Centre Foundation Announces Awarding $454,919 in Scholarships and Awards in 2025, Celebrating Local Students and Their Bright Futures

Centre Foundation is proud to announce that more than $450,000 in scholarships and awards has been awarded this year to 198 outstanding students pursuing an education at 39 post-secondary institutions. These awards, made possible through the generosity of donors who have established scholarship funds, reflect the community’s belief in investing in the next generation.

“Our scholarship donors are planting seeds that will grow into tomorrow’s leaders, teachers, scientists, and changemakers,” said Molly Kunkel, Centre Foundation’s President and CEO. “Every scholarship tells a story of generosity, and every student, a story of potential. Together, they represent a powerful vision for the future of our community.”

Honoring the Shoemaker Legacy

Among this year’s awards, Centre Foundation highlights the Roy D. and Kathryn K. Shoemaker Scholarship, created from the Shoemakers’ estate to honor their deep love of the Centre Region. Roy, a businessman and farmer, and his wife Kathryn sought to create a fund that would both meet community needs and nurture the next generation. Today, their legacy lives on through two annual scholarships awarded to State College Area High School seniors pursuing studies in agriculture at Penn State.

One of this year’s recipients, Jaylene Everhart, will major in Agricultural and Extension Education at Penn State with the support of a $15,960 award. “I grew up surrounded by agriculture and have always looked for ways to be involved in the industry,” Jaylene shared. “Over my high school years, I discovered that my passion lies in agricultural education. This scholarship allows me to focus on becoming the kind of mentor who inspires the next generation of agricultural leaders. I’m beyond thankful and excited to see where this journey takes me.”

Carrying Forward Nancy Babcock’s Spirit of Service

The Nancy Babcock Memorial Scholarship for Quantitative Social Science, established in memory of Nancy Babcock’s life of mentorship, advocacy, and community leadership, supports students who use data and social science to make a positive impact.

Recipient Maya Dombroskie, who is attending Dartmouth College, received $16,426. “Whether it’s passing a district safe-storage resolution, running a speech and debate camp, or contributing to a national gerrymandering study, I’ve dedicated myself to creating solutions that matter,” Maya said. “This scholarship covers my student contribution for all four years, opening space for study-abroad programs, policy internships, and service opportunities. I’m so grateful—this award truly changes what’s possible for me.”

Continuing the Tradition of Giving

Centre Foundation’s scholarship 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 is unique, reflecting the passions of its donors and the potential of its recipients.

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.

Stay updated on grants, events, and scholarship opportunities by joining our email list at www.centrefoundation.org