New Scholarships for 2026

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Dave Foley Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship honors Dave Foley, a proud graduate of Oscoda Area Schools, where he excelled academically, was a three-sport athlete, captain and lifelong Owl.  Dave enlisted in the Army and served for three years.  He later earned his business degree from Ferris State University using the GI Bill.  Dave was dedicated to giving back to his community, regularly donating baseball and golf equipment to local youth.  In his memory, an annual golf outing continues to support Oscoda athletics and provide scholarships to students pursuing careers in the skilled trades.

 

Dr. John and Jane Meyer Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established by the Meyer family in memory of Dr. John and Jane who both spent their entire careers in education. John worked for CMU as Supervisor of Student Teachers. Jane was a teacher for 30 years and John worked for CMU as supervisor of Student Teachers.  Jane was a teacher for Oscoda Area Schools for 30 years. After her retirement, she also was a Supervisor for Student Teachers. Education was very important to them, both wanted every student to be successful. They both were involved in their community in several organizations. This scholarship is offered in their memory to a graduating senior pursuing a career in education. It will also be based on the students’ merit and need. To that end Jane and John’s family and community, in partnership with the Oscoda Education Opportunity Foundation have established their Dr. John & Jane Meyer Memorial Scholarship as an ongoing tribute to and a legacy of their service. It will continue to provide educational opportunities for our students in the future.

 

Dorothy Poland Memorial Scholarship

Dorothy was a dedicated and cherished member of the Oscoda Area Schools family. Her warmth, compassion, and commitment to the well-being of the students was always evident in the lives she touched. She was always students’ first.  In memory of Dorothy, this scholarship will be awarded to a student who inspires devotion to family and community. The Poland family and community, in partnership with the Oscoda Education Opportunity Foundation have established the Dorothy Poland Memorial Scholarship as an ongoing tribute to and a legacy of their service. It will continue to provide educational opportunities for our students in the future.

 

Oscoda 70’s Alumni Reunion Scholarship

The 70’s Alumni is a group of alumni who get together for a reunion periodically. As they grew and continued to meet, they decided to offer a scholarship to help deserving Oscoda High School graduates attend college.

 

Mary Reitler Memorial Scholarship

Mary Reitler was a force to be reckoned with! Fueled by her deep faith and abiding love for her family, Mary’s countless friendships and tireless community service made the world around her a much better place! Graduating with the Oscoda High School’s class of 1967, Mary went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Michigan State University and a Master’s in Counseling from Central Michigan University. She served Oscoda Area Schools as Special Education Teacher and Principal for a combined 34 years. Mary’s professional acclaim includes the Principal of the Year Award from the Michigan Association of Student Councils, and various other distinctions from local and state education organizations. Mary Reitler’s Community Service reputation is second to none, holding more positions than can accurately be listed here, but includes: Oscoda Rotary Club (serving many terms as president and several state board and committee positions), OAS School Board, FISH, Downtown Beautification, AAA Credit Union Board, and many ministries as an active member at Sacred Heart Church! It is not a stretch to say that Mary served powerfully enough in her own community to make a difference worldwide.  The myriad of individuals whose personal lives Mary touched with her service and friendship know that her power came not as much from what she did, but who she was from the inside out. Her students and staff, community partners, friends and others whom she reached will long remember her service, her smile, her friendship and her powerful impact on their lives. To that end Mary’s family and community, in partnership with the Oscoda Education Opportunity Foundation have established the Mary Reitler Memorial Scholarship as an ongoing tribute to and a legacy of her service. It will continue to provide educational opportunities into the future.

 

Sandra and William Ross Memorial Scholarship

The Ross family and friends established this scholarship.  Sandra studied education at Albion College with a degree in education.  After graduating with her education degree, she worked at Oscoda Area Schools for many years as a teacher and assistant principal before retiring in 2001. Bill graduated with a degree in Business Administration from West Virginia Wesleyan College and moved to Oscoda in the mid 1960’s. For more than 30 years he primarily taught history to 8th graders. They met in 1967 in Oscoda and were married in 1968. Sandra was a member of the Oscoda downtown beautifications committee and she enjoyed flowers. Bill loved hunting and fishing.  They both enjoyed reading and playing with their grandchildren.  In his younger years he played the trumpet in a jazz band.  This scholarship is for graduates who like the outdoors and studying music, Business or Education.

 

RETURNING SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2026

 

​​The AuSable Trail Riders Scholarship: This scholarship was founded in 1993. The Association provides a place for those who love to ride their snowmobiles, ORV's and ATV's and a place to meet with other people of like mind. They primarily cover Iosco and Alcona Counties, work closely with Parks & Recreation, Local Townships, and Law Enforcement, they are based in the Oscoda-AuSable Townships area and AVTR members work through the year to maintain, clear, replace signs, and in general improve the trail conditions so that everyone can enjoy these wonderful resources. ​

 

Robert and Marilyn Bacon Memorial Scholarship: The family of Mr. and Mrs. Bacon offer this scholarship to honor the memory of their parents, whose 57 years of marriage celebrated their passionate dedication to their family, knitting together unique loving relationships with each of their five children. Enduring friendships and community service were also important to the Bacons. A career educator who served as teacher, coach, and principal in Traverse City and other communities, Robert retired from Oscoda Area Schools after serving 13 years as OHS Principal from June 1973 to June 1986.  Marilyn volunteered for over 30 years at Tawas Hospital! Their teamwork extended to their avid enthusiasm as Michigan State University fans, and they both enjoyed golf. 

 

Bartos Family Opportunity Scholarship: The Bartos family, formerly from Glennie, has three proud OHS alumni (classes of '77, '79, and '81).  It is their hope that offering this scholarship will assist a graduating senior to build on their OHS experience with a college education. 

  

Charlotte Bollinger Science Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship was initiated with the specific intention to aid students that are pursuing careers in non-engineering Science fields. Mrs. Bollinger was a well-loved teacher at OHS for 20 years, beginning her career as a long-term substitute teacher prior to getting a full-time position. She earned a BA from Indiana University and her MA from SVSU. She taught a variety of high school science classes grades 9 through 12 and retired in 2009. In addition to her dedication to the classroom, she spent many after-school hours coaching students in Science Olympiad and accompanying them to area competitions. She continued teaching after her retirement at Alpena Community College. 

 

Hedy and Stan Boro Vocational Scholarship: Established in memory of Hedy and Stan Boro of Greenbush, this vocational scholarship has been made available for graduating seniors in the Oscoda Area Schools pursuing a career in technical vocations.  Based on need, merit, and high school attendance, this award will be granted to a student who has been accepted into a program of study in an established vocational/technical program.  This is an award of up to $2,000 for a program of study of up to two years. Disbursement may be customized to the student’s program.  Students will receive payment as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and an excellent attendance record while in the program. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

 

Peter F. Bovan Athletic Scholarship: As an educator, mentor, coach and friend, Peter Bovan made his mark on the hearts of his students, teams, fellow staff, and community.  Teaching here for 34 years, Pete coached overlapping generations of students in football, Softball, Wrestling, and was instrumental in the formation of the Colts Youth Football program. The Bovan Family, in partnership with the Foundation, has established the Peter F. Bovan Athletic Fund, from which this scholarship is being offered this year. It will benefit an Owl student athlete who exemplifies coach Bovan’s passion and participation as an Oscoda Owl!

 

Herb and Dee Cunningham Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship honors Herbert C. and Dee A. Cunningham. Herbert was active in community service through membership on the County Board of Commissioners and as trustee and President of the Oscoda Area Schools Board of Education. Dee had a special place in her heart for children.  She began the “Christian Women in Action” program which supported children and their families throughout the community.

 

Harold Davenport Memorial Scholarship: Mr. Davenport was a long-time teacher at Oscoda Area Schools. This scholarship has been established by the family and friends of Mr. Davenport as a tribute to his lifetime dedication to education, athletics, and community involvement. This scholarship is offered to students pursuing a career in education. In honor of Mr. Davenport's frequent tutoring of students in mathematics, preference will be given to applicants who worked hard and persevered to achieve their scholastic goals.

 

Linda V. Dean Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship was established by the Dean family to honor the legacy of Linda’s commitment of service to both the local community and to the Oscoda Area School system.  A resident of Oscoda for 37 years prior to her passing in 2015, she took great pride in giving back to organizations throughout the town and the county.  At one point, she served as the manager of the Au Sable – Oscoda Senior Center when the new center was built and dedicated in the early 1980s.  She chaired the community’s successful United Way campaign during the late 1980s.  As a proud contributor to Oscoda High School, she volunteered to be President of both the Sports Boosters and the Choral Boosters Clubs and was instrumental in their fund-raising activities for several years while her three children were attending high school.  As a multi-year member of the IRESA School Board, she helped plan and dedicate the current Technical Center in Tawas City.  Finally, in the early 1990s, she became a founding member of the Oscoda Educational Opportunity Foundation and its first president.  With her lifelong interest in public education, she would want this scholarship to be awarded to that student who has expressed a sincere desire to enter the field of public education. 

  

DiLoreto Memorial Scholarship: Offered in memory of Oscar and Josephine DiLoreto. Mrs. DiLoreto served many years on the Board of Education. Awarded to a student of high achievement for post-secondary (including vocational) education.  Award considerations include length of time in Oscoda Schools and financial needs of applicants.  College acceptance required with application. 

 

Lorraine Firebaugh Memorial Scholarship: Lorraine Firebaugh was a Kindergarten teacher for Oscoda Area Schools for 30 years.  She was dedicated to her students and loved by all. Her classroom was full of joyful students all the time. The family of Lorraine, in partnership with the Oscoda Education Opportunity Foundation has established this scholarship as an ongoing tribute to and a legacy of her service. It will continue to provide educational opportunities for Oscoda students.

 

Karolyn Gordon Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship was established by the Gordon family in memory of Karolyn Gordon. She taught Social Studies, Government and History at Oscoda High School for many years This scholarship is geared toward students who plan to study in the fields of education, social studies, social studies or government.  To that end Karolyn’s family, in partnership with the Oscoda Education Opportunity Foundation have established the Karolyn Gordon Memorial Scholarship as an ongoing tribute to and a legacy of her service. It will continue to provide educational opportunities for Oscoda students.

 

Robert D. Hodges Memorial Scholarship: The Robert D. Hodges scholarship has been established by the family and friends of Mr. Hodges as a tribute to an enduring career spent entirely in Oscoda Area Schools! Serving as Teacher, Bus Driver, Coach, and in various administrative positions, Bob retired as Superintendent in 1991, having powerfully influenced the lives and educations of generations of students and staff. Shortly thereafter, the newly renovated athletic complex was dedicated in his honor. He also served his community by being involved with numerous local boards, committees, and civic activities during his years in Oscoda. This scholarship will be awarded to a student attending a two or four-year college or vocational program. The family of Robert, in partnership with the Oscoda Education Opportunity Foundation, has established this scholarship as an ongoing tribute to and a legacy of his service. It will continue to provide educational opportunities for Oscoda students.

 

Patsy Lee Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship is offered in memory of Patsy Lee whose many years of service to our community included positions as elementary teacher, school board and helpful member of many civic organizations and committees. This award is for a graduating senior pursuing a career in elementary education.

 

Oscoda Lions Scholarships: In partnership with the Foundation, these generous community groups provide funds to award scholarships to students excelling in community service. 

 

Barbara London Health Occupations Scholarship: Established by the London family in memory of Barbara London, who spent her nursing career in this community.  Awarded to a graduating senior pursuing a career in health occupations, with preference given to nursing applicants.  Based on a student's need and merit.  Funds dispersed after notification from college of student's acceptance into the nursing (or other named and accredited medical studies) program--usually 1 but up to 2 years after graduation. 

 

Duane London Memorial Scholarship: Established by the London family in memory of Duane London, who served as an educator and administrator in Oscoda Area Schools.  Offered to graduating seniors pursuing a career as an educator. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

  

Tony Lopez Memorial Scholarship: Anthony (Tony) Lopez was a dedicated and passionate educator, coach and leader at Oscoda Area Schools. Tony taught health, PE, and social studies in addition to coaching football and wrestling for 25 years. Tony was named The Michigan Wrestling Association Regional Coach of the Year four times and earned over 300 dual meet wins as Oscoda’s varsity wrestling coach. He influenced hundreds of athletes and students in and around Oscoda with positivity and enthusiasm. This scholarship will be awarded to a student whose application demonstrates an understanding of the importance of leadership in school and community activities.

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Christopher Manick Memorial Scholarship: Chris was a dedicated teacher and coach in Oscoda Area Schools for 10 years. This scholarship has been established as a tribute to his dedication to education, athletics, and his students. His goal was for his school kids to be successful not only in the classroom or on the court, but also in life. Family was one of the most important things to Chris and his goal for his own children was for them to pursue their dreams and get an education. The intent of this scholarship is to help others achieve a post-secondary education. We are looking for students that share his dedication and passion for not only bettering their lives, but also the lives of those around them.

 

Mark Negro Vocational Scholarship: Mark Negro was a 2006 OHS graduate whose high school days were filled with friends, family, athletics, and participation in many other activities in and out of school. He enjoyed the "hands on" experience of the Building Trades program, and after high school studied small engine repair, advancing his skills and interest in servicing the equipment he was known to love.  This scholarship represents the affection of his family and his entire community who choose to honor his memory with their generosity. It will assist an OHS graduate to pursue Mark's shared dream of learning and working in the vocational areas of Building Trades or Mechanics.

 

Oscoda Rotary Scholarship: Rotary is comprised of 1.2 million members who are business and professional leaders that volunteer in their communities and promote world understanding and peace.  Rotary clubs carry out humanitarian projects to address such issues as poverty, health, hunger, education, and the environment.  The Rotary Club of Oscoda is awarding a $500 scholarship to a deserving senior pursuing post-secondary education in any of the areas of service/focus on which Rotary was founded and continues to support through the Rotary Foundation: Disease Prevention and Treatment; Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution; Water and Sanitation; Maternal and Child Health; Basic Education and Literacy and Economic and Community Development. 

 

OEOF Scholarship: The OEOF Board chooses graduating seniors of distinction whose scholarship applications set them apart as especially deserving for their drive, enthusiasm, and service. and/or achievement. It is our hope that this award will springboard their education into future opportunities.

 

David Ostrander Memorial Scholarship: “Big Dave” Ostrander was a big man with a big heart! As an entrepreneur (and owner of Big Dave’s pizzeria for 25 years), a consultant and mentor to those in the restaurant business, and a volunteer fireman, Dave’s generosity touched countless lives at home and abroad. To honor his many years of service and success, the family, friends, and associates to whom Dave was the closest have established a scholarship dedicated to his legacy. This scholarship will be awarded to a deserving Oscoda graduate pursuing a career they really feel fits them. Eligible applicants will be accepted into a program which is either vocational training or an academic degree at an accredited two- or four-year college.

 

Robert G. Pack Memorial Scholarship: Established by friends and family of Mr. Pack in celebration of his 80th birthday. 

  

Platteborze Family STEM Scholarship: Peter Platteborze, PhD. OHS class of 1986 and retired US Army biochemist, is initiation the Platteborze Family STEM Scholarship this year to honor the teaching career of his father, Mr. Leonard Platteborze, who taught for over 30 years, mostly in Oscoda Area Schools’ Social Studies Department. The younger Platteborze, currently an Associate Professor at St. Mary’s University in SanAntonio, Texas, attributes some of the success he has had experienced in the physical sciences fields to the education he received at OHS and would like to help a deserving graduate continue their education. The STEM scholarship will be awarded to a student of high achievement pursuing education and a career in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering and/or Mathematics.

 

Diane Pippin Memorial Athletic Scholarship: Diane Pippin's family and friends offer this scholarship in her memory as a tribute to her unending support in our school and community. She was an inspiration to many with her tireless energy and enthusiasm.  This scholarship is for athletes who play two sports. 

Ashley Scott Memorial Scholarship: Ashley Nichole Scott (Class of 2011) exemplified the spirit of Oscoda Area School Athletics.  Her fierce competition, rugged physical stamina, loyal teamwork, and unending school spirit in Volleyball, Basketball, and Softball were a constant inspiration to her teammates, her school, and her community.  In memory of Ashley, this scholarship will be awarded to an athlete who’s personal and team experiences reflect the attributes of sportsmanship which she practiced, played, and lived. 

 

John and Rose Tabarco Memorial Scholarship: John and Rose Tabarco were local residents who committed their life savings to benefit the continued education of local students.  It was the wish of Mr. and Mrs. Tabarco that their estate be used to further the education of local students who demonstrate high academic achievement, top 20% of the class, and significant financial need. This year’s Tabarco Scholarship is an award of up to $10,000 renewable through up to four years of college as long as the winner(s) maintain(s) eligibility. Scholarship payments are generally made twice per school year for fall and winter semesters.

 

Jeanne Taubitz Memorial Scholarship: Jeanne Taubitz was a well-known music teacher in the Greenbush and Oscoda area for many years. “Mrs. T., the Music Lady” is a name that is still recognized by many Oscoda Alumni.   She had children, grandchildren and great grandchildren that were Oscoda graduates.   Mrs. Taubitz valued hard work and those who tried their best to achieve their goals. We honor her by providing a scholarship for a student who needs financial assistance and has a strong work ethic   That work ethic, a minimum 3.0 GPA and a desire to succeed in their chosen field are considerations for this award.  Those pursuing a career in music or English education will be given preference. 

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​Taubitz Family Scholarship: The Taubitz family has lived in the Greenbush / Cedar Lake area since the early 1950's with three generations graduating from Oscoda Area Schools.  Notably, Tony Ommani, the OHS school board President for the past ten years, and Michael Taubitz who has been inducted into the OHS Sports and Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame are family members. This scholarship will be given to a student who displays the will to achieve and persevere to attain their goals. Special attention will be given to those who will be studying entrepreneurship and/or business.  Volunteers, students who give back to their community, church, school clubs and organizations, etc., will also be given special consideration.