05/18/2026
The USD 273 Endowment Association is pleased to announce scholarships awarded to the graduates of 2026. These scholarships are awarded in the names of individuals and families who have a history of supporting education in the Beloit and Mitchell County schools. Since 2016 $365,200.00 has been awarded in scholarships to graduates of high schools in Mitchell County.
The scholarships awarded are as follow:
Betty Vernon Scholarship: Elizabeth Smith Vernon attended BHS graduating in the later 1930’s. She went on to college at Kansas Wesleyan and before she could graduate she began teaching in western Kansas. Later she married and moved to a farm located north of Simpson, Kansas. From there she moved to California where she completed her degree at Whittier College and continued her teaching in California for many years. She eventually moved to Concordia, Kansas, where her son Larry Vernon lived. Her final years were spent in Beloit, Kansas, living with her sister Barbara Harrison. Brecken Boudreaux was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $1,100. Brecken is the daughter of Krista Pilcher.
BHS Alumni Scholarship: These scholarships were established by Beloit High School Alumni to benefit the graduates of their alma mater. These scholarships are for students graduating from BHS. Each of the following graduates will receive a BHS Alumni Scholarship in the amount of $3,775: Joel Rexroat – son of Hiedi and Justin Rexroat, and Brandy Porter – daughter of Shale and Dawn Porter. Each of the following graduates will receive a BHS Alumni Scholarship in the amount of $500: McKenna Channell – daughter of Tammy and Jason Channell. Kade Pearson – son of Spencer and Karen Pearson. Saige Heiman – daughter of Jerrin and Brianne Heiman and Makenna Smith – daughter of Jennifer and Anthony Tobald.
Bob and Barbara Harrison Scholarship: Barbara (Smith) Harrison graduated from BHS in 1937. She went on to complete her education at Kansas Wesleyan. After graduation she married Robert Harrison and she began a long career of teaching Kindergarten at the Beloit Elementary School. Robert Harrison was from Glen Elder, and he also graduated from Kansas Wesleyan. Robert taught various courses at BHS, coached several sports teams, and also served as the principal at BHS. Brecken Boudreaux was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $3,300. Brecken is the daughter of Krista Pilcher.
Boettcher Companies Scholarship: Boettcher Companies was started in 1937 by Harold and Zelma Boettcher. In 1979, Jerold Boettcher, a graduate of BHS Class of 1958, moved back to Beloit to help his Dad run the business. The company provided one of the first donations to start the endowment fund. This scholarship is available to a BHS Student. Charlie Burke was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $2,800. Charlie is the son of Chuck and Josie Burke.
Brad and Mike Fuller Scholarship: Brad Fuller, and his brother, Mike Fuller where long time members of the Beloit community, with a tradition of support for education beyond the high school level. Brad was a 1966 graduate and Mike was a 1969 graduate of BHS. They both were vital members of Fuller Farms Inc. farming operation, and made their family and their activities an important part of their lives. This award is available for a BHS graduate. Emersyn Fuller was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $1,100. Emersyn is the daughter of Erin Stewart.
Brian Hogan Scholarship: Brian Hogan graduated from BHS in 1957, and Kansas Wesleyan in 1963 with a double major in math and physics. He taught high school math and science in Morganville and Miltonvale, Kansas and then accepted a National Science Foundation grant to get his Master’s degree in mathematics. From 1969 to 2003, he taught mathematics at Highline Community College in Des Moines, Washington. Mr. Hogan’s scholarship is for a BHS graduate continuing their education in Math or Science. Kaylin Prochaska was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $1,100. Kaylin is the daughter of Brandon and Mary Prochaska.
BHS Class of 1964 Scholarship: This scholarship was established by the Beloit High School class of 1964 to benefit the graduates of their alma mater. This scholarship requires the student to graduate with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and to further their education in any major at the college level. This year’s scholarship of $2,525 each goes to Ally Otte and Sawyer Zimmer. Ally is the daughter of Jason and Stephanie Otte and Sawyer is the son of Darin Zimmer.
Carle Kuhn Scholarship: A Fort Hays State University graduate with a BS in physical education and a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education. Carle taught Biology, Physical Science, Physiology and Drivers education at Concordia and Beloit Jr. Sr. High School. At both schools, he coached football, basketball, and track. He also began Beloit Track Club, taking athletes far and wide to Junior Olympic track meets. After retiring from teaching, Carle attended airplane mechanics school for 2 years at K-State Salina, acquiring his Air Frame and power plant license to work on small aircrafts. He returned to K-State as an instructor for 2 more years. Following his time in Salina, Carle worked for Moritz Memorial Airport in Beloit for several years before his retirement. This scholarship offered in his name is available to a BHS graduate with interest in the science field. Luke Cheney was selected for this $2,350 scholarship. Luke is the son of Jason and Dana Cheney.
Darrel and Virgina Wiles Scholarship: Darrel and Virgina Wiles were lifelong residents of Mitchell County. They raised three daughters, Cindy, Connie, and Cathy. They instilled in their daughters that hard work, dedication and the importance of giving back through living by example. They believed in encouraging others to excel and achieve. It was important to them to help others and do their part in leaving Beloit a better place. This scholarship is available to a graduating senior of BHS. This year the $1,100 scholarship was awarded to Barklee McMillan. Barklee is the daughter of Lee and Ingrid McMillan.
Darrell Abernethy Scholarship: Dr. Darrell Abernethy graduated from BHS in 1967, and Kansas University in 1971 and 1976 with MD and PHD degrees, with further medical training at MIT, Harvard, University of Miami, and Boston University. He taught and researched medicine at Tufts University, Baylor, Brown, and Georgetown University. Dr. Abernethy also did research in the pharmacology field at John Hopkins School of Medicine. He finished his career working at the US Food and Drug Administration. Dr. Abernethy was the son of Robert and Howard Abernethy. Dr. Abernethy passed away at the age of 68 in 2017. Edward Horinek and Lynelle Gengler were chosen to each receive a scholarship in the amount of $2,825. Edward is the son of Clint and Sarah Horinek and Lynelle is the daughter of Dean and Amy Gengler.
Doris M. Gasper Scholarship: Doris graduated from Tipton Catholic High School in 1969 and went on to earn a degree in Business from North Central Kansas Vocational School in Beloit, Kansas. She began her professional career as an assistant secretary at Beloit Elementary School. In July 1978, she was promoted to Head Secretary and Bookkeeper—a role she served in with dedication and excellence for 21 years. In 1991, Doris moved to the Board of Education's office as a Data Processing Secretary, and in July 1993, she was appointed Clerk of the Board, a role she held with efficiency and passion until her retirement in December 2019 for a total of 49 years of service to USD 273. Ava Wiles was selected from St. John’s High School for this scholarship in the amount of $2,200. Ava is the daughter of Darwin and Andrea Wiles.
Ed and Joyce Harman Scholarship: The Ed and Joyce Hartman Scholarship was established in their memory and also in appreciation of the many high school students who worked at the Banner Restaurant during the 42 years that the Hartman Family owned and operated the restaurant. This scholarship is available to one graduating senior from Beloit High School and one graduating senior from St. John’s High School.
Lundyn Knight (Beloit High School) was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $1,100. Lundyn is the daughter of Josh and Lori Bohnert and Aaron Knight. Edward Horinek (St. John’s High School) was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $1,100. Edward is the son of Clint and Sarah Horinek.
Frank and Gwen Jordan Family Scholarship: Dr. Frank Jordan was a graduate of BHS Class of 1932. Dr. Jordan and his son, Frank Jr., had a veterinarian business in Abilene, Kansas. Kale Leners was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $2,800. Kale is the son of Brad and Jana Leners.
Howard Abernethy Family Scholarship: The Howard R. and F. Robert Abernethy family were lifelong residents of Mitchell County. He was a farmer, teacher, and a World War II Army veteran. He served as the Scottsville City Clerk, Lulu Township board, and as a board president of the Mitchell County museum. One scholarship was awarded this year in the amount of $2,800. The award is for any graduates in Mitchell County pursuing a baccalaureate degree at any institution in any field of study. The recipient of this scholarship is Greg Walter. Greg is the son of Steve and Valerie Walter.
Jim and Nadyne Copp Family Scholarship: Jim and Nadyne Copp were long time teachers and administrators in the Beloit School system. Their daughters, JaLynn (’83) and Jana (’92) were also BHS graduates. This scholarship is available to one graduate of BHS who is enrolled in a 4-year college and has interest in entering the teaching profession. This year’s recipient of a $1,900 scholarship is Ally Otte. Ally is the daughter of Jason and Stephanie Otte.
Juliane Pruitt Scholarship: Juliane Pruitt was a 1958 graduate of BHS. She attended KU, K-State, and Fort Hays State receiving BS and MS degrees in music education. She taught piano, organ, flute and guitar to many young people and several adults as well. She was a member and the organist at the First Presbyterian Church in Beloit for many years. This scholarship is awarded to a BHS graduate with an interest in music. Autumn Lorenz was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $1,100. Autumn is the daughter of Chad and Laura Lorenz.
Lampert Family Scholarship: Bob and the Late Andra Lampert were married for 57 years and are lifetime residents of Beloit. Bob graduated from BHS in 1962 and Andra in 1965. Their three sons are all BHS graduates, Eric in 1988, Paul in 1991, and Aaron in 1996. Bob’s brother Larry graduated in 1969. Paul’s wife Marcy (Meats) and Aaron’s wife Sally (Mehl) are also BHS graduates. Bob has been employed at the First National Bank, later the First Bank of Beloit, since being discharged from the Air Force in 1971. Eric teaches math at BHS, Paul is an optometrist in Russell KS, and Aaron is the President of First Bank of Beloit; Bob was on the USD 273 Board of Education from 1977 to 1991 and was the President of the Board for many years. He organized the kids Cookie baseball program for over 20 years and ran the clock for all BHS varsity basketball games for 37 years. Larry worked for the Mitchell County highway department and is now retired. This scholarship in the amount of $1,450 will be awarded to a BHS graduate. Cale Buchholz was selected for this scholarship. Cale is the daughter of Eric Buchholz and Mary Jimenez.
Marianne Metcalf Scholarship: Marianne Metcalf, (1930-2020), was a lifetime resident of Mitchell County. She worked at Farmway Co-Op for 51 years and was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church, Allegro Music Club, and a longtime volunteer at the Mitchell County Historical Museum. She had an avid interest in photography, genealogy, and flower gardening. Marianne was remembered most by her playful nature, sense of humor, and quick wit. This year’s scholarship of $550 is awarded to Charlie Burke. Charlie is the son of Chuck and Josie Burke.
Max and Marcelyn Deets Scholarship: Max was a founding father of the Solomon Valley Feedlot. During his working years, he had the privilege of serving as President of the Kansas Livestock Association and the national Cattlemen’s Beef Association. His wife, Marcelyn of 64 years, owned and operated a real estate and bookkeeping business in Beloit for many years. This scholarship of $1,200 was awarded to Colton Jeardoe. Colton is the son of Kip and Danielle Jeardoe.
Mike Gray Scholarship: Mike Gray was a 1968 BHS graduate. He was an avid fan of all ages participating in any sports activity. This award is available for one BHS graduate who participated in athletics during their 4 years of high school, and is furthering their education at the college level. Dakota Gray was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $1,100. Dakota is the daughter of Pat and Lindsay Gray.
Miles File Scholarship: Miles File farmed in and around Mitchell County his entire life. Miles was generous in giving back to his community and was interested in helping students who wanted to continue their education beyond the high school level. Madison Larsen was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $2,200. Madison is the daughter of Brent Larsen and Leslie Goheen.
Robert and Olive R. Schafer Scholarship: Robert worked as a soil conservationist in Jewell, Rooks, and Smith Counties. In 1946, he established the Mitchell County soil conservation district. Robert passed away in 1971, at the age of 66. Olive received her BS in English at Fort Hays State University. She taught school in Blue Mound, Stockton, and Kansas State. Olive earned a Master’s degree in speech in 1976, and a Doctorate in Education, (curriculum and instruction), in 1978 at the age of 75. While at K-State, she taught classes in the speech department. Olive died in 2003 at the age of 96. These scholarships are for students graduating from BHS. Each of the following graduates will receive a Schafer Scholarship in the amount of $4,500: Luke Cheney –the son of Jason and Dana Cheney. Emersyn Fuller – the daughter of Erin Stewart. Lundyn Knight – the daughter of Josh and Lori Bohnert, and Aaron Knight. Charlie Burke – the son of Chuck and Josie Burke. Allie Bourbon – the daughter of Eric and Melanie Bourbon. Autumn Lorenz – the daughter of Chad and Laura Lorenz.
Sylvia Ludwig Scholarship: Sylvia graduated from BHS in 1975, and from Kansas State in 1979. She taught and coached at Clifton-Clyde for 6 years, and from 1988 to 2016, she was a physical education teacher and volleyball coach at BHS. During that time, she earned her master’s degree at Fort Hays State. Coach “Lud” touched the lives of all she met. Brandy Porter was selected to receive the Sylvia Ludwig Scholarship in the amount of $1,350. Brandy is the daughter of Shale and Dawn Porter.
Tony Fobes Scholarship: Tony S. Fobes graduated from BHS in 1984. Tony was a graduate of Kansas State. Tony loved life, and he worked and played hard. Tony never met a stranger and he was friendly to everyone. He treated everyone as he wanted to be treated – with respect, exuberance, and kindness. Tony passed away of an apparent asthma attack on October 23, 1993. Joel Rexroat was selected for this scholarship in the amount of $500. Joel is the son of Hiedi and Justin Rexroat.
Vicki Meats Scholarship: Vicki was in the graduating class of 1965 from BHS. Her husband Bob and daughters Molly and Marcy graduated from BHS in 1964, 1988, and 1992 respectively. Vicki passed away in 2005. The family worked to support continuing education for graduates of BHS. This scholarship is for a BHS graduate that will continue their education at K-State, Kansas, Fort Hays, or Wichita State. Ellie Olson was selected to receive this scholarship in the amount of $2,300. Ellie is the daughter of Shane and Julie Olson.
USD 273 Endowment Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so all donations are fully tax-deductible. If you would like to contribute, please make your check payable to USD 273 Endowment Association and mail it to P.O. Box 547, Beloit, KS 67420. For questions about establishing a new scholarship in honor of an individual, family, class, or organization, please contact the USD 273 Board of Education office at 785-738-3261 or reach out to any member of the association’s board of directors. Current board members include Jerry Harrison, Bob Meats, Bob Lampert, Eric Lampert, Susan Durham, Cindy Wiles, Liz Francis, Jay Rowh, Greg Renter, Joel Fouts, Katie Schroeder, Bethany Etheridge, Tiffany Schroeder, and Jeff Travis.
