Centre Foundation Awards Nearly $550,000 in Scholarships to 232 Students

Donor-established scholarship funds help local students pursue higher education and turn their aspirations into meaningful careers. 

STATE COLLEGE, PA — Centre Foundation is proud to announce nearly $534,707. in scholarships and awards has been awarded in 2026 to 232 students attending 47 post-secondary institutions. Made possible through the generosity of donors who have established scholarship funds, these awards help students pursue their educational goals while easing the financial burden of higher education. 

Behind every scholarship is a story of generosity, and behind every recipient is a story of ambition, perseverance, and possibility. From future healthcare professionals to environmental scientists, this year’s scholarship recipients are preparing to make a difference in their communities and beyond. 

“Education opens doors, but for many talented students, the cost of walking through those doors can be a significant barrier,” said David Lieb, President and CEO of Centre Foundation. “Our scholarship donors are helping remove those barriers and giving students the opportunity to pursue their ambitions with greater confidence. What makes these scholarships so meaningful is that the impact extends far beyond the individual recipient. It’s an investment in the knowledge, talent, and leadership that will shape our communities for generations to come.” 

Protecting Our Natural World: Luke Ruoff 

For Luke Ruoff of Madisonburg, a passion for protecting the environment is shaping his future. A recipient of both the Virginia Higgins Suhey Scholarship and the State College Elks Lodge #1600 Scholarship, Luke will attend the University of Tampa to major in Marine Sciences–Biology, with the goal of pursuing a career in marine conservation. 

Luke hopes to work at the state or federal level, helping protect and preserve natural waterways and marine ecosystems for future generations. 

For him, the scholarships also provide meaningful financial relief. With five siblings and responsibility for funding his own college education, the awards will help make his academic aspirations more attainable. 

“I want to better our world through environmental protection by keeping our natural waterways safe and preserved,” Luke shared. “This scholarship will greatly lessen the financial burden of a college education, so I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity.” 

Through the generosity of the donors behind these two scholarship funds, Luke can take an important step toward a career dedicated to environmental stewardship. 

From Rural Pennsylvania to a Career in Medicine: Nora Eppley 

Growing up in rural Centre County, Nora Eppley of Bellefonte understood early that the cost of college could stand between her and her dream of becoming a physician. 

A recipient of the Rex G. McCloskey Memorial Scholarship Award, Nora will attend the University of Pittsburgh, where she plans to pursue a path toward a career in medicine, with the ultimate goal of becoming an eye doctor serving communities with limited access to healthcare. 

“Growing up in a rural area, the question of how to pay for school is always a burden on students’ minds,” Nora shared. “I am paying for college on my own, and even though I’ve wanted to pursue medicine all my life, the fear of debt almost stopped me from making that choice.” 

Nora’s determination extends well beyond the classroom. At Bald Eagle Area High School, she participated in Chief Science Officers, Botball, Mock Trial, and varsity volleyball, developing leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. An accomplished equestrian who has been riding since the age of four, she also credits the sport with teaching her discipline, resilience, and perseverance. 

For Nora, the scholarship represents more than financial assistance. It is an opportunity to pursue a career devoted to improving the lives of others. “Scholarships like the Rex G. McCloskey award will help me achieve my dreams in becoming an eye doctor and making a difference for those in underprivileged areas,” she said. 

The generosity behind the Rex G. McCloskey Memorial Scholarship Award is helping Nora move closer to that goal while carrying forward a commitment to service. 

Continuing a Tradition of Giving 

Each of Centre Foundation’s scholarship funds reflects the values, interests, and philanthropic vision of the individuals, families, and organizations who established them. Together, these funds create educational opportunities for students pursuing a wide range of academic disciplines and career paths. 

Centre Foundation’s scholarship application process begins each January, in close collaboration with local school districts and post-secondary institutions to ensure a thoughtful and equitable review. Each scholarship fund has its own eligibility criteria, reflecting the intentions of its donors and the opportunities they hope to create. 

Through these scholarships, donors are not simply helping students pay for college. They are investing in future professionals, community leaders, and changemakers whose contributions will extend well beyond the classroom. 

To donate or explore creating a scholarship fund, visit centrefoundation.org or contact Kerry Tolton, Development & Stewardship Director, at 814.237.6229 or kerry@centrefoundation.org. 

For student application information, contact Krista Williams, Grants & Scholarship Coordinator, at 814.237.6229 or krista@centrefoundation.org. 

About Centre Foundation 

Centre Foundation’s mission is to foster a culture of giving, support, and empower nonprofits, and spark positive community change in Centre County. Guided by its vision of a vibrant Centre County where everyone has the opportunity and resources to thrive, the Foundation connects donors with opportunities to make a lasting impact throughout Centre County. Visit Centre Foundation at www.CentreFoundation.org