Donors who wish to build a legacy around education have established scholarship funds with The Columbia Foundation, Howard County’s community foundation, for Howard County public high school seniors to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities and training or technical schools. Congratulations to this year’s winners:

Ascend One Scholarship: Keith Richard from Howard High School
Robert J. Gaw Memorial Scholarship: Christine Wirth of Hammond High School
Howard T. Carolan, Jr. HCYP Scholarship: Michael Atlas, Glenelg High School
Mike Chang Sunshine Scholarship: Colin McKevitt of Hammond High School
Freeman K. Hill Scholarship: Laura S. Huaman Ayala of Wilde Lake High School
Bob Kittleman Scholarship: Afton Vechery of Glenelg High School
Ernesto Phillips Scholarship for Talented Youth: Wossen Ayele of Atholton High School
Stephanie Russel Scholarship: Roxanne Bublitz of Hammond High School
Stillman Scholarship: Lauren McCarthy of Atholton High School
Tropf Family Scholarship: Gabriela Bob of Wilde Lake High School, Jeddalyn Puzon of Long Reach High School, Jennifer Thorne of Oakland Mills High School and Lisa Tom of Atholton High School.

Each scholarship has its own application and criteria as determined by the individual or family establishing the fund. The Foundation sends applications to high school guidance counselors and a committee of board members and community leaders makes the final selection for each cash award.

Donors often create scholarships in memory or in honor of loved ones, or as a way to encourage study in a particular field such as engineering. They frequently build their funds over the years by having friends and family contribute to it in lieu of gifts for special occasions.

Founded in 1969, the Foundation has awarded nearly $9 million in grants to Howard County nonprofit organizations delivering human service, arts and cultural, educational and civic programs. Money for the grant programs comes primarily from income generated by the Foundation’s endowment supported by over 200 funds established by Howard County businesses, families and individuals. For more information on The Columbia Foundation, visit www.columbiafoundation.org or call 410-730-7840.