Both Ray and Sue Barrett have strongly supported higher education. Ray, an attorney who passed away in 2012, practiced law and criminal justice and Sue, a retired marriage and family therapist knows the importance of mental health, social work and psychology. Together they have combined their interests into this scholarship fund that will help many students achieve their goal of obtaining a higher education.

This scholarship is intended to support students from the Tri-Cities community as Sue raised and educated her children in Grand Haven.

This Fund was initiated by the Tennis players at Spring Lake High School in 2007, led by students Ben McNeil, Nathan Lee, a GHACF Youth Advisory Committee member, Leo Reap and Jake Lee. The students raised the dollars that started the Fund and presented the Fund to Mr. Bassett as a surprise gift at the 2007 Tennis Banquet.  The fund was meant as a tribute to Charlie Bassett, their much admired coach.

The Scholarship is to be given to a student who exemplifies the integrity of Charlie Bassett and the values of positive thinking and hard work that he taught to his teams.

The son of Richard and Annette established this fund as a way to honor his parents. Its goal is to support students pursuing a degree or certification at any two or four-year accredited college, university, or vocational/technical school, especially those pursuing a degree or certification in Tool and Die, Machine Build/Repair, or as an Electrician, Plumber, or Auto Mechanic.  

This scholarship was started in honor of long-time Spring Lake Golf Coach George Bitner. In his 50 years of coaching, Mr. Bitner positively influenced hundreds of students. In an effort to honor his golfing legacy at Spring Lake, several Spring Lake students started fundraising to make this scholarship fund a reality. Forever, a Spring Lake golfer will have the honor of receiving the George Bitner Scholarship award. 

This Scholarship Fund exists to honor Mr. Bitner, help a fellow golfer and inspire others to lead as Mr. Bitner did for 50 years.

Marjorie Blohm was born in Shelby, MI in 1952. She spent her career working as a nurse and achieved several advanced nursing degrees. Marjorie worked at NOCH until 1995 when she suffered a heart attack at work and died. She loved nursing and had a passion for caring for others.

This scholarship is awarded by the North Ottawa Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, and was established in Marjorie Blohm’s memory by her mother – Ellen Hardy. This award is only given to a nursing student living in the Shelby/Hart area.

This scholarship in intended for new graduates from Spring Lake High School, and graduates who’ve completed one
year of post-secondary education, who are currently employed and demonstrate a commitment to personally fund their own education.

Janet R. Briegel was an elementary school teacher at Ferry Elementary in Grand Haven for the majority of her career.

This Scholarship is for a person from the Tri-Cities who will be pursuing a career in education. It is her wish that the recipient of this scholarship be an outstanding individual who not only excels academically, but has given back to their community in a way that demonstrates that they are civic minded and involved. 

This fund was established in 2006 by Jane and James Brown. James and Jane Brown both chose to return to school as working adults to further their education. They remember first-hand the financial struggle involved in their endeavor. It is their intent to assist men and women in the Tri-Cities seeking to return to school and further their education. The Browns request that all recipients be encouraged to consider providing the same opportunity for another person as they are able.

Established in 2013 by the paraprofessional staff at Careerline Tech, this fund will help and encourage local graduates to achieve their post-secondary educational goals.

Because of their strong belief in the potential that lies in every student, this scholarship will forever be awarded to graduating Careerline Tech students for studies at any public or private college, graduate or professional, vocational, art or music school. 

Jimmy Coccadrilli, long time owner of a Grand Haven restaurant, Phil Russell, Ex-NHL hockey player, and his wife Colleen Russell, an educator, have organized many successful charity golfing events for local nonprofit organizations. In 2003 they decided to plan a tournament to raise funds to establish a scholarship for students pursuing a degree in the culinary arts.

Valerie and Craig have both lead successful careers in electrical related fields at Consumers Energy. It was their dream to create a Scholarship Fund that would be able to help students who were pursuing a similar career. Whether the student is working towards a career in electrical engineering, a Journeyman’s license or gaining skills to be an electrical line worker – this Fund will be helping students who are pursuing their education in Michigan…forever.

Our community is fortunate to have people like Val and Craig who are generously investing in the education of others.

This scholarship was created to honor a beloved daughter, Alex Crum by her parents Todd & Kate. This scholarship gave the first award in 2010 – the year in which Alex would have graduated from Grand Haven High School. Alex loved to participate in all sports and as a sophomore at GHHS she earned her varsity letter. Sports were a big part of Alex’s life and she loved the camaraderie she shared with her teammates. This scholarship award is a great way to honor Alex’s life and to help a fellow athlete. 

This scholarship will be awarded annually to a female senior graduating from Grand Haven High School who will be attending a 2 or 4 year educational institution. The recipient will demonstrate that extra-curricular sports were a part of their High School experience.

This Fund was established in 2007 for the 120th Anniversary Celebration of Dake Corp. It was started by employees and management to encourage and support students that want to further their education in manufacturing education.

Ken and Barb DeWitt are lifetime residents of the Tri-Cities. Ken was a Hope College graduate. Barb returned to college after she was married and ultimately completed her Masters degree in Education. 

This scholarship fund was created at Ken’s death. Barb hopes this fund will honor his memory and their belief in the importance of higher education.

E.V. “Vin” and Alyce Erickson were committed to the cause of education, the progress of the Tri-Cities, and the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation. In addition to many civic and business involvements, Vin Erickson was a founder of the Community Foundation and served as its first president. He had a keen interest in education and in providing educational assistance to deserving students. They were a couple who set goals and had the determination and ability to achieve them, no matter how difficult. Most importantly, they felt that excellence, commitment and leadership both in one’s life and one’s community were goals to seek.

When Vin Erickson died in 1985, his family established a foundation scholarship fund to pay tribute to the commitments and affiliations which were so important to him during his lifetime. This scholarship is presented each year to an outstanding student who excels in academics and community service, from either Grand Haven High School or Spring Lake High School.

Kevin was the only son of William and Janet Ernst. He was a 1988 Grand Haven High School honor student. At the time of his death, he was a student at Grand Valley State University majoring in secondary education. Mathematics was a primary interest of Kevin’s and after college, he planned to teach the subject. While attending Grand Valley, he tutored children in math. Kevin’s life tragically ended at a young age when he came to the aid of a person in distress and was killed by another student. He was only twenty-three years old.

The Kevin Ernst Memorial Scholarship Fund was created in 1995 as a lasting tribute to this loving, caring, and compassionate young man. Janet Ernst, his mother, believes that Kevin would be very proud to have others benefit from his fund. This scholarship will assist a local graduate to pursue a career in the field of mathematics.

Wally, a former English teacher with a passion for history, and Jane, an accomplished calligrapher, have established a scholarship that will impact the futures of our local students. This scholarship will support students from the Tri-Cities area who are pursuing an education in English and are involved in co-curricular activities with a concentration in the areas of humanities and arts.

When his mother Bertha M. Fase, a beloved Grand Haven elementary school teacher, died Jack Fase wanted to honor her dedication to the education of young people and encourage future educators. With the establishment of this Scholarship Fund, students interested in pursuing a degree in elementary education will receive a helping hand with their college studies.

An award will be presented each year to a Grand Haven High School graduating senior demonstrating financial need and academic excellence (GPA of 3.5 or better), with plans to pursue studies in the field of elementary education. Special consideration will be given to a student who has demonstrated an interest in youth through volunteer mentoring. In addition, recognizing Mrs. Fase’s involvement with St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, a student who is a member will be given special consideration.

Established in 1997, in loving memory of Jack Feldt a member of Ambucs, by his widow Elizabeth Feldt and the Ambucs. This scholarship will benefit Tri-Cities area students who are planning to pursue a degree in physical therapy.

Scott Flahive’s dream was to serve his community as a law enforcement officer. After graduating from Grand Haven High School in 1985, he received a degree in criminal justice from Grand Valley State University. Scott worked part time for three summers as a Grand Haven police department foot patrol officer. He was hired as a full time Public Safety Officer in May of 1994. On December 13, 1994, Officer Scott A. Flahive was killed in the line of duty by an escapee from the Ottawa County Jail, located in Grand Haven at the time. Scott was only twenty-eight years old. Officer Flahive was lovingly remembered by his family, his community, and his fellow police officers throughout Michigan and the nation.

With the memorial contributions, Scott’s family and the Grand Haven Public Safety Department created the Scott A. Flahive Memorial Scholarship Fund to assist local high school graduates to pursue studies in the field of law enforcement or criminal justice.

This Fund was established to honor the lives of long-time Tri-Cities area families. Each year an award will be presented to a student planning to pursue a career in either business or nursing.

The Formsma family, who dedicated their lives to the students in our community, created the Kenneth and Janis Formsma ESL Scholarship Fund. Ken was an elementary teacher at Mary A. White while Jan dedicated her teaching to all kindergarten through twelfth grade students who spoke English as a second language. The Formsma family has touched many community projects that have enriched the quality of life in Grand Haven. Our community continues to be made better because of this generous family who has dedicated their lives to forever help our local students excel and reach their full potential.

This scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior at Grand Haven High School who speaks English as a second language and shows strong drive to pursue their education after high school.

Education has always been an important part of the lives of John and Vicky Frantz. Their belief that students are our future and need to be supported was the reason behind establishing this award.

The joy of making has motivated Barbara Fugazzotto throughout her life and her 25 year art teaching career at Grand Haven Junior High. She shared with young people the challenges, thrills, and satisfaction that come with creating in the visual arts. In Barbara’s words: “In our world of high technology, there is an especially vital role for creating visual art. Working with paint, paper, clay, and other media nurtures many of the recesses of our minds, hearts, and spirits that other activities can’t reach.”

This scholarship will forever enable a Tri-Cities resident studying to be a teacher of art or planning to have a career in drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, fiber arts or graphic design, to nurture their creative spirit and find their place in the progression of humanity that have shared creative joy.

This scholarship fund was established as a memorial to Wilma Jean Fynewever. Jean was educated as a nurse and her daughter, Mary Keeton, started this scholarship in her mother’s honor and memory. Jean enjoyed a long career as a registered nurse in a variety of settings. She was proud to be a part of the health profession and participated in health care research throughout her life. Jean was an encourager who supported others in their pursuit of obtaining professional degrees.

This scholarship will forever support a graduating senior or non-traditional student from the Tri-Cities area, Newaygo County or Muskegon County who is interested in pursuing a career in the field of nursing.

This fund was established in 2003 by the Community Foundation as a means to assist local donors in their desire to support area students who wish to continue their education beyond high school. Each year the Scholarship Selection Committee selects exceptional students from the long list of applicants, to be the recipient of this community supported award.

This fund was established in 1998 by Barbara Gauthier in memory of her husband Donald. Mr. Gauthier believed strongly in giving educational assistance and employment opportunities to deserving individuals. The Gauthier Family Fund Scholarship is awarded to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area who are pursuing studies in mechanical or electrical engineering at Michigan Technological University.

This Scholarship Fund was established to recognize a student planning to study natural resources, such as fisheries, wildlife, and environmental water quality at any public or private college or university.

Established in 2006 by Oregon resident and Spring Lake High School graduate, Tom Gifford, in an effort to encourage Spring Lake students to stretch their horizons by applying to Amherst College in MA.  Attending Amherst was such a life-defining experience for him, he wanted to encourage other students to attend this prestigious college.

If no one is attending Amherst, consideration may also be given to students attending one of the current year US World and News Reports top 10 colleges.

Bob Heacox lost his wife, Barbara, to cancer in 1990. A few months later he lost his daughter, Nicole, in a tragic accident. At the time of her death, Nicole was a Grand Haven High School student. To help fill the void left by a wife, mother, daughter and sister, Bob and his son, Paul, established a unique Memorial Fund at the Foundation in 1992. 

While the majority of the Foundation’s Scholarship Funds help current graduating high school seniors, the Barbara and Nicole Heacox Foreign Travel and Study Fund assists deserving students, of all ages, who might not otherwise have the opportunity to travel and study in a foreign country.

Established to honor the life of Marjorie Hendricks, a leading Grand Haven area environmentalist, this award will assist Tri-Cities area residents attending a college or university who is majoring in the field of environmental science.

This scholarship was created by the Spring Lake Schools Board of Education as a result of a bequest from Maude “Mitz” Hammond Hessmer. She was born in Spring Lake in 1904 and went to Western Michigan University to study Later Elementary Education. She eventually came back to Spring Lake and taught at Holmes Elementary. Mitz died in 1980.  This scholarship is awarded to a current Spring Lake High School graduate who shows particular promise in their chosen academic field as they transition to post-secondary education. 

The award is the acknowledgement of the character, intelligence, academics and over-all contribution to Spring Lake High School of the recipient.

Known for his considerable talent as a soccer player, as well as his kindness and respect for others, Michael Herman was just 15 years old when he died in a tragic auto accident in November of 2005. That same day Michael was named as an honorable mention to the Division I All-State soccer team. Michael was the son of Mark and Judy Herman. 

To honor his memory, family and friends established the Michael Herman Memorial Scholarship Fund to recognize a Tri-Cities area young person who played on the high school soccer team and wishes to continue playing in college on an intramural, club or college team.

Opened by Frances Hierholzer in 2006 to assist students pursuing a law career. Her grandson received a GHACF scholarship years ago and is now a practicing attorney in Grand Rapids. She wanted to offer help to students in a similar situation and liked the idea of giving back to the community that generously helped her grandson with his educational dreams.

J.R. Hilliard will be remembered for his friendly smile and willingness to help people with anything. He was a sophomore at Grand Haven High School. J.R. was a good student, avid hunter, and fisherman. He loved football. He was a Tri-City Football player for ten years and a willing volunteer for Eagles #925. This was the time he cherished the most, with his family and friends. His parents, Jeff and Tina Hilliard, set up this fund to honor his life. 

Honoring J.R.’s volunteerism and willingness to help others, the award will be given to a student with community involvement, financial need, and a love for football.

As a very young child, Shirley Hipwell demonstrated musical talent. Coming from a family that was loving, but unable to afford music lessons, camp experiences or a college education – the Tri-Cities community took her under their wing. The teachers at Grand Haven High School made it possible for her to attend Interlochen in the summer, the Girl Scouts made sure she was able to go to camp, the First Presbyterian Church of Grand Haven nurtured her spiritual growth, the Tuesday Musicale group provided her with special opportunities and the Grand Haven Women’s Club gave her a scholarship so she could attend Alma College in 1956.

Shirley became an accomplished musician and has inspired many during her years as a director, teacher and mentor of elementary, high school and college students. Shirley has led vocal and handbell choirs and taught classes across the United States, Australia, Canada, England and Japan.

As a way to give back to the community that helped give her a start, the Hipwells have established this scholarship fund that will forever provide scholarships to students pursuing a musical career.

Edward and Elizabeth Hofma dedicated their lives to helping others. In 1884, Dr. Edward Hofma started a medical practive in Spring Lake. Elizabeth Pruin was a school teacher. After marrying Edward, Elizabeth went to medical school and became the area’s first woman doctor in 1891. The Hofmas shared a keen interest in the world around them. He joined the early expeditions searching for the North Pole and she worked to build a Carnegie library in the Tri-Cities. They loved gardening and the woods. Hofma Park is the result of their early environmental efforts.

The Hofma Trust Fund was established by Doctors Edward and Elizabeth Hofma in 1936. The Hofma Trust became a Fund of the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation in 1984 and annually makes grants to a variety of charitable projects and organizations for the benefit of the Tri-Cities area. A portion of the Hofma Trust Fund is also used each year for Scholarships to deserving local students.

Bud grew up in Fruitport and attended Fruitport Schools, and Charyn graduated from Grand Haven High School. As an entrepreneur and businessman, Bud founded Lakeshore Automatic in 1980. The Hoffmans have been longtime friends and supporters of the foundation.

In 1997, they established a scholarship fund to support the educational dreams of students. Special consideration is given to students who are the first in their families to attend college. Bud served as a member of our Board of Trustees for six years and both he and Charyn continue to participate in foundation committees.

This scholarship fund is a memorial to the life of Dale Janke established by his wife, Mary Beth Janke and his children, Sarah and Eric. Dale’s quiet, patient manner characterized his math teaching career at Grand Haven Junior High and as a family man. With his specialized skills and interest in all things mechanical, Dale was a creative problem solver. With his strong work ethic, he funded his own college education, thus acquiring his most valuable asset in life: an education. Dale’s true passion since childhood was working on his family homestead. He found great satisfaction in planting, cultivating and sharing his harvest, thus, actively and patiently participating in Nature’s creative process.

This scholarship will support economically challenged graduates of Grand Haven High School who have an interest in continuing their education. This scholarship will keep the memory of Dale alive and hopefully inspire the award recipient to live and work with patient and passionate commitment.

Seth Koehler, at age 22, established this fund to support the education of students, who like himself, attended an alternative high school.

This fund provides educational assistance to a graduating senior from Central High School wishing to attend a college or vocational school.

Paul Laninga’s future looked bright. The young Grand Haven resident had a successful career as a CPA with the accounting firm of Deloitte and Touche. In 1994, he represented the firm on a special project in Moscow. His wife, Tamara, went with him. The couple came home to Michigan for the Christmas holidays. On January 2, 1995, Paul Laninga was killed in a snowmobiling accident. He was only twenty-seven years old. When Tamara Laninga established a community foundation scholarship fund, in memory of her husband, she wanted to make something positive out of a tragedy. “Paul had a zest for life. Life was always new, always changing, and always an adventure. He lived more in his twenty-seven years than most people do in a lifetime.” 

This scholarship fund will assist students interested in pursuing a career in the field of accounting or business.

During the 1980s, Ken Larson and Diane Veneklasen team-taught a class for eighth graders called “Outdoor Education.” Ken designed the class with the Outward Bound philosophy in mind: “to inspire character development and self-discovery…through challenge and adventure.” 

Ken and Susan Larson, along with Diane Veneklasen, have started this scholarship fund to make awards to individuals wishing to participate in an educational, outdoor experiences – like Outward Bound. The Larson Veneklasen Fund will enable individuals of all ages to learn lifetime outdoor skills as well as challenge themselves to accomplish more than they ever thought possible.

Rick and Beverly Lattin know the meaning of dedication and hard work. In 1985, the Spring Lake couple started their own company. Since then, Sac Plastics, Inc (named for their daughters Suzanne and Christine) has become a success story among area businesses. While they are delighted in their company’s growth and success, Rick and Beverly are grateful for the support and encouragement they received from their Tri-Cities friends and associates during the company’s early years. Their educational fund was created to give back to a community that helped them.

This scholarship assists deserving students who are pursuing employable skills and share the Lattin’s principles of dedication and hard work.

This fund was created by the Laughlin Family, who are longtime supporters of the community foundation and education of youth in our community. Tom Laughlin taught at Grand Haven High School and coached the Boys Cross Country team for 29 years. Jackie Laughlin was a Registered Nurse and gave many volunteer hours to Loutit District Library. Tom and his wife Jackie wanted to do something that would forever support the sport to which Tom
dedicated so many years. 

The scholarship is to be given to a graduate of Grand Haven or Spring Lake High school who participated on the Cross Country team. 

Opened in 2006 by his family after Jack Leatherman’s unexpected death to honor his life. Jack was a resident and local businessman in Grand Haven. He was a caring son, loving husband, and devoted father and a fair and generous man who enjoyed simple living. God, family, friends and his employees were very important to him.

Jack and Jaynie Leitner were dedicated community members; Jack a local dentist and Jaynie an educator. The Leitner family knew that their legacy would be to help local students pursue higher education. After Jack passed away in 2004, and Jaynie in 2013, the Leitner Family Scholarship Fund was started to fulfill their dream. 

Now and forever, annual scholarships will be awarded to students graduating from Grand Haven High school. A very fitting legacy for a family that loved the Tri-Cities and embraced education.

To honor the memory of Casey LeMieux, a Central Elementary School student who died in her first grade year following a rare illness, this Scholarship Fund was established in 1992 by the PTA of Central and Mary A. White Schools.

Each year a promising graduating senior who attended Central or Mary A White School is selected by a committee that includes the principal, parents, and teachers.

Recognizing the importance of helping students realize their full potential and supporting local educational institutions, the Loutit Foundation established the Loutit Scholarship Fund this year. This scholarship is intended for students residing in northern Ottawa County who are planning to attend one of the colleges affiliated with the Michigan Colleges Alliance.

Established by the Friends of Loutit Library in 2005, this Fund will provide educational assistance to a student planning to pursue an advanced degree in Library Science.

This scholarship was established in 2007 by John MacTavish in loving memory of his wife Pat, who was a member of the local PEO and who worked for General Dynamics as a technical writer. John, a former science professor at Grand Valley State University, established this fund to honor Pat’s involvement with PEO and to encourage young women to advance themselves in higher learning, specifically, in the study of the “hard sciences.”

Robert and Patricia Schmidt created this scholarship for students attending public colleges and universities in Michigan and pursuing a course of study in veterinary medicine. With an affinity for our furry friends, Robert and Patricia look forward to this scholarship helping to produce future Doctors of Veterinary Medicine and Vet Technicians to care for animals.

Established in loving memory of Ross McBride who died while an elementary student at Peach Plains Elementary School. 

This scholarship is presented to a fifth grade student to be awarded when the student graduates from high school.

Mary E. McGinnis grew up in Elmhurst, Illinois and the family moved to Bingham Farms, MI after she graduated from high school. She attended Marygrove College and the University of Michigan, where she earned a bachelor’s degree and completed post-graduate studies in social work.

Mary spent her entire career at Catholic Social Services of Wayne and Oakland County, MI, finding exceptional families for hundreds of wonderful children. She retired in 1996 in Ann Arbor and moved to Grand Haven in 2014 to be closer to family.

When Mary passed away after a courageous battle with cancer, her four children opened this scholarship fund to forever honor her and her love of giving back. An annual scholarship will be awarded to a Northwest Ottawa County applicant with at least junior status at any Michigan public or private college/university with a declared major in social work. 

Kyle Moreland will be remembered for his smile and good humor, and this scholarship fund will honor those things that were most important in Kyle’s life, family, athletics, and his faith. A freshman at Grand Haven High School, Kyle was a 4.0 student, enjoyed playing in the Marching Band, and was a member of both the Varsity Tennis and Golf Teams. Kyle was also active in his church youth group, First Priority of the Lakeshore, and shared his faith with others during two mission trips in New York.

Melissa opened this scholarship fund because she wanted to give back to the community. Understanding the financial challenges of obtaining an education, she wants to help ease or eliminate the burden of student loan debt for women pursuing degrees in math, science, and business. Melissa plans to continue growing her fund over her lifetime and wants to help as many Tri-Cities female students as possible, including adults returning to college for undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Education. Recreation. Environment.

The North Bank Scholarship Fund (NBSF) is a permanent endowment fund held by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation to support the educational needs of eligible students who reside in the north bank communities of Spring Lake Village, Spring Lake Township, the City of Ferrysburg and Crockery Township.

The NBSF was established in 2013 by the North Bank Communities Fund. Funding priorities are Education, Environment, and Recreation. 

It is our hope that NBSF scholarship recipients will benefit from the generous community support and, in time, will support their own communities in similar fashion.

The North Ottawa Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship Fund has been awarding scholarships to qualified students pursuing medical and medical-related professions for over 50 years. 

This scholarship is designed to provide qualifying students enrolled in a medical program financial assistance in their field of study. The Marjorie Blohm Nursing Scholarship, a specific award given only for nursing students, also includes applicants living in the Shelby/Hart area.

This scholarship fund will assist current Grand Haven High School graduates who plan to attend Ferris State University and concentrating on a career in manufacturing. Manufacturing is an important industry in West Michigan and it is the Overway’s desire to continue to encourage local students to consider a career in this sector.

Possible majors in the manufacturing area could include design, engineering, industrial technology and the applied sciences.

P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization), one of the pioneer societies for women, was founded on January 21, 1869, by seven students at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. Originally a small campus friendship society, P.E.O. soon blossomed to include women off campus. Today, P.E.O. has grown from that tiny membership of seven to almost a quarter of a million members in chapters in the United States and Canada. The P.E.O. Sisterhood is passionate about its mission: promoting educational opportunities for women by providing scholarships, grants, awards and loans. Cottey College, a fully accredited two-year liberal arts college in Nevada, MO, is owned and operated by the P.E.O. Sisterhood. 

The local chapter, of approximately 60 members, established this scholarship in 2005. It is awarded to a worthy, graduating senior woman from the Tri-Cities area or to a non-traditional female student who is pursuing a degree or certification.

Marv Patterson always said it was the “positive spirit” of Grand Haven that enticed him to make this community his home. A printer by trade, he devoted more than 50 years of his life to the printing business, meeting all the challenges of new technology with enthusiasm. Pearl Patterson established this fund to honor those things that were important in their life together, education, the arts, and the environment.

This fund will provide scholarship assistance to students planning to study graphic arts or fine arts, or for students studying environment, biology, or forestry.

This scholarship fund was opened when Dr. Poel retired from his successful medical practice and was established by Dr. Poel as a way to forever support the educational attainment of our future medical professionals.

This scholarship fund will serve as a philanthropic reminder of Dr. Poel and the impact that he had in the sports medicine and family practice field.

The Posts are longtime supporters of the foundation. Barb was employed by the foundation from 2002-2015 as Director of Scholarships. Ed Post, Chief Circuit Judge of Ottawa County, was a former foundation trustee and has served on the Sherwood Board of Directors since 2002. In addition, their daughter, Jane Post Morrison, was a YAC member. Sons Thomas and David spent valuable community service hours attaining their Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts and John focused his attention on the environment, as a team member with Science Olympiad. All attended Grand Haven High School and Michigan public colleges.

The family recognizes the vital part that community involvement, education and scientific, thoughtful, critical thinking, play in later life success and also the difficulty students encounter trying to fund their education.

Terry Linda Potter was the only child of Cass and Ellen Potter. Ellen was a nurse for the Ottawa County Health Department for many years and she raised Terry after her husband died when Terry was nine months old. In 1974, twenty-four year old Terry Linda Potter had much to look forward to. The Grand Haven High School 1967 graduate was seeking a master’s degree in social work from Western Michigan University and she was engaged to be married. On March 3, 1974, less than a month before her wedding day, Terry Linda Potter was killed in a hit and run automobile accident.

Ellen Potter treasured many special memories of her only child and perhaps the most lasting memorial to Terry is this Scholarship Fund that is awarded each year to a Tri-Cities resident planning to major in a health related field. 

The Races dedicated their careers to the education of our community’s youth. Dick was a school administrator at both Fruitport and Grand Haven Schools, and Barb was a local teacher. This scholarship, started after Dick’s death, will help many students with their college education costs. This scholarship will be awarded to a traditional high school senior pursuing post-secondary education, or a student who is returning to school to finish a degree or to equip themselves with an additional degree that will allow their career to grow and expand.

Thank you to the Race Family for the beautiful legacy that will help scores of students reach their full academic potential!

Established with assets from the estate of long-time residents David and Mary Race, this fund will be used for Scholarships for Tri-Cities area high school students who graduated from or attended Careerline Tech Center and adult students enrolled in Thompson M-TEC pursuing post-high school college or training in vocational or technical fields.

A scholarship award will also be awarded to an active duty member of the United States Coast Guard service member stationed in Grand Haven for additional educational training. The Race’s had a strong work ethic and lived a life of modest means. David was a factory worker for a local manufacturing company and Mary was a clerk at Braak’s Bakery. Their values of hard work and self-reliance are reflected in the guidelines of this scholarship.

Libby and Jack Reichardt made their mark in the Tri-Cities area. A curious, fun-loving, well-traveled, creative couple – they truly added zest to our community through their retail stores, and through their community activities. When Jack died in early 2008, their children Field, Shelton and Tempe, established this scholarship endowment in the memory of both of their parents. 

This scholarship will continue the “Reichardt Spirit” by providing scholarships to students studying abroad – especially in developing countries. Just like Jack and Libby opened their home and hearts to many from countries
afar, this fund will continue their hospitality and provide an international opportunity to a deserving student.

Created by Rosanne Reiss to honor the memory of her 19-year old son, Dan, who lost his life during a tragic drowning accident off the Grand Haven South Pier, this fund will offer scholarship assistance to Grand Haven High School graduates planning to pursue an education in Engineering or Political Science at Grand Valley State University, Western Michigan University, or another state university.

The inspiration to give back to the community comes directly from family members who have demonstrated such generosity over the years. Now as grandchildren and great-grandchildren, it is our turn to carry forward the passion for helping others.

Our family chose to open a scholarship fund with the GHACF to honor the legacy left behind by our grandmother, Frances Reinecke, who committed a lifetime to her family, education, and community.

Our goal for this scholarship is quite intentional. We want the funds to directly impact a college-going student who has overcome obstacles, or perhaps is a first-generation college student. Our grandmother was relentless in her compassion toward all people, and she certainly had a special place in her heart for those whose life hasn’t always come easy.

Bill and Tracy Reinecke established this fund to honor the life of their 14 year-old son, Jake, who died unexpectedly in July 2004. He would have been a sophomore at Grand Haven High School. A good student, Jake enjoyed all sports, particularly baseball, basketball and golf. His father thought Jake would someday be the greatest sports caster because of his knowledge of and passion for sports. 

This award will assist a Grand Haven High School graduating senior planning to attend a two or four-year college, university, or trade school.

Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative, with support from additional community members, started this fund in honor of community leader Lupita Reyes. Applicant must be a graduating senior of any Ottawa County area public school.

Preferential consideration will be given to an individual who is of Latin American origin, who demonstrates financial need, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and has demonstrated a passion for human rights and social justice and a commitment to applying this knowledge to their future career. Students may be able to pursue a 2-year or 4-year accredited college or university. Students under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) will be eligible for the scholarship.

To honor Harold “Buss” and Eleanor Ringelberg’s commitment to education, specifically Christian education, their family established this scholarship fund as the perfect living memorial.

This award is given to a graduating Grand Haven High School senior who demonstrates academic excellence and seeks to pursue a degree from Michigan State University. Students who attended Grand Haven Christian School will be given special consideration.

This Scholarship Fund is a memorial to the life of Charles Robertson established by his wife and family. Chuck was the woodshop teacher at Grand Haven Junior High School for 36 years. During his life, Chuck’s leadership and organizational qualities were always present and active. He took a broad world view and always found ways to do good things for others. This Scholarship will support students who have graduated from a Tri-Cities area public High School. Chuck enjoyed working with his hands. He was a creative problem solver, and he had a curiosity about the world around him.

This scholarship will keep the memory of Chuck alive and hopefully inspire the award recipients to live life with passion and active involvement.

This scholarship shall be awarded to graduating seniors from Grand Haven Area Public Schools, preferably from Central High School, who have demonstrated that they benefitted from an adult, community member, or mentor who assisted and supported them while they were working toward their high school diploma or GED.

Gernot and Anne Runschke took advantage of a tax-free distribution from their IRA to establish this new scholarship fund intended to assist students who are residents of Northwest Ottawa County and enrolled in a vocational or trades program. Recognizing the importance of a high-quality and specialized education, the Runschke family is excited about helping positively impact students, our local workforce, and the community.

Mr. Rycenga was a Trustee of the Community Foundation serving on many committees. Both he and his wife Eleanor are well known in the Tri-Cities for their philanthropy and community involvement. In 1991, Mr. and Mrs. Rycenga established this scholarship fund to assist graduates of Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Western Michigan Christian High Schools to continue their education.

Millicent M. Schaffner 1905-1983. Thomas and Millicent Schaffner were married in 1937 and moved to the Tri-Cities in 1952. They loved to travel and often entertained friends with stories of their trips all over the world. Millicent was born in Scotland and their trip to her birthplace was a special event for the couple. Millicent died in 1983.  In 1985, Thomas advised the Foundation that upon his death, he wanted the majority of his estate to be used for a Scholarship Fund in his wife’s memory.

When Thomas F. Schaffner died in 1992, he left a generous bequest to the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, instructing the Foundation to award annual Scholarships to exceptional female Tri-Cities residents in memory of his wife, Millicent M. Schaffner. Determination and motivation are characteristics of selected recipients.

Grand Haven resident David Schultz did not go to college. In fact, he never graduated from high school. He started working for his father when he was fifteen and began his tool and die apprenticeship when he was only eighteen years old. David and his wife Jinny, married at a young age and started a family immediately. Their two children are both college graduates. When he was twenty-seven, Schultz was president of a tool and die firm. He turned the company into a successful productions shop designing and building machines and tooling for the store fixture industry. Schultz always had the desire to succeed, but not the formal education. From personal experience, he knew the world will be a better place if a young person’s desire can be harnessed with education. 

This scholarship is awarded to a student who demonstrates commitment and a strong motivation to succeed.

Life-long residents of Grand Haven, David and Sharon Seaver established this Fund in memory of their son, Tim  He was an avid sportsman, family man, father of three children and President of Seaver Finishing.

This Scholarship is awarded to assist a Grand Haven High School senior wishing to pursue a career in Business.

Long known for community involvement, the Ken and Sandy Sharkey Family established this scholarship with the Foundation in 2000.

Each year one or more graduating seniors from Grand Haven High School, who demonstrate civic responsibility and plan to be involved in improving his or her community in the future, receives this award.

This scholarship was generously started by Susan Shattuck, MS, RN, CS-BC, NP. Sue has always followed her lifelong dream to be a nurse and to make sure the underserved and the marginalized receive the highest standards of nursing care. In that spirit, Sue started the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program through Center for Women in
Transition in 2001. Sue’s work in this field has made her one of the State’s top experts in medical forensic sexual assault examination and care of rape victims. 

This scholarship is Sue’s way of passing the torch to a student who wishes to pursue a career in nursing.

This scholarship was started as part of Lynne’s bequest to the Community Foundation and will ensure that even
more youth in our community will achieve their educational goals with the help of Sherwood family scholarships.

While Lynne’s legacy will live on in our community in so many ways, her impact on education in our community is noteworthy.

Marion and Ruth Sherwood cared about the community in which they lived and worked.  Active in many community organizations, Mr. Sherwood served as a trustee for the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation in the mid-1980s. Upon his death, the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation received a significant gift from the Sherwood estate. Their daughter Lynne Sherwood carried on that family tradition with many community and charitable interests.

A portion of their bequest will be used each year for scholarships for students who demonstrate evidence of academic achievement and plan to pursue the study of business.

Marion and Ruth Sherwood cared about the community in which they lived and worked.  Active in many community organizations, Mr. Sherwood served as a trustee for the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation in the mid-1980s. Upon his death, the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation received a significant gift from the Sherwood estate. Their daughter Lynne Sherwood carried on that family tradition with many community and charitable interests.

A portion of their bequest will be used each year for scholarships for current college students who demonstrate evidence of academic achievement and plan to continue their college studies.

Marion and Ruth Sherwood cared about the community in which they lived and worked.  Active in many community organizations, Mr. Sherwood served as a trustee for the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation in the mid-1980s. Upon his death, the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation received a significant gift from the Sherwood estate. Their daughter Lynne Sherwood carried on that family tradition with many community and charitable interests.

A portion of their bequest will be used each year for scholarships for students who demonstrate evidence of academic achievement and plan to pursue the study of education.

Marion and Ruth Sherwood cared about the community in which they lived and worked.  Active in many community organizations, Mr. Sherwood served as a trustee for the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation in the mid-1980s. Upon his death, the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation received a significant gift from the Sherwood estate. Their daughter Lynne Sherwood carried on that family tradition with many community and charitable interests.

A portion of their bequest will be used each year for scholarships for students who demonstrate evidence of academic achievement and plan to pursue the study of engineering.

Marion and Ruth Sherwood cared about the community in which they lived and worked.  Active in many community organizations, Mr. Sherwood served as a trustee for the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation in the mid-1980s. Upon his death, the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation received a significant gift from the Sherwood estate. Their daughter Lynne Sherwood carried on that family tradition with many community and charitable interests.

A portion of their bequest will be used each year for scholarships for students who demonstrate evidence of academic achievement and plan to pursue the study of medicine.

Marion and Ruth Sherwood cared about the community in which they lived and worked.  Active in many community organizations, Mr. Sherwood served as a trustee for the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation in the mid-1980s. Upon his death, the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation received a significant gift from the Sherwood estate. Their daughter Lynne Sherwood carried on that family tradition with many community and charitable interests.

A portion of their bequest will be used each year for scholarships for students who plan to attend a Michigan Colleges Alliance Affiliated School.

Miller G. Sherwood 1916-1985 Miller G. Sherwood, a University of Michigan graduate, first demonstrated his belief in the value of education by serving on the Grand Haven School Board in the 1950’s. In 1959, he formed a Grand Haven Rotary Scholarship program. Miller was instrumental in starting the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation in 1971, serving as its second president. Later, the Rotary Scholarship program became a part of the foundation, continuing Miller’s educational ideals and visions.

Because Miller always gave so generously of his time, talents, and resources to the Tri-Cities area he loved so much, the Miller G. Sherwood Family Scholarship Fund was created in 1994 by his wife, Barbara who died in 2008, and their four children. Mrs. Sherwood was an avid supporter of the environment and social causes, and both she and Miller were strong believers in helping local students achieve their educational goals.

This scholarship was established by Dennis Sparks to honor the memory of this mother, Maryadele Sparks. She was an educator and long-time resident of Spring Lake, who was dedicated to the service of others, especially children.

This scholarship is for a graduating senior of Spring Lake High School who is planning on pursuing a career in early childhood education. The qualities and traits she demonstrated, service to others, valuing education and empathetic kindness are qualities the recipient must also demonstrate.

This scholarship was started in 2002 with a gift from Edward and Laura Grafton. The Graftons wanted to create a scholarship prize to recognize a graduating senior who had done exceptional work in high school social studies, and who intended to pursue undergraduate studies and a career in the social sciences.

Jim Schmidt was the first college graduate of his parents’ extended families. He worked for seven years at Meijer to pay for his Michigan State University education, and after completing his education, was recruited by Fluor Corporation, an international oil and gas EPC services contractor. Jim steadily progressed to Senior Vice President and company Officer during his 37-year Fluor career.

As a philanthropist, Jim has generously given back to many worthy causes and organizations, including his alma mater and the GHACF. The Spartanwill Scholarship Fund will provide MSU scholarships for hometown high school graduates, helping to turn a college degree from a dream into a reality.

St. John’s Lutheran Church and School has recognized you as an individual who has continued to show Christian character and values during your high school years. St. John’s Lutheran Church and School will continue to lift you up in prayer as you begin this next step into your academic future. May God continue to be a Source upon which you rely on for guidance and purpose in your life. This means knowing God and the life He has for you to live. Blessings on your future.

Roman 12:22 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.

We would like to congratulate you for your great character, hard work and integration of your Catholic faith into your daily life. We trust that your faith in God will remain the core of your future achievements. Please know that the St. Patrick & St. Anthony Catholic Community will remember you in our prayers and will always remain your spiritual home in Grand Haven.

A special thanks to the anonymous family from our community that established this wonderful scholarship in 2003 and the many people that have made additional donations. May God bless you as you begin a new chapter in your life.

Frank and Virginia Such were pillars of the Grand Haven community. Frank was an educator and elementary school
principal and known for his passion of education. Virginia was known for her kind and thoughtful words of strength and love of family.

This scholarship will help local students, who share Frank and Virginia’s passion for education and children, pursue a college education. Thank you to the Such family for partnering with us to create this scholarship in memory of two very special people.

Ed Suchecki was born and raised in Nunica, attended Grand Haven High School and graduated in 1957. Ed was a star football player and spent much of his time coaching Tri-Cities Kids League, youth football and playing golf. Although Ed did not have the opportunity to attend college, he was a successful business man and he made sure his children went to college.

When Ed died in 2000, his wife and sons established this scholarship fund which is awarded to Buccaneer athletes who want to pursue a career in business.

This fund was established with the community foundation in 1996 by Henry and Ruth Swartz who desire to assist area high school graduates to pursue their education beyond high school. Hank and Ruth were long-time Ottawa County residents. In fact, Hank who was an engineer, graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1939. Ruth was, for many years, the Secretary and Bookkeeper of Spring Lake School.

This scholarship is given to a graduating high school student planning to pursue a career in engineering, computer science, pre-law, or medicine.

Cliff Taylor attended public school in Spring Lake and Grand Haven. Cliff and Hope were active in the community and understood the value of a high-quality education. They established this scholarship fund to impact the futures of our local students.

The scholarship is intended for graduating seniors from Spring Lake High School and current college students who previously graduated from Spring Lake High School.

This scholarship was created to honor a beloved daughter, Grace Thatcher, by her parents, John and Debra, her family, and many friends. This scholarship made its first award in 2016 – the year in which Grace would have graduated from Hudsonville Public High School. Grace was a delight and joy to everyone who came in contact with her. She was an excellent student who loved school, soccer, hunting, climbing trees, catching frogs and creating artwork.

This scholarship will be awarded annually to two graduating seniors, one from Hudsonville High School and one from Grand Haven High School, where her father John, was Assistant Superintendent for a number of years. The recipients must be pursuing a career in science and demonstrate that co-curricular activities are a part of their high school experience.

Mr. & Mrs. Elgin Ward and Mr. & Mrs. Richard Goff gave a donation to the VFW Post 2326 to memorialize their sons, Roger Ward and Larry Goff, who lost their lives in the line of duty during the Vietnam War. In 1970, the Sgt. Alvin Jonker VFW Post 2326 and Auxiliaries created the Ward-Goff Scholarship Fund with the money donated by these families.

This scholarship Fund was created by the Sgt. Alvin Jonker VFW Post 2326 to provide financial assistance to outstanding young men and women who are the children or grandchildren of active military personnel or honorably discharged military veterans of any branch of the US Military – whether or not their services involved a war. This scholarship is also available to the children or grandchildren of a member of the VFW Post 2326 Ladies’ and Men’s Auxiliaries.

Established in 2005 by his family to honor the memory and talents of local businessman Wayne Van Agtmael, owner and founder of Wayne & Company. Wayne enjoyed teaching his craft to students who were often the first in their family to succeed beyond high school. This scholarship will support students attending Cosmetology School and will help to continue Wayne’s legacy.

This scholarship is for a graduating senior of Spring Lake High School who has an interest in writing. The recipient will demonstrate academic excellence over the four years of high school English, be a gifted writer and have taken college-bound coursework with the intent to pursue a degree that includes writing.

Sandra VandenBosch and her children established this scholarship in 2013, in loving memory of her husband and their father, Marv VandenBosch. Marv spent many years volunteering for local governmental entities and helping those in need. Marv’s legacy will live through the many students who will benefit from this scholarship and hopefully, will inspire the recipients to lead a life of caring for all that enhances their community.

This scholarship shall be forever awarded to a Tri-Cities student who is pursuing a career in criminal justice or law enforcement. 

The Waters Family generously started this scholarship fund to help support students in our community who are pursuing a career in the Fine Arts or Medicine and who plan to attend Central Michigan University. Richard and Kay are thankful that they have been able to assist their two daughters through both under-graduate and post-graduate education. They decided to open this fund in an effort to assist others in reaching their educational goals.

Established by the West Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association in 2001, this scholarship was designed to assist students from Ottawa, Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon or Allegan Counties who desire to pursue a career in horticulture or the green industry.

This memorial fund was established in 1997 by Donna Wickham Furth, in honor of her mother, Louise Wachter Wickham, a long-time elementary public school teacher in the Spring Lake and Grand Haven area. Louise valued education. When she and her sister graduated from junior high, their family did not intend to send them to high school. It was only through the intervention of the school principal, who implored their father to permit them to complete high school in Grand Haven, along with both girls working to cover their own living expenses, that allowed Louise to go on to teach. As Louise said, “I am a teacher. I touch the future.” 

This scholarship fund has been established to assist students to obtain a degree in elementary education.

Mary attended Grand Haven schools, graduating in 1943. She graduated from University of Michigan with a BA in education in 1947 and an MA in 1952. She received her Doctorate (Ed.D.) in teaching and curriculum development from Columbia University, Teachers College in New York City, NY in 1964. 

In 1988, Mary established the Mary E. Wilsberg Scholarship to provide financial assistance to a Grand Haven or Spring Lake High School student who not only has excelled academically, but has also demonstrated well-rounded community participation and service to others.

Established in 2003, by a successful Spring Lake High School alumnus, Thomas Higley, to honor his favorite teacher, Paul Wolbrink. The Paul Wolbrink Scholarship Fund will pay tribute to a wonderful educator and inspire young people to pursue their dreams by providing assistance to a Spring Lake High School student pursuing a college degree.

This fund was established in 2001, by the Women’s Club of Grand Haven. For the past 55 years, during the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival, the members of the Women’s Club volunteer many hours to provide an annual Used Book Sale and donate the proceeds to the scholarship fund.

This scholarship fund presents an award each year to a non-traditional student, from the Tri-Cities, who plans to further their education.

This fund was established in 1990 by Margaret L. Zenko as a means to assist individuals to help themselves become productive members of our community. Edward was a graduate of Pigeon Creek School and a self-educated Engineer who started Progressive Engineering, which made parts for WWII airplanes. They both had a keen interest in the Grand Haven Lighthouse and Pier. In retirement, Edward’s energy was funneled into getting the lights installed on the catwalk.

The Zenko Family Fund will continue to give scholarships to deserving local students who show, through their work ethic, that education is important.

Leo Zupin was a member of the Tri-Cities community for over 40 years. As educators, he and his wife Marian have touched the lives of many youth. This fund is being established as a memorial to Leo Zupin in recognition of his life-long dedication to educating the youth of this community.