Scholarships
The Wyalusing Area Education Foundation awards scholarships each year to graduating seniors of the Wyalusing Area School District. Students can apply by picking up a packet from the high school guidance office or downloading it online.
Completed applications must be returned to the guidance office by the posted deadline—applications sent directly to the Foundation cannot be accepted.
Your support helps students achieve their dreams. Every donation invests in our students and strengthens the future of our community.
Scholarships
Bonnie Bell
The Bonnie Bell Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Bonnie Bell Hilfiger (1951–2019), a Wyalusing Valley High School graduate and beloved local artist. Bonnie dedicated her life to art and education, teaching in the Wyalusing School District, leading art camps and classes, and sharing her creativity with children and adults throughout the community. She was known for her murals, portraits, ornaments, and face paintings, as well as her deep commitment to family, faith, and community.
This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior pursuing artistic ambitions. Funds may be used for art supplies, books, software, hardware, or other academic materials, helping students continue their creative journey in the spirit of Bonnie’s lifelong passion for art.
Dana Beyer
Created in memory of Dana Leigh Beyer, Wyalusing Class of 1987, this scholarship supports graduating seniors pursuing careers in vocational or technical fields such as heavy equipment operation or trades training. Dana was known for her professionalism, work ethic, and caring nature throughout her career in the insurance and safety industries. The Dana Beyer Memorial Scholarship recognizes students who share her dedication, reliability, and community involvement.
Betty Jane Brown
The Betty Jane Brown Memorial Scholarship honors a proud Wyalusing native whose creativity, warmth, and love of community left a lasting legacy. Born in Browntown in 1916, Betty was the daughter of Lillian and Judson Brown and a 1933 graduate of Wyalusing High School, where she was known for her artistic talent and school spirit as a member of the basketball team. She often spoke fondly of her childhood in Wyalusing, remembering it as one of the happiest times of her life.
Betty went on to raise a family, pursue her love of art, and remain active and joyful throughout her 90 years—tap dancing well into her eighties. In her memory, her family established this annual scholarship for a graduating Wyalusing Valley High School senior. The award recognizes students who reflect Betty’s values of creativity, kindness, and community spirit, ensuring that her love for Wyalusing continues to inspire generations to come.
Orice Dodge
The Orice Dodge Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Orice Dodge, a devoted educator who began her teaching career in Wyalusing in 1927 and dedicated more than 40 years to shaping young minds in the community. Established by her brother, Conant “Connie” Dodge, in 2002, the scholarship reflects their shared belief in the power of education to transform lives. This award supports students who aspire to become elementary school teachers, recognizing those who show academic excellence, a heart for service, and a genuine commitment to working with children—continuing Orice’s lifelong passion for teaching and giving back.
Bill Gannon
The Bill Gannon Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of William 'Bill' Gannon, a remarkable Wyalusing native whose determination and service continue to inspire. A 1965 graduate of Wyalusing Valley High School, Bill grew up as the son of longtime district superintendent Max P. Gannon Sr. and his wife, Eleanor. His life changed dramatically during his freshman year of college when an automobile accident left him paralyzed from the chest down. Despite this challenge, Bill went on to live an extraordinary life devoted to public service, advocacy, and leadership.
Throughout his career, Bill championed the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities—serving three terms as a Bradford County Commissioner and later as Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. His resilience, humor, and dedication made him a role model to all who knew him. This scholarship, established by his family, honors his Wyalusing roots and his lifelong belief in the power of education, perseverance, and community. It is awarded to a graduating senior pursuing a degree in vocational rehabilitation, physical therapy, or a related field dedicated to helping others overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.
Charles C. Hastings
The Charles C. Hastings Memorial Scholarship was established through a bequest from Charles C. Hastings, a lifelong resident of Terry Township and respected local Justice of the Peace. A graduate of Carnegie Tech, Mr. Hastings valued education and community service.
This scholarship supports WVHS graduates who exemplify Mr. Hastings’ values—strong academic achievement, good character, and active participation in both school and community life. Preference is given to students who plan to pursue post-secondary education and are engaged in academic and extracurricular pursuits. Through his generosity, Mr. Hastings left an enduring legacy that continues to open doors of opportunity for Wyalusing students year after year.
Jim Huffman
The Jim Huffman Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of James Walter Huffman (1961–2018) — beloved husband, father, teacher, and coach who dedicated his life to the Wyalusing community. A 1980 WVHS graduate, Jim earned degrees from Bloomsburg University and Lycoming College before returning to his alma mater to teach art and sixth grade for three decades. A lifelong educator and mentor, Mr. Huffman inspired his students to be not only better learners but better people. He served as a football and volleyball coach, leading teams to NTL and District IV titles while teaching the values of teamwork, integrity, and sportsmanship. This scholarship is awarded to WVHS varsity football or volleyball players who exemplify Coach Huffman’s spirit — commitment to their team, respect for others, and a genuine passion for learning and life. Through this award, his legacy of kindness, leadership, and service continues to inspire future generations.
Ray Raffin
The Ray Raffin Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Raymond Raffin, a beloved teacher, coach, and community leader at Wyalusing Valley High School. Mr. Raffin taught Health and Physical Education and Driver’s Education and served as Head Coach of the WVHS football team for 35 seasons. Under his leadership, the Rams earned 11 Northern Tier League championships, a District Four title, and numerous postseason honors. His dedication and success on the field led to his induction into several halls of fame, including the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame and the Wyalusing Rams Football Hall of Fame—where the field now bears his name.
Beyond athletics, Coach Raffin embodied the spirit of service. He was an Eagle Scout, a devoted member and president of the Wyalusing Lions Club, and an active parishioner at Our Lady of Perpetual Help. His influence extended far beyond the classroom and field, inspiring generations through his leadership, humility, and love for the community. The Ray Raffin Memorial Scholarship continues his legacy by supporting graduating seniors of Wyalusing Valley High School who exemplify his values of dedication, teamwork, and community service.
Eugene Salsman
The Eugene Salsman Memorial Academic Scholarship honors the legacy of Eugene Gene' Salsman, a beloved teacher, coach, and lifelong advocate for education. A 1958 graduate of Wyalusing Valley High School and standout baseball player, Gene went on to earn his degree in biology from Mansfield State Teachers College, where he also excelled on the baseball field. After a brief professional baseball career, Gene returned home to teach science and coach baseball at Wyalusing Valley High School. Over his long tenure, he led the Rams to multiple Northern Tier League championships, district playoff appearances, and a memorable trip to the 1998 state finals, earning induction into the Northeastern Region Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame that same year.
Gene often said he wished to be remembered “first as a teacher and second as a coach.” His love for learning, his students, and his community defined his life. A dedicated member of the Lions Club, he led by example—through humility, compassion, and service. The Eugene Salsman Memorial Academic Scholarship continues his legacy by supporting Wyalusing Valley High School graduates pursuing higher education in science, technology, or education. This award recognizes academic dedication and a commitment to bettering one’s community—values that Gene embodied throughout his remarkable life.
Stagecoach
The Stagecoach Scholarship is an award created by James Belcher of Stagecoach Transport & Crushing LLC. It is intended for Wyalusing Valley High School seniors entering the workforce directly, pursuing a vocational or technical training program (including CDL programs), or attending a heavy equipment or technical career program.
Candidates should demonstrate strong work ethic, positive workplace behavior, and part-time job experience. Applicants will also write a short essay on their goals, what it means to be a good employee, or how this scholarship will support their career path.
Lincoln and Jane Welles
The Lincoln and Jane Welles Memorial Music Award honors the lifelong dedication to music of Lincoln Welles, a tenor vocalist, and Jane Welles, a pianist, who shared their talents in church, community performances, and local musical productions in both Wyalusing and Ft. Myers, FL. Their passion for music and community continues to inspire WVHS students today. This award is presented annually to a Wyalusing Valley High School senior who has excelled in the music department. Eligible students must have participated in at least two areas of the music program for two years and demonstrate a genuine love of music in their performances. Recipients are recommended by the WVHS Music Department and selected by the Welles family.
Yadloskey Scholarship
The Yadlosky Scholarship is awarded to two graduating WVHS seniors who plan to pursue a career in education at a two- or four-year college or university. Honoring the importance of teaching and community service, this scholarship supports students who demonstrate commitment, responsibility, and academic promise—qualities essential to the next generation of educators.
Wyalusing Area Education Foundation
The Wyalusing Area Education Foundation Scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors of Wyalusing Valley High School who plan to attend an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or trade school. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, community involvement, good citizenship, and attendance. Eligible students must hold a minimum GPA of 85, participate in school or community activities (or maintain part-time employment), and demonstrate a commitment to learning and service.
Scholarship Recipients
Bonnie Bell
Memorial Scholarship
2020 -
2021 -
2022 -
2023 - Erin Salsman
2024 -
Dana Beyer
Memorial Scholarship
2023 - Jordan Lamb
2024 - Cade McMicken
2025 - Joslyn Miller
Betty Jane Brown
Memorial Scholarship
2020 - Shane Fuhrey
2020 - Riley Cobb
2021 - Mitchell Burke
2021 - Cheyenne Anaya
2022 - Brynn Zionkowski
2023 - Clayton Petlock
2023 - Layla Botts
2024 - Cade McMicken
2025 - Joselyn Miller
Orice Dodge
Memorial Scholarship
2017 - Kyleigh Jo Ward
2019 -
2020 - Chelsea Bassett
2021-
2022 - Pearl O'Connor
2023 - Daphnie Knapp
2024 - Olivia Haley
2025 - Paige Salsman
Bill Gannon
Memorial Scholarship
2025 - Mylie Fassett
Charles C. Hastings
Memorial Scholarship
2025 - Makenzie Kolbeck
Coach Jim Huffman
Memorial Scholarship
2019 - Makayla Voda
2019 - Shane Fuhrey
2020 - Jackson Chilson
2020 - Daphne Fassett
2021 - Mitchell Burke
2021 - Madison Armitage
2022 - Nolan Oswald
2022 - Karissa Brown
2023 - Ken Warfle
2023 - Emilee Otis
2024 - Dante Hatton
2024 - Danielle Wilson
2025 - Kylie Pickett
2025 - Will McBride
Ray Raffin
Football Scholarship
2017 - Derek Frederick
2018 - Bryton Barna
2019 - Brandon Dake
2021 - Spencer Krewson
2022 - Nolan Oswald
2023 - Alex Hunsinger
2025 - Wil McBride
Eugene Salsman
Memorial Scholarship
2022 - Hunter Moss
2023 - Robert English
2024 - Trehnon Hugo
2025 - Sophia Alvarez
Lincoln and Jane Welles
Memorial Scholarship
2020 - Emily Moyer
2021 - Logan Carter
2022 - Madelynn Muench
2023 - Ethan Lewis
2024 - Danielle Wilson
2025 - Trennon Tewksbury
2025 - Sophia Alvarez
2025 - Savannah McCracken
Stagecoach Scholarship
2023 - Alex Hunsinger
2024 - Cade McMicken
Yadloskey Scholarship
2023 - Daphnie Knapp
2023 - Clayton Petlock
2024 - Cade McMicken
2024 - Adelaine Sutton
Wyalusing Area Education Foundation Scholarship
2016 - Isaac Bennett
2016 - Austin Clouse
2017 - Julia Edwards
2017 - Josh Haley
2017 - Regan Miller
2017 - Gerrica Clouse
2017 - Ashley Carter
2018 - Karlye Huffman
2018 - Hannah Corson
2018 - Scott Eberlin
2018 - Rachel Jensen
2018 - Drayson Sanders
2018 - Nicholas Superko
2020 - Shane Fuhrey
2020 - Emily Lewis
2020 - Emily Moyer
2021 - Carina Beebe
2021 - Catherine Brown
2022 - Marissa Johnson
2022 - Abram Bennett
2022 - Pearl O'Connor
2022 - Olivia Spencer
2023 - Robert English
2023 - Priscilla Newton
2023 - Taylor Spencer
2023 - Sydney Friedlander
2024 - Michelle Romanik
2024 - Clayton CJ Carr
2024 - Dante Hatton
2024 - Oliva Haley
2025 - Gabrielle Palfreyman
2025 - Trennan Tewksbury
2025 - Ashlynn Neiley
2025 - Savannah McCracken
2025 - Kylie Pickett
2025 - McKenzie Kolbeck