Scholarships

Our scholarship program is exclusively for graduating seniors from Stow-Munroe Falls High School. Good luck and Go Bulldogs!

Dr. Leo (Doc) Kline Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established to honor Dr. Leo “Doc” Kline and his lifetime of giving back to the community. Though he spent 55 years caring for animals and their owners as a practicing veterinarian, he believed the best way to build a community was by investing in its youth. He left his mark as a coach for both youth and high school basketball programs. By helping to create the Stow Youth Baseball (SYB) Hall and fields, He gave kids the opportunity to pursue their love of the game he so cherished.

This scholarship is a way to continue providing the kind of opportunities Doc dedicated his life to giving.

Catherine Galay Menapace Memorial Scholarship

Gifted with a marvelous intellect and a profound love of learning inherited from immigrant Ukranian parents, Catherine Galay Menapace was the first in her extended family to attend college. She graduated from Kent State and taught in Ohio high schools for twelve years. When her own children entered Holy Family and Stow High, Kay vigorously supported both schools, attending countless meetings as a tireless advocate of a quality education for all students. This scholarship was established in her honor by her husband, family and friends.

ELIGIBILITY:

You must be a Stow-Munroe Falls graduating senior who demonstrates a desire and ability to further one’s education. Financial need will be a consideration. A student who would be the first in his or her immediate family to attend college may also be a consideration

Class of 1948 Scholarship

71 years after they graduated, the 1948 classmates join together to honor their deceased members and praise their school. They received a solid education, whether they went to work or on to college.

You must be a Stow-Munroe Falls graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities of leadership, compassion, character and scholarship need

Dorothy L. Kistler Music Scholarship

With an exceptional aptitude and ear for music shown at an early age, Dorothy L. Kistler throughout her lifetime shared her gift with family and friends and instilled a love and appreciation for music in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

– The recipient must have demonstrated superior talent in music, and intends to pursue music as a career (as a musician, teacher or music related position.)
– The scholarship is to go to a post secondary institution that the student will attend in furtherance of such pursuit. Financial need should be a consideration.

Horn Family Scholarship

The Horn Scholarship was the first trust established with the Stow Schools Foundation in 1988. It set an example for other funding to honor and remember significant people and accomplishments in the form of scholarships to be granted to the students of the Stow-Munroe Falls school system. The Horn Scholarship is funded by Ed and Pat Barr in honor of Pat’s parents, Merle and Marcella Horn.

ELIGIBILITY: Candidate must be a graduating senior who has demonstrated exemplary qualities in service, scholarship, leadership and character.

I.O. and Mary Frances Forbs Adams Scholarship

This scholarship was established in September 2000 to honor Mary Frances Forbs Adams. Mrs. Adams was a woman of strong spirituality who, having no children of her own, wished to use her worldly goods to improve the lives of God’s children.

The scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating senior from the Stow-Munroe Falls High School who meets the following criteria:

Attained an accumulated grade point average of at least 2.50
Demonstrated a commitment to developing their intellectual, social and spiritual potential
Has earned a reputation for being honest, kind, moral and socially responsible
Will attend an accredited college or university in pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree
The scholarship is open to any major field of study

James and Ida VanGilder Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is named for Jim VanGilder who served as the Principal of the Stow-Munroe Falls High School for twelve years. Mr. VanGilder was also the Director of Personnel and Staff Development for fourteen years and retired in 1992 after 40 years of service in public education. Jim’s wife, Ida, was his strongest supporter and gave him constant encouragement.

Jim and Ida wish this scholarship to go to a Stow-Munroe Falls graduate who plans to attend a four-year college or university. The scholarship is open to any major field of study.

The criteria for this scholarship is improvement in the student’s last three years in at least two of these areas: attendance, attitude, academics and school involvement.

Norma L. Watkins Scholarship

In 1947, Norma began her career in business. Starting out as a pioneer for women in business, she dedicated her life to one employer and continues today as one of their most valued assets. She has been honored by the Who’s Who of American Women and was previously active in the Business/Professional Women of Stow.

This scholarship is given to a female high school senior who desires to seek a career in business.

Paul and Mildred Underwood Memorial Scholarship

Paul and Mildred Underwood were residents of Cuyahoga Falls. While they had no children of their own, the Underwoods loved children and made arrangements to benefit children from their estates. Paul died in 1983 at the age of 85 and Mildred died in 1997 at the age of 94. Both were extraordinary professionals who dedicated their lives to their families, their work, professional associations and to the community. The Underwoods established and operated a successful typesetting business in the Akron area. They served the community through the City Council, Lions Club, Masonic Order, Eastern Star and the Business Woman’s Professional Organization.

Eligibility
You must be a graduating senior with the following qualifications:
– Pursue a four year undergraduate degree.
– Must have a 2.5 GPA or higher
– Must have been active in school and community.

Robert and Barbara Kerscher Scholarship

Robert Kerscher was a long-time trustee at Ohio Northern University. To be eligible for this scholarship, a student must be planning to enroll at Ohio Northern University.
The scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating senior from the Stow-Munroe Falls High School who meets the following criteria:

– Attained an accumulated grade point average of at least 2.50
– Demonstrated a commitment to developing their intellectual, and social potential
– Has earned a reputation for being honest, kind, moral and socially responsible
– Will attend an accredited college or university in pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree
– The scholarship is open to any major field of study.

Stow Schools Foundation At-Large

This scholarship recognizes students who have worked hard to achieve their academic and career goals.

Other factors considered will be:

(1) contribution to high school through extra-curricular activities, service, and leadership

(2) part-time work

(3) family and financial factors

Susan Martucci Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2017 to honor Susan Martucci. Mrs. Martucci served the Stow-Munroe Falls School District for many years as a teacher and administrator. She also served on the board of the Stow Schools Foundation.
The scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating senior from the Stow-Munroe Falls High School who meets the following criteria:

– Attained an accumulated grade point average of at least 2.50
– Demonstrated a commitment to developing their intellectual, and social potential
– Has earned a reputation for being honest, kind, moral and socially responsible
– Will attend an accredited college or university in pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree
– The scholarship is open to any major field of study.

Stow Teachers Association Scholarship

The Stow Teachers Association is the professional organization representing all certificated/licensed teaching positions in the Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools District. This scholarship is intended to support graduating Stow-Munroe Falls students who plan to enter the teaching profession. May require an interview

Terry Wysmirski Memorial Scholarship

This $500 scholarship was funded by the Wysmierski family in memory of their mother, Terry Wysmierski. She worked for the Stow School system for over 30 years. She had a passion for helping students in need and encouraging them to pursue their education to the next level.
You must be a graduating senior of Stow-Munroe Falls High School.

Haley A. Hopkins Memorial Scholarship

Haley was a student of the graduating class of 2012 from Stow-Munroe Falls High School. She was a four-year member of the soccer and lacrosse teams earning various accolades throughout her high school career. Haley was a percussionist in the band for four years serving as a squad and section leader for one year. She was an avid artist taking AP Art and continued her drawing well after high school. Her community service primarily stemmed from being active in her church through the youth program and various outreach programs. She valued spreading a positive message through music also sang in the youth choir and played in the hand bell choir at church.

Haley continued her passion for soccer and lacrosse for two years at North Carolina Wesleyan College in Rocky Mount, NC before transferring back to the University to pursue the major of study she wanted. We lost Haley in a tragic accident by the hands of a drunk driver on July 31st, 2015. This scholarship has been set up with money donated to the family. Haley was someone who always wanted to help her friends when in need, so we feel honored to be able to continue her efforts in helping others as they find their way into college.

The applicant must:

Be a Stow or Munroe Falls resident
Be a graduating senior at SMFHS
Attend a college or associate degree program in the United States.
Be an athlete, preferrable in two sports.
Be involved in music such as band, orchestra, and/or choir
Be active in the community via Church or non-profit organization.

The James P. and Johann L. Banks Scholarship

This scholarship was established in June 2000 by the Stow-Munroe Falls Rotary Club to honor James P. Banks and his wife Johann L. Banks. Mr. and Mrs. Banks moved to Stow from Cuyahoga Falls in 1975 and become involved in the community through Rotary. Together, they humbly dedicated their lives to “service above self,” and believed one must act with integrity, serve with love, and work for peace.

James P. Banks was a gifted communicator, had a wonderful sense of humor, and an extraordinary sense of compassion. His warmth and kindness inspired and touched the hearts of all who knew him. For 22 years, Jim served as director of development for higher education institutions including Ohio University, Case Western Reserve University, and the University of Akron. Mr. Banks coordinated the 1970 Centennial Campaign to generate ten million dollars to build the University of Akron’s E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall. He served as a trustee and past president the following organizations: Family Services of Summit County, United Disability Services, Associated Health Agencies, and the Hattie Larlham Foundation. He was a Rotarian for more than 40 years and founded or assisted in the chartering seven Rotary Clubs, including the Rotary Club of Stow-Munroe Falls. He was the past president of the Rotary Club of Cuyahoga Falls was awarded the Michael J. Johns Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.

Johann L. Banks was a lover of the arts, an accomplished gardener, and a dedicated volunteer. She enjoyed Akron Symphony concerts and served as president of the River Estates Garden Club in Cuyahoga Galls. She volunteered with the Food Cupboard at First Congregational Church of Akron and tutored individuals with disabilities at Weaver Industries. For many years, Johann was a member of PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization), helping to find ways to assist and support higher education for women.

Applicant must:

Be enrolled full time at SMFHS and be a resident of Stow or Munroe Falls, Ohio.
Attend the University of Akron and open to any major.

Tavern of Stow Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts Scholarship

Long time residents of Stow, Dan and Kerry Russo purchased the Tavern of Stow in 2017 inspired by their memories of growing up around family and authentic homemade food. They have built the Tavern of Stow into an establishment where families and friends gather; and as local business owners in a community they love, supporting both community and education has been their mission.

As restaurant owners, Dan and Kerry understand the importance of developing young service minded professionals to ensure great experiences continue to inspire others. Therefore, in keeping with their mission, they have created the Tavern of Stow Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts Scholarship.

GPA: 2.8 or above.

Rebecca Chilinski Memorial Scholarship

Rebecca Chilinski, a 2019 graduate of Stow Munroe Falls High School, displayed her artistic talents and creativity for all to see through her artwork. She wove deep meaning and passion into her work and was not afraid to reveal her innermost feelings. Becca’s desire to influence others through her artwork was evident and she aspired to work in a field that would allow her to pursue her creative aspirations. Becca’s family partnered with the Stow Schools Foundation in 2019 to honor her legacy by giving to others.

Applicant must:
- be enrolled full time at Stow Munroe Falls High School and be a resident of Stow or Munroe Falls, Ohio.
- have a cumulative high school GPA of 2.75 or greater.
- be enrolled in any accredited post-secondary institution.
- must major in a mental health career pathway or visual art career pathway

Steve Pierce Memorial Scholarship

The Steve Pierce Memorial Scholarship was created in honor of Mr. Pierce who passed away in March 2019. He was a graduate of Stow schools and an elementary art teacher at the beginning of his career in Stow. Later, he became the photography teacher at the High School. Mr. Pierce had many hobbies but his two lifetime passions were running and photography. Often he would combine the two and shoot race day photos at many of the local trail and road races. Mr. Pierce believed in and practiced kindness, leadership, determination and integrity. Two scholarships will be awarded, one to an art/photography student and one to a cross country runner, both of whom must be representative of these ideals above all.

Criteria for this scholarship are as follows:

Students must be a resident of Stow or Munroe Falls.
Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Students can apply either as a cross country athlete or as an art/photography student.

Cindy Jahn Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship memorializes Cindy Jahn, a beloved teacher at Stow-Munroe Falls for 20 years. Cindy taught English Literature, Drama, Yearbook, and directed musical productions for many years.

Not only did Cindy love teaching and following many of her students careers after graduation, she loved the theater. From her school days at Chagrin Falls, Adrian College and many community theaters, Cindy enjoyed performing, directing, and attending theatrical productions.

Students must be pursuing a career field related to music or theater to be considered for this scholarship.

George R. Garrison Jr. Memorial Scholarship

George R. Garrison, Jr. was a student of Stow Munroe Falls High School and was in the Class of 2006. He was an outstanding student and musician in the band. George was a person with a tremendous smile, and a wonderful sense of humor. He embraced the ideas of global citizenship, diversity, and respect for all. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating member of the senior class who embodies the following:

Applicant must be enrolled full time at Stow Munroe Falls High School.
Applicant must be a resident of Stow or Munroe Falls, Ohio.
Applicant must be enrolled in any accredited post-secondary institution.
Preference will be given to applicants who attend Kent State University or a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)
Preference will be given to applicants who major/minor in Pan-African, Africana, African American, or Black Studies; Peace and Conflict Studies; Music; and/or Education.

Joshua Richardson Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2020 to honor the life of Josh Richardson. Josh had a magnetic personality and a smile that would light up a room. Josh was a loyal friend and always saw the best in others. During his junior year Josh began to face a series of mental health issues and in the hope to find healing he attended multiple therapy programs. He willingly shared his experiences in an effort to erase the negative stigma of psychological disorders. This solidified his desire to pursue a career in psychology and neuroscience. Tragically these dreams were not fulfilled as his life ended abruptly while attending college in Florida. Josh has impacted so many lives and through this scholarship we want to assist students seeking to earn a degree in psychology, social work, or other field of study related to the research and provision of mental health services.

Criteria for the scholarship are as follows:

Students should be seeking to earn a degree in psychology, social work, or other field of study related to the research and provision of mental health services.
The scholarship will emphasize the applicant’s ability to seek professional help, resources, and bettering their emotional wellness.

Stow-Munroe Falls High School Alumni Association Scholarship

The Stow-Munroe Falls High School Alumni Association is organized exclusively to foster the spirit of fellowship and service among alumni of Stow-Munroe Falls High School for charitable and educational purposes. The mission of the Association if to promote the good name, image, and fellowship of Stow-Munroe Falls Hugh School, its students and graduates through social, community and scholarship opportunities. This is a need/merit-based scholarship.

Applicants must:

Be a graduating senior at Stow-Munroe Falls High School
Must attend a career-technical school, college, university, or associated degree program.

Kevin David Stillwell, Jr. Memorial Culinary Arts Scholarship

Kevin David Stillwell, Jr. graduated from Stow Munroe High School in 2000. He went on to a successful career in the culinary field until he was taken from this earth too suddenly in 2022. He had received a $500 scholarship to study culinary arts at Hocking College following his graduation, and the family has started this scholarship to help similar graduates in the same way.

The award is particularly designed to be given to a senior at SMFHS who works both at Joshua’s Restaurant and in an outside job in the food industry. The chosen applicant will:

Be a full-time student at SMFHS
Be accepted to an accredited post-secondary culinary arts program or equivalent.
Be a senior in the Culinary Arts Program at SMFHS.
Be currently employed in a hospitality field.
Be receive recommendation from a SMFHS culinary arts instructor.

Sara Logan Memorial Scholarship

Sara Logan dedicated her life to educating 4th-grade students at Indian Trail School for 35 years. Her passion for teaching began at an early age. She would gather the neighborhood children in her garage and practice teaching them lessons.

Ms. Logan spent her career instilling into her students a love of literature, appreciation of nature, compassion for all living things, critical thinking skills, knowing the difference between fact and opinion, memorized math facts, real history, and a thirst for lifelong learning.

She was a remarkable, gifted educator who left a lasting impression on those students lucky enough to be assigned to her classroom.

This scholarship is intended for a female who shares Ms. Logan’s passion for teaching or will be pursuing a science or engineering degree.

Advancing Education, Building Futures.