this scholarship represents more than financial support — it is a recognition of the values I have worked hard to uphold: integrity, service and leadership. It allows me to focus on my studies and continued community involvement.”

Vaylee said she was “significantly influenced” by her dad.

VAPBA staff representative Rich Goszka presents a scholarship check to Vaylee Olack

“Growing up, I saw the sacrifices my dad made to protect our community, and I learned lessons in integrity, courage, and empathy that continue to guide me,” she said. “Conversations taught me that true strength lies in compassion and service. I did go on a few rides with him throughout his time serving.”

In fact, Vaylee said her dad has made the greatest impact on her life and future plans.

“If I had to identify one person who has had the greatest impact on my journey, it would be my dad,” she said. “As a law enforcement officer, he has always led by example, showing me what it means to be selfless and dedicated to something bigger than yourself. His work ethic, integrity and unwavering commitment to serving others inspire me every day to pursue my dreams with the same determination and to lead with compassion in all I do.”

Vaylee graduated at the top of her senior class with a 5.0 GPA. She was dual-enrolled in three colleges, and served as president of the National Honor Society and president of the Youth Leadership Association. 

Vaylee Olack with her father, First Sgt. Dean Olack, the director of School Safety for Berkeley County, W.V., School System.

“Leadership and service have always been at the heart of who I am,” she said. “I co-founded and served as PR of the Healthcare Club, giving students opportunities to explore careers in medicine. I was treasurer of the Tri-M Music Society, a Peer Leader in Sources of Strength and public relations officer for a Mental Health Club, where I coordinated guest speakers and activities. Beyond leadership, I played varsity soccer for four years on the high school team.”

Community service has been a defining part of her life. In 2013, she launched Feel Better Friend, a project that began with making bracelets for sick children which evolved into Mission C.A.K.E. — Change Allows Kindness to Evolve — focused on spreading kindness and supporting those in need.

“I have packed food boxes for Meals on Wheels, delivered Thanksgiving meals through the Rotary Club, provided clothing through The Blessing Closet, and mentored middle school students through The Bridge Program,” said Vaylee. “My Girl Scout Gold Award project, the Feel Better Box, aims to address hygiene insecurity by providing free access to basic hygiene items while also tackling the root causes of the issue through education and advocacy.”

Vaylee Olack carries her younger sister, Lexza

Her dad, who transitioned after retirement to director of School Safety for Berkeley County, W.V., School System, said he is “incredibly” proud of Vaylee’s past and future endeavors.

“I am incredibly proud of my daughter and all she has achieved in high school,” he said. “She has maintained an outstanding GPA while balancing dual enrollment, leadership roles and countless community service projects. Through her initiatives, such as ‘Feel Better Friend’ and Mission C.A.K.E., as well as her involvement in healthcare clubs, she has demonstrated compassion, leadership and a genuine desire to help others. Her determination, hard work and kind heart inspire not only me but everyone around her, and I know she will continue to do amazing things in the future.”