2023-24 Scholarships for Graduating Seniors from Tempe Union HS District

ASU First Generation Scholars Scholarship - To be eligible student must be a first generation student (one whose parents did not earn a 4-year college degree) and attend Arizona State University.  5 scholarships will be awarded.

Barbara A. McDonald Resilience Award - To be eligible student must have met the challenge of overcoming a hearing or vision impairment to continue education.

Blake Norvell "Smile" Scholarship  - To be eligible student must attend Corona del Sol and be involved in leadership activities.

Boulders On Broadway Tempe Union HS District Student Scholarship - To be eligible student must work a minimum of 10 hours a week.

Dr. Eileen Yellin Memorial Scholarship - To be eligible student must attend Tempe HS.

Dr. Joe McDonald Memorial Scholarship - To be eligible student must attend Desert Vista HS and commit to attend Arizona State University

Glover Scholarship - (3 Scholarships will be awarded) - Must attend Tempe HS and plan to attend a community college, trade school, or school that offers a certificated program such as EVIT. 

Hasan Naqvi Health and Education Scholarship - To be eligible student must be majoring in the medical field and attend Tempe HS.

Janis Chapman Merrill Foundation Scholarship - Two scholarships will be awarded; student must show financial need.

Julie Butler Kenkel Memorial Scholarship - To be eligible student must attend Tempe HS.

Kathryn Shook Kilcrease Memorial Scholarship

Larry Cannell Memorial Scholarship - To be eligible student must participate in athletics.

Larry Thomas Memorial Scholarship (3)  - To be eligible student must attend Mt. Pointe HS.  Three scholarships will be awarded by the Larry Thomas Youth Development Foundation.  One scholarship for Athletic participation, one scholarship for Fine Arts participation, and one scholarship for Academic Excellence.

Merrill Scholarship (15 scholarships will be awarded)  - To be eligible student must show financial need.

Pam Olsson Memorial Scholarship - To be eligible student must be active in the Dance Program at his/her high school.

Ramona Villarreal Memorial Scholarship - To be eligible student must have a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA and enroll in either Arizona State University, University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, or an Arizona accredited community college as a full time student.

Roy Rojas Jr. Foundation Scholarship - To be eligible student must attend Marcos de Niza HS, be a student athlete, and have a minimum GPA of 3.5.

Rund Family Scholarship (2 scholarships will be awarded) - To be eligible student must commit to attend  Arizona State University

Spokes on Southern Tempe Union HS Student Scholarship - To be eligible students must have had a part time job for at least 10 months and work a minimum of 10 hours a week

Tempe St. Lukes Medical Staff Ione Sharp Memorial Scholarship (6 scholarships will be awarded) - To be eligible student must plan to major in the Medical/Health field, preferably Nursing.

The Institute of Internal Auditors Scholarship - Student must attend an Arizona College or University and major in a field of study that relates to the internal audit industry (Accounting, Finance, Information Systems) and have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Zita Johnson Memorial Scholarship

Scholarship Descriptions

ASU First Generation Scholars Scholarship   Arizona State University is awarding five $1000 scholarships to First Generation students.   First Generation students are those whose parents did not earn a 4-year college degree.  The university is excited to offer this scholarship effort to help support recipients realize and achieve their personal, academic, and professional goals. Access to college is an opportunity that all students should have and Arizona State University measures success by whom it includes and how they succeed.  The ASU First Generation Scholars Scholarship is an additional effort to help students pursue their academic dreams.  

Barbara A. McDonald Resilience Award    Barbara A. McDonald was a loving mother, grandmother, and teacher who had health issues all of her life.  She was a teacher for 22 years, and the last ten of those years she was legally blind.  She was resilient to say the least.  She was the President of the Arizona Council for the Blind, served on the AZ State Governor committee for the blind, and so many more things.  She touched many by her story.  This scholarship recipient must have overcome a disability in vision or hearing or received a transplant.  This student must have the capacity to recover from adversity in order to continue his or her mission in receiving an education.

Blake Norvell "Smile" Scholarship    The family and friends of Blake Norvell established this scholarship in honor of his passionate, fun-loving spirit and his infectious smile. Confidently riding around in his beat-up minivan,  Blake had the ability to make everyone around him feel welcome and will be remembered as  the "glue" that held Corona's class of 2006 together. This scholarship will be awarded to a  Corona del Sol student who most epitomizes the qualities that made our dear friend Blake so special - community leadership, academic acumen, and a positive, outgoing personality. 

Boulders On Broadway Tempe Union HS District Student Scholarship    Boulders On Broadway owner and operator Erick Geryol attended high school in Chicago and fell in love with Arizona when he attended Arizona State University.  Erick was appreciative of scholarship opportunities he received when attending ASU, and has established a scholarship for a Tempe Union HS District graduating Senior.  Erick worked his way through ASU as a pizza cook to supplement his scholarships, and enjoyed rock climbing, cooking pizza, and spending time with his friends.  Today he owns and operates Boulders On Broadway - a Tempe Bar and Grille that is all about the food, pizza, craft beer, bike riding, rock climbing and adventure.  Erick and his wife Rochelle are supportive of Tempe Union HS District and involved in community activities that place an emphasis on education and healthy living.

Dr. Eileen Yellin Memorial Scholarship     Dr. Eileen Yellin began teaching at Tempe High School in 1990, and worked tirelessly to serve the students in her Special and General Education classes.  In addition to her work within the classroom, Dr. Yellin was known for her outspoken advocacy.  She was a fervent champion for the rights of all, specifically active in the LGBTQ and handicapped communities.  As a founding member of the Tempe High School Stand and Serve, GSA, and GLSEN, her advocacy epitomized a message from one of her favorite books, To Kill a Mockingbird, when Atticus recommends fighting not with fists but rather with minds.  Eileen did just that, and used her mind and her voice to fight for those causes she believed so strongly.  She was recognized multiple times for her work, most recently being honored with the GLSEN Safe Schools Advisory Award.  She was a caring educator who had a great impact on those around her.  Student must attend Tempe HS.

Dr. Joe McDonald Memorial Scholarship      Dr. Joe McDonald (1942-2019)     This scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of an exemplary educator. Joe McDonald believed education was the cornerstone to reaching your full potential in life and he wanted all students to have access to higher education. McDonald often spoke of how transformative his time at Arizona State University was for him (where he earned his Bachelor's, Master's and Doctorate of Philosophy degrees) and the many opportunities that developed because of it and he wanted students to also have positive life-changing experiences.  Applicants must attend Desert Vista to apply for this scholarship and commit to Arizona State University.

One of the most satisfying things to hear about Dr. Joe McDonald was how he made others feel. All throughout his life and recently in death, people would often tell Dr. McDonald himself or tell his family members how he 'changed their lives'. That's a mighty phrase that would make anyone boastful, but not Joe McDonald. He would chuckle and continue to uplift, encourage, and serve others by speaking life into them and affording them opportunities to rise to the occasion. Joe McDonald always had a vision of excellence and helped others to showcase their capabilities and talent.  In the 60s, Joe McDonald was recruited by Arizona State University to play football. After graduating, Joe started his career as a coach at ASU. He was one of the first black coaches at a Division One (D1) University. During his tenure, he helped coach the Sun Devils to several bowl game victories. After his many successes as a coach, Dr. McDonald also served a tenure in the 80s as Associate Athletic Director and Assistant Dean of Students at ASU. During Dr. McDonald's time at ASU, in addition to the value he brought to the football field and his positive interactions with the people, he really began to tap into his love for education.

In 1993, as Assistant Principal of Mountain Pointe High School, in addition to his contributions to their academic growth, he also wrote and sung their official Alma mater. Later in 1993, Dr. McDonald was named the first principal of Desert Vista High School. Joe McDonald hired the inaugural staff which included a team of very talented and diverse staff members. This super group of educators he assembled worked to push themselves and their students to greatness. While Joe McDonald was principal, Desert Vista was recognized nationally multiple times for their outstanding academic accomplishments. At one time Desert Vista had 19 students with perfect SAT scores. Many of the staff and students give acknowledgements to Dr. McDonald for the historic run during that time. They said that he was a true leader, giving them the tools and encouragement needed to excel. Joe McDonald also wrote and sang the alma mater for Desert Vista, which has been high copyrighted under his name as words and music by Dr. Joe McDonald.  A few years after his retirement, the staff, students and community wanted to honor Dr. McDonald for his dedication to Desert Vista's success. They honored him with the Dr. Joe McDonald auditorium. A moment that Dr. McDonald said was unforgettable.   Dr. McDonald's loves of football, people, education and family carried him throughout his lifetime and his knowledge and love permeated others to help them reach new heights within their personal and professional lives. Through this scholarship, the family hopes to continue to give back in his honor and continue his life's mantra.

Glover Scholarship      The Glover Scholarship was established by Eileen Glover after the passing of her husband.  This scholarship is designated for students who attend Tempe High School.  To be eligible, each student applicant must be a graduating senior and plan to attend community college, trade/ school, technology health-related school, or be working toward a certification.

 Hasan Naqvi Health and Education Scholarship    This scholarship is in memoriam of my brother - Hasan Naqvi. Hasan was born with Cerebral Palsy. Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a disorder of movement, muscle tone or posture that is caused by damage to the developing brain, most often before birth. CP may have taken my brothers' ability to walk and talk, however it did not take away his ability to enjoy life. With the support, compassion and education provided by Tempe High, he was able to enjoy high school to the fullest. His teachers and fellow students fostered an environment where he was able to thrive and feel "normal." Hasan unfortunately passed away while still in high school, however, with the love and support from Tempe High, I was able to walk in his place at graduation. The Tempe High Buffalo family stands together and as a grateful alumni, I believe it is important to ensure the next generation of ambitious students have the resources to succeed.   The faculty at Tempe High believed in me as they believed in my brother. With their support, I was able to reach my lifelong dream of becoming a physician. However, this would not have been possible without the graciousness of others in the form of scholarships and financial assistance. Unfortunately, many students who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine or teaching are hindered due to financial obstacles. These fields sorely need more scholarships in order to assist future health/educational professionals in reaching their goals. It is for this reason I have established a scholarship award and I hope it continues for years.

 Primary Award Criteria:  Minimum GPA Requirement: At least 3.3 GPA; On-campus and off-campus extracurricular activities and leadership; Resiliency; Tempe High School Graduating Seniors who have career ambitions in the field of Health or Medicine (i.e. physical therapist, nurse, speech therapist, doctor, nutritionist, etc) or Teaching. Those who wish to focus on working with the underserved or special needs population should mention this as well.
Must be accepted to a 4 year accredited institution and enrolled FULL TIME; Must provide evidence of acceptance and enrollment into an accredited institution prior to receiving scholarship funds.

Janis Chapman Merrill Foundation Scholarship    The Janis Chapman Merrill Foundation Scholarship has been established to support the students in the Tempe Union High School District as they pursue higher education and have financial need.   Mrs. Merrill, who holds a J.D. Degree from Arizona State University, served as in-house legal counsel for the Tempe Union HS District, the Tempe Elementary School District, and Kyrene Elementary School District until her retirement in March of 2011. Mrs. Merrill served on the founding Board of Tempe Dollars for Scholars, and has made significant contributions and provided ongoing support to Tempe Dollars for Scholars.  

Julie Butler Kenkel Memorial Scholarship     Julie Kenkel (1956 - 2020) graduated from Tempe High School in 1974. She was active in pom poms, participating and eventually captaining the Tempe High Buffalo squad. A blind date led to Julie marrying the love of her life, a USAF fighter pilot. In their first 21 years together, the family, which grew to include a daughter and son, moved 12 times.  Julie loved traveling the world, experiencing different cultures and seeing historical sites.  She became a "relocation expert," diligently researching schools and housing to make moving as smooth as possible for her family. Their world changed many times but Julie's love was constant.  This great capacity to love also extended beyond her immediate family as she opened her door and her heart to so many people through the years, including providing a home for one of her children's high school friends. Julie was generous with her life and her earthly possessions. Her family and friends are honored to continue that example by funding this scholarship that will be awarded to a Tempe HS student.

Kathryn Shook Kilcrease Memorial Scholarship      Kathryn Shook Kilcrease (1952-1987) grew up in east Phoenix and attended Arizona State University, where she majored in elementary education. She worked as a leasing agent in Tempe and then joined Salt River Project, where she worked in the customer service and rates departments. Mrs. Kilcrease's daughter and several other family members are long-time Tempe residents. Her nephews are graduates of Tempe High School, and her great nephew and great niece attend Tempe schools.

Larry Cannell Memorial Scholarship   Larry Cannell (1953-2008) graduated with honors from Northern State University and earned Master's Degrees from Texas A & M University and Arizona State University. Larry excelled in athletics and academics during high school and college. He taught, coached, and was a great husband, father, and a positive role model and mentor to many students.  He always supported daughters (Paige and Megan) in their athletic participation and encouraged  them as they earned their medical degrees.   Following his tenure as an FBI Special Agent, he became part owner of the Scottsdale Pavilion Shell Service Station. Larry supported many educational and community organizations and dedicated his life to working hard and helping others.

Larry Thomas Memorial Scholarship  Larry "Coach" Thomas was a former Marine, graduate of Tempe High, and worked at Mountain Pointe High School as the Dropout Prevention Coordinator and Head Track Coach.  Larry also co-funded the Arizona Saints in Laveen and held numerous coaching positions  throughout the valley.  Those who knew Larry immediately believed in his word and promise to help those, especially youth, become the best they can be.  Larry knew where there was a will he would help find a way.  This scholarship is supported by the Larry Thomas Youth Development Foundation (ltyd.org) to help youth achieve their goal of higher learning.  Thank you "LT" for your dedication, support, and lifelong impacts we will cherish forever.  This scholarship will be awarded to a Mt. Pointe HS student.

Merrill Scholarship The  Merrill Scholarships have been established to support the students in the Tempe Union High School District as they pursue higher education. Mrs. Merrill, who holds a J.D. Degree from Arizona State University, served as in-house legal counsel for the Tempe Union HS District, the Tempe Elementary School District, and Kyrene Elementary School District until her retirement in March of 2011. Mrs. Merrill served on the founding Board of Tempe Dollars for Scholars, and has made significant contributions and provided ongoing support to Tempe Dollars for Scholars.

Pam Olsson Memorial Scholarship   Pam Olsson, an educator for more than 30 years, worked to develop the McClintock High School Dance Program and was the founding educator of the Desert Vista High School Dance program. Her work in coaching and teaching touched hundreds of students, inspiring an entire generation who are now teachers, professional choreographers, performers, and dance studio owners throughout the nation. She was known as not only a dance teacher but a compassionate role model who truly cared about her students. The Pam Olsson Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in her honor to continue her legacy.  Seniors who participate in Dance and/or Performing Arts are eligible to apply for this scholarship.

Ramona Villarreal Memorial Scholarship   This scholarship was established by the family of Ramona Villarreal to honor her life and legacy. Ramona Villarreal was a loving Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Great Great Grandmother, and friend.
Ramona strongly believed in the power of people helping people, and this scholarship continues that legacy. This scholarship will be awarded to a student who has a minimum GPA of 3.0 and enrolls in one of the three Arizona universities or Arizona community colleges.

Roy Rojas Jr. Foundation Scholarship   The Roy Rojas Jr. Foundation was founded in 2020 following the loss of the beloved Roy Rojas Jr. He was a son, brother, friend, and so much more to everyone in his life. He was best known for his giant dimpled smile and his natural niche for helping others. Roy Rojas Jr. had a love for sports, he competed in a variety of sports throughout his life; equally passionate about each one. Roy Rojas Jr. is an alumnus of Marcos de Niza High School. He was on the baseball, football,
and wrestling teams, earning 3rd place in state for wrestling his senior year and a 2-year varsity starter on the football team. He also prioritized his academics and knew how important it was to succeed academically. There is no better way to honor Roy Rojas Jr. than to give back to a recipient who shares the same values as him- sports and academics. The Roy Rojas Jr. Foundation would like to give back by awarding a $1,000 scholarship to a qualifying student athlete. Our goal is to keep Roy's memory alive by maintaining a helping hand through the Foundation.  This scholarship will be awarded to a Marcos de Niza student who carries a minimum 3.5 GPA and participates in sports.

Rund Family Scholarship   Dr. James, Barb, Alison, and Kristen Rund are long time Tempe residents committed to the ongoing success of the community through education. Dr. Rund has been a loyal and supportive member of the Tempe Dollars for Scholars Board for many years.  He and his family are proud and pleased to support student achievement through Tempe Dollars for Scholars. The Rund Family Scholarship will be available for students who commit to attend Arizona State University.

Spokes on Southern Tempe Union HS District Student Scholarship   Spokes On Southern is a restaurant bar and grill in Tempe. We are the sister concept to Boulders on Broadway.
We opened in February 2013 with our team and owner/operators Rochelle & Erick Geryol. We believe in serving quality food with authentic hospitality and community. We want to be people who contribute to impactful relationships with employees and customers. Customer service for us is described better as hospitality.  When you enter our establishments we want you to be greeted with authentic hospitality.   We are not just here to serve quality food and drink but to find a connection and relationship.  
When we think about our business we are most proud about how we have used our resources to give back to those around us.  Our goals have always included giving back to our community.  We know that even long after our business is gone that the relationships we have built far outweigh the brick and mortar.  

Tempe St. Luke's Medical Staff Ione Sharp Memorial Scholarship    Ione Sharp (1914-1987) graduated from Loma Linda School of Nursing. Over four decades in the medical profession she served in various capacities-a nurse, a medical records librarian, and an administrator and executive assistant. Ione helped open Tempe Community Hospital (presently Tempe St. Lukes) and whether she was in the operating room, maternity room, library or office she continually worked to improve the quality of service given to the hospital, its patients and its physicians.  Applicants must plan on majoring in a medical occupation.

The Institute of Internal Auditors Scholarship    This scholarship was established by the Phoenix Chapter of The Institute of Internal Auditors to spread awareness of the profession, encourage, and support the next generation in pursuing a career within the internal audit industry. This scholarship will be awarded to a student who has a minimum GPA of 3.0 and enrolls in one of the three Arizona universities or Arizona community colleges as a full-time student. To be eligible for this scholarship the student must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and enroll in either Arizona State University, University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, or an Arizona accredited community college as a fulltime student. Additionally, the student must major in a field of study that relates to the internal audit industry (i.e., accounting, finance, information systems, etc.). If selected, the student must provide an official high school transcript to verify GPA and evidence of acceptance and enrollment into one of the universities or community colleges identified above to verify fulltime status, field of study, and eligibility prior to receiving scholarship funds. Additionally, the student must volunteer at least at 1 Phoenix Institute of Internal Auditors event

Zita Johnson Memorial Scholarship   The Zita Johnson Memorial Scholarship  expands access to higher education for students graduating from a Tempe Union High School District school  (Corona del Sol High School, Desert Vista High School, Marcos de Niza High School, McClintock High School, Mountain Pointe High School or Tempe High School). Zita served on the Tempe Dollars for Scholars Board for 14 years, and served as a Governing Board member for the Tempe Union HS District.  She was a force in the community and was selfless in supporting numerous organizations and initiatives to help others.