EDNA BENDER SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  Established in 2000, this scholarship supports Berrien Springs High School students pursuing careers in business. Mrs. Bender, a long-time business teacher at Berrien Springs High School, purchased a share of AT&T stock in 1956 as a lesson for the students. Through her years of teaching she purchased a total of 200 shares of stock. The stocks’ growth allowed for this wonderful scholarship.

BRYCE BOOTHBY FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  This scholarship was established by Bryce Boothby who is a proud graduate of the Benton Harbor High School. Additionally, many of his family members graduated from Lake Michigan Catholic High School. Criteria include:  2.5 or above GPA, Benton Harbor or Lake Michigan Catholic High School graduating senior, some involvement in volunteer/community activities, and for use at a vocational technical/institute school (e.g., cosmetology school) or a college/university of choice anywhere for tuition, books, fees, and other costs, but not for room and board. The first scholarships was awarded in 2005.

2011 Bryce Boothby Family Scholarship recipient Keyana Brown,

Bryce Boothby, and recipient Patrick Pjesky

JEFFREY EVAN DEMKO SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  This scholarship was established by the Dr. Jeffrey Demko and Margaret Mills Family and friends in honor of Jeffrey Evan Demko. Jeffrey Evan was an incredible student athlete leader who believed that it was as important to cheer a team as it was to be a team player. He was a true EAGLE at Bridgman High School who is missed by all who knew and loved him. This nonrenewable scholarship is awarded based on the following criteria:  2.5 or above GPA, Bridgman High School graduating senior, a student athlete leader with the traits of an EAGLE (Education, Athletics, Good Citizenship, Leadership, Excellence). This scholarship may be used at a vocational technical/ institute school or college/university of choice anywhere in the U.S. for tuition, books, fees, and other costs related to attending, but not for room and board.

DREWS SCHOLAR (WORD doc):  In honor of Mr. & Mrs. R. A. Drews'  leadership, persistence, and positive reinforcement given to their children, the Drews Scholar Fund was established in 2004. This scholarship is available to Lakeshore High School graduating seniors planning to attend a prestigious in or out of state college/university (Big Ten caliber or higher) and who demonstrate the highest level of personal expectations in their college and professional careers. The first scholarship was awarded in 2005. For more about this remarkable family, click on the Drews Story (pdf file).

JAMESON MATTHEW GARGANO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  This scholarship was established through the outpouring of love from our community for a boy who was diagnosed with cancer. In 1996, 14-year-old Jay Gargano lost his battle but before he died, this brave young man told his family “don’t forget the children.” This is an annual scholarship for a Lakeshore High School graduate.

THE HEART OF COOK SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (WORD doc): Established in 2003, this  scholarship is to encourage the high school students of Berrien County to explore and excel in the areas of engineering, math, science, and other technical disciplines, and to provide scholarship support for pursuing those technical goals (all 18 schools in Berrien County).

2011 Heart of Cook recipients:  Amanda Clark, Shelby Francis

with Kathryn Wozniak, Heart of Cook Representative  (l to r, front row)

2011 Recipients:  William Otte III, Brett Phillips, Peter Xie, Marcus Smith  (l to r back row)

jon jollay scholarship (WORD doc):  The Jon Jollay Scholarship was established in 1988 to enhance the post secondary education of a Coloma High School graduate. The scholarship is given to a graduating student who shows excellence in citizenship, scholarship, and all around accomplishments.  This nonrenewable scholarship is awarded to a graduating Coloma High School senior. The recipient must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher and involvement in volunteer/community activities. The scholarship may be used at any vocational/technical institute school, or a college/university of choice for tuition, books, but not room and board.

SONDRA J. KAMINSKI SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  This scholarship was established by Sondra J. and Kenneth W. Kaminski. It is in honor of Sondra, who is a Benton Harbor native who taught in the Benton Harbor Schools. They would like to give back to this community through this scholarship program. This nonrenewable scholarship is awarded based on the following criteria:  3.0 or above GPA, a Benton Harbor High School graduating senior, financial need, volunteer/community activities involvement, and good citizenship.  This scholarship is to be used at Western Michigan University (any campus) for tuition, books, fees, and other costs related to attending, but not for room and board.

LORA WILE-MILLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (WORD Doc): On April 22, 1997, the world lost an outstanding teacher, a wonderful person, a loving wife, daughter, sister, and a special friend. To honor Lora, her family established the Lora Wile Miller Memorial Scholarship to assist a college freshman interested in becoming an elementary teacher. This scholarship alternates each year between Lakeshore Schools and Kent, Washington Schools. Applications are available at the Lakeshore High School (here) and Kent, Washington in 2012 (counselor office).

TERENCE JOSEPH MULVIHILL SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  This scholarship is in loving memory of Terence Joseph Mulvihill who passed away November 18, 2000. Terry was always of kind spirit, with a generous manner and unbelievable curiosity in people he encountered throughout his life. For many years, he called New Buffalo home and made his presence known through his kindness and interest in the community. Many of the youth of New Buffalo were fortunate to know Mr. Mulvihill. He always made a point of learning about them, their desires and interests and  encouraged them to strive to achieve their goals and those desires. The Terence Joseph Mulvihill Scholarship sustains those traits by offering annual scholarships to graduates of New Buffalo High School and assures that his spirit of generosity will endure for future generations. Scholarship applications are also available through the New Buffalo High School.

2011 Mulvihill Scholarship recipient Eva Balich with Candice Johnson,

Scholarship Representative, and recipient Benjamin Bartelmay

Carol A. Oehlhaffen lake michigan catholic scholar (WORD doc):  This scholarship was established by Carol A. Oehlhaffen to honor deserving students at Lake Michigan Catholic. Criteria, arranged in priority order, for this scholarship include:  3.0 or above GPA, Lake Michigan Catholic High School graduating senior, career goal in profession related to elementary and/or special education, nursing, or occupational therapy preferred, some involvement in volunteer/community & church activities (e.g., Christian Service projects, student government, athletics), and for use at a college/university of choice anywhere for tuition, books, fees, and other costs, but not for room and board.

CORA B. PARKHURST MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  The Cora B. Parkhurst Memorial Scholarship rewards students from Berrien Springs High School who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. This scholarship is renewable for 4 years, making a major impact on the lives of the student recipients.

THE ARLENE B. PORRITT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FOR CURIOUS KIDS (WORD doc):  This scholarship was established in loving memory of Arlene B. Porritt, who passed away in May 2005. Dedication to her family, community, friendships, and her commitment to higher education led to the formation of this living remembrance. Mrs. Porritt was an outstanding educator before retiring from the classroom to start her family. She and her husband, Dr. John L. Porritt, and their five children moved to St. Joseph in 1964, becoming valued members of our community. She spent the next 41 years raising her family, teaching the life-long lessons of family unity and love. Nana, as she was affectionately known, touched the lives and hearts of her 15 grandchildren dearly. One of her favorite outings with her grandchildren was visiting Curious Kids' Museum, a place of learning and wonder for the entire family.  There she felt great satisfaction in seeing her grandchildren’s inquisitive minds at work.  The Porritt Family, along with dear friends, established this scholarship to acknowledge and enrich the educational experiences of those St. Joseph High School students who volunteer and/or are employed at Curious Kids' Museum. The Arlene B. Porritt Memorial Scholarship for Curious Kids thus is a legacy combining her special love for family, children, and the irreplaceable value of education.

The scholarship is available to a St. Joseph High School graduating senior who has 1) volunteered and/or been employed at the Curious Kids' Museum a TOTAL of 10 hours from the time period of 8th grade to mid 12th grade (i.e., the December of the year prior to applying for the scholarship. For example, if applying in 2012, it would be through December 2011), 2) has a 3.0 or higher GPA, and 3) has a strong sense of community as evidenced by additional volunteer activities. The first scholarship was awarded in 2006. For Arlene B. Porritt's beautiful story, click on Arlene's Story (pdf file).

Arlene B. Porritt

Terry Richcreek Memorial Scholarship: Terry Richcreek loved the game of golf. To honor his love of this sport, a dear friend established this scholarship in his memory. The scholarship is awarded each year to a Watervliet High School student who shares Mr. Richcreek’s love and respect for the game and who exhibits true sportsmanship in their play. Applications available at the Watervliet High School counseling office in 2012.

DON J. SAYAN/W. JACK & DR. NANETTE M. KEISER SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  This  scholarship was established by W. Jack and Nanette Keiser in memory of Nanette’s beloved grandfather, Don J. Sayan, a lifelong learner. Jack and Nanette are also first-generation college graduates who wish to assist others to obtain their dreams through education. This will be rotated among the 18 schools in the County with applications available at the New Buffalo High School in 2012.

WELCH FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP-Benton Harbor (WORD doc) & WELCH FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP-Lakeshore (WORD doc):  Established in 2004 by Fred & Sandy Welch, this program provides scholarships to graduating seniors from Lakeshore and Benton Harbor High Schools demonstrating financial need with preference for those who have been accepted into engineering, math, science or other technical degree programs. The first scholarships was awarded in 2005.

Fred Welch, 2011 Welch Scholarship recipients Keyana Brown

and William Otte III, and Sandy Welch (l to r)

WAYNE K. WRIGHT SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  A retired counselor at Berrien Springs High School, it only made sense that Wayne Wright would establish a scholarship to assist the same students he has worked with for so many years. The Wayne Wright Scholarship provides a  scholarship for a graduating Berrien Springs High School Senior who demonstrates leadership and a commitment to the community through volunteerism.

The Foundation sends out scholarship applications to the various schools

listed below by February 1 of each year and posts them on this web page.

The 2012 scholarship application period is now open.

Awarded scholarships are for Fall 2012-Spring 2013

Applications are due March 8, 2012

Dropped off to BCF by 5 p.m. by March 8 or postmarked by a post office with that date or before, no exceptions

To Download an application (Word document),

Click on the Scholarship Name and Select SAVE

2012 scholarship recipients will be determined by the first week of May.

Recipient names will be posted on this web at that time.

Recipients will be informed by letter in late June/early July on what information they needed to supply to have the Foundation

provide the scholarship check directly to the college or university.

Checks are released to the college or university by mid September,

if the information requested is provided timely

College Level & Special Scholarships

DUNN SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  Established by Eddie R. Dunn in Jeanne Dunn's honor, this program provides scholarships to part-time or full-time undergraduate or graduate students demonstrating financial need. Eligible students are entering or presently attending an accredited college/university in any field of study and have a 2.75 or better GPA. Preference will be given to women in transition (e.g., returning to college after raising children, a divorce, or widowed with definite goals for the next steps in their lives). This scholarship can be used at Andrews University, Lake Michigan College, Southwestern Michigan College, or Western Michigan University-Berrien County campus for tuition, books, fees, and other costs related to attending. The first scholarship was awarded in 2005.

DUNN, SAMARITAN COUNSELING CENTER VOLUNTEERISM  SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc, pdf attachment): This scholarship was established by Eddie R. Dunn with the goal of promoting volunteerism as part of a unique educational and professional development experience for aspiring professionals. This is a nonrenewable scholarship for part-time or full-time undergraduate or graduate students. Eligible students are at least in their first year at Andrews University, Lake Michigan College, Southwestern Michigan College, or Western Michigan University-Berrien County campus; in any field of study with a preference given to those in business administration and/or information technology; possess a 2.75 or better GPA; and have involvement in volunteer/ community activities. This scholarship can be used for tuition, books, fees, and other costs related to attending, but not for room and board.

This is a scholarship opportunity that involves a professional development experience through an internship. The recipient of this scholarship will be required to commit to volunteering a minimum of 120 hours as an intern (i.e., professional development experience) at the Samaritan Counseling Center in Benton Harbor, MI. This minimum of 120 hours of volunteer time is to be completed no later than by the end of the summer following the scholarship award (e.g., scholarship awarded for Fall 2012, internship completed no later than by the end of summer 2013). The internship experience (i.e., professional development experience) will be designed to encompass the recipient’s educational aspirations and skill sets.

The Samaritan Counseling Center of Southwestern Michigan, Inc., a non-profit organization, provides professional psychological counseling, consultation, and community educational services, integrating spiritual insights with the values and faith of the client.

DRS. JOHN E.N. & DEDE HOWARD INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP (WORD doc):  This scholarship was established to encourage young people with a gift for music and the drive to be a musician to continue with their formal educations. Established in 1996, this scholarship has made college possible for so many students and has helped train future musicians and instructors.

DRS. JOHN E.N. and Dede Howard Endowed Music Scholarships for Lake Michigan College:  These scholarships are for outstanding students studying instrumental music at Lake Michigan College and handled by that music department. 

Carol A. Oehlhaffen Youth in Philanthropy Scholarship: This scholarship awards students involved in TEAM (Teens Exhibiting Able Minds), the Berrien Community Foundation’s youth advisory committee. This scholarship is given to TEAM members who, like Carol Oehlhaffen, exemplify the values of philanthropy, leadership, and volunteerism.

Carol Oehlhaffen and Deon Atkins, 2011 Oehlhaffen Youth

in Philanthropy Scholarship recipient

SPECIAL SCHOLARSHIPS: Through the generosity of anonymous donors, additional scholarships are provided to students who applied under the Foundation's various scholarship programs.

Pictures provided by Richard Hellyer, The f-Stops Here

No new scholarship funds are being accepted at this time. However, there are several ways to

assist youth by providing grants to nonprofit organizations that have youth programs

 (e.g., family advised fund).

For more information, contact

Nanette Keiser, Ed.D., President

269-983-3486 or NanetteKeiser@BerrienCommunity.org