6 Different Scholarships for our Bedford Students

One of the priorities of The Bedford City Schools Foundation is enhancing quality education. These scholarships are used to help defray the high cost of post-secondary education in colleges and universities both within and outside the Ohio borders. Students are invited back each year to a breakfast meeting, along with parents and guardians, to talk about their college experiences, academic success, and extracurricular projects. Students are selected by an application process at the end of their senior year. Graduates of Bedford City Schools and recipients of these scholarships have proven themselves to be successful, motivated, and altruistic. We applaud their success.

Scroll down for more information or contact the Bedford High School Guidance Department at 440-439-4707.

In 1995 the Foundation granted it’s first $1,000 scholarship, renewable for up to four years. From 2001 to 2011, two to four renewable scholarships were awarded each year. Beginning in 2012, up to three renewable scholarships have been awarded per year. Scholarship recipients may re-apply at the end of each year of college. The criteria for the Foundation scholarship are that the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior and have personal qualities such as: scholarship, intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service, demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning, and financial need. . Selection, which is made by the Foundation members, is announced in May. Scholarship monies will be awarded to the recipient at the Scholarship Breakfast.

** Applications must be received by March 22, 2024.

NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE.

Beginning in 2021, one 4-year renewable scholarship will be awarded in memory of former trustee Hillary Taylor, Esq., President Emeritus, to a graduating Bedford High School senior who exhibits and has personal qualities such as: scholarship, intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service, demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning, and financial need along with an interest in pursuing law. Selection, which is made by the Foundation members, is announced in May. Scholarship monies will be awarded to the recipient at the Scholarship Breakfast.

** Applications must be received by March 22, 2024.

NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE.

Beginning in 2022 with the partnering and support of the Bedford Automile New Car Dealers, a one 4-year renewable scholarship will be awarded to a graduating Bedford High School senior who exhibits and has personal qualities such as: scholarship, intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service, demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning, and financial need. The applicant must complete all sections of the Application for consideration by the Scholarship Committee.

Scholarship recipients entering their sophomore, junior or senior years, may re-apply at the end of each year by filling out the Affidavit document.

Scholarship monies will be awarded to the recipient at the Scholarship Breakfast.

Awards are made based on the discretion of the Foundation. 

** Applications must be received by March 22, 2024.

NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE.

In 2017 the Foundation started granting one scholarship for $500, renewable for four years, in memory of former Principal, Paul G. Ward. Scholarship recipient may re-apply at the end of each year of college.  The criteria for the Paul G. Ward, Jr. scholarship is that the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior, demonstrate leadership and perseverance and be enrolled at an accredited 2–4-year College or University. The desired criteria are that the recipient is a former Carylwood Intermediate student and/or attending the University of Cincinnati and have an interest in Education or Psychology. Members of the Paul G. Ward family and the Foundation members make the selection, which is announced in May. Scholarship monies will be awarded to the recipient at the Scholarship Breakfast.

** Applications must be received by March 22, 2024.

NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE.

In 2010 the Foundation started granting one, annual, $500 non-renewable scholarship in Roger Fuhrmeyer’s name to be used exclusively for art scholarships, as a means of encouraging students to major/minor in art while attending college. The criteria for the Roger Fuhrmeyer scholarship are that the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior who has participated in the Art curriculum during his/her high school career, service to school and community, initiative, hard work, demonstrated expertise in art, ability to succeed in college or post high school educational training. Members of the Bedford High School Art Department make the selection, which is announced in May. Scholarship monies will be awarded to the recipient at the Scholarship Breakfast.

** Applications must be received by March 22, 2024.

NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE.

Beginning in 2004, the Foundation started granting one scholarship for $500, renewable for four years, in memory of former trustee Chris Valley. Scholarship recipient may re-apply at the end of each year of college. The criteria for the Chris Valley scholarship are the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior and have personal qualities such as: service to school and community, imitative, hard work, ability to succeed in college or post high school educational training. Selection, which is made by the Foundation members, is announced in May. Scholarship monies will be awarded to the recipient at the Scholarship Breakfast.

** Applications must be received by March 22, 2024.

NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE.

All sophomores, junior, and senior recipients who were awarded a Four (4) year renewable scholarship may re-apply for the continuance of their scholarship monies with proof of enrollment. Please use the affidavit and submit to the address at the bottom of the form.

No monies will be distributed without proof.

BEDFORD CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

In 1995 the Foundation granted it’s first $1,000 scholarship, renewable for up to four years. From 2001 to 2011, two to four renewable scholarships were awarded each year. Beginning in 2012, up to three renewable scholarships have been awarded per year. The criteria for the Foundation scholarships are that the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior and have personal qualities such as: scholarship, intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service, and demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning.

CONGRATULATIONS:

AYANNA AKINS

Her counselor, Mrs. Graham, says: “The student’s greatest strength is her willingness to help others and take on challenges. She is highly motivated to achieve. She is a hard worker who strives for excellence. She is a role model to other students. She has a quiet leadership that draws others to her.”

Her music teacher, Ms. Shauf, says: “In the four years having known her, I have come to realize what a strong, confident, grounded, well-rounded young woman she has become. She is the band vice president, a drum major, and a clarinet section leader for the marching band. She is a member of the National Honors Society, secretary for the student senate, editor for the yearbook, team captain for the girls’ soccer team, and active participant in Hampton University’s Young Diplomats Program. She is a graphic design intern at PEEKE Program of Y.O.U. for a company called, “Art of Me.” 

CONGRATULATIONS:

CREE HALL

Her counselor, Mrs. Paul, says: “Open-minded is this applicant’s greatest strength. This applicant is very motivated and focused on succeeding in college to become an architect. I believe she will!”

Her teacher, Ms. Fletcher, states: “I had the pleasure of teaching her American Sign Language this year. She has really impressed me with her drive and determination to succeed. She is a leader among her peers and a great role model for underclassmen to model. She brings a sense of maturity and clarity to the room, and I always enjoy her words of wisdom during class discussions. She is also very active in extracurricular activities such as captain of the girls’ basketball team. I believe she possesses the qualities and characteristics that you would want to associate with your ‘scholarship’ winners.”

BEDFORD CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION (HILARY TAYLOR)

Hilary Taylor was a Founding member of the Foundation in 1993. He graduated from BHS in 1963. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Central State University and received his Juris Doctorate from Cleveland State University College of Law. Hilary served in the role of President of the Foundation for over twenty (20) years. He passed away in 2020 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. In 2021, the Foundation began granting one 4-year renewable scholarship awarded in memory of Hilary Taylor, Esq., President Emeritus. The scholarship criteria are intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service and demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning.

CONGRATULATIONS:

IMANI MATTHEWS

The student’s counselor, MRS. PAUL, states: “The applicant’s greatest strength is perseverance. She does not give up.”

The student’s teacher, Mrs. Brennen, states: “The applicant is an exceptional student. She constantly strives to be the best in whatever she does. Despite any struggles she has had, she always strives for excellence, not allowing herself any excuses or easy routes out of a task or situation. Many students are either motivated or intelligent; when a student is both, it is wonderful to see what he or she can accomplish. She is an involved, dedicated, and overall productive member of the Bearcat community. Her intelligence, coupled with her drive for excellence, will help make her a continued success in her post-secondary endeavors.”

BEDFORD CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

PARTNERING WITH BEDFORD AUTOMILE NEW CAR DEALERS

Beginning in 2022 with the partnering and support of the Bedford Automile New Car Dealers, a one 4-year renewable scholarship will be awarded to a graduating Bedford High School senior who exhibits and has personal qualities such as: scholarship, intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service, and demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning. 

CONGRATULATIONS:

AUSTIN LUKE

The student’s counselor, MRS. PAUL, says: “The applicant’s greatest strength is time management. The applicant is active in a lot of things and still manages to get excellent grades. The applicant is like no other – very exceptional, involved, mannerable, bright, a leader, helpful, etc.?”



The student’s teacher, Ms. Shauf, says: “I have had the pleasure of knowing the applicant for approximately seven years. He is one of the strongest student leaders I have ever had during my tenure as a marching band director. Currently, he is our band president, a drum major, and our saxophone section leader for the marching band. For the past two summers, he has collaboratively written marching band drills with me. This is exceptional for a high school student and usually not completed until reaching a student teaching level in college. Other activities he has been an active participant in, include the yearbook editor, student senate, and class president. He has been recognized as a “Juneteenth Talented Tenth” and a “Salute to Excellence” recipient. He is a team player, respected by both peers and teachers, an excellent role model, compassionate, dedicated, diverse, sincere, multi-talented, mature, well-spoken, and authentic. Simply stated, he has integrity.”

PAUL G. WARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

In 2017 the Foundation started granting one scholarship for $500, renewable for four years, in memory of former Principal, Paul G. Ward. The criteria for the scholarship are that the student be a graduating BHS senior, demonstrate leadership and perseverance, is a former Carylwood Intermediate student and be enrolled at an accredited 2–4-year College or University. Members of the Ward family make the selection. 

CONGRATULATIONS:

KAYLEE COLEMAN

The applicant’s counselor, Mrs. Graham, states: “This student is the definition of a scholar. She is dedicated to her education and has the aptitude to succeed. The student is well-rounded. She has many interests and talents and is able to balance her responsibilities. She is a very hard worker and strives for excellence.”

The applicant’s teacher, Mrs. Brennen, states: “The applicant excels academically and was a dutiful and conscientious member of the yearbook team. It bears noting that she is currently ranked first in her class. This is particularly of note because she did not take any easy paths to this point. She takes heavily weighted classes but of the highest caliber. Her motivation is to learn as much as she can, thoroughly absorbing as much from her high school teachers as possible. She is an exception in nearly every way. Her ability to judge her schoolwork, academic activities, and athletics is truly astounding.”

ROGER FUHRMEYER ART SCHOLARSHIP

Mr. Fuhrmeyer taught Art at Bedford High School for the majority of his career and continued to create beautiful paintings well into his 80’s. He passed this March at the age of eighty-eight. In 2010 the Foundation started granting one, annual, $500 non-renewable scholarship in Roger Fuhrmeyer’s name to be used exclusively for art scholarships, as a means of encouraging students to major/minor in art while attending college. The criteria for the scholarship are that the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior who has participated in the Art curriculum during his/her high school career, service to school and community, and demonstrated expertise in art.

CONGRATULATIONS:

LUKE SANDERS

The student’s art teacher, Mrs. Genao, says: “The applicant was quite a surprise student to me this year. Having just met him in my 4th-period ceramic class he approached me and asked if he could take my Art IV class. Little did I know that he intended to stay in Art 3, and then take on Art IV as well. In addition to two more advanced art classes, he was also taking ceramics too. I thought wow, I like his style of using his senior year to take art classes most of the day. To my surprise, I found out in our first project that he has talent too, like real talent. I said to myself, “Ok, I see you”! I could see him working on extra projects in addition to the lesson. I also saw a shift in my other students in the same ceramic class looking at his work and saying, “That’s cool,” or “How did you do that?” Pretty soon, my class was vibing. Everyone was working and giving their best daily. I honestly think he was the one most students were inspired by.

 It was sad when the semester was coming to an end and our happy ceramic class would be over. I invited students out to a ceramic night where they could come back up to the high school on a Friday evening and work in the studio with a parent or family member until late. Of course, that one student who showed up was the applicant and he brought in his family. We all had a great time and worked for hours with clay.

He has grown so much in his skills that he is well advanced for any typical ceramic student. He is doing such advanced techniques that he can keep up with other potters who do this professionally. Seriously, how cool is that?

So, when I say the applicant is full of surprises he truly is. He has surprised me over and over again. I am so happy to have had him as a student, he is an amazing potter and artist. I cannot wait to see how he continues to grow as he starts his life after graduation. Best of luck to you and I hope that with the funds you receive through this scholarship, you can buy what is needed to start your own studio space.”

BEDFORD CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

In 1995 the Foundation granted it’s first $1,000 scholarship, renewable for up to four years. From 2001 to 2011, two to four renewable scholarships were awarded each year. Beginning in 2012, up to three renewable scholarships have been awarded per year. The criteria for the Foundation scholarships are that the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior and have personal qualities such as: scholarship, intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service, and demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning.

Expected Major: English (Minor in Theater)

Intended College/University: Heidelberg University

CONGRATULATIONS:

EMILY GARBERICH

COUNSELOR, MRS. PAUL says: This applicant’s greatest strength is that she is disciplined, hardworking, and focused, motivated, studious, and destined to do great things in the future. She is truly worthy of this scholarship opportunity.

ENGLISH TEACHER, MRS. BRENNEN says: Though I have only been the applicant’s teacher this year, I have known her family for many, many years. Despite my predisposition to want to be her teacher for that reason, she came with her own well-deserved reputation. To be a standout among this particular senior class is quite remarkable. This is a class unlike we have had in many years, with so many stand out students. The applicant is in my dual-enrollment, College Credit Plus Composition course where she brings such enrichment to our conversations. One of her best qualities though is that, not only can she contribute, she can recognize when her contributions could be enhanced, so she is also an excellent listener. She is a rarity among her peers.

BEDFORD CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

PARTNERING WITH BEDFORD AUTOMILE NEW CAR DEALERS

Beginning in 2022 with the partnering and support of the Bedford Automile New Car Dealers, a one 4-year renewable scholarship will be awarded to a graduating Bedford High School senior who exhibits and has personal qualities such as: scholarship, intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service, and demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning. 

Expected Major: Chemical Engineering

Intended College/University: Tuskegee University

CONGRATULATIONS:

CHRISTIAN DAVIS

COUNSELOR, MR. DRESSMAN says: This applicant’s greatest strength is that he is well-rounded and self-advocates. This applicant has gone above and beyond to prepare for his future. He overcomes obstacles and seeks out opportunities for growth. He is a leader and is committed to his success.

ENGLISH TEACHER, MRS. NAHRA says: The applicant’s intellect and hard work are clearly demonstrated by taking BHS’s rigorous courses and maintaining a 4.29 GPA. The applicant is a reflective, analytical student who readily accepts challenges and has a positive attitude towards everything he undertakes. Additionally, the applicant gives a new meaning to “multitasking.” Apart from excelling academically, he actively serves on a variety of school committees and participates in academic extracurricular activities (Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Acting, Speech and Debate) as well as volunteering within the community.

BEDFORD CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION (HILARY TAYLOR)

Hilary Taylor was a Founding member of the Foundation in 1993. He graduated from BHS in 1963. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Central State University and received his Juris Doctorate from Cleveland State University College of Law. Hilary served in the role of President of the Foundation for over twenty (20) years. He passed away in 2020 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. In 2021, the Foundation began granting one 4-year renewable scholarship awarded in memory of Hilary Taylor, Esq., President Emeritus. The scholarship criteria are intellectual curiosity, citizenship, community service and demonstration of a commitment to life-long learning.

Expected Major: Mechanical Engineering

Intended College/University: The Ohio State University

CONGRATULATIONS:

ANNA VLK

COUNSELOR, MR. DRESSMAN says: This applicant’s great strength is her ability to adapt and be successful in a variety of settings. This applicant had participated in our honors and advanced placement programs, and she is currently enrolled in the College Credit Plus Program at Kent State University. When I think of this applicant the following words come to mind: talented, ambitious, motivated, leader and role-model.

ENGLISH TEACHER, MRS. BELLITTO says: From the moment I met this applicant, I knew there was something special about her. The applicant is such a personable, genuinely kind-hearted, and ambitious young adult. One of the things I admire most is that she is not afraid to ask questions. She is a natural born leader who leads with humility. She has proven her leadership skills as part of our varsity swim team, Yearbook staff, Marching Band and Jazz Band. The applicant’s superior academics, commitment to community service, and dynamic character is inspirational. Her positive attitude, enthusiasm, and sincere effort are contagious. She embraces life and encourages others to do the same. 

CHRIS VALLEY SCHOLARSHIP

Beginning in 2004, the Foundation started granting one scholarship for $500, renewable for four years, in memory of former trustee Chris Valley. Scholarship recipient may re-apply at the end of each year of college. The criteria for the Chris Valley scholarship are the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior and have personal qualities such as: service to school and community, initiative, hard work, and the ability to succeed in college or post high school educational training.

Expected Major: Early Childhood Education

Intended College/University: Kentucky State or University of Cincinnati

CONGRATULATIONS:

BRIANA LEE

COUNSELOR, MRS. PAUL says: This applicant’s greatest strengths are her passion to succeed, she is very caring and truly loves working with kids. She is an individual who has the drive to be an extraordinary productive citizen, change agent, and future educator, positively impacting the lives of our youth. She is currently participating in the Heights Career Tech Educator Rising Teacher Academy. She is dependable, kind-spirited, and hardworking.

ENGLISH TEACHER, MRS. BRENNEN says: The applicant is an exceptional student. Many students are either motivated or intelligent; when a student is both, it is wonderful to see what he or she can accomplish. This has been a challenging school year to say the least, and through it all, the applicant has stayed focused and engaged in school. The applicant is an involved, dedicate, and overall productive member of the Bearcat community, in particular, with our cheer program. The applicant’s intelligence, coupled with her desire for excellence, will help her to continue her success in college.

ROGER FUHRMEYER ART SCHOLARSHIP

Mr. Fuhrmeyer taught Art at Bedford High School for the majority of his career and continued to create beautiful paintings well into his 80’s. He passed this March at the age of eighty-eight. In 2010 the Foundation started granting one, annual, $500 non-renewable scholarship in Roger Fuhrmeyer’s name to be used exclusively for art scholarships, as a means of encouraging students to major/minor in art while attending college. The criteria for the scholarship are that the student be a graduating Bedford High School senior who has participated in the Art curriculum during his/her high school career, service to school and community, and demonstrated expertise in art.

Expected Major: Life Sciences Illustration

Intended College/University: Cleveland Institute of Art

CONGRATULATIONS:

NINA HARVEY

ART TEACHER, MRS. GENAO says: This applicant is an outstanding student that strives for quality in her work. She continually looks for creative ways to complete her assignments to reflect her own aesthetics and personal views. The applicant is a well-rounded student who is very involved in our music and sport programs at Bedford. She is a student that will be involved beyond the arts and will be noticed wherever she goes. She is open to new situations and has a love for learning.

PAUL G. WARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

In 2017 the Foundation started granting one scholarship for $500, renewable for four years, in memory of former Principal, Paul G. Ward. The criteria for the scholarship are that the student be a graduating BHS senior, demonstrate leadership and perseverance, is a former Carylwood Intermediate student and be enrolled at an accredited 2–4-year College or University. Members of the Ward family make the selection. 

Expected Major: Biochemistry (Food Scientist)

Intended College/University: Bowling Green State University

CONGRATULATIONS:

GLORIA HEAD

COUNSELOR, MRS. PAUL says: The applicant’s greatest strength is that she is talented musically and driven. This student is very mature for her age, musically inclined, serious about academics and will let nothing get in the way of her success.

TEACHER, MR. CIARNIELLO, says: I was never the applicant’s teacher, but my class was always one where she spent her study halls and completed her work. We both shared a love for music and performed for events, pep rallies and sport games multiple times over the years. She is passionate about singing, playing in the marching band, and performing in musical theater. The applicant has been in honors classes since Intermediate school and has gained college credit through her dual enrollment with LCCC and Tri-C. She is honestly a talented young lady and I look forward to seeing her reach her goals as a striving student.