More Than a Scholarship: Standing With Students Affected by Cancer
Jack VanTine is a sophomore at Penn State studying mechanical engineering and a scholar in the Schreyer Honors College. He’s already charting a path toward a career in design—one that blends problem-solving, innovation, and hands-on work with emerging technology.
“This summer, I’ll begin my first internship as a project engineer intern with Structural (a national engineering firm specializing in infrastructure repair and construction).” Jack shared. “I’ll be working on construction sites across Maryland and northern Virginia, gaining real-world experience and learning how engineering concepts translate into tangible structures and materials. I’m excited to start building my career and taking on new challenges.”
But behind Jack’s academic and professional momentum is a year marked by extraordinary personal strain.
“This scholarship means so much to me and my family,” he said. “The past several months have been incredibly stressful as we’ve adjusted to a new way of life, moving back and forth between the hospital on a weekly basis while my younger sister undergoes treatment for leukemia.”
Receiving a scholarship through Centre Foundation has provided more than financial relief; it has offered hope and stability during an uncertain time.
That support came through the Bodnar-Gill-Sheerin Memorial Scholarship Fund, held at Centre Foundation. Established in honor of the enduring friendship and brotherhood shared by Thomas Bodnar, Ed Gill, and Dan Sheerin, the fund supports Penn State students whose lives have been affected by cancer. Created in their memory, the scholarship reflects the values they held dear: kindness, service to others, and a deep love of all things Penn State. In addition to students impacted by cancer, special consideration is given to active members or direct relatives of Phi Kappa Theta members and students serving on the THON executive committee—communities that embody the same spirit of service and compassion.
“This scholarship will help my family continue to get the best care possible for my sister,” Jack said. “Because of this support, she can stay focused on winning her battle against leukemia and getting back to the things she loves—like playing lacrosse and simply being a kid again.”
Reflecting on the award, Jack added, “I’m deeply grateful to Centre Foundation and the donors who made this scholarship possible. Their generosity is helping my family move forward during one of the most challenging moments of our lives.”
If you would like to open a scholarship fund at Centre Foundation, please contact Kerry Tolton, Development and Stewardship Director at 814.237.6229 or kerry@centrefoundation.org.