For a donation of $750 or more, a memorial scholarship may be given.  Please contact Avon Dollars for Scholars if you would like to give a memorial scholarship.  Listed below are some of the memorial scholarships:
 
NEW FOR 2024: 
       ROBERT J. GORMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship was established by Robert's sister, Patricia Gorman, who bequeathed funds to honor his memory.  Robert was a builder and resident in the Avon area.   This scholarship will go to a male student pursuing a degree in engineering (preferably structural engineering), architecture, or landscape design.  The student should demonstrate traits of honesty, integrity, kindness, and helpfulness toward others.  Additionally, this student should have competed on one or more of the Avon High School football, basketball, or baseball teams.  
 
AVON LAND TRUST HUGH A. BLANCHARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP 
Hugh A. Blanchard was a founder and past president of the Avon Land Trust. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior attending Avon High School or Avon Old Farms School who has been a resident for at least 1 year. The student plans to pursue a degree related to the environment or environmental sciences, ecology, conservation, or biology.  Girl or Boy Scouts who completed their Gold Award or Eagle Scout project for the Avon Land Trust receive special consideration regardless of intended field of study.   
  
MONTE J. AND CYNTHIA R. HOPPER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: 
 
Monte and Cindy, who passed away in 2022 and 2015 respectively, were long time residents of Avon and members of the Avon Dollars for Scholars board.  In addition, Monte served on the Avon Board of Education for 13 years, six of which as Chairman.  They were involved in many other volunteer, charitable, political, and church organizations in the area, so much so that Cindy described herself as a professional volunteer.  This award should be given to a graduate who has shown a strong commitment to volunteer activities throughout his or her high school career as well as exhibiting integrity, good citizenship, and good scholarship.
 
DEBORAH GOLDFARB COMMUNITY SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP 
Deborah Goldfarb was an active member of the Avon Community.  She was a volunteer in the Avon Youth Soccer program, chaired the Avon Youth Activities Council, founded the Avon Youth Employment Project, and worked for Gifts of Love. In 1989 she received the Avon Citizen of the Year Award by the Avon High School Student Government.   This scholarship will be awarded to a student who has given back to the Avon Community through their community service. 
 
ALICE Y. ZACCHERA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
Given by Heidi Zacchera in loving memory of her mother, Alice. Alice was a first grade teacher in Avon at both Huckleberry Hill and Roaring Brook Schools. She was recently remembered as "the very, very best teacher in Avon; so kind, understanding and caring." She was very reassuring for me, as a young mother, guiding me along too. Alice volunteered at her church and enjoyed sewing, especially quilting. She as part of the Tuesday Crafters at church, sewing things for hospitals and for those in need. This scholarship is awarded to a student furthering their education in the field of elementary education and who has been involved in volunteering within the community.
 
AMY E. TOYEN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
Amy attended Avon schools from kindergarten through her graduation in 1995. She was a loyal, caring friend who was concerned about others. Not only did Amy achieve high academic success, she also was involved in the arts, enjoying playing the piano and drawing. Further, she was active in community service. The recipient of this award should have a variety of interests as well as demonstrate an involvement in community.
 
AVON LIONS RAY ZACCHERA MEMORIAL LIONS SCHOLARSHIP: 
 
This scholarship was established in memory of Ray Zacchera a long time Avon resident, who passed away in August 2007. Ray continually gave back to his community, helping to found the Avon Lions Club and serving as its first president. He was a WWII veteran and an active member in VFW Post 3272. He also served on several town building committees. He served as town selectman and town police constable, but was known for his more recent activities such as being in charge of serving coffee at the Avon Health Center and giving away his homemade chocolates. He was affectionately known as "Ray the Candy Man".
 
BRIAN COLLINGS MEMORIAL - AVON LITTLE LEAGUE SCHOLARSHIP:
 
The Avon Little League Scholarship is in memory of Brian Collings, who coached and dedicated his time and talents to provide our youth an outlet of healthful activity and training in an atmosphere of community participation.
 
BERNARD COLE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS:
 
These scholarships are given in memory of Bernard Cole, a man who worked extremely hard to provide for his family from a vry early age. He valued the importance of getting a good education and the possession of a strong work ethic. His influence impacted the career choice that his daughter made in life. Stephanie Eason is a special education teacher at Avon High School and she has worked tirelessly with her students for many year. These awards go to students who have overcome a significant challenge during their high school career. The recipients must demonstrate maximum academic effort, perseverance and determination.
 
BETTY KARAMPELAS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
Basil Karampelas was valedictorian of the Class of 1983. He will always be grateful for the financial support AHS provided him. Basil hopes to do the same for others by giving a scholarship honoring his family, especially his late mother, Betty, who was a single parent during much of Basil's time at AHS. The recipient of this award demonstrates both excellent academic achievement and strong character
 
BRADFORD SCOTT GEYER '83 MEMORIAL TRACK & FIELD SCHOLARSHIP
 
This scholarship is given in loving memory by Brad's family and Brad's Avon Track Alumni, including his brother, Greg. Brad, a prolific athlete and supportive teammate, represented the work ethic, joy of sport, and team-first mindset that we all value. Those same qualities that he embodied in track were carried on and extended into a full and rich life with a loving family and many friends. Brad set many milestones during his four years at Avon High School, including 3 school records he still holds. But what we remember most is his smile, work ethic, energy, and his heart that lives on through us all.
 
CHRISTINE PAPPALARDO GRIEF MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
This scholarship honors Christine Greif, class of 1987, who overcame tremendous odds after sustaining a traumatic brain injury caused by a drunk driver.  She was a scholar athlete and recognized for her community service work at Avon High School.  Even though she had limited use of only one hand, she drew and created note cards from her artwork.  This scholarship is given in her memory.  
 
DANIELLE ROTHSTEIN CREATIVE WRITING MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship honors the memory of Danielle Rothstein, a 2010 graduate of Avon High School.  Danielle was a bright, spirited, and creative student, with a gift of the written word.  She graduated from University of Miami in 2014 with a degree in creative writing, but her great potential was cut short by her untimely death in 2017.  Danielle's family would like to keep her love of creating and writing alive by providing an opportunity to a student who shares Danielle's talent and passion for creative writing.  
 
DONALD SOPELAK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP 
This scholarship, established by Sophie Sopelak, is given in memory of her loving husband Donald Sopelak, who was a math teacher at Avon High School for 37 years as well as an adjunct math professor at Tunxis Community College in his retirement.  He was an avid outdoorsman and a wine connoisseur who loved animals, photography and woodworking.  This scholarship is given to an academically strong student pursuing a major in education or STEM, with a preference for education, math, or physics.
 
THE DOUGLAS SHALLCROSS BROWN, JR & MARILYNNE FOSTER BROWN SCHOLARSHIP:
 
Douglas Shallcross Brown, Jr. was an attorney, legal publisher, and humanitarian, who had a strong passion for music. When Doug passed suddenly in 2009, this scholarship was created to honor and preserve his legacy. It is awarded to an Avon senior pursuing a career in music and/or music education, who is dedicated and hardworking, and shows promise in the field of music.
 
DR. EDWIN J. FOLEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
Dr. Edwin Foley was a medical doctor who graduated from Syracuse University Medical School in 1930.    He served in the US Army Medical Corps during WWII, obtained the rank of Major and participated in campaigns in Africa and Europe.  After the war, he became a successful business executive and retired as VP and Chief Medical Officer of Winthrop Labs (later Sterling Drug).   Dr. Foley was also an accomplished pianist whose love for music extended through his lifetime.  He was a true gentleman who valued educational achievement and epitomized humility, piety, self discipline, and service to others.
 
ELAINE OLTHUIS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP 
Elaine Olthuis was an active member of the Avon Junior Women's Club.  She served in numerous capacities including President.  Community Service was paramount to Elaine.  This scholarship is awarded to a female student who has exhibited active participation in her community.
 
JAMES KEARNEY MEMORIAL LACROSSE SCHOLARSHIP:
 
Jim was the founder of the Boys' Lacrosse team at Avon High School, which he coached until his untimely death. This scholarship is given annually to a senior who exemplifies the highest ideals of sportsmanship, character, and commitment to the team - these were the ideals that Jim held most true.
 
JEREMIAH F. MCWILLIAMS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
This scholarship honors the memory of Attorney McWilliams, a long-time Avon resident who along with his wife, Miriam, volunteered their time and generosity to the Avon community. Jeremiah McWilliams served on the Avon school board 1976-1979, served on the Avon board of selectman 1979-1981, and graduated from the Avon police citizens' academy program.  Eligible students should demonstrate an interest and commitment to public service with the intent to pursue a law degree and/or government studies to support that commitment.
 
JILL A. HOPPER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: 
 
Jill, a graduate of the Class of 1988, will be remembered for her fervent motivation, passion for academics, concern for others and promise for the future. She was the highest caliber of scholar and humanitarian. She touched all she knew with her grace, exceptional character and sheer zest for life. The scholarship recipient should be an Avon High School student who has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and high moral character.
 
 
KELLY ANN HAHN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: 
 
Kelly Ann Hahn served in the capacity of paraeducator at Roaring Brook School for eight years.  She graduated from Avon High School and subsequently attended UCONN.  Kelly resided in Canton with her husband Dave and two children, Billy and Samantha. Those who worked closely with Kelly were profoundly affected by her dedication to students and staff of RBS.  Her enthusiasm for teaching students impacted those around her to strive to be better as educators.  She has left a legacy of teaching materials and modifications that continue to be used for assisting students.  Kelly will be sorely missed.
 
 
ROTARY OF AVON-CANTON DONALD B. STUDLEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: 
 
This scholarship honors Mr. Studley, who in 1977 presented to the Rotary Club the idea of starting an Avon Chapter of Dollars for Scholars. By 1978, it was a reality. He led the chapter for many years and remained as Chairman Emeritus until his death in 2005. He believed in "giving back" and volunteered not only in Avon, but also in service to our country.
 
 
RUTH HOGAN KOTLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
This scholarship is established in the memory of Ruth Hogan Kotler, who died of metastatic breast cancer on November 5, 2011. She was 47 years old and left behind her husband, her son, age 15 and her daughter, age 13. She also left her parents, in-laws, 9 brothers and sisters along with their spouses and countless friends and co-workers. Ruth attended Stonehill College as an undergraduate, majoring in Biology, then the Yale university Physician Associate Program. Ruth became a Physician Assistant, specializing as a Neurosurgical PA  at the UCONN Health Center.  Ruth was a woman of great strength and courage. She valiantly fought her illness with grace and dignity, but also with dogged determination. Always with a smile on her face, Ruth persevered in her daily struggle with breast cancer for 10 years. Ruth never let it get in the way of her favorite activity; cheering on her children from the sidelines of their sporting activities. Ruth is remembered most for her devotion to her family.  Applicants for this scholarship must demonstrate how he or she has been affected by breast cancer in some way. 
 
SANDY JAREM MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
This scholarship is in memory and honor of Sandy Jarem, a kind, spirited, creative, and thoughtful wife, mother, and friend. Sandy was a familiar face in the office for Pine Grove School families and staff for over two decades and was always quick with a smile or a hug. She was a selfless individual who dedicated her life to helping others in countless ways. Her friendly, welcoming attitude and deep love for family and friends set an example for all to follow. The recipient of this scholarship will share in these attributes.
 
THOMAS MURPHY, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: 
 
Thomas Murphy, Jr. was an individual committed to his community, his religious beliefs, multiple charitable works and his profession.  Well-accomplished in his field of public accounting, Thomas strived to extend his expertise to students and was considered a mentor to many. This scholarship, among others at various educational institutions, would have brought him the greatest pleasure. The recipient of this scholarship exemplifies these standards and has a commitment to exuding the highest integrity in every aspect of life.
 
THOMAS J. MCGUFF MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
Tom McGuff was a successful engineer and executive who fervently supported youth, education, the sciences and engineering. Honoring his memory, his family has established this memorial scholarship, which is awarded to a student pursuing a degree in engineering or science.
 
TODAY MAGAZINE BART + ANN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP:
 
This scholarship is given in memory of Bruce Deckert's parents.  Bruce is the publisher and editor of Today Magazine, an award-winning publication that covers the heart of the Farmington Valley.  The scholarship is open to all students, with a preference for students who have demonstrated journalism experience, community service and academic achievement.  
 
WADE H. HORSEY IV MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP 
 
This scholarship is given in memory of Wade H. Horsey IV, the son of a former Avon Dollars for Scholars Board Member, to a student pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or finance.
 
WILLIAM H. AND JAMES A. HARRIS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: 
 
William H. and James A. Harris both attended Avon High School. This scholarship also honors their grandfather, who was President of Central CT State University for 39 years. The award goes to a student who will be attending CCSU.