By Stephen Floyd
For the last quarter century, the Mt. Angel Community Foundation has awarded more than 100 college scholarships to local high school graduates through nearly $1 million in community donations.
To commemorate the 25th year of this program, the foundation is holding a fundraiser June 26 at the Festhalle to celebrate the successes of past scholars and establish a new endowment specific to students seeking technical degrees.
Foundation president Lori Pavlicek said all supporters are invited to attend and help raise funds for the new endowment, as well as listen to the stories of past recipients who went on to meaningful careers.
“Many past winners, along with their parents, will be joining us for a fun and relaxing evening,” said Pavlicek in a letter to donors. “We are hoping you can join us as well.”
During the years of awarding scholarships, Pavlicek said an increasing number of people have asked if the funds could be used for career and technical education (CTE) degrees, typically two-year programs focusing on trades such as construction, engineering, cosmetology and auto repair. Because CTE degrees have become a popular career path for local students, the foundation has begun raising funds for an endowment of $100,000 to annually award one $1,500 scholarship, though funds raised in excess of that goal could support additional awards.
The endowment is already off to a strong start, with a $50,000 donation from the William Annen Family Foundation, which has supported previous Mt. Angel Community Foundation projects including construction of the Festhalle in 2011. In recognition of this support, the award will be named the William Annen Family Foundation – Mt. Angel Community Foundation CTE Scholarship.
Those interested in supporting the new endowment may attend the June 26 dinner, scheduled for 4 p.m. Tickets, $12 per person, will be available at the door or may be reserved in advance by mail at Mt. Angel Community Foundation, PO Box 881, Mt. Angel. Supporters may also donate directly to the foundation.
Mt. Angel Community Foundation 25th Year Dinner
Sunday, June 26, 4 p.m.
Mount Angel Festhalle,
500 Wilco Hwy. NE, Mount Angel
$12 per person, available at door
