A recent reunion planning session included discussion about how our class might invest surplus funds. With that in mind, Rolf Svendsen was invited to explain the WHS ’59 Scholarship Fund. This fund has been in existence for decades and has provided many young Washburn graduates with financial help toward their post high school education at a trade or technical college. Our class has been invited to partner with their class in this effort. Our committee enthusiastically endorsed this opportunity to give back to the community that had such a positive impact on our young lives.

The scholarship fund committee works with a Washburn counselor to identify students who are involved in community service and wish to advance their lives and careers in education and service. They seek to find students who would not be recognized by regular scholarship programs. This is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students in this changing community.

In the past, our class has supported The Washburn Foundation. Those donations became part of a larger pot of money that is used for current needs of the school building or grounds. We think that we can make a greater impact through giving directly to kids in need through this scholarship fund.

The WHS ’59 Scholarship Fund currently has a balance of $40,000. Scholarships of $1,000 are given per semester and renewable for three years, provided the students are enrolled and in good standing. Donations are crucial to keeping the fund alive. This fund is managed by The Minneapolis Foundation, making all donations eligible for a tax deduction.

Please consider this effort when you’re planning your charitable contributions. We will keep you apprised of any donation that we make in the name of our graduating class.

The WHS Class of 1960 Reunion Committee