Scholarships on WSVA: Why and How to Start One with Ann and Lauren
The Community Foundation’s scholarship program was September’s focus with WSVA host Jim Britt. Ann Siciliano, director of programs services, and Lauren Jefferson, director of marketing and programs, talked about the rewards of starting a scholarship and how the funding can impact local residents, as well as donors.
The foundation offers 25 scholarships funding students in a variety of fields and interests, with several more in the process of development. In 2024, more than $265,000 was awarded to 44 recipients.
“We have scholarships for athletes, for students from different high schools, for students pursuing career paths in education and music, and for first generation students,” Siciliano said, adding that those are just a sample of the offerings.
About half the scholarships memorialize the life and legacy of a loved one – a situation which Jefferson says “can help with grieving and healing.” She speaks from experience: Two years ago, before joining the foundation, she helped to found a vocational education scholarship to commemorate her husband. The Ronnie Brunk Memorial Scholarship is available to adults pursuing specific courses at Massanutten Technical Center.
“Call us and talk to us, and tell us your dreams and your vision and we’ll work with you,” Siciliano said, emphasizing that families can be as involved as they’d like in the creation process and the ongoing awarding process.
