Beginning in 1995, the island of Montserrat in the West Indies experienced a volcanic eruption that made much of the land in the south part of the island uninhabitable. Elizabeth Salt, after having studied about Montserrat while pursuing a master’s degree in anthropology at The Ohio State University, wanted to support the island’s recovery. She contacted the Montserrat Red Cross, which put her in touch with the island’s librarian. Elizabeth, a librarian herself, developed a relationship that allowed her to help support rebuilding the materials collection for the island’s library. Montserratians value education, and as a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, often send students to the United States and other countries for post-secondary education. Although the library on Montserrat has been relocated and now operates normally, Ms. Salt continues to support higher education for the island’s students through this annual scholarship.

Jane Tschappat began her nursing career at Grant Hospital in 1941. In 1943, she joined the U.S. Army Nurses Corps, U.S. Air Force, separating in 1946 as a captain. She returned to Grant Hospital as a Clinical Nursing Instructor, serving from 1948-1951. Jane became involved in public health in 1951, in the role of public health nurse, then as public health nurse supervisor, and finally as the assistant health commissioner. Jane values the G.I. Bill, from her work in WW II, with providing her the opportunity to continue her education. The scholarship’s goal is to support practicing nurses as they continue their education and navigate the difficult and changing healthcare system.

Bud and Billie Eubanks, of modest means living in Leesville, SC, had one major goal in their lives, that their three children would be able to go to college and have the opportunity to better themselves through education. Due to their perseverance and hard work, all three of their children went to college and have been very successful in business because of their college educations. This scholarship honors them by supporting a student who would not otherwise have the means to attend college.

The Keller Family Scholarship was created by Kay Keller in memory of her husband, James Jay Keller, for members of Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbus (BGCC). “Mr. Jim” (as he was affectionately called by the kids and staff) volunteered for over 20 years at BGCC, starting in the 1990s. He was a dedicated supporter of BGCC, and especially enjoyed working with the members. The scholarship will continue Mr. Jim’s commitment to supporting Club members by helping them reach their goals through further education and skills development.

Marcia Wetherbee was born in 1944, and grew up in Bexley, Ohio. She attended Eastern New Mexico University, and relocated to Massachusetts where she lived until her passing in 2019. As owner of “The Meeting Place,” a coffee shop in Bay Village, Massachusetts, she served her neighborhood as a host, member of the Neighborhood Association, political activist, and volunteer. Marcia loved children and was a fierce advocate for the most vulnerable, and after decades at “The Meeting Place,” she went to work for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as an Adoption Social Worker until her retirement. Throughout her life, she organized, entertained, and developed rich communities of friends. When Marcia arrived for a visit, everyone knew the party was about to begin!

This scholarship was created in memory of Carter, a black Labrador Retriever who was just 22 months old when he was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia and passed away shortly after. In his short life, Carter brought tremendous love and happiness to his family. His illness and sudden passing were devastating, but the care and compassion shown by the Veterinary Technicians at VCA Sawmill Animal Hospital made a lasting impact. Their support helped Carter’s family navigate a very difficult time. In honor of Carter and in appreciation for the vital role veterinary technicians play, this scholarship offers financial assistance to those who are pursuing a career in the field—especially those who bring both a deep love for animals and a true compassion for the people who care for them.

The scholarship was created by Rodney C. and Tawanna D. Kent who were inspired by Coach Vince Chickerella. VC was a coach with love and passion for the game of basketball. His passion was exemplary—decathlon of purpose—for he touched so many young lives. The scholarship supports students from Linden-McKinley STEM academy from the men’s basketball team, women’s basketball team, English department, history department, and science department as part of VC’s legacy of deep caring for Linden-McKinley students.

In January 1999, the Scholarship Ministry was moved under the direction of the Department of Life Development for the New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, (NSMBC) at the request of Dr. Keith A. Troy, Pastor. The goal of the scholarship is to emphasize, encourage, and support the retention and graduation of students in pursuit of higher education

The scholarship program is designed for students who are enrolled at Red Oak Community School (ROCS), a tuition-based elementary school serving K-5 students across central Ohio. The scholarship program was created by and for the families who make up the ROCS community. It is funded through various independent, community-led fundraising efforts throughout the school year and is meant to lower financial hurdles to enrollment. 

William Reese Loughman was a Williamsburg resident and a proud graduate of York River Academy (Class of 2017). He went on to study Cybersecurity at Thomas Nelson Community College before enrolling at James Madison University to major in Computer Information Systems. This scholarship commemorates his life and aspirations by supporting students with similar aspirations as they begin post-graduate life. Its purpose is to assist Your River Academy graduates who want to make the world a better place as they pursue post-secondary education.