The SJPS Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to announce its 2025 Foundation Scholarship Recipients. Each student has been awarded a $5,000 college scholarship to be used for tuition, fees, books and on-campus housing. Chaired by a Foundation Board member, each scholarship committee is composed of community members who review each application and determine applicants to interview. Selection is a difficult task as each candidate has strengths and worthy attributes. A reception will be held at the high school for scholarship benefactors, students and their families.
Sam Abdelnour, President of the SJPS Foundation commented, “our scholarship program has grown to $55,000 for each graduating class of St. Joseph High School. Awards are funded by individual donors who care deeply about SJPS students and their futures.” Abdelnour also emphasized that in addition to its scholarship offerings, the Foundation raises funds to enrich the education of students in the St. Joseph Public Schools district. In 2024, the Foundation awarded over $1 Million to the district in support of academic initiatives.
Edward J. Todd, a 1954 St. Joe Alumni wished to honor the memory of his mother and stepfather, Paul and Rose Suchovsky, by establishing this scholarship for St. Joseph High School seniors pursuing a college degree in the field of business, engineering or law. Paul and Rose Suchovsky were business people and entrepreneurs who appreciated the important role business plays in building communities and providing opportunities. Six, $5000 scholarships are awarded annually.
Olivia Harris Mariah Jhala Alexandra Reyes
University of Michigan University of Michigan University of Michigan
Charly Shell Jason Wright AveryValenti
University of Kentucky Calvin University University of Tennessee
The Yeager Family Foundation has established a $5,000 scholarship to help assist graduating seniors from St. Joseph High School who wish to further their education by attending college. As longtime members of the community, the Yeagers would like to recognize students who have displayed a passion for learning, have a desire to succeed, and who want to build on the foundation that they received through the St. Joseph Public Schools.
2025 Yeager Family Foundation Scholarship Recipient
Chloe Jennings
Emory University
Dr. Gyl Kasewurm wishes to honor her friend and mentor, William (Bill) Marohn, by establishing this scholarship to assist graduating seniors from St. Joseph High School who wish to pursue a college degree. As a man of exceptional character and a highly regarded community leader, Bill has served as a mentor for many friends and colleagues over the course of his lifetime. The Bill Marohn Leadership Scholarship will recognize student leaders who demonstrate impeccable character, kindness and leadership skills.
Cole Caplea
Indiana University
The Abdelnour Family has established a scholarship to assist graduating seniors from St. Joseph High School who wish to further their education by attending college. Sam and Anna Abdelnour have a long history of service to others in the community. Their experience has personally enriched their lives, and they wish to recognize students who exhibit the spirit of volunteerism. The recipient of this scholarship will demonstrate a wide range of community involvement and display sincerity and passion for giving to others.
Elizabeth Fisbeck
Rochester Institute of
Technology
The SJPSF Health & Education Scholarship was established by Jim Darnton and his Family. Diane Darnton, a nurse, was an active school parent when her children Hannah and Luke were students in the St. Joseph Public Schools. She volunteered in the library at E.P. Clarke, and led the Junior Great Books Club with Becky Foster.
A tragic spring break accident left Diane a quadriplegic while the Darnton kids were in high school. Diane’s husband Jim will never forget the outpouring of care for his family from the SJPS Family after this life altering event. Diane recently passed away, but the family would like to continue her legacy by assisting a student pursuing a career in healthcare or education.
Braden Miesse
University of Michigan
The Mattox Williams Legacy Scholarship was established by The Williams Family and the Hoops for Hope Foundation. It honors Mattox’s extraordinary life and enduring legacy. A bright, athletic and compassionate individual, Mattox was a dedicated advocate for pediatric cancer patients, their caregivers, and medical professionals—all while courageously battling cancer. His passion, resilience and generosity continue to inspire and uplift others, leaving a lasting impact on those who follow in his footsteps.
This scholarship is dedicated to honoring the memory of Mattox Williams and seeks to support students who exemplify leadership and kindness and who plan to further their education in a field dedicated to making a positive impact.
Rachel Cox
University of Michigan
