Special to the Times Vedette
As the new school year begins, 79 local students are starting their educational journeys with well-deserved support from the W.D. and Shirley Schafer-Ray Educational Trust. The Trust awarded more than $257,000 in scholarships this year, with individual amounts ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. This funding makes a significant impact for students across Adair, Adams, Taylor and Union counties.
Carley Fagan, a recent graduate from ACGC was one of the scholarship recipients this year. While students from Guthrie County are not eligible, students who graduate from ACGC and live in Adair County are eligible to apply.
Scholarships are available to those pursuing all levels of higher education, from associate degrees to advanced programs. A portion of the scholarships are dedicated to students attending Southwestern Community College, helping to support those starting their educational journey closer to home.
Now in its third year, the W.D. and Shirley Schafer-Ray Educational Trust has provided $658,800 in scholarships, with many more opportunities still ahead. The Trust is committed to continuing this legacy, with millions of dollars to be awarded in the years to come.
Iowa State Savings Bank is honored to serve as trustee for this scholarship fund, overseeing the process and helping ensure that students in our communities have the financial support they need to succeed.
Scholarship applications for the 2025-2026 academic year will be available later this year. Follow the W.D. and Shirley Schafer-Ray Educational Trust Facebook page for award winner recognition and scholarship announcements. More information about the scholarship is available on the Iowa State Savings Bank website, www.ISSBbank.com.