BCF Scholarships:  “Touching the Future”

The Berrien Community Foundation is honored to play a part in rewarding our communities’ young people through scholarships. It is also an honor to work with the donors who see the lasting value of an investment in education. Each donor and student play an integral part in reaching out to positively touch the future of our community.

Although we are celebrating over 55 years of service to the County, it wasn’t until 1996 when John and Dede Howard came to the Foundation to help fulfill their desire to encourage young people to continue with their formal education in the music field. Without knowing it, John and Dede planted a small seed that has become a beautiful tree with many branches. Today we have 20 active Scholarship Funds with 25 programs. In 2007, we awarded more than $80,000 in new scholarships and $58,000 in renewals to Berrien County students, a record total of $138,000.

Drs. John and Dede Howard, first donors to establish a scholarship fund

Scholarships serve so many people in so many ways. A scholarship can be the difference between going to school and having to take a year off to work and save. A scholarship can prevent the burden of funding a college education from falling totally on a family’s shoulders. The community sees the benefit of scholarships through young people gaining the opportunity to train their minds and be better equipped to become leaders in the future.

(l to r) Nanette Keiser, Ed.D., BCF President and Anne Mc Causland, Program Director, 

 with about 200 donors, recipients, and their guests at a

recent Scholarship Celebration at Villa Santaniellos

The Foundation usually sends out scholarship applications to the various schools

listed below in early February of each year.

These applications are also available for downloading at that time.

The 2008 scholarship application period is now closed.

Applications were due March 8, 2008 (postmarked by a post office)

2008 scholarship recipients were determined during the first week of May

Guidance offices were notified shortly after this.

2008 recipient names are now listed on this web page

Recipients will be informed by letter during late June on

what information they will need to provide to have the

Foundation provide the scholarship check to the college or university

For more information about the 2009 scholarships, please contact the guidance office(s)

for the school(s) listed in early February 2009 or consult this web page.

JEAN A. BARRICK SCHOLARSHIP:  This scholarship is given in loving memory of Jean A. Barrick, who passed away in May 1997 of cancer. Her values of compassion to people, honesty, hard work, and high achievement were instilled in her children as well as others. Her family believes she would want to continue her contributions by moving forward a Coloma High School student's higher education. Criteria, arranged in priority order, for this scholarship include:  2.5 or above GPA, Coloma 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 scholarship was awarded in 2005. 2008 Recipient:  Edward Maloney

EDNA BENDER SCHOLARSHIP:  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. 2008 Recipient: Brienne Jepkema

BRYCE BOOTHBY FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP:  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. 2008 Recipients:  Kerry Edwards (Benton Harbor), Bailey Hermann (Lake Michigan Catholic)

DREWS SCHOLAR:  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) 2008 Recipient: Andrea Karnik

Al and Virginia Drews with Kevin Klinke (center), 2007 recipient

JAMESON MATTHEW GARGANO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:  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. 2008 Recipients:  Andrea Karnik

THE HEART OF COOK SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: 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). 2008 Recipients: Catherine Hurst, Jeffrey Kruchkow, Brett Lewis, Ed Maloney, Sylwia Migas, Lian Zhu

THE JELINEK LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP:  State Senator Ron Jelinek took a controversial pay raise and has given it to our community each year. A total of two scholarships will be awarded through this annual gift provided by Ron and his wife, Diane, to students in Berrien, and Cass/Van Buren Counties. The students are selected based upon several criteria, including their leadership activities (all schools in Berrien County, Cass, and Van Buren). 2008 Recipients: Sonya (Sonny) Gast (Berrien County),  Benjamin Linstrom (Cass/Van Buren)

jon jollay scholarship:  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. Applications available at the Coloma High School counseling office in 2008. 2008 Recipient:  Edward Maloney

Jay and Sarah Jollay with Blake Davis (center), 2007 recipient

LEONARD & MARION KRALL FAMILY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: In its sixth year, this is a scholarship to a Watervliet High School graduate pursuing a teaching and/or teaching/coaching career and who has demonstrated good citizenship and character. Pamela Leonard’s mother, Marion Krall was an English teacher at Watervliet High School many years ago. Her father, Leonard Krall was a local fruit farmer and a great supporter of the Watervliet High School athletic department. 2008 Recipient: Sarah Eastman

LORA WILE-MILLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:  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 will be available at Kent, Washington Schools in 2008. 2008 Recipient: Simone Senn (Kent)

Michael Solak, 2007 recipient, and Larry Wile (l to r)

Carol A. Oehlhaffen lake michigan catholic scholar: 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. 2008 Recipient: Brett Lewis

CORA B. PARKHURST MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: 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. 2008 Recipient: Michelle Lake

2007 Parkhurst recipient Joana Coffy

JUDITH e. PHILLIPI SCHOLARSHIP:  Kim Phllipi established this scholarship in honor of her sister, Judith Phillipi, for her dedication and commitment she demonstrated to the Watervliet community, Watervliet Public School System, and thousands of students she’s helped over 33 years. This scholarship is available to Watervliet High School graduating seniors who plan to attend vocational technical/institute school (e.g., cosmetology school) or a college/university. The first scholarship was awarded in 2005. 2008 Recipients: Sarah Eastman, Shawn Lynch

Kim Phillipi (r) honored her sister, Judith (l),

by establishing the Judith E. Phillipi Scholarship

THE ARLENE B. PORRITT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FOR CURIOUS KIDS:   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.

Lisa Chen (center with certificate) with the Porritt-Peirce family (l),

Dr. Jack Porritt (behind Lisa), and the Linforth family (r)

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 24 hours over the last 2 calendar years prior to submission of this application (e.g., for 2008 applicants, this time period would be January-December 2006 and January-December 2007), 2) has a 2.5 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). 2008 Recipient: Matthew Siemans

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 2008. 2008 Recipient:  Tiffany Faulkner

DON J. SAYAN/W. JACK & DR. NANETTE M. KEISER SCHOLARSHIP:  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 Buchanan High School in 2008. 2008 Recipient:  Kaleigh Rowe

Nanette Keiser, Patrick Kading, 2007 recipient, and W. Jack Keiser

SECOND HOMEOWNERS' SCHOLARSHIP FOR NEW BUFFALO:  Established by an anonymous donor, this fund encourages other second homeowners to give back to the New Buffalo area residents. Scholarship applications are also available through the New Buffalo High School. 2008 Recipient:  Whitney Covert

STOUT/DASHNER SCHOLARSHIP:  This scholarship was established by Roselle and Terry Stout to honor Watervliet's efforts regarding Erica Dashner. Erica was co-chair of TEAM and also a recipient of 2 scholarships through the Berrien Community Foundation. Roselle and Terry wanted to honor her and others at Watervliet High School via this scholarship program. 2008 Recipient:  Sarah Eastman

WELCH FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP-Benton Harbor & WELCH FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP-Lakeshore:  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. 2008 Recipients:  Jessica Schewe (Lakeshore), Kerry Edwards (Benton Harbor)

(l to r) Fred Welch, 2007 recipients Derek Williams, Teona Rolland, and Bradley Anderson, Sandy Welch

WAYNE K. WRIGHT SCHOLARSHIP:  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. 2008 Recipient:  Courtney Zimmer

Hazel and Wayne Wright with Michelle Rudlaff (center), 2007 recipient

College Level & Special Scholarships

The Foundation usually sends out scholarship applications to the various schools

listed below in early February of each year.

These applications are also available for downloading at that time.

The 2008 scholarship application period is now closed.

Applications were due March 8, 2008 (postmarked by a post office)

2008 scholarship recipients were determined during the first week of May

Guidance offices were notified shortly after this.

2008 recipient names are now listed on this web page

Recipients will be informed by letter during late June on

what information they will need to provide to have the

Foundation provide the scholarship check to the college or university

For more information about the 2009 scholarships, please consult this web page

DUNN SCHOLARSHIP:  Established by Jeanne & Eddie R. Dunn, 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 (with preference to those attending WMU in Berrien County) for tuition, books, fees, and other costs related to attending. The first scholarship was awarded in 2005. 2008 Recipients:  Alison Ikerd, Bethany Caswell

DRS. JOHN E.N. & DEDE HOWARD INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP:  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. 2008 Recipient(s):  Alexandra Berndt, Kelly Hay, Mary Elizabeth Huttlin, Sara Sulecki

Donors Drs. John & Dede Howard (center) with 2007 recipients Alexandra Berndt's

parents Brian & Elfie, Kevin Keith, Michael West, Kelly Hay, David Tenerelli's parentsVito & Anne

Please contact Anne Mc Causland, Program Director, 269-983-3304, ext. 2 or AnneMcCausland@BerrienCommunity.org, for more information about the scholarships listed below. Applications will be available again in early February 2009

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. Each year, faculty within the LMC Music Department provide scholarship recommendations to the Berrien Community Foundation.  2008 Recipient(s):  To be announced this Fall

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. 2008 Recipients:  No graduating seniors on TEAM in 2008

2007 Lake Michigan Catholic Scholar recipient Teresa Dudding, 2007 recipient Stephanie Smiy,

Carol Oehlhaffen, donor, and 2007 recipient Alexandra Petlick (l to r)

SPECIAL SCHOLARSHIPS: Through the generosity of anonymous donors, additional scholarships are provided to students who applied under the Foundation's various scholarship programs. 2008 Recipients:  Evelia Bautista, Caitlin Dahmer,  Bailey Hermann, Yadira Hernandez, Kyndall McCoy, Sara Miksa, Emily Ross, and Basilia Ruiz

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.

For more information, contact

Nanette Keiser, Ed.D., President

269-983-3486 or NanetteKeiser@BerrienCommunity.org