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(February 25, 2008) Nelsonville, Ohio – The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio is now accepting application for the Lester D. and Thelma I. Ellwood Educational Scholarships.  In the early 1990s, Thelma established a trust fund to provide money for college scholarships for Guernsey County high school students after her death. To honor her wishes, the Lester D. and Thelma I. Ellwood Educational Scholarship Fund was established through the Guernsey County Foundation, a component fund of the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio designated for the benefit of Guernsey County.  The purpose of the Fund is to assist worthy graduates of Guernsey County high schools obtain college education.

This is the first distribution of scholarship funds specifically designated for graduating seniors or graduates of Buckeye Trail High School, Cambridge High School, Meadowbrook High School, or any other Guernsey County High School.  Applicants must have obtained or will obtain a high school diploma and show proof of acceptance at a vocational school, college, or university.  Students must demonstrate a strong work ethic and good ethical character as evidenced by personal conduct, values, attitudes, and behaviors toward others.  An applicant’s community service will be assessed as evidenced by leadership, service, activities, and references.  Financial need of the candidate will be considered.  Candidates must have at least a 2.5 GPA on a 4.00 scale.  This financial assistance is not intended for pursuit of advanced degrees (e.g. Master’s Degree).

The scholarship awards and amounts will vary annually, depending upon the availability of funds.  Current scholarship winners may be eligible for consideration for future year scholarships.  Scholarship awards are made payable directly to the institution of enrollment on the student’s behalf for the purposes and expenses associated with tuition, fees, text books, and required supplies and equipment.  Scholarship applications are available at www.fao.local and must be postmarked on or before March 19, 2008.

“We are very excited to be accepting scholarship applications for the Lester D. and Thelma I. Ellwood Educational Scholarship,” stated Cara Dingus Brook, President/CEO of the foundation.  “We encourage residents of this region to apply for the scholarships to assist in furthering their education.”  The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio recognizes the educational achievement of scholars and encourages post secondary educational pursuits. Scholarship funds at the Foundation are a legacy of individuals, families, and businesses that enrich quality of life and strengthen economic opportunities of the Appalachian region.

The Foundation currently has 15 endowed scholarship funds increasing access to education for students of our region and in 2007 alone, awarded over $15,000 in scholarship funds.  FAO manages and stewards this fund endowment, acknowledges gifts and supports the community’s efforts to attract new charitable contributions. Those interested in contributing to grow the Lester D. and Thelma I. Ellwood Educational Scholarship Fund can contact Maribeth Wright at (740) 432-5658 or the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio.

Download the Ellwood Scholarship application.