SFD SCHOLARSHIPS
Class of 2026, Class of 2027, Class of 2028
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR CURRENT FRESHMEN THROUGH JUNIORS
The scholarship application period for current students (Class of 2026, Class of 2027, Class of 2028) will run through January 31, 2025.
SCHOLARSHIP QUESTIONS
1. Reflect on a personal experience that embodies the theme 'Eleos: Live with Kindness.' This could involve an act of kindness you initiated, an instance when kindness was extended to you, or a situation where mutual kindness was exchanged.
2. Provide a list of the school activities and community/volunteer involvement, including athletic/artistic/service activities.
3. Explain how one or more of the co-curricular activities listed above has helped you develop leadership skills and/or provided an opportunity to motivate and inspire others?
4. Tell us about a SFDHS teacher who has made a difference in your high school career. Explain how this person has helped you achieve your academic goals.
SCHOLARSHIP DESCRIPTIONS
SOPHOMORES APPLYING FOR JUNIOR YEAR SCHOLARSHIPS
(CLASS OF 2027)
(click on scholarship name for description)
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About: This $1000 scholarship, established in 1996, honors a man who enriched the lives of all who knew him. Mr. Wirtz made time for others through coaching and volunteering at St. Francis DeSales High School, St. Paul School, the Rotary Club, and Knights of Columbus. Despite the many responsibilities that came with being a busy husband, father, and practicing attorney, Denny always found time to lend an ear, a hand and his heart. His warmth and humor were as generous as his willingness to help others. The recipient must be involved in community service and maintain a minimum of 2.0 GPA.
JUNIORS APPLYING FOR SENIOR YEAR SCHOLARSHIPS
(CLASS OF 2026)
(click on scholarship name for description)
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About: These $500 scholarships were created to honor the outstanding contributions and sacrifices made to the students of SFDHS by the teachers in the following departments:
English: This scholarship recognizes a junior who maintains a 3.25 GPA in English courses. In addition to the application, each applicant will be required to provide an essay (300 words or less) answering the following question: What is the most valuable lesson your favorite English teacher at St. Francis DeSales High School has taught you?
Math & Science: This scholarship recognizes a junior who maintains a 3.25 GPA in Math and Science courses and who plans to pursue a career in Math, Science, Engineering or Information Technology. In addition to the application, each applicant will be required to provide an essay (300 words or less) answering the following question: What is the most valuable lesson your favorite math or science teacher at St. Francis DeSales High School has taught you?
Performing Arts: This scholarship recognizes a junior who maintains a 3.25 GPA and who has been involved in Band, Choir, Theater or Dance Team. In addition to the application, each applicant will be required to provide an essay (300 words or less) answering the following question: What is the most valuable lesson you've learned by participating in Band, Choir, Theater or Dance Team at SFD, and how will you use this lesson to help you in the future?
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About: This $1,000 scholarship is funded by the family and friends of Mary and Harvey Rossetti, Sr. Mary and Harvey, Sr. were dedicated to their family, to Catholic Education, and to enjoying life fully. The scholarship is awarded to a junior who maintains a 3.0 GPA or above, and is involved in community service and co-curricular activities.
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About: This $1,000 scholarship is funded by the family and friends of Milena DiMichaelangelo who was a beloved student of St. Francis DeSales High School, class of 2011. This scholarship is intended for a student who is passionate about social justice and has demonstrated the courage and willingness to be an advocate for those without a voice. This was how Milena lived her life as she constantly included people in her circle of friends and accepted individuals for who they were.
In addition to the application, applicants for this scholarship will be asked to submit an essay that would suggest his/her commitment to Milena’s message to be a “soldier for love.”
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About: This $1,000 scholarship is funded by the family of Mr. and Mrs. Mosure, in recognition of their parents’ dedication and sacrifice in providing a Catholic education for all of their seven children. The scholarship is awarded to a junior who demonstrates good academic standing (3.0 GPA or above), is a practicing Catholic, and is involved in community service.
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This $1,000 scholarship is in honor of Mrs. Karen Scott, who dedicated 32 years engaging students in Physics and Physical Science at St. Francis DeSales High School. Karen feels having both passion and enthusiasm are the essence of inspiring young people to pursue their dreams and goals. Applicants must be a rising senior who is planning a career in Science Education, the Physical Sciences, or Engineering.
* In addition to the application for this scholarship, applicants are asked to submit an essay of why they want to pursue a career in Science Education, the Physical Sciences, or Engineering, and how they plan to inspire others or make a difference in their chosen career.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR FRESHMEN, SOPHOMORES AND JUNIORS
(CLASS OF 2028, CLASS OF 2027, CLASS OF 2026)
(click on scholarship name for description)
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About: This $250 scholarship is funded by the family and friends of Lillian Leighton, a determined and loving mother who worked tirelessly with the educational system in her community to ensure all students would have ample opportunities to achieve regardless of learning style. The scholarship will be awarded to a student currently in the Aquinas program based on character, kindness, involvement in school and community.
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About: These two $1000 scholarships are funded by the family of Elizabeth Garrick, a woman who was dedicated to her family, friends, and her Catholic faith. She was a proud supporter of both St. James the Less and St. Francis DeSales High School. The recipient must be an alumnus of St. James the Less School, be involved in co-curricular activities, and maintain a 3.0 GPA or above.
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About: This $1000 scholarship is funded in loving memory of Laura Giammarco Cua (SFD Class of 1973). Laura dedicated 35 years of her life to the education of others. Her legacy lives on through the thousands of lives she touched in and out of the classroom. This scholarship is intended for a student who embodies Laura's passion for education through their academic endeavors, community involvement, and goals for the future.
In addition to the application for this scholarship, applicants are asked to submit an essay addressing the following: 'What does education mean to me?’
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About: This $1000 scholarship, established in 2016, is in memory of Jim Purcell. A lifelong educator, Jim proudly served the DeSales community as a parent, teacher, and Spirit Shop manager. This scholarship is awarded to a student who has at least a 3.5 GPA and represents DeSales in a co-curricular activity.
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About: Upon her retirement in 1994, a group of appreciative alumni, colleagues, family, and friends established this $1000 scholarship in honor of the school’s first librarian for her 31 years of faithful service. It will be awarded to a student who has excellent conduct and performed service to DeSales and/or their church and community.
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About: This $1,000 scholarship is in memory of a man who devoted his entire life to selflessly helping others personally and professionally. During his many years of service, fundraising for DeSales, “Mr. V” enriched the lives of everyone he met. He taught his five children, all DeSales graduates, that we have a responsibility to members of our community with greater need than our own. This scholarship is available to African American students residing in the greater Linden community (zip codes 43224, 43229, 43219, and 43211).
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About: A $1,000 scholarship and a $500 scholarship are funded by the family and friends of Chris Daniels, a member of the St. Francis DeSales class of 1991. These scholarships are awarded to an African American freshman, sophomore or junior who possesses the character and concern for racial harmony that Chris Daniels had. The recipient must follow an alcohol and drug-free lifestyle and maintain a 2.5 GPA or above. In addition to the application, each applicant is required to provide an essay answering the following: Explain how you share of yourself, as an African American youth, in your home, school and community.
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About: A $1,000 scholarship sponsored by Mothers Club recognizes a rising sophomore, junior or senior student who embodies the spirit of enhancing the school environment for students, faculty and staff through their participation in activities and volunteerism. In addition to the application for this scholarship, applicants are asked to submit an essay addressing the following: Describe how you have impacted the well-being of the students, faculty and staff as a result of your involvement at SFD.
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About: The Parent Advisory Board recognizes a current freshman, sophomore, or junior student who demonstrates responsibility for his or her education. A $1,000 scholarship is awarded to two students who demonstrate excellent character and conduct, are active in co-curricular activities, and maintain 3.0 GPA or above.
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About: This $1,000 scholarship is in honor of Jim Schmall, a member of the class of 2001, who was an advocate for those with no voice. Nicknamed “Biggie,” he truly had a gentle heart. Although he faced serious physical issues, he always looked out for those who struggled to live with dignity every day.
In addition to the application for this scholarship, applicants are asked to submit an essay addressing the following: Describe a situation in which you had to overcome a challenge (or) how you have helped a friend or family member overcome a challenge.
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About: Six $1,000 scholarships are funded by the dedicated faculty and staff of SFDHS through the Faculty and Staff Annual Fund Drive. These scholarships recognize two juniors, two sophomores, and two freshmen whose intellectual strength, character, and leadership enrich the school community. Scholarships are awarded to students who have maintained a 3.5 GPA or above, and participate in a co-curricular program.
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The Buzz and Mary Jean Cockerell Family Scholarship is a testament to their enduring commitment to Catholic education and community support. This $1,000 scholarship is available to students of St. Francis DeSales High School who exemplify outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and a dedication to community service and God.
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About: This scholarship is funded by the friends, family and former athletes of Guido and JoAnn Ricevuto. It is to recognize and honor their commitment to Faith, Family and Tradition that DeSales High School exemplifies. Coach Guido was the Head Track Coach and Assistant Football coach at DeSales High School over a span of fifty years. He coached thousands of athletes over three generations, and his wife, JoAnn, was always by his side taking statistics. The couple believed in family, Catholic education, respect and hard work. A $1000 scholarship will be awarded to a student who participates in at least one co-curricular program and is in good academic standing (3.0 GPA or above). In addition to the application for this scholarship, applicants are asked to submit an essay answering the following question: Explain what Faith, Family, and the DeSales tradition means to you.
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About: This $1,000 scholarship was created in loving memory of Dana Gentile by her children, Thomas (SFD Class of 2009), Nicholas (SFD Class of 2011) and Anna (SFD Class of 2013). Dana was known as a loving mother, a strong leader, a determined worker, and a devout woman of faith. Her faith and her family were always Dana’s centerpieces in life. She was a selfless woman who dedicated her life to serving others and inspiring her children to always stay humble and kind. Her legacy lives on through her family and the many other lives she has impacted. This scholarship is intended for a student who embodies Dana’s values through their service to others through their faith, involvement in co-curricular activities, and academic endeavors. In addition to the application for this scholarship, applicants are asked to submit an essay answering the following question: How has your faith and family helped you through a time of adversity?
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This scholarship was created to honor Social Studies teacher Steve Ulry for his work advocating social justice and educating his students about the importance of empathy toward others. This $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a current freshman, sophomore or junior that holds a 2.5 GPA or higher, and is passionate about social justice and protecting others.
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About: This $1,000 scholarship was established to pay tribute to men and women in our St. Francis DeSales High School family who have gone before us to their eternal resting place. These special people have made a lasting legacy to our school and community through their loving support and selfless actions. The SFD Memorial scholarship is funded through donations made in memory of loved ones. The recipient of this scholarship must be involved in community service and maintain a minimum of 3.0 GPA.
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About: This scholarship is funded by the family of Lisa K. Dumm, in recognition of her dedication to her children's education and upbringing in catholic schools. This scholarship is awarded to a rising sophomore, junior or senior who is participating in AP coursework, involved in athletic or extracurricular activities and looking at pursuing a college education after their senior year.
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About: This memorial scholarship is funded by the Mitchell family in honor of their beloved nephew and cousin who gave his life fighting in Afghanistan. This $1,500 scholarship is awarded to a Catholic student from one of the feeder parishes of St. Francis DeSales High School. The student must have a GPA of 3.0 or above, and participate in a co-curricular program. In addition to the application, each applicant is required to include a short essay on how the military or a military person has impacted your life.
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About: This scholarship is funded by the SFDHS faculty, friends and family of Mr. Bob Lennon to recognize and honor Bob’s 40 years of dedication as a science teacher and coach. Five $1,500 scholarships are awarded to students who participate in at least one co-curricular program and are in good academic standing (3.0 GPA or above).
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About: Two $1500 scholarships are given in memory of Joey Sansone, class of 2004. Joey was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in 2016 and lost his battle on October 4, 2018. He was an old soul, who was passionate about his Catholic education, felt strongly that his Catholic upbringing molded him to the man he was, and gave him his deep relationships with family and friends. This scholarship is awarded to students from SFD feeder parishes, who participate in a co-curricular program, maintain a minimum of a 2.5 GPA and are active participants in school or community service.
In addition to the application for this scholarship, applicants are asked to submit an essay addressing the following: why your Catholic education is important to you.
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About: This $1500 scholarship was founded in loving memory of John J. Preston II (DeSales class of 1970) by his family and friends. John Preston spent 50 years in Columbus as a contractor, working hard at helping people improve their homes and businesses. The recipient of this scholarship should be a hard worker who is active in helping to improve both the DeSales community and the Central Ohio area. The student must be involved in a co-curricular activity, and exhibit leadership skills within his/her activity.
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About: This $2,000 scholarship was created in loving memory of Kaye Jean Vahalik, by her husband Jim, and sons Jimmy (2007), and Mitchell (2009). Kaye was the number one supporter for her sons in all aspects of life. Even though Jimmy and Mitchell went to public school until 8th grade she always had the desire to send them to DeSales for their high school experience. She wholeheartedly believed in Faith, Family, and Tradition. Applicants must be coming to SFD from the public school system, and participate in co-curricular activities.
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About: The Joyce A. Kozlowski Scholarship is a $2,500 award. The scholarship winner must participate in co-curricular activities and maintain a "C" GPA or better. The winner shall have demonstrated financial need which may include factors such as the size of the applicant's family and other siblings in Catholic school(s).
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About: This scholarship was founded by Betsy and Matt Stewart, honoring beloved members of the Stewart, Raphael, Ozimok, and Pharion families. A $2,500 scholarship is awarded to one female and one male student-athlete who maintains a 3.75 GPA or above, have strong character and leadership skills and are involved in parish or community service.
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About: This $4,500 scholarship (which may be split into three $1,500 scholarships) was established in recognition of Dr. Francis Henninger, a former professor at The University of Dayton, who was a great influence in the lives of his students as a teacher and a friend. Dr. Henninger emphasized that students must have many different interests, and learn to work hard in and out of the classroom. The scholarship is awarded to students who are active in co-curricular activities.
GRADUATING SENIORS APPLYING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS - CLICK ON SCHOLARSHIP NAME BELOW FOR APPLICATION
$7000 The Tim Woodward Scholarship (Deadline: March 31, 2025 )
$500 Leroy Greffin Scholarship (Deadline: March 31, 2025)