General Application Scholarship Opportunities
General Application Scholarship Opportunities
Unity Foundation General Application Scholarship Opportunities
The Unity Foundation General Application was designed to allow students to apply for several different scholarships at once by evaluating the responses provided and matching applicants with the scholarships for which they may be eligible. To learn more about the opportunities that are connected to this application, click on the names below.
To explore scholarship opportunities not connected to this general application, please click here.
To explore scholarship opportunities not administered by Unity Foundation, please click here.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing (not on academic probation) and demonstrate a desire to benefit themselves & others through education. Recipients must enroll as a full-time students.
Scholarship Story: The Bhagirathi Agrawal Scholarship was established by Dr. Amarnath and Bhagirathi Agrawal to assist dedicated and hardworking La Porte County residents in furthering their education beyond high school.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County pursuing an undergraduate, graduate or doctorate degree in agricultural sciences or related fields, including veterinary, from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing (not on academic probation). Recipients will demonstrate a desire to serve the agricultural community and must enroll as a full-time student. Current and former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during the course of their study.
Scholarship Story: Long-time La Porte County farmer Russ Arndt recognized that fewer persons were entering the field of Agriculture, which could have a long-term impact on the food supply. He and other concerned farmers started the Agricultural Scholarship for students pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree in agriculture and related sciences.
Eligibility: Residents and graduates of any high school in La Porte County and who are pursuing a bachelor’s, graduate or doctoral degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be currently enrolled and be admitted to a school of nursing. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Major area of study must be nursing. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study.
Scholarship Story: Judy Amor’s passion for nursing was evident in her career spanning five decades: working as an R.N. at Holy Family and La Porte Hospitals, serving as facility director for a nursing home, and providing in-home care. Judy’s son, Matt, and his wife, Maria, created this fund to support students demonstrating her qualities of leadership, passion for patient care and patient rights, a good sense of humor, and ability to inspire teamwork and camaraderie.
Eligibility: Graduates of New Prairie High School pursuing a post-secondary certification or degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college, university, or educational institution. Recipients will demonstrate involvement/leadership in extracurricular activities such as sports, community service, and/or service to family. Recipients may receive multiple years. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study.
Scholarship Story: The Gustav J. & Elma A. Banzhaf Memorial Scholarship was established to help graduates of New Prairie High School. The Banzhafs owned a farm in Rolling Prairie since the 1940s and were very active in their church and community. They left a great gift upon their death to help people they would never meet.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County and currently graduating seniors from Michigan City High School or Marquette High School pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Recipients may receive multiple years. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study.
Scholarship Story: The Bensz family, long-time residents of La Porte County, wanted to help young people striving to achieve their dreams to improve their personal or family situations through higher education. This scholarship is awarded to those who will make the most of the opportunity by “giving back” or by becoming a role model for others to follow.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County and graduates of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from a Purdue University campus. Applicants must have completed at least one year of their degree program and be enrolled as full-time students. Preference for, but not limited to Pleasant or Scipio Township residents. Recipients may receive multiple years. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study.
Scholarship Story: Lloyd and Betty Jane Clayton raised their family in the beautiful farmlands of La Porte County. They shared a passion for education. Lloyd was the valedictorian of his high school and later became a successful farmer, but had been unable to attend college. Betty Jane graduated from Purdue University and became a teacher. Their family created the Lloyd G. & Betty Jane Clayton Scholarship to help La Porte High School graduates achieve their dream of earning a Purdue University degree.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate degree (Associates or Bachelors) from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing. Preference for, but not limited to, applicants who have played on the LPHS baseball team and/or who have been admitted to the University of Michigan. Recipients may receive multiple years. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year.
Scholarship Story: Mr. William Compton and his wife Katherine were long-time residents of La Porte. Mr. Compton played varsity baseball for La Porte High School and the University of Michigan. The Comptons established the William Vernon Compton Scholarship for La Porte High School students who are dedicated to furthering their education and who are most likely to succeed in their chosen field.
Eligibility: New Prairie High School athletic seniors striving for an associate or bachelor degree on a full time basis. Applicants must be in good academic standing and demonstrate a balance of strong academics, extra-curricular involvement, and upstanding character.
Scholarship Story: Coach Nova taught physical education for thirty-six years at New Prairie High School, retiring in 2012. During her career at New Prairie, she coached multiple sports including girls’ and boys’ swimming.
Eligibility: Graduates of Michigan City High School pursuing an undergraduate bachelor’s or graduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0, unweighted scale. Recipients must enroll as full-time students.
Scholarship Story: Earl and Faye Cunningham were teachers in the Michigan City Area Schools for 60 collective years. After retirement, Earl became an elected official and generously chose to utilize any pay raises he received while in office as scholarships for students in the La Porte County Council’s 2nd District.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte County rotating annually per high school pursuing undergraduate bachelor or graduate degree. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 scale. Recipients must enroll as full-time students. Preference given to students intending to pursue social or political science.
Scholarship Story: Anne Daley was an active community leader in La Porte County. Many knew Anne through her numerous years as County Recorder, her deep commitment to County Council work, and to many other community and national organizations. Anne was especially dedicated to youth and decided to create this scholarship while serving on the board of the Youth Service Bureau. Mrs. Daley wanted to help La Porte County graduating seniors who enter the field of social or political science, with a desire to work with youth, or to better the community.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have completed at least one year of their degree program. Recipients may receive multiple years. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study.
Scholarship Story: The Ernest & Mildred Delco Scholarship was developed to honor Ernest and Mildred Delco, owners of Delco Plumbing in Michigan City, and proud parents of four children. This scholarship will continue to support hard working and dedicated students in their educational endeavors for generations to come.
Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors residing in La Porte or Porter County pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be a female student athlete and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Scholarship Story: Carley Dickard was an outstanding sophomore at La Porte High School who lived 16 short years as a student-athlete, musician, loving daughter, and loyal friend. She was driven to be her best and became an inspiration to others. The Carley Dickard Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a La Porte or Porter County female student-athlete who most exemplifies commitment to becoming the best she can be.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County, Galena Township pursuing a certification, undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college, university or educational institution. Recipients must enroll as full-time students. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study. Renewal is not guaranteed.
Scholarship Story: The Township Trustees were looking for a good use of some of the funds generated from the sale of Galena Township School. In 2012, the Trustee and the Advisory council decided that helping residents in advancing their education past high school would be helpful and the scholarship was established.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County having graduated from any high school in La Porte County pursuing an undergraduate, graduate or doctoral degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must intend to pursue a degree in music performance, music education or related music area. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Scholarship Story: It started with the first date…He left her on a park bench, while he played a summer concert. For Jim and Phyllis Garwood, farming was their life and music was a passion. Jim played the trumpet for 70 years. Phyllis was raised in a family of music and shared her gift of a beautiful voice. In their lifetimes, there were countless band and orchestra concerts, church choir performances, pit orchestras, and other performances they participated in or enjoyed from the audience. Education was of highest priority to the family, and to honor this amazing couple the James and Phyllis Garwood Memorial Music Scholarship has been established to support students whose musical future will influence not only their own life, but the life of others.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County graduating from Tri-Township Schools and pursuing an associates, undergraduate, graduate or professional certification from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be full-time students (if striving for a degree) and in good academic standing (not on academic probation). Current and former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their college study.
Scholarship Story: Don was a 1952 graduate of Wanatah High School. He and his wife Beverly raised their four children, all LaCrosse High School graduates, on their family farm in Wanatah, Indiana. Don and Bev were advocates of the Cass and Dewey Township Schools until his death in 2015. This scholarship is established to honor Don’s 32 years of service as a school bus driver and to ensure the couple’s legacy will continue to have a positive effect on LaCrosse High School students for years to come.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte High School who have completed one year of college education.
Scholarship Story: This award benefits graduates of La Porte High School. Rowena was a teacher in the La Porte Schools for many years.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County pursuing an undergraduate nursing degree for the Registered Nurse designation from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Preference for, but not limited to, applicants pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their undergraduate study. Renewal is not guaranteed.
Scholarship Story: Ruth Howe possessed three fundamental qualities: A strong devotion for nursing, a commitment to the community, and empathy for others. Ruth’s family established the Ruth M. Howe Nursing Scholarship to honor students who emulate Mrs. Howe’s qualities.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte High School pursuing a certification or undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college, university or educational institution. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their undergraduate study. Renewal is not guaranteed.
Scholarship Story: The Ingersoll Trust Scholarship was established in honor and memory of Rear Admiral Royal Rodney Ingersoll, Admiral Royal Eason Ingersoll and Lt. Royal Rodney Ingersoll II, to benefit deserving graduates of La Porte High School pursuing a college education.
Eligibility: Graduates of South Central High School who are pursuing an associates, undergraduate, graduate or professional certification from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants may be full-time or part-time students (if striving for a degree) and in good academic standing.
Scholarship Story: Bruce Johnson, a retired elementary teacher of almost 40 years at South Central and current La Porte County Historian, created a scholarship to support South Central High School graduating seniors pursuing higher education.
Eligibility: Graduates of any high school in La Porte County who are striving for a professional certification to advance their agriculture and related sciences area careers, such as employer approved certifications and industry standards for educational advancement OR pursuing an associates, bachelor or graduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university in an agricultural and related sciences area of study.
Scholarship Story: Richard James Johnson, an original founder of the Indiana Dairy Producers and owner of Sunset Dairy, had a passion for Agriculture from a young age. He poured everything he had into growing Sunset Dairy, which became an award-winning farm for high milk production. Richard attended many farming and dairy conventions, which most often doubled as family vacations. He always strived to learn the latest trends in his trade. Farming was not only a business but was centered around family. Richard loved teaching his children and grandchildren all aspects of farming. Nothing made him happier than sharing time with his family working side by side on his beloved dairy farm. In his honor his family opened this Agriculture scholarship.
Eligibility: Applicants are residents of the MCAS district who graduated from Michigan City High School or Marquette High School and are pursuing an undergraduate, graduate or doctorate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing (not on academic probation) and intend to pursue a degree in a medically allied field. Recipients must enroll as full-time students. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year.
Scholarship Story: The Dr. King S. Jones Memorial Scholarship was established to honor Dr. Jones, an African American who served the medical and charitable needs of the community for more than 50 years. Dr. Jones desired to help students enter the medical profession.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County and graduates of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and have volunteered at a facility, such as a hospital or nursing home, that serves the elderly or infirm. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their undergraduate study.
Scholarship Story: Kenneth Adam Tobar was a dedicated volunteer at IU Health La Porte Hospital for 15 years. During the last 3 years of his life he spent months at the hospital. The fund was created in his honor and to inspire people to become caring volunteers. The K.A.T. Volunteer Scholarship rewards La Porte High School graduates who have volunteered at a facility that serves the elderly or infirm and who strive to earn their college degree.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte High School currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good standing (not on academic probation) and demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, service to family and leadership. Current/former recipients may reapply each year during their undergraduate study.
Scholarship Story: Arthur and Alice Kabelin were always actively involved in church and the community. Their love of education and La Porte County schools led to the establishment of the Arthur & Alice Kabelin Scholarship through Unity Foundation.
Eligibility: Eligible applicants are current graduating seniors who themselves have worked at Kabelin Ace Hardware for a minimum of one year OR have a blood- or marriage-related parent or grandparent employed at Kabelin Ace Hardware for a minimum of two years. The Scholarship award is $2,000, $1,000 for the first year of education and $1,000 for the second year of education based on the successful completion of the first year and continuation of approved degree program. Applicants must be pursuing either an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university or be pursuing a technical certificate or degree. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative G.P.A. of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and demonstrate achievement based on academics, extra-curricular activities, community involvement, and employment history.
Scholarship Story: The Kabelin Family has maintained a family business for four generations. The family values the ‘gift of work’ and encourages young people to seek, obtain and hold jobs while going to school. It is the desire of the Kabelin family to support working students who wish to further their education beyond high school.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte High School
Scholarship Story: The late Helen C. Kelling established this scholarship many years ago to provide assistance in the education of deserving graduates of La Porte High School.
Eligibility: Eligible applicants for this scholarship are current or former residents of La Porte County. Applicants must be completing their third year of education at an accredited medical or osteopathic school.
Scholarship Story: More than 50 years ago, Ruth May Prentiss set up the Kelly-Prentiss Scholarship for students who had completed their third year of medical school and need financial help to become medical professionals. The fund memorializes Ruth, her husband Delbert, and her parents William T. and Lottie Kelly.
Eligibility: Eligible applicants are residents of La Porte County who are graduates of any high school serving La Porte County and who are currently enrolled in an associate or bachelor’s nursing program at Purdue University Northwest (Westville Campus). Applicants must be currently enrolled and admitted to a school of nursing. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study.
Scholarship Story: In 2006, Sandy’s husband, Stan, established the Sandra Calkins Kowalski Community Nursing Fund with the Unity Foundation of LaPorte County to provide support to Purdue University Northwest (Westville Campus) students pursuing an undergraduate degree in nursing, emphasizing community nursing or public health.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte or St. Joseph Counties and graduates of New Prairie High School with a preference for students residing in Hudson Township. Applicants must be pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Current/former recipients may reapply each year during their undergraduate study.
Scholarship Story: Richard was a 1968 graduate of New Carlisle High School. He grew up in Hudson Township and enjoyed living near the lake and helping in his family’s business in Hudson Lake. Upon graduation, he received a scholarship that allowed him to attend college and change his future.
Eligibility: La Porte County residents who are graduates of La Porte High School, are studying music, and are striving to obtain an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree.
Scholarship Story: The La Porte Amateur Music Club Scholarship Fund was started in 1998 by caring board members to provide college scholarships to La Porte High School graduates most likely to pursue a career in the field of music.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County and current graduating seniors of any school serving La Porte County including graduates of a home school program. Applicants must be a five-year member of a 4-H Horse & Pony club, and a current member of La Porte E-Z Riders. The other four years can come from any sanctioned 4-H Horse and Pony club and does not need to be consecutive years. Applicants must be in good academic standing and pursuing an undergraduate degree or certificate.
Scholarship Story: Being a member of a 4-H club takes considerable time, effort and commitment. La Porte County E-Z Riders Horse & Pony Scholarship was established in 2013 to recognize students’ dedication to working with and showing horses and ponies through local 4-H clubs. This scholarship is a show of support for members striving to advance their education.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County pursuing a certification, undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must intend to pursue a certification or degree in the field of nursing. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. This scholarship may be renewed annually, but renewal is not guaranteed. Renewal is based upon continually meeting the eligibility requirements.
Scholarship Story: The La Porte County Nursing Scholarship was created by an anonymous donor who once needed help to attend college and wants to help others, just as they were helped. It is awarded to hard working students who plan to pursue a career in the admirable field of nursing.
Eligibility: Graduates of a La Porte County public high school pursuing a bachelor’s degree in vocal or instrumental music with a GPA between 2.5 and 3.5
Scholarship Story: Debbie DePoy was born and raised in La Porte County.After graduating college she came back to the Mill Creek area. Debbie played bassoon for over 20 years with the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra and the Michigan City Municipal Band. She enjoyed teaching private bassoon lessons to local students. Through many turns in her life, she became a tutor teaching English as a second language. Her hope was to give another passionate musician a chance at higher education without as much struggle as she had.
Eligibility: Graduates and varsity letter recipients in the tennis program of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have completed at least one year of degree program. Applicants do not have to be participating in tennis in college. Recipients must enroll as full-time students. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of their undergraduate study.
Scholarship Story: Robert E. LeRoy was a beloved La Porte High School tennis coach serving students from 1966-1989. He was named Indiana Coach of the year in 1979 and 1989.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have completed at least one year of their college degree program. Recipients must enroll as full-time students.
Scholarship Story: Marilouise Lundgren Lossing was born and raised in La Porte. After moving to Virginia, Mrs. Lundgren Lossing never forgot her hometown and La Porte High School. Upon her passing, she established the Marilouise Lundgren Lossing Memorial Scholarship to help fellow La Porte High School graduates she would never know.
Eligibility: Graduates of Michigan City High School or Marquette High School pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Recipients must enroll as full-time students. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study. Renewal is not guaranteed.
Scholarship Story: Shirley Lubeznik established the Jack Lubeznik Scholarship in honor of her husband. Jack Lubeznik was the founder of the first McDonald’s Restaurant in Michigan City and a supporter of many organizations and individuals. In memory of his belief in this community, this scholarship is awarded to graduates from the public and parochial schools of Michigan City.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County pursuing a post-secondary education. Preference is given to U.S. veterans, adults re-entering the education system and those striving to gain specific training or credentials to improve career opportunities. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their course of study. Renewal is not guaranteed.
Scholarship Story: Robert and Anita Ludington embodied the “American Dream.” After his first tour with the U.S Navy, Robert was able to get a two-year degree that led to a job at Pullman-Standard where he filed his first patent in 1958 for a simplified process to replace rail car brakes. Robert never stopped being curious and learning. He continued his education at multiple schools including Notre Dame and Purdue University. When Anita decided to return to school for an education degree after twelve years absence, Robert was her biggest cheerleader. Both Robert and Anita believed that learning was the greatest gift you could give or receive and that knowledge is freedom.
Eligibility: Graduates of a La Porte County high school in good academic standing pursuing a certificate or undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college, university or educational institution. Preference will be given to applicants pursuing the following fields of study: Agriculture and Related Sciences; Construction Trades; Education; Engineering; Engineering Technologies; Family and Consumer Sciences; Mechanic or Repair Technologies; Personal and Culinary Services.
Scholarship Story: Ruth and Leonard loved their family, their community and their church. They valued learning. As a part of the “Greatest Generation,” they began their married life with a commitment to each other, a passion for education and learning, and very little money. They were members of many service and church organizations. Ruth served 18 years on the La Porte Community School Board. They improved many lives through their time, talent and treasure. Ruth and Leonard’s children established this scholarship to honor their parents and continue their parents legacy.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Recipients must enroll as full-time students. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their undergraduate studies. Renewal is not guaranteed.
Scholarship Story: Dr. Edwin and Alice Mueller created this generous scholarship to encourage active involvement in community affairs and to help La Porte students advance their education. Students earning the Dr. Edwin C. & Alice J. Mueller Scholarship must attend a public college or university and are seen as most likely to be successful in college and their chosen field.
Eligibility: Graduating La Porte High School Speech and Debate Students. Students must receive a nomination from a school counselor and/or educator and submit portfolio of accomplishments to speech or debate coach and a personal essay. Applicants must have completed a minimum of 4 semesters of participation in the competitive speech and/or debate program. Applicants must also be members of the National Speech and Debate Association. The recipient does not have to be pursuing a post-secondary education to receive this $500 award.
Award Story: As a teacher at La Porte High School, Loyal Perlich was dedicated to helping his students develop skills in public speaking that would enable them to have the knowledge and confidence to pursue careers of their choice. Following the passing of Mr. Perlich, his son established the Loyal Perlich Outstanding Speaker Award to recognize outstanding speech and/or debate students at La Porte High School.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County who graduated from any high school serving La Porte County and are pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be a first generation college students or member of a minority group. Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their undergraduate studies. Renewal is not guaranteed.
Scholarship Story: The Pioneer Scholarship was established by Isabelle Peterson, a woman absolutely passionate about the value of education and desiring to make the world a better place. It supports individuals with a “pioneering” attitude who are willing to reach out to achieve dreams and give back to the La Porte County community or anywhere else in the world.
Scholarship Story: The late Bertha Redington established this award to benefit graduates of La Porte High School.
Eligibility: Graduating La Porte High School Speech and Debate Students. Students must receive a nomination from a school counselor and/or educator and submit portfolio of accomplishments to speech or debate coach and a personal essay. Applicants must have completed a minimum of 4 semesters of participation in the competitive speech and/or debate program and concurrent enrollment in the class. Applicants must also be members of the National Speech and Debate Association and be pursuing a bachelors degree.
Scholarship Story: Ida Reffett was a dedicated La Porte High School teacher who stressed the importance of communication skills to a young life. Through her instruction, students were inspired to think and express themselves clearly, building confidence and leadership skills. Former student, and current La Porte attorney, Michael Drayton initiated the Ida M. Reffett Debate Scholarship to foster outstanding La Porte High School speech and debate students.
Eligibility: Graduates of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing (not on academic probation). Current/former recipients of this scholarship may reapply each year during their undergraduate study. Renewal is not guaranteed.
Scholarship Story: Dr. and Mrs. Rocke were among the first to establish a scholarship with Unity Foundation. In 1995, they started the Robert A. & Dorothy W. Rocke Scholarship to support La Porte High School students who, above all else, possess a strong desire to suceed. Dr. Rocke was founder of Kesling and Rocke Orthodontics and was a pioneer in his field. Robert and Dorothy Rocke were strong community supporters.
Eligibility: Graduates of Michigan City High School or Marquette Catholic High School pursuing a technical certification or undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university or educational institution. Applicants must be in good academic academic standing and be a first generation college student and/or member of a minority population group.
Scholarship Story: Mr. Scott was a successful businessman and a mentor to many.
Eligibility: Graduates of Westville High School or La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have completed at least one year of their degree program and have been enrolled as a college student since high school graduation. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Preference for, but not limited to, applicants majoring in math &/or computer education.
Scholarship Story: Mrs. Betty Shunk was one of the first to establish a scholarship fund with Unity Foundation. In memory of her husband, she established the Floyd O. & Betty L. Shunk Scholarship to assist La Porte and Westville High School students. Mrs. Shunk did this because she wishes to give La Porte County students opportunities that she did not have.
Eligibility: Current graduating seniors from La Lumiere School, La Porte High School, or Marquette High School pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Recipients must enroll as full-time students.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County and graduates of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing (not on academic probation) and demonstrate involvement/leadership in extra-curricular activities &/or community service. Recipients must enroll as full-time students.
Scholarship Story: This scholarship has been established in memory of Irvin and Peg Swanson by their family. Both Mr. and Mrs. Swanson were helped as young people and this is their way of repaying that generous help. The Irvin and Peg Swanson Scholarship is awarded to hard working students who are involved in their community and are willing to step up and take on a leadership role.
Eligibility: Current graduating seniors of any high school serving La Porte County pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have participated on a high school golf team for four years.
Scholarship Story: Two exceptional La Porte County golfers are commemorated by The Tanber-Blair Golf Scholarship Fund. Larry Tanber is an outstanding amateur golfer who spent most of his life promoting and playing golf with many of the great names in amateur and professional ranks. He also introduced and mentored many young people in the game, several of whom were or are active in the PGA. Bob Blair’s love of golf and dedication to young people is legendary. On September 16th, 2001, Bob lost his battle with cancer. Prior to that time, hundreds got to know Bob around the golf course, and thousands of young people were helped and positively influenced through his role as Sheriff.
Eligibility: This scholarship is awarded a high school senior who is the child of a La Porte County Sheriff’s Office Employee, Lake Patrol Member, Sheriff’s Posse Member, or Office Reserve Deputy and are pursuing an undergraduate degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university and demonstrate the qualities of Neil G. Thompson.
Scholarship Story: The Neil G. Thompson Memorial Scholarship was created to honor Patrolman Neil G. Thompson and is awarded to a high school senior who plans to pursue an academic career at a college or university. Neil realized the meaning of an education as embracing three major elements – development of the mind, body, and spirit. His physical and mental health was essential for him to withstand the pressures of today’s life. And his spirit was composed of those intangible values that sustained him – integrity, conviction, loyalty, courage, selflessness, and moral values.
Eligibility: Residents of the Michigan City Area School District pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing (not on academic probation) and intend to pursue a degree in education or theater/performing arts.
Scholarship Story: John and Florene Troyer were lifelong educators who established this scholarship for Michigan City graduates who are most likely to succeed in their area of study. John & Florene led lives of helping others as educators and volunteers for many organizations.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing (not on academic probation) and demonstrate a desire to benefit themselves & others through education. Recipients must enroll as a full-time students.
Scholarship Story: This scholarship was established to assist La Porte County residents with the pursuit of higher education and the realization of dreams. This scholarship exists because of the generous contributions of many caring people.
Eligibility: Residents of La Porte County and graduating seniors of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative G.P.A. of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Recipients must enroll as full-time students.
Scholarship Story: D.I. Walker was a dedicated mother, who inspired in her children the value of a college education, as early as pre-school age. The D.I. Walker Scholarship was established to honor her gifts and memory.
Eligibility: Current graduating seniors of La Porte High School pursuing an undergraduate bachelor degree from an accredited, tax-exempt college or university. Applicants must be in good academic standing (not on academic probation) and intend to pursue a degree in arts (visual/performing), education, or public administration (government/community service). Recipients must enroll as full-time students.
Scholarship Story: Arlo Westphal was a beloved Assistant Principal at La Porte High School for 20 years, and served 15 years before that as a much respected civics teacher and counselor. Jayne Westphal worked 30 years in the La Porte School System teaching elementary music and was also universally admired for her dedication and enthusiasm. Both Mr. and Mrs. Westphal demonstrated great civic involvement and presence in the community. The Arlo & Jayne Westphal Memorial Scholarship was started to help graduating La Porte High School seniors who demonstrate talent and promise in music and/or theater plus a commitment to public, governmental and community service.
