Click on a tab below to read more about our scholarships as well as view application information and eligibility requirements.
Legacy of Excellence Scholarship Fund
Honoring the dedication of our esteemed staff members and their commitment to excellence in education, the BCACS Foundation proudly announces the establishment of the Legacy of Excellence Scholarship Fund. This award serves as a tribute to all staff members whose longevity and loyalty ensures that our Catholic schools continue its tradition of academic excellence in a faith filled environment. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a student, nominated by the staff, who exemplifies the characteristics of spirituality, diligence, loyalty, civic and social responsibility and scholarship.
The Carrie Adams Memorial Scholarship
The Carrie Adams Memorial Scholarship was established by Carrie’s parents, Chuck and Cheryl Adams in Carrie’s memory. Carrie graduated in the Class of 1991. These scholarships recognize students for their character and concern for their fellow students. Scholarships are awarded to students who attend St. Joseph Middle and St. Philip Catholic Central High School and to a St. Philip graduate to provide financial assistance with their college educational expenses.
For application information for grades 6 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
For application and eligibility information for college scholarship click here.
Frances I. Bonfiglio Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Mr. Arthur Bonfiglio established the Frances I. Bonfiglio Memorial Endowed Scholarship in December 2003 in Mrs. Bonfiglio’s honor. He expressed that “helping families who sacrifice greatly to provide the opportunity of a Catholic education for their children was a concern to Mrs. Bonfiglio and him.” Endowing this scholarship is a lasting tribute to Mrs. Bonfiglio’s memory (September 26, 1926-August 25, 2003). Mr. Bonfiglio is pleased that today’s students, as well as future students at St. Joseph School, will benefit by his gift given in memory of his beloved spouse.
For application information for grades K through 8 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
Dr. Philip and Elizabeth Bonifer, Jr. Scholarship
The Bonifer family, Phillip III, Tom, Mary, Laura, and Jim, graduated from St. Philip Catholic Central High School between 1979 and 1985. The Bonifer Family has also appreciated a lifelong connection with St. Philip Catholic Church. This scholarship fund was established in memory of the late Dr. Philip, Elizabeth, and Mary Bonifer to offer hope for parents and students that, regardless of economic hardship, they may attend the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools.
The Mary Gordon Brown Endowed Scholarship
The Mary Gordon Brown Endowed Scholarship was established in 1984 by Mary (Gordon) Brown, St. Philip Class of 1925. When she and her husband, Garry, established the fund, Mrs. Brown shared, “I hope to assist students in securing the Catholic education of which I have always been proud.” Throughout her life, Mrs. Brown invested in this scholarship fund indicating that “it is especially the high school years that set the basis for your adult life.” The BCACS Foundation relies on the interest earned from this fund to provide tuition assistance for several high school students, annually.
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
Georgia Campbell Scholarship Fund
Georgia Campbell Scholarship Fund was established in 1993 by Roy Campbell to honor the memory of his spouse, Georgia. Mr. Campbell since has passed away and this scholarship is a lasting legacy to both him and Mrs. Campbell. This scholarship is intended to serve those in economic need who wish to attend the Catholic schools in Battle Creek. It is awarded on an annual basis and distributed equally between eligible students at the elementary, middle and high school.
For application information for grades 1 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
Delia M. and Dora D. DeMaso Scholarship
This scholarship was established in 2010 by Dora and Dee DeMaso. Both sisters are lifelong educators in Battle Creek. Dora and Dee remain very involved in our community and especially in parish life at St. Joseph Parish. They remain dedicated to Catholic education and ensuring that all families have the capacity to provide the gift of a Catholic education for their children.
The Very Reverend John D. Fleckenstein Tuition Scholarship
Established in 2011 by Dr. Michelle Valella who shared,
“I believe so strongly in the wisdom of Bishop Bradley's decision to re-assign Fr. Fleckenstein to Battle Creek. Because of that, I chose to create this scholarship. It recognizes Fr. John's dedication to our Catholic students and his commitment and willingness to give his life to God and His children."
This scholarship is awarded to one male and one female student attending St. Philip Catholic Central High School. Both students shall have attended a minimum of 4 years in a Catholic school system.
The Reverend William Fitzgerald Endowment for Tuition Assistance
The Reverend William Fitzgerald Endowment for Tuition Assistance honors a special man who deserves a special legacy. Under the guidance of the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools Foundation and with the blessing of Father Fitz, The Reverend William Fitzgerald Endowment for Tuition Assistance was established in 2001. An appreciation of his own education instilled a mission within Fitz’s heart that remained throughout his twenty-one year tenure as pastor at St. Philip Catholic Church. He was determined that Catholic education be accessible to all families…and not be hindered by unaffordable tuition. Proceeds from this fund provide Catholic education to those who, like young William Fitzgerald, sought the programs available in Catholic schools.
“I cannot imagine what I could have done during my time of active ministry as a parish priest that could have borne greater fruit and given the Lord greater glory. For me, it was a blessing to be asked to work with four generations of people in the work of Christian education. It pleases me that others are now willing to pick up the torch and keep going forward.”
Monsignor William Fitzgerald
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
The Sheila Guerra Memorial Scholarship
The Sheila Guerra Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of Sheila Guerra, former St. Philip teacher and volleyball coach. Prior to her death, Sheila set up a scholarship fund through the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools Foundation to enable students, who needed financial aid, to attend St. Philip School and pursue secondary education. The Sheila Guerra Memorial Scholarships are awarded for students who attend St. Philip Catholic Central High School and to a St. Philip graduate to provide financial assistance with their secondary educational expenses.
The Sheila Guerra Memorial Scholarship recognizes students and graduates of St. Philip Catholic Central High School for outstanding academic achievement, and demonstrated leadership and service to others.
“…whether she played a part in their lives for a reason, a season or a lifetime, Sheila touched their lives in such a way that they will never forget her. Thus her legacy will live on, and continue to touch lives through her generous spirit”
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
For application and eligibility information for college scholarship click here.
The Roy E. Harris Memorial Scholarship
The Roy E. Harris Memorial Scholarship was established by his spouse, Dorothy Harris, and son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Sharon Harris to honor his memory (November 18, 1929-December 3, 2002). According to son, Tom, this scholarship is an opportunity “to recognize my father’s strong work ethic and support for community service and to encourage it for future generations of Catholic school students.” This scholarship is awarded on an annual basis to a St. Philip High School student who is also pursuing studies in automotive technology at the Calhoun Area Technology Center.
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
The John B. and Margaret A. (Skaggs) Hogan Medical Scholarship
The John B. and Margaret A. (Skaggs) Hogan Medical Scholarship was established by John B. Hogan, Class of 1939 and Margaret (Skaggs) Hogan, Class of 1942. The purpose is to provide endowed support for an annual merit-based scholarship for one St. Philip Catholic Central High School graduate pursuing a college degree in an area of study related to health care.
For application and eligibility information for college scholarship click here.
The Natalie and Leonard Klukowski Memorial Scholarship Fund
The Natalie and Leonard Klukowski Memorial Scholarship Fund was established by Arnold Clark, an alumnus from St. Philip High School, Class of 1944 to honor his parents, Natalie and Leonard Klukowski. The Natalie and Leonard Klukowski Scholarship Fund was established and will partially fund annual tuition costs for a student at our schools, in perpetuity.
“This gift is in thanksgiving to Our Lord for twelve wonderful years as a student at St. Philip School.”
Arnold Clark, Class of 1944
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
Eurita Maria Kroling Scholarship
The Eurita Maria Kroling Scholarship was established in 2008 by Mr. Carlos Fontana in honor of his sister, Eurita Maria. Mrs. Kroling tragically passed away in 1982 at the age of thirty-three. Mr. Fontana shared, “she left deep imprints in the lives of all those who knew her.” Mrs. Kroling lived by the words “Love one another as I love you.” It is a privilege to honor her legacy through this scholarship.
The LARCON Scholarship
The LARCON Scholarship was established by former Board Trustee, Larraine Matusak and Connie Julius. This fund provides scholarships for multiple students with special consideration being given to high school students. Larraine and Connie share a firm belief in Catholic education and maintaining its financial accessibility to all families regardless of their socio-economic situation.
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
The Al Leibert Family Scholarship
The Al Leibert Family Scholarship was established by longtime coach and mentor, AL Leibert. This college scholarship is awarded to a St. Philip Catholic Central High School senior who has participated in athletics for all four years throughout high school.
For application and eligibility information for college scholarship click here.
Howard M. List and Edith M. List Scholarship
Established in 2011 by the family of Mr. Howard List and Edith M. List, this scholarship honors their leadership in our community and St. Philip Parish and School. The List family members are long-time parishioners who value the opportunity for a Catholic school education as well as providing opportunities for collegiate studies. Two endowed scholarships are awarded annually. One awardee is a student at St. Philip Catholic Central High School and one a current graduate.
The W.F. Mangan Memorial Scholarship
The W.F. Mangan Memorial Scholarship was established by his family to honor W. Fred Mangan, St. Philip High School Class of 1944. This scholarship is offered on an annual basis to students seeking the faith filled, academically excellent programs offered at our schools.
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
Richard B. Messer Trust
The Richard B. Messer Trust is devoted to enhancing the lives of youth in Barry County whose families are facing economic hardship. As the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools attract students from a 30 mile radius, many of our families reside within Barry County.
The Ruth and Bill McVeigh Scholarship
The Ruth and Bill McVeigh Scholarship was established by longtime friends, Charles Austin and Jack Pearl, in honor of Ruth and Bill. The McVeigh family enjoys a long tradition with the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools, having educated 12 of their children at St. Philip School. They recall many economic times when tuition was too great a challenge. Their commitment to Catholic education for their children was rewarded by their pastors and friends who looked out for each other and stepped in to assist them. They firmly believe that if you put your faith in God, that God will provide. With gratitude, Mr. and Mrs. McVeigh offer this scholarship in their name and remain dedicated to promoting the continued availability for families of limited means who choose Catholic education.
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
Robert B. Miller, Jr. Scholarship Fund
The Robert B. Miller, Jr. Scholarship was established by Mrs. Pattricia Miller in 2008 to honor his memory. Committed to the continued excellence and growth of our Catholic schools, Mr. and Mrs. Miller also remain dedicated to supporting families who sacrifice greatly to make a Catholic education possible for their children.
Eugene and Opal Newman Scholarship Fund
Established in 2011 in honor of their parents, Gene and Opal Newman, by their sons, this scholarship pays tribute to the personal sacrifices their parents made to send their children to St. Joseph School. By endowing this scholarship, the Newman brothers and their spouses created a lasting legacy to their parents.
The Father Stan Nowakowski Memorial Scholarship
The Father Stan Nowakowski Memorial Scholarship was established with a bequest from Father Stan’s estate in 1999. This annual award is provided to St. Joseph Elementary School students in recognition for their caring, respect, and responsibility. Special consideration is given for minority students who choose Catholic education.
For application information for grades K through 8 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
The Reverend Edwin G. Palmer Fund
The Reverend Edwin G. Palmer Fund was established in spring 1997 to honor the memory of Father Palmer. Father Palmer was a strong supporter of Catholic schools, assisting countless families financially to provide Catholic education for their children. This fund serves as a lasting legacy to Father Palmer and continues his commitment to Catholic education and spiritual development of our students. Proceeds from this fund provide a scholarship for St. Jerome Parish families to attend the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools.
For application information for grades K through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
The Frank Quartermaine Scholar Athlete Scholarship
The Frank Quartermaine Scholar Athlete Scholarship was established in 2010 to honor the memory of Frank Quartermaine, Class of 1961. This schlarship recognizes graduates who have lettered for two years in varsity athletics and have maintained a 3.0 cumulative grade point average.
For application and eligibility information for college scholarship click here.
Norma J. Reed Endowed Scholarship Fund
Established in 2012, Norma established the scholarship fund to ensure that no child is denied a Catholic education. Norma is a lifelong and avid supporter of our Catholic schools and parishes. This scholarship fund honors Norma, who has supported the BCACS Foundation faithfully throughout her life, and will eternally celebrate her commitment to Catholic education.
The John and Marceline Robertson Scholarship
The John and Marceline Robertson Scholarship was established by the Robertson family – Tim, Jill, Mary, Linda, Jane and John – to honor and recognize their parents for the sacrifice and commitment to provide Catholic education for their children. This scholarship will be awarded annually to a St. Philip High School student-athlete.
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
Jill E. Rutherford Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship was established to honor Jill who courageously faced a six-year battle with multiple myeloma before passing away in January, 2008. This endowed scholarship was made possible through the outpouring of support and generosity from family, friends, as well as a gift from her former employer, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
David K. Ryan Scholarship
David K. Ryan Scholarship – In May 2003, we said goodbye to David K. Ryan. Mr. Ryan, St. Philip High School Class of 1953, was a co-founder of the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools Foundation, serving as its first president. Mr. Ryan guaranteed our children and children of future generations the gift of a Catholic education. Mr. Ryan’s family, to honor his legacy, established a scholarship for our elementary students. We were pleased to offer the David K. Ryan Scholarship beginning in the 2004-2005 school year.
For application information for grades K through 8 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
The Norman W. Schmitzer Memorial Endowed Scholarship
The Norman W. Schmitzer Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established by Maxine “Strut” and Norm Schmitzer, Class of 1944, for the purpose of providing tuition assistance to student/athletes at St. Philip Catholic Central High School. This endowed scholarship will be awarded on the basis of financial need.
“The 12 years at St. Philip where Norm was a fine student, an altar boy and an athlete of exceptional ability. We remember a Navy Veteran, a college graduate, a community leader and a corporate executive of national respect. We remember a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend to hundreds Your mortal life made a difference and your spirit is with us stil…to help us on our remaining journeys. Thanks for the memories classmate!”
Arnold Clark, Classmate, Class of 1944
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
The Leroy Steinbacher Scholarship Fund
The Leroy Steinbacher Scholarship Fund was established through a bequest from the estate of Leroy Steinbacher. This endowed fund honors, Mr. Steinbacher, a 1944 alumnus of St. Philip High School and provides an annual scholarship for future students to benefit from the Catholic education at St. Philip School that he valued greatly.
For application information for grades 9 through 12 click here and look for Tuition Assistance.
The Valella Scholarship
The Valella Scholarship was established by Michelle T. Valella, O.D. in May 2000 to recognize a St. Philip High School graduate for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to others during their years at St. Philip High School. This scholarship, awarded annually, supports these students’ study in the field of science or mathematics at an accredited college or university.
“I was so impressed by the caliber of students and the work of the staff that beginning in 2003 I am increasing this scholarship to benefit two St. Philip High School seniors.”
Dr. Michelle T. Valella, OD
For application and eligibility information for college scholarship click here.
Kattie Mae Williams Memorial Scholarship
The Kattie Mae Williams Memorial Scholarship was established in 2011 by Dr. Michelle Valella in memory of her patient, Ms. Williams. Kattie, a long-time St. Philip parishioner, passed away in May, 2011. Kattie possessed deep faith, sincere gratitude and a positive outlook on life. The scholarship is to be awarded to St. Philip Catholic Central High School student who has attended a minimum of 4 years in a Catholic school system.
Dr. Valella expressed, "This scholarship is awarded in memory of Kattie Williams, a woman who chose to live her life as a child of God, filled with JOY no matter what life brought her. Through this scholarship, the recipient is encouraged to live their life with complete joy and remember those who helped you along the way."
Zanetti Family Scholarship
This scholarship was established in memory of Santo Zanetti, Class of 1942 and his grandson Andrew. It permanently recognizes and honors the entire Zanetti family for their leadership in our community, our Catholic parishes and St. Philip and St. Joseph Schools.
How Do I Establish or Endow a Scholarship Fund?
Providing the opportunity for a Catholic education for a child is a lifetime gift. Along with ensuring Catholic education for students, you also create a lasting legacy. Offering college scholarships for our graduates helps to ensure their future success as adults.
The decision to establish a Scholarship Fund with the BCACS Foundation is very personal and reflects your interests and priorities. Please contact the BCACS Foundation Development Office at 269.963.4771 to set up a mutually convenient time to discuss scholarship funding opportunities.
