MILLERSBURG — The Gabriel Koch Memorial Scholarship was endowed recently with the Holmes County Education Foundation by the family and friends of the late Gabriel Koch.
This scholarship was created to honor and memorialize Gabe, who was a 2009 West Holmes High School graduate, who loved nature, the outdoors, helping those in need and being a member of the Knights marching band percussion section. He was a college freshman at Heidelberg University at the time of his passing.
The renewable scholarship will assist West Holmes seniors as they pursue their higher education goals.
To be eligible, the applicant must be a graduating senior of West Holmes High School, reside in Holmes County and be pursuing a field of study in skilled-trades, agriculture, science or biology. Preference will be given to those attending a trade school. Students must demonstrate financial need and have been involved in high school band or community service.
“Gabe was always very eager to learn. He was always there to help and encourage others to learn as well. This is a great way we, as his family can continue that, ” the Koch family said in a release.
HCEF Executive Director Darla Stitzlein appreciates the opportunity to administer the scholarship.
“We are honored that Gabe’s family has asked us to administer his scholarship,” Stitzlein said. “Gabe was a bright student who excelled in the classroom. He enjoyed outdoor activities and admired people with the ability to solve equipment mechanical problems. His scholarship will benefit other students like him who enjoy working with their hands.”
Students interested in applying for the Gabriel Koch Memorial Scholarship or other scholarships administered by the Holmes County Education Foundation may apply at www.hcef.net during the next scholarship application period, which is Jan. 6-Apr. 1. Current college students already receiving renewable Holmes County Education Foundation scholarships are not eligible to apply for this scholarship.
To learn more about establishing a scholarship with the Holmes County Education Foundation, contact Stitzlein at 330-674-7303 or hcef@hcef.net.
