BEWSF Awards $10,000 in Scholarship Money to Elmhurst Students
The BEWSF (Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Fund) proudly celebrated their 7th year of operation by awarding five scholarships to high school seniors from the Elmhurst area. This year's awardees emulate the most endearing qualities of Brian's life. Each received $2000 towards thier college education. The BEWSF's mission is to encourage high school students to serve as leaders in their community by exercising sound judgment and committing themselves to volunteer programs that make a positive impact in their lives and the lives of others. Brian Edwin Wagner's untimely passing in 1993 at the age of 16 was inspired the inception of the organization. His memory is carried on through the recipients of this scholarship program.
Liam Hill (York High School) will attend the University of Alabama. He affirmed, "I am so grateful and blessed to be a recipient of this Brian E. Wagner Scholarship. I think that this scholarship is an awesome way to honor and commemorate a truly incredible person! From what I have learned about Brian, he was a person that lived life to the fullest, put family first and was a natural leader. He touched the lives of so many people at such a young age. I hope that I can honor Brian's life by emulating his example."
John Carey (York High School) was accepted to St. Louis University. John said, "I am very thankful and honored to have received this award. As I pursue my doctorate is Physical Therapy I hope to carry on Brian's legacy of leadership through my studies in college. I will practice and refine my leadership skills on and off the field through my participation in ultimate frisbee and as a member of my university's band."
Vanessa Lococo (York High School) is enrolled at Grand Valley State University. She expressed, "The BEWSF award reminds me that hard work always pays off in the end. Brian Wagner brought a smile to everyone's face. During the next four years and throughout my nursing career, I know I can bring a smile to everyone's face because of the compassion and kindness I show towards others. I hope that one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals."
Keegan Costello (Fenwick High School) will be majoring in Finance or Accounting and joining different business clubs while at the University of Illinois. Keegan stated," Receiving the Brian Wagner scholarship is a great honor and I intend to continue living my life with the same attributes that helped Brian Wagner become a successful leader. Those are traits I try to resemble in my own life. I hope that I can continue to serve as a leader in my community and continue to pass the torch that is the Brain Wagner legacy."
Emily Gifford (Timothy Christian High School) looks forward to beginning her college experience at Trinity International University. She will be studying psychology, playing softball, and participating in the Emerging Leaders program. Emily commented, "Receiving this scholarship is an absolute honor because I get to represent Brian's memory and what he stood for. He was a man of integrity who always went the extra mile and led by example. In my life, I will continue to take initiative to encourage others."
The BEWSF Committee graciously thanks all of their long term supporters. Because of their contributions and dedication towards the cause the annual awards granted to outstanding young leaders continues to stand as a rich tradition for the Elmhurst community.