The Paul Cuthbertson Foundation is pleased to announce the sixth round of The Live for Those Who Cannot Grant awards. A total of $29,500 was awarded to a diverse group of young men and women that demonstrated need, a passion for life and dedication to achieving excellence in their pursuits.
Twenty-Six applications were received, and ten grants were awarded to the following recipients:
- Brian Rice II
- Elise Viola
- Ella White
- Jameson Kust
- Kylie Hower
- Macie LaCross
- Mahlia Torres
- Sigrid Kiehler
- Viktoria (Vika)
- William Bentley
Selected applicants are pursuing a variety of interests including: Veterinary School, Pursuing an Art Degree, Studying abroad in Italy, Mogul Skiing, Continuing Education with a focus on art, Alpine Ski Racing, Cros Country Ski Racing, Snowboard Big Air and Freestyle, Dance, Race Car Driver, and Freestyle Skiing.
Recipients are from Eagle County, Summit County, and Aspen.
Brian Rice II
Paul Cuthbertson Live For Those Who Cannot Grant Testimony
My Experience at Project Gold Camp:
Attending Project Gold Camp, hosted by the USA Snowboard Team, was an unforgettable experience that elevated my passion for snowboarding and helped me grow both as an athlete and as a person. Being surrounded by some of the most talented riders in the country and coached by national team staff was both humbling and inspiring. Every day was packed with high-level training, technical feedback, and opportunities to push myself on and off the snow.
I especially valued the individualized coaching and the chance to work on advanced tricks in a safe, progression-focused environment. The camaraderie among athletes created a supportive atmosphere, and I learned a lot just by watching how others trained, prepared, and overcame challenges. It was motivating to be part of a group where everyone is pushing their limits and striving for excellence.
Why I Requested the Scholarship:
I applied for the scholarship because I’m deeply committed to improving as a competitive snowboarder, but the financial cost of attending such an elite camp can be a barrier. My family and I have made many sacrifices to support my training and competition goals, but additional support was necessary to make this opportunity possible. I saw Project Gold as a crucial step in my development—not just in terms of skill, but also in gaining exposure to what it takes to perform at the highest level.
Receiving the scholarship meant I could learn from the best, connect with other top athletes, and bring that knowledge back to my local community and training program. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and am committed to making the most of everything I learned at Project Gold Camp.
Elise Viola
I am immensely grateful to have received the Paul Cuthbertson memorial scholarship. Having known Paul personally, this award means even more to me. These funds will go towards cost of living expenses while attending Veterinary school. I believe that to live for those who cannot means to live life to the fullest by pursuing your passions. For Paul, this meant conquering impressive lines while skiing in Montana and summiting steep faces while climbing in Colorado. All the while, he did this with his friends, making lasting memories for everyone around him. I am pursuing my passion in Veterinary Medicine. I believe that by helping keep people’s pets and adventure companions healthy, I am able to live for those who cannot, while also helping others in the process.” Elise Viola
Ella White
As a first-generation motorsports athlete from a mountain town where racing isn’t the usual sport, this grant is helping me take the next big step in a male-dominated field. I’m proud to represent women in racing, and the Western Slope of Colorado and I’m grateful to have this kind of support behind me as I push toward my goals. Ella White
Jameson Kust
So many thanks for the generosity of the Paul Cuthbertson Foundation! This grant is going straight to my mogul skiing fund, and in turn, my world cup dreams. I will be sure to carry Paul’s lifestyle with me, as this grant has been a reminder to stay aware of mine. To keep pushing forward, to keep making things happen and to keep spreading love and gratitude is, to me, what “living for those who cannot” is all about! Jameson Kust
Kylie Hower
I am so grateful to revive a scholarship this year. I will be using the funds to study in Darfo Boario Terme a small town in the mountains of Italy. I will be there for 10 months learning the langue and immersing in the culture. I am so exited to see what the next year has to hold for me and am so grateful for those who made this possible for me! Kylie Hower
Macie LaCross
I am deeply grateful for the support from The Paul Cuthbertson Foundation. Receiving this scholarship
fills me with even more gratitude and motivation to continue my dance journey. This funding will go towards my yearly classes, where I not only grow as a dancer but also have the opportunity to perform in shows like the annual Nutcracker at the Villar and our year-end recital. With help I’ve been able to attend summer intensives like Colorado Ballet, Nutmeg Conservatory, and Perry Mansfield.
Being selected for this scholarship means so much to me—it affirms that the foundation believes in my talent and is willing to invest in my future. I encourage others to apply, as the scholarship offers not just financial relief, but also a boost in confidence in your activity. Thank you again for this incredible opportunity. Macie LaCross
Mahlia Torres
We are so incredibly grateful and thrilled and honored to have Mahlia be named a recipient of the Paul Cuthbertson Foundation Scholarship!!!
This means the World to us….she would not have had an opportunity to train this summer and Fall without the help of this amazingly generous scholarship. We are forever grateful and Mahlia promises to honor what the Foundation stands for and to “live for those who cannot” through her actions and her dedication to her sport and community.
Thank you!!! Stephanie (proud mom) and Mahlia
Sigrid Kiehler
I’m very lucky to have received this scholarship, which will be used to help me pay for board at the Kansas City Art Institute. I promise to continue honoring Paul’s legacy and take every opportunity that I can in the future. I’m excited for whatever tomorrow holds. Sigrid Kiehler
Vika
I’m incredibly thankful to have been selected for the Live for Those Who Cannot grant. After a major knee injury this winter, I’ve been working hard to rehab my knee. My goal is to return to alpine ski racing at the level I competed at before and higher. This grant will help me continue that journey and stay focused on my goals. I’m proud to carry on Paul’s legacy by working hard and chasing what I love. Vika
William Bentley