The Portage Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 scholarship awards, distributing more than $61,000 to students across Portage County pursuing a wide variety of educational and career paths. Thanks to the generosity and vision of local donors who have established scholarship funds as an investment in Portage County’s future, this year’s awards will support not only traditional college-bound students, but also those pursuing careers in the skilled trades and technical fields.
“We’re especially excited this year to recognize such a broad range of student achievements and aspirations,” said Janice Simmons-Mortimer, executive director of the Portage Foundation. “These scholarships represent the generosity of community members who believe in supporting local students wherever their paths may lead, whether that’s college, technical training, or the skilled trades. It’s inspiring to see donors creating opportunities that truly reflect the needs and strengths of our community.”
Local High School Award Recipients by School:
Aurora High School – George L. and Genevieve D. Moore Endowed Scholarship: Kamryn Milano, Katelyn Paczak, Mason VanRaepenbusch, Dominic Colello, Sophie Frissore, Riley Verespej
Bio-Med Science Academy – Phyllis Battaglia/CAC Memorial Scholarship: Riley Monegan
Crestwood High School – Bernie J. Kosar Crestwood Endowed Scholarship: Isabella Wurm
Casper Wenninger Scholarship for Veterinary Studies: Audrey Julian
James A. Garfield High School – Casper Wenninger Scholarship for Veterinary Studies: Riley Grace
Layding Family Scholarship for Career Development: Derik Stanley
Ravenna High School – Boyd and Joan Wallbrown Agricultural Innovation Endowed Scholarship: Davin Morgan
Casper Wenninger Scholarship for Veterinary Studies: Davin Morgan
Bill and Eddye White Bowling Endowed Scholarship: Trenton Turney
Information regarding the individual scholarships can be found at portagefoundation.org/scholarships
