News and Events

What's New With Dollars for Scholars?

The Redwood Area Dollars for Scholars Chapter® is always working on behalf of local students. Check out this page for an ongoing look at student, chapter and community news -- plus events and other ways you can get involved!

New scholarship opportunities for students in 2023-2024:

  • Barbara Hoepner established the Barbara Hoepner Medical Scholarship.  This scholarship will be available to high school seniors pursuing a medical degree.
  • The family of Joyce McKay contributed an additional $5,000 towards the Joyce McKay Nursing Scholarship fund.  This scholarship will now be a standalone scholarship for a student pursuing Nursing.
  • Helen & Ruth Peterson College Scholarship was established for a Redwood Valley alumni entering their junior or senior year of college. Requirements include full time status (12+ credits), college GPA of 2.5 or higher and have a rural background.  

New scholarship opportunities for students in 2022-2023:

  • Eugene & Charles Nelson established two pass through scholarships in memory of their mother, Lucille (Watkins) Nelson ('51).  Lucille cofounded Nelson Salvage & Towing.  These scholarships will be awarded to students attending technical/trade school, that portray characteristics of drive and desire for future employment. 
  • Joyce McKay's bequest of $5,000 established the Joyce McKay Nursing Scholarship. This scholarship will be available to high school seniors pursuing a nursing degree.
  • Nick Stanton, Judie Fox & David Peterson donated an additional $10,000 towards the Nick Stanton Scholarship fund.  This scholarship will now be $1,000 and is awarded to a RV cross country participant.
  • Michael Vollmer donated $30,000 to establish three endowed scholarships in memory of his wife, Patty Burgemeister Vollmer.  Patty was a graduate of RFHS, class of 1969, who cared deeply for the children in her life.  These scholarships will be awarded to students with intent to work with children in the educational setting.  Michael also donated $1,000 to the Cardinals Care program.
  • The Class of 1982 Scholarship was established in 2022 after classmates raised funds at their 40th class reunion!  Funds donated are in memory of their classmates who have passed away. 
  • Thomas & Mary Gross contributed $200,000, for a total pledge of $400,000 towards the Thomas & Mary Gross Scholarship. This scholarship is now a $4,000 scholarship, renewable three times, for a total of $16,000.
  • Smetak Family Scholarship was established by Ted Smetak, in memory of Ted's sister Joyce Sommers ('68) and her son Corey, as well as their brother David Smetak ('74).  This scholarship will be awarded to a student pursuing secondary education at either a technical/trade school or conventional college.  Applicants shall display good character and work habits.