Honoring Excellence: Meet the 2025 KPSF Scholarship Winners
A Diverse Group of Outstanding Students Who Have Achieved Remarkable Success!
These graduates were awarded $211.200!
Established by the estate of Kate Long, beloved teacher who taught social studies and contemporary world problems for over 30 years at KHS. The scholarship is intended for students interested in international relations, politics, history or liberal art. This is a renewable scholarship for 3 years.
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Established in 1994 by Maxwell (Max) and Lois Moore. Max was a local business owner and Lois served on the Kelso school board for a number of years. This Scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a career in education.
Established by Sharon Roberts Bergman, a ‘61 graduate of KHS. This scholarship is intended for a Male and a Female in good academic standing, involved in school activities and community service.
Established by Colleene Armstrong in memory of her daughter Cindy Armstrong who was an elementary music specialist in Kelso Schools for 29 years. The scholarship is to honor and support a graduating senior with good character, leadership qualities, who plans on pursuing a degree in music.
This yearly Scholarship is awarded to a KHS graduate with good academic standing who attended Wallace Elementary School and has financial need.
Established by the staff of HMS in honor of Elaine Cockrell’s retirement. The Cockrell family has maintained this scholarship in her honor for a student who attended Huntington Middle School for three years, with a preference given to a Huntington Promise recipient.
Established by the family of Joe Stewart former teacher, counselor, track and cross country coach. the award is to honor and support two Kelso High School seniors who demonstrate good character and citizenship towards classmates, teammates, and staff. Exhibit Strong leadership qualities, emphasis the importance of team and focus on their personal best performance in academics and athletics.
Established by the Marion and Ruth Clark family to recognize a graduate interested in entering a medically related field or music studies.
Established by the Marion and Ruth Clark family to recognize a graduate interested in entering a medically related field or music studies.
Established by the Class of ’58 in memory of classmate Mike Lyons who died of injuries sustained in football during his senior year at Kelso High. The scholarships is intended for a graduate who has high personal standards and a Christian attitude toward others.
Established by Jim & Michelle Mury. Michelle is a 1985 graduate of Kelso High School and has taught and coached in the Kelso district since 1990. Their daughters Mickayla and Kirstin graduated from Kelso. The scholarship is to recognize, reward and encourage a graduating senior who enhanced the culture, community and environment of Kelso High School.
Six scholarships established by Gil Schleif, former KSD Assistant Superintendent--three in the name of Patricia Eddy (daughter of Gil/Ruth Schleif) and three in the name of his wife Ruth.
Established by the Jim Baker family to recognize graduating seniors with a 3.0 GPA or better, who plan on attending LCC on a two-year program or to begin there and continue at a four-year institution.
Memory of Roy Dennis, beloved principal of the Class of ’48. The scholarship is intended for a graduate with a desire to pursue an education—either academic or vocational.
Established by the family and friends in memory of “Mutt” Schroeder, teacher, coach, administrator and friend of the Kelso community. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who is an athlete with high academic achievement, excellent citizenship, exhibits hard work and a seriousness of purpose.
Established by Kelso Kiwanis in memory of Dr. Thomas Herron, who practiced osteopathic medicine in Kelso.
Established by the family in memory of Arne Lund who spent his entire 30-year career at Huntington Middle School as a teacher, guidance counselor, and coach. The scholarship is intended for a Graduate who attended Huntington MS and plans to attend the University of Washington or Washington State University.
The Barlett Family Swim scholarship has been established to recognize a deserving student who has been a committed member of the Hilander Swim Team. The Scholarship honors a swimmer who demonstrates perseverance, personal growth, and dedication to the team – someone who continues to show up, work hard, and support their teammates, regardless of speed or points earned.
Established by a 2011 Kelso High graduate and recipient of a Kelso Foundation scholarship, who felt strongly about “paying it forward.” The scholarship is intended for a student entering a field of study in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) who is well rounded (athlete, school club leader or work part time).
This scholarship was established in memory of Chuck and Anita who were Kelso alumni and community advocates.
Established by Colleene Armstrong in memory of her daughter Cindy Armstrong who was an elementary music specialist in Kelso Schools for 29 years. The scholarship is to honor and support a graduating senior with good character, leadership qualities, who plans on pursuing a degree in music.
Established by the Class of ’45, this memorial scholarship honors Tommy’s years of dedication as a teacher with physical impairments. The scholarship is intended for a graduate seeking degree in education who distinguishes him/herself despite a physical impairment or handicap.
Established by the Class of ’45 and named for Willard honoring his involvement during their high school years. The scholarship is intended for a graduate with a career interest in the area of physical science or medicine.
Established by family and friends in memory of Lawrence Gross who taught Vocational Agriculture in the Kelso School District for 30 years. After retirement he continued to work as a substitute teacher in the district. The award is to support a student entering vocational training, a trade school or vocational program.
Established by Jim & Martie Perkins to reward deserving students planning n attending Lower Columbia College. Jim is a retired math teacher who spent his career teaching at both Kelso High School and LCC.
Established by Jim & Martie Perkins to reward deserving students planning n attending Lower Columbia College. Jim is a retired math teacher who spent his career teaching at both Kelso High School and LCC.
Established by Ron and Dot Joslin, retired Kelso School District instructors. Ron specialized in music and fine arts and Dot specialized in math and science. The scholarship is intended for a graduate interested in Fine and/or Performing Arts.
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Established by the Kelso Lions Club to benefit Kelso graduates. The scholarship is funded by concession sales at Schroeder Field and yearly fundraisers.
Established by Bob Lucas, his daughters (Jennifer and Laura), extended family, and friends in memory of Marsha Lucas who was a beloved educator for over 20 years. Marsha’s commitment to her students was extraordinary. The purpose of the endowment is to provide funds for post high school education to a student who has demonstrated grit in overcoming a disability while pursuing their educational goals.
Rich McCool, graduate of the Class of ‘57, established this scholarship to honor his years in the construction business. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who is interest in the area of architecture or engineering.
Established by the Rose Valley PTO honoring Rose Valley students. The scholarships are intended for graduates who attended Rose Valley Elementary.
Established by the William Clement Trust in recognition of Sharon and Leroy Faling for their dedication and commitment to students and their education. The scholarship honors a graduating senior pursuing a degree in education.
Established by Jim Clary in honor of his wife Terri, a former alumnus, in lieu of a Christmas gift. The scholarship is intended for a female graduate who is in good academic standing, involved in school activities and community service.
Established by alumni and community advocates Veryl and Larry Anderson. The scholarship is intended for a graduate in pursuit of a degree in Music or Music Education
Established by the estate of Lucy Calhoun, a beloved Kelso High teacher for over 35 years. The scholarships is intended for a graduate who is interested in entering a field of study in child development, nutrition, culinary arts or education.
Established in memory of Susan Jabusch Grotjohn, Roy Jabusch, Alice Jabusch, Mike Jabusch, Lory Jabusch Hendricks and all future Jabusch descendent memorials. This scholarship is intended for a graduate(s) who lives in the Rose Valley community or regularly attends RV Friends Church, Sunday school or Youth Group and plans to attend a four-year college, community college, trade or business school.
Established by family and friends to honor Vern’s contribution as teacher/administrator to the education of students in Kelso, especially Barnes Elementary.
Established by Judy Bailey, representing her family of Hilanders. Judy was in the KHS Class of '47 and Chuck was in the Class of '42. Judy has been a KPSF board member since May of 2004. This Scholarship supports a graduating senior seeking a career that would meet the needs of others. Special consideration is given to a working student.
Established by the family of Gordon and Pauline Murphy, Kelso community activists and school patrons.
Larry graduated in '59 from KHS. He is a retired educator and administrator after 30 years of service in the Kelso School District. He and his wife Darlene still live in the area and support Kelso Schools.
Established by Makaio Mobbs, a 2011 KHS graduate and athlete. He grew up in a single parent home and overcame many adversities on his way to becoming a counselor at Kelso High School. Makaio would like to honor and support a KHS senior athlete who has overcome their own adversities.
This endowed scholarship was established by the estate of Virgil Hopkins, a former Kelso High School English, foreign language and choral music instructor. The scholarships is intended for a graduate who is interested in entering the field of English, foreign language or vocal music.
Established by her Parents Len and Laura Hiatt, administrators and alumni of KSD. There was such an outpouring of donations and support while Julia was fighting her health battle. Julia was well known at KHS for being that student “who made Kelso High School a better place”. It was important for the Hiatt family to honor a student who lives with the same positive caring attitude as Julia.
Established in 1994 by Maxwell (Max) and Lois Moore. Max was a local business owner and Lois served on the Kelso school board for a number of years. This Scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a degree in either a vocational or professional career.
This yearly Scholarship is awarded to a KHS graduate with good academic standing who attended Barnes Elementary School and has financial need.
Established by Kaiser Permanente in honor of Dan Wagster’s retirement. Dan was a graduate of the Class of ’45 and was Sr. Vice President of Kaiser Permanente Health/Hospitals. This scholarship is for a graduate with high academic achievement who excels in athletics and/or the arts; extracurricular activities in the school/community and demonstrates good leadership and citizenship.
Established by Jim & Martie Perkins to reward deserving students planning n attending Lower Columbia College. Jim is a retired math teacher who spent his career teaching at both Kelso High School and LCC.
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Established by Jim & Martie Perkins to reward deserving students planning n attending Lower Columbia College. Jim is a retired math teacher who spent his career teaching at both Kelso High School and LCC.
Established by family and friends in memory of Kevin, a 1997 KHS graduate who had high standards and was a Cross Country competitor. He was known for his strength of character and care for others. This scholarship is to recognize, reward, and encourage others with similar qualities.
Established by the Bill & Nancy Lehning in 2022. Bill was a 1955 graduate of KHS later becoming a teacher, coach, and administrator in the Kelso School district for 35 years. The scholarship was created to recognize, reward, and encourage KHS students who are extremely involved in athletics, music, and/or leadership who may have financial need.
Established by the KPSF in honor of a living Kelso School District educator. the scholarship is intended for a graduate who plans to pursue a degree in teaching.
Randy and Linda Zmrhal established this scholarship to honor a student graduating from Kelso High School and interested in entering a computer technology field of study.
Established by the Zandi/Hreha family. Larry Zandi grew up and went to school in Kelso, Robert Hreha grew up in Tacoma the two were married in 2013. They both feel education is important and want to honor and encourage Kelso graduates with this scholarship to help further their education.
Established by the KPSF in honor of a living Kelso School District educator. the scholarship is intended for a graduate who plans to pursue a degree in teaching.
Established by the Rose Valley PTO honoring Rose Valley students. The scholarships are intended for graduates who attended Rose Valley Elementary.
Established by the Piper family honoring their contributions to the culture and education of Kelso students. Walt taught math and coached at Kelso High for many years. Marty was a great supporter of the education and activities of Kelso students.
Established by the Class of ’52 to recognize the working student. Preference given to a student who has worked outside the home.
Established by the Cortes family and our community in memory of Austin a 2016 graduate who was killed in a motorcycle accident. He was an amazing young man who loved his family, his friends, his dog, and chocolate milk.
The Bartlett Family Scholarship has been established to reward a deserving student who has experienced learning obstacles on their path to graduating from Kelso High school and is committed to continuing their education.
Established by Chad Zandi to reward a deserving student interested in, Prelaw, Criminal Justice or Political Science, Public Policy, Civics, Humanities, Education or other similar areas.
Memorial established for Al’s athletic and leadership abilities. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who participate in sports and was a leader in school.
This memorial was established by the class in honor of Alan’s football triumphs and is intended for a graduate with athletic ability and an interest in the arts.
The Ames family continues this scholarship seeking Don’s passion in vocational/technical education. The scholarship is intended for a graduate attending community college, vocational or tech school and plans to enter one of the trades, i.e., mechanics, truck driving, refrigeration, instrumentation, welding or firefighting
Established as a memorial by the class of ’45 in honor of her high school involvement. The scholarship is intended for a vocational or technical student (culinary arts, nursing, clerical, computers, and early childhood education).
Established by the Wallace staff and continued by the Walworth family in memory of Frieda Walworth, a Wallace school volunteer. The scholarships is intended for a graduate who attended Wallace Elementary.
Established by the staff of Huntington Junior High (now Huntington Middle School) to recognize 8th grade students in jeopardy of not receiving a high school diploma. It was the "staff's promise" to award them a scholarship upon receiving their diploma.
Established by Jim & Martie Perkins to reward deserving students planning n attending Lower Columbia College. Jim is a retired math teacher who spent his career teaching at both Kelso High School and LCC.
Established by Jim & Martie Perkins to reward deserving students planning n attending Lower Columbia College. Jim is a retired math teacher who spent his career teaching at both Kelso High School and LCC.
Katie and her daughter Lillie, with the help of most of Cowlitz County, have established this Scholarship to honor Justin DeRosier, who lost his life protecting our community in 2019.
Established by the family in memory of their daughter, Lori, a 1988 graduate who died in the summer of 2006. Lori was injured in an auto accident, spring ’88, and through hard work and effort overcame those injuries to graduate from Kelso High in December 1988 and went on to graduate from LCC. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who has overcome hardship to graduate.
Rich McCool, graduate of the Class of ‘57, established this scholarship to honor his years in the construction business. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who is interest in the area of nursing.
Established by Robert in an effort to support students of Kelso High and their interest in furthering their education.
Six scholarships established by Gil Schleif, former KSD Assistant Superintendent--three in the name of Patricia Eddy (daughter of Gil/Ruth Schleif) and three in the name of his wife Ruth.
Established by Pattie & Katie Surritt and Lynda Carlson to award a student who has performed at a high level as a Hilander but does not qualify for financial aid and is not receiving a large amount of scholarship monies.
The Vandecar children have established this scholarship to honor their parents who were both Kelso alumni.
Established by Paul Laufman, in her memory, Marlene was a 1956 alumni and a top student and Scotty Majorette. This award is for a student interested in teaching or STEM.
Founded by the estate of Cliff Furness who was a long time Kelso pharmacist and a loyal Kelso High supporter. This award honors students who have overcome personal setbacks that have threatened their graduation status as recognized by staff and counselors.
Established as a memorial by the Kingsley family. Rose worked many years as a para educator at Beacon Hill Elementary. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who attended Beacon Hill Elementary School at least two years and is interested in attending community college, university or vocational/ technical training program.
Established by the Rose Valley PTO honoring Rose Valley students. The scholarships are intended for graduates who attended Rose Valley Elementary.
Established by family and friends—Maurice was a Class of ‘34 graduate, and Betty was a long-time employee of the KSD as an instructional assistant. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who participated on a varsity basketball team.
Established by a 2011 Kelso High graduate and recipient of a Kelso Foundation scholarship, who felt strongly about “paying it forward.” The scholarship is intended for a student entering a field of study in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) who is well rounded (athlete, school club leader or work part time).
Teacher, coach, principal and district financial officer for many years. Served as treasurer and financial wizard for the Foundation in its beginning years—instrumental in moving the board to the high level of functionality it is today. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who is a former Huntington Middle School student.
Established by the Longview Chapter - P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) to support the advancement of women through Education.
Established in 1983 by Mike Saville in memory of his wife Linda. The name was changed by family in 2013 in memory of their parents to the Mike and Linda Saville Scholarship. The scholarship is intended for a graduate who is interested in entering a health-related field.
