Two scholarship opportunities were sent out to all seniors over Spring Break, each being worth $3,000. The scholarships are funded by the Keifer and Sajben families as a way to memorialize students Jake Keifer and Rhegan Sajben, who passed away Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021.
The application prompts ask applicants to reminisce on personal accounts, events and lessons that embody the spirits of Keifer and Sajben.
Specifically, Keifer’s scholarship prompt states: “Jake taught us that it is important to live life to the fullest and hold those around us dearly, always being there for one another for a laugh, hug, or any other thing. Tell us about a time when you went out of your way to make a positive impact on a beloved friend for no other reason than that you cared for them deeply, and why that is something important to do throughout life?”
Sajben’s scholarship prompt states: “Those who knew Rhegan would say that she was most joyful when she was doing something to support a cause or being a good friend. She had a special gift for being “that person” whom you could turn to when you needed a laugh, to lighten a mood or to chip in and help. Tell us about a time when you were moved to step in to support a friend in need or a cause that you were drawn to… how did you feel and what was the ripple effect?”
Applications are due tomorrow by 11:59 p.m. and there will be one recipient chosen for each scholarship.
Will Bratton, Class of ‘22, came up with the idea for launching these scholarships and worked with the families of the students to make it happen.
Katelyn Heitert, senior, said she appreciates Bratton’s involvement and personal connection to scholarships.
“That’s really cool because It means more to people that are applying, I would say,” Heitert said.
After reading through the email and prompts, Heitert said she plans on submitting an application before tomorrow.
Paula Ake, college and career counselor, is one of the staff members who is working to promote the scholarships to seniors. Ake said she supports the scholarships because of how they continue to elevate the energy of Keifer and Sajben.
“I think any Memorial Scholarship in the name of anyone who is no longer with us is a very honorable thing to do,” Ake said.
Ake said the scholarships are non-renewable as they are exclusive to the Class of ‘24.
“Even though it is only available to the seniors of this year, it definitely gives our students the chance to get help with their education,” Ake said.
Grant Baumgartner, senior, saw the applications for the scholarships in his email a few days ago. Due to the essay’s tight deadline, he said he wasn’t sure if he’d have enough time to apply, but he supports the idea.
“The whole process could really help out a lot of people,” Baumgartner said. “It also is great because with people sharing stories it looks at their lives in a good light and how they brought a lot of good into this world.”
