lakefair royalty
& scholarship program
sponsored by:
background
The Royalty tradition began with the first Lakefair in 1957, and the Scholarship Program was established years later in 1975 by Capitalarian Dee Hooper. It continues to be one of the most recognized scholarship programs in the Pacific Northwest and has awarded more than $500,000 in funding to date. The program is currently sponsored by our partners at Olympia Federal Savings.
​
Members of the Royalty Court participate in all aspects of Capital Lakefair throughout the season. It provides an educational opportunity for participants to learn about themselves, our community and prepare for higher education and adult life. In addition to local events, members visit communities around the Pacific Northwest from Oregon to British Columbia as they travel with the Lakefair Float to other festivals.
​
Each member of the Court receives a $3,000 scholarship, the Queen an additional $2,000, and remaining candidates $500 each. The funds may be applied to any form of higher education including a traditional degree, trade school or vocational training program.
​
The process begins with each participating school selecting a representative by December to become their candidate for the Royalty Court. In early February, candidates take part in a one-day event that includes a panel discussion, individual interviews with 5 independent judges from the business community, and a speech on a predetermined subject. Once complete, five young women will be nominated at Coronation to serve on the Court, one of which is named Lakefair Queen.
​
Complete information on the program and how to apply is available from the local high school counselors or career center. Prerequisite requirements are being a fully enrolled high school junior, 3.3 or better GPA, complete application with two letters of recommendation and a 500 word essay.
Princess Claire Byers - Avanti High School
Claire Byers represents Avanti High School and is the daughter of Jessica and Christopher Byers.
​
A curious and ambitious scholar, Claire is charting her own exciting path through Running Start as she pursues her dream of a future in nursing. When she’s not conquering her studies, she generously shares her time and talents with others. Claire serves as a counselor at Camp Cispus, volunteers at a local animal shelter caring for furry friends, and participates in 4-H, helping children, animals, and her community learn, grow, and thrive.
​
Claire truly embraces the spirit of service. She also volunteers at a daycare, where her patience, kindness, and natural ability to connect with young children shine through. Whether she is helping campers, caring for animals, supporting children, or excelling academically, Claire approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and compassion.
​
A bright leader with a heart full of care, Claire shines wherever she goes and is already making a positive impact on the world around her.
Princess Claire Olmstead - Olympia High School
Claire Olmstead represents Olympia High School. She is the daughter of Eric and Heidi Olmstead and brings energy and determination to everything she does at school.
A standout athlete, she competes in track and field as a javelin thrower and races in cross-country with endurance and determination. Claire is also a dedicated musician, skillfully playing both the violin and viola. In the classroom, she challenges herself by taking AP English and AP History, reflecting her love of learning and curiosity about the world.
Committed to giving back, Claire serves as a Camp Cispus counselor, guiding fifth graders through summer adventures with care, patience, and a sense of fun.
Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a future in education, combining her passion for mentorship with her dedication to making a positive impact.
Whether on the track, in the orchestra, or at camp, Claire approaches every challenge with heart and determination.
Princess Jazmin Reyes Rivas - Capital High School
Jazmin Reyes Rivas represents Capital High School. She is the daughter of Lorena Rivas and Emmanuel Reyes.
A passionate and curious learner, Jazmin thrives in the rigorous IB Program, where she is currently studying IB Psychology, Chemistry, History of the Americas, and Language and Literature, earning college credit while still in high school. When she finds a little time away from her studies, she enjoys reading, sewing, baking, and showcasing her talents on a competitive soccer team.
Beyond the classroom, Jazmin is dedicated to serving her community through her volunteer work with Olympia Parks and Recreation.
With determination, compassion, and a strong sense of purpose, she has set her sights on a future career in law, where she hopes to make a difference through justice, advocacy, and care for others.
Jazmin brings enthusiasm, positivity, and genuine warmth to every event she attends. Her energy is contagious, and her commitment to both her community.
Princess Isabella Valerio - River Ridge High School
Isabella Valerio represents River Ridge High School and is the daughter of Victoria and Mark Valerio.
A bright and determined leader, Isabella is building her future through Running Start as she pursues her dream of a career in law. When she’s not focused on her studies, she is making a meaningful impact in her community as the Deputy Mayor of the Lacey City Youth Council and as an officer in the National Junior Honor Society.
With her sights set on law school, Isabella is already developing the leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills of a future advocate.
Outside of her many leadership commitments, Isabella truly finds her voice—literally. An active member of her school choir, she has a beautiful singing voice and a passion for music that shines every time she performs. This year, her talent and dedication earned her a place at the State Solo and Ensemble Competition, a remarkable achievement that reflects both her hard work and artistic excellence.