New Scholarships for 2023

​

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 “Christiann Women in Action” program which supported children and their families throughout the community. This scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and an upcoming schedule.

 

Mary E. Snyder Scholarship:

As a tribute to Mary Snyder’s unending support of education and OAS swimming programs, donations in Mary’s memory will support a scholarship to benefit athletes planning to swim in their post-graduation education (while enrolled in an accredited academic program). Alternate future use of funds may also benefit OAS swimming programs and their participants.  This scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and an upcoming schedule.

​

Jeri-Lynne Richardson Memorial Scholarship:

Jeri-Lynne Richardson was a career educator who spent most of that career serving Oscoda Area Schools. Devoting many years to educating students with special needs, Jeri-Lynne also served as the district’s Director of Special Education. She was an active member of the Oscoda community with countless hours of volunteer service and friendly hospitality. This scholarship in memory of Jeri-Lynne will continue her legacy of service and education to benefit a graduate of the class of 2023. This scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and an upcoming schedule.

​

Thom Grant Memorial Scholarship:

Oscoda native Thom Grant taught Elementary and Special Education at Oscoda Area Schools for 28 years. After his retirement he continued to make a difference as a state mediator for 15 years. A master gardener and accomplished artist, Thom enjoyed his home garden and building projects and travelling as part of the Sunrise Side Lifelong Learners Club. With his wife Ruth, Thom loved spending time with their grandchildren. This scholarship is available to benefit a graduate of the class of 2023, preferably one pursuing a career as an educator. This scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and an upcoming schedule.

​

William Kellan Memorial Scholarship:

William L. (Bill) Kellan was introduced to Oscoda when he was stationed at Wurtsmith Air Force Base. After completing his military service Bill served many years in the Federal Government Civil Service including 25 years back in Oscoda. He also worked in Real Estate. Bill enjoyed golfing, ice fishing, boating and relaxing at home on Van Ettan Lake.  Bill and his wife Sylvia are the proud parents of three successful OHS alumni. Their family and friends have made this scholarship available to benefit a graduate of the class of 2023.  This scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and an upcoming schedule.

​

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.  This scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and an upcoming schedule.

​

2023  Returning Scholarships

​

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 whose personal and team experiences reflect the attributes of sportsmanship which she practiced, played, and lived. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

Alex and Alice Haglund Family Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship, established by family and friends, is to encourage a deserving OHS graduate to pursue their educational goal. The successful applicant will have maintained a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 with preference given to a science or math major.  Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

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.  Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

Bartos Family Opportunity Scholarship: The Bartos family, formerly of 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. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

Char 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 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 in 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. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

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 in the Restaurant and/or Hotel Management Industries. Eligible applicants will be accepted into a program which is either vocational training (such as a Chef or Culinary Arts certificate program) or an academic degree at an accredited two or four year college. Funds will be paid upon acceptance into such a specific program. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule. 

​

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 and have a 3.1 or higher GPA. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

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. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

Dr. John Meyer Memorial Scholarship: Established by the Meyer family in memory of "Dr. John" who spent his entire career in education. This scholarship is offered in his memory to a graduating senior pursuing a career in education and will be based on the student's merit and need.

​

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.

​

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 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.

​

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. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

John and Rose Tobarco 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.

​

Lions Scholarships: In partnership with the Foundation, these generous community groups provide funds to award scholarships to students excelling in community service.  Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

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 to 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. This scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and an upcoming schedule.

​

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.

​

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.  Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

Mary J. Niedergall Memorial Scholarship:  Established by the six Niedergall daughters in tribute to their mother's support in their academic and athletic aspirations.  Reflecting Mary’s dedication, responsibility, successful applicants for this award must have a 3.00 or higher overall GPA and be involved in school activities or organizations.  Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

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. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

Robert D. Hodges Memorial Scholarship has been established by the family and friends of Mr. Hodges as 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. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

Robert G. Pack Memorial Scholarship: Established by friends and family of Mr. Pack in celebration of his 80th birthday. Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

Oscoda Area United Way Scholarship:  Oscoda Area United Way believes that everyone deserves a quality education, a family-sustaining income and good health. As part of our mission, we are offering a scholarship to a deserving graduating senior.  This scholarship will be awarded based on a combination of Community Service, GPA and financial need.  Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​

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.  Scholarship is paid after proof of successful completion of one semester of college or trade school and upcoming schedule.

​