COLUMBUS — The Columbus community made a powerful investment in its students this year as the Columbus Education Foundation (CEF) helped facilitate 42 scholarship awards totaling a record $150,500 for Columbus High School seniors. The total included scholarships funded directly through CEF as well as awards the foundation administered on behalf of community donors, memorial funds and partner organizations.
The milestone reflects more than financial sup port. It speaks to the commitment of local families, donors, volunteers and educators who continue to rally behind Columbus students as they prepare for life after graduation. From college classrooms to trade school programs, this year’s recipients will carry that hometown support with them into the next chapter.
Heather Thomas, a CEF board member, said the re- cord-setting year reflects the heart of the community. “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of donors, volunteers and dedicated supporters, CEF has helped administer a record number of scholarship awards this year,” Thomas said. “These scholarships are truly transformative for our local high school students. They help remove financial barriers, open doors to trade schools, colleges and universities, and empower young people in our community to pursue their dreams.”
All applications were reviewed by the CISD teacher committee to select award recipients. Thomas also recognized CHS teacher and scholarship coordinator Amy Venghaus for helping guide students through the process.
For Columbus, the annual scholarship awards are about more than dollars raised — they are a reminder of what a small community can accomplish when it comes together to invest in its next generation.
Along with the CEF Foundation, other contributors are Don H. Morrison Memorial Trade School Scholarship, Cyde A. Werland Memorial Trade School Scholarship, Columbus Christian Women’s Organization, Dr. Luther Street Memorial Scholarship, Martin Williams, Jr., Memorial Scholarship, Leftwich Family Mental Health/Healthcare/Trade School Scholarship, First Financial Group of America- Trade School and Urban and Elizabeth Burtchell Memorial. Emmett and Illian Kveton Foundation Scholarship, Leion and Beatrice Obenhaus Grodhaus and W.H. Miekow Education Foundation.
In total, 29 additional scholarhips were given out to deserving students of CISD.
