Scholarships Increased To $25K For Healdsburg High Grads

HEALDSBURG, CA—As the Rotary Club of Healdsburg continues its long-held tradition next week of awarding college scholarships to students graduating from public high schools in Healdsburg and Geyserville, it has implemented two significant changes.

First, the club has increased the value of its college scholarships to $25,000. Second, the club, for the first time, will also provide scholarships and financial support to students who have decided to pursue technical or vocational training or a certificate program rather than a traditional college degree. Scholarship recipients will be announced the evening of April 29 during the Scholarship Night celebration at the Raven Theater.

This year, five graduates of Healdsburg High School who plan to attend a four-year college or university will receive the Rotary Club of Healdsburg College Scholarship. Awardees stand to receive a total of $25,000 throughout their college career, provided they complete a yearly renewal application and meet the requirements for continuing eligibility. During their undergraduate years, they will also receive mentorship and support from someone in their field of study or professional interest.

The club knows that in today's economy, nearly everyone needs additional training or education after high school, but a college degree is not the only path to success. That is why five graduates will be awarded the new Rotary Club of Healdsburg Technical Education Scholarship.

"These changes are all about creating greater impact," said Jim Westfall, president of the Rotary Club of Healdsburg, a registered nonprofit whose members meet weekly at noon on Mondays. "The cost of a college degree has increased so much that we felt we needed to provide much more substantial support. At the same time, we recognize that a college degree is not the right path for everyone. So we’re excited to provide financial aid to deserving students who are pursuing alternate routes to success in today’s economy.”

Westfall said there was an outstanding group of well-qualified and deserving applicants this year, making it a challenge to select the recipients.

"I wish we could have awarded this scholarship to even more students," he said. "With continued support from the local community, we hope we’ll be able to do that in the future.”