Centre Foundation is pleased to announce the distribution of over $421,000 in scholarships to 203 outstanding students attending 47 post-secondary institutions. This funding, supported by 133 scholarship funds established by generous donors, underscores the Foundation’s commitment to advancing educational opportunities across Centre County and beyond.
Meeting Diverse Needs and Interests
Centre Foundation’s scholarship program is designed to meet a variety of needs and interests. The scholarships are awarded through a competitive process, addressing students from various districts and educational stages. Each fund reflects the unique passions and goals of its donor, providing tailored support. The annual scholarship process begins in January, with the Foundation collaborating closely with local school districts and post-secondary institutions to ensure a thorough and equitable review. The Foundation remains dedicated to evaluating the impact and celebrating the accomplishments of both recipients and donors.
Centre Foundation President and CEO, Molly Kunkel, remarks, “The dedication of each scholarship recipient to personal and academic growth is truly inspiring. By investing in their futures, we are fostering a legacy of success and leadership that strengthens our entire region.”
Introducing Two New Scholarship Funds
This year, Centre Foundation is proud to highlight the Christine Reichert Palmer Scholarship and the William Lawrence Palmer Scholarship. First awarded last year, each provides a student $10,000 annually for four years to support their higher education pursuits.
The Christine Reichert Palmer Scholarship honors Christine Palmer, a devoted elementary teacher and reading specialist in the Mifflin County School District for 39 years. This scholarship supports students passionate about inspiring young minds, continuing Christine’s legacy of joy in learning. Emily Shank, a recipient of this scholarship, shares, “My first year of college went very well! I made many friends through Christian fellowship and joined the University choir. These experiences helped me adjust and grow personally. I’m excited to return as an advisor for the Honors Service committee, an Honors orientation leader, and a mentor, while continuing my involvement in the Christian fellowship leadership team. I’m incredibly grateful to my donors for making it possible to focus on my studies without the burden of debt. I can’t wait to return to Shippensburg in the fall!”
The William Lawrence Palmer Scholarship, named in memory of Bill Palmer, a retired wildlife biologist and lifelong environmentalist, supports students pursuing degrees in natural resources management. Sara Reed, a recipient, reflects, “My first year at Penn State was a success, achieving a GPA of 3.43 and making the Dean’s List. Joining the Dairy Science Club offered many extracurricular opportunities. The scholarship has been essential in allowing me to concentrate on my studies and pursue my passions.”
Your Support Fuels Student Success
Your contribution can make a significant difference in a student’s life. To donate or learn more about establishing a scholarship fund, please visit www.centre-foundation.org or contact Kerry Tolton, Development and Stewardship Director, at 814-237-6229 or kerry@centre-foundation.org. Together, we can shape the future, one scholarship at a time.
For information on receiving scholarships or to apply, contact Krista Williams, Grants and Scholarship Administrator, at 814-237-6229 or krista@centre-foundation.org.
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