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Scholarship Directory

Scholarship Directory


  • The Aaron Stephenson Memorial Scholarship was established in 2023 by Aaron's parents, Tom and Karen Stephenson. This scholarship is awarded annually to Central City High School senior with a GPA between 3.0 and 3.5. Applicants must be pursuing a career in the medical field, such as medical school, nursing, paramedic, dental school, etc. in honor of Aaron's paramedic career.

    Aaron graduated from Central City High School in 1996. While in high school, he became an EMT for Central City. He attended Creighton Paramedic School and then worked at Rural Metro. Aaron then worked for Rural Metro in Lincoln. He transferred to Rural Metro in Ft. Worth, Texas where he met and married Jody Stephenson on June 14, 2003. He moved to San Diego, California and worked at AMR and recently worked for Occupational Services. Aaron’s dedication to saving lives as a paramedic continued on by him saving other lives as an organ donor. Aaron enjoyed leatherwork, cooking, and soap box derby where his son competed at Nationals in Akron, Ohio. He was a “jack of all trades”. He was involved in his kids FFA, coached his daughters in soccer, and his son in Little League Baseball.

  • The Albert E. & Dorothy E. Emgarten Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who lives in Merrick County and/or who graduated from a Merrick County high school. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing a degree in an agricultural related field.

  • The Alice Klingenberg Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who lives in the Chapman area.

  • The American Legion Post #6 40 & 8 Scholarship is awarded annually to a college student who lives in Merrick County and/or graduated from a Merrick County high school. This scholarship will be given to a student pursuing a degree in nursing, is beyond their first year of college and is in good academic standing (transcript required).

  • The Austin & Cleo Vanderford Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who has or will graduate from a Merrick County high school. Austin & Cleo wanted their scholarship to be based upon the student’s ability, work habits, grade-point average and need. It was their belief that “Knowledge and education are essential stepping stones to success”. The recipients of a Vanderford scholarship are then designated as “Vanderford Scholars”.

  • The Barney Bockerman Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who lives in and/or will graduate from a Merrick County high school. Non-traditional students are also eligible to apply with preference given to students who are also veterans. This scholarship will be given to a student with 4-H and/or FFA experience, who also has financial need and is pursuing a two or four-year degree in agriculture, mechanics or education.

  • The Barry & Alta Marsh scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who lives in Merrick County and who graduated from a Merrick County high school. This scholarship will be given to a student who is planning to enroll in a 2-year program, who has a GPA of 3.0 or above and who can demonstrate financial need.

  • "I'm just a precious little one who didn't make it there.
    I went straight to be with Jesus, but I'm waiting for you here."

    The Benjamin Thomas Lindner Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior, college student or non-traditional student who lives in Archer, Central City or Palmer. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing a degree that will allow them to work with children. The student must demonstrate an average or above average GPA.

  • The Berney-Manuel Scholarship will be awarded annually to a high school senior at Central City High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing a four year degree as well as demonstrates financial need.

  • The Bonnie Kohl Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who lives in Merrick County. This scholarship will be given to a student with a GPA of 3.5 or higher who is enrolling in a four-year nursing program.

    This scholarship may also be awarded to a Licensed Practical Nurse living in Merrick County who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing or to a Registered Nurse living in Merrick County who is pursuing a Master of Science degree in Nursing or a degree as a Nurse Practitioner. Please inquire at the Merrick Foundation for specific qualifications for these advanced degree scholarships. One of the two required letters of recommendation must come from a minister, employer, coach or other youth leader who has personal knowledge of the applicant.

  • The Brynlee Zimbelman Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who lives in Merrick County and/or will graduate from a Merrick County School. This scholarship will be given to a student who is attending a community college, holds a G.P.A. of 3.5 or higher and demonstrates financial need. Preference will also be given to a student who is involved with the community and/or youth groups.

  • The Calvin Lepp Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who lives in Merrick County and/or who graduated from Central City High School. First preference will be given to a student pursuing a degree in the agribusiness field. If there are no eligible students in the agribusiness field, another ag-related field may be considered. In addition, the student must demonstrate financial need, hold a GPA of 3.5 or higher as well as answer an essay question pertaining to his or her involvement in 4-H and FFA.

  • The Carole A. Joseph Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a college student who is a graduate of Palmer High School, is currently in their fourth year of classes in college and who has also been accepted into a post-graduate program. This scholarship will be given to a student who has a high GPA as well as involvement in undergraduate activities. Applicants who have been awarded the scholarship in the past are eligible to re-apply.

  • The Central City Scale/Hawthorne Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who lives in Merrick County and/or who graduated from a Merrick County high school.

  • The Charles & Ann Kuhlman Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a resident of Chapman, Clarks or Central City, who attended a Merrick County High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who is in the upper 1/3 of his or her graduating class, enrolled in a 2 or 4-year course of study in the agricultural or medical field, and who can also demonstrate active participation in church and community activities. The Kuhlman Family believes strongly in “being of service to others”.

  • The Charles and Doris Benner Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior at Central City High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who has been a participant in FFA, has an above average G.P.A, and demonstrates a financial need.

  • The Clinton M. Wegner Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior at Palmer High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing a course of study in Agriculture, Music or Education, is in the upper ½ of his or her graduating class, who has financial need and who is involved in extracurricular activities. This scholarship can be renewed for a total of four years by maintaining a GPA of 2.5 or above (transcript required), and receipt of a copy of the student‘s next class schedule.

    Additional scholarships may also be awarded to college students and/or non-traditional students who have graduated from Palmer high school, have financial need and are pursuing a degree in Agriculture, Music or Education. Please contact the Merrick Foundation Office for specific qualifications for these advanced degree scholarships.

  • The Darrell & Twila Widman Endowed Medical Scholarship is awarded annually to graduates who live in Merrick County and/or graduate from a Merrick County school and who are pursuing a post-secondary education in the field of health care sciences.

  • The Derek Aspedon Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior at Central City High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who demonstrates financial need and is enrolled in a two or four-year program of study.

  • The Dinsdale Sophomore Scholarship is awarded to a graduate of Palmer, who has sophomore college status. This scholarship will be given to a student with acceptable academic performance and who is involved in college activities.

  • The Donald Nouzovsky Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a college student with sophomore standing or above who lives in Merrick County and/or who graduated from a Merrick County school. This scholarship will be given to a student who demonstrates financial need.

  • The Donald R. & Jackie Sampson Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior at Central City High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who demonstrates good citizenship, is involved in community and school activities, who demonstrates financial need and who has acceptable academic performance. Donald Sampson intended that this scholarship be awarded to a graduate “who exemplifies the type of student in whom both the school and the community can take justifiable pride.”

  • The Dwaine & Carmen Van Pelt Scholarship was established in 2022. It is awarded to a current senior or recent graduate of Central City High School who is studying to become a vocational agriculture educator. Dwaine spent his years farming in the Archer area and Carmen has taught numerous children.

  • The Dylan Van Pelt Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior with a Merrick County or Aurora address, who has persevered to overcome a disability. Applicants need to include an essay (300 words) explaining how they overcame a disability by demonstrating perseverance, high character and high effort. The essay should also include why the applicant feels he or she would be a deserving recipient. Dylan’s family has a high level of understanding and compassion for such individuals. Please include intended area of study as well as reasons for pursuing a degree in that field.

  • The Ed & Laurie Dexter Scholarship is awarded annually to either a high school or college student, who has a permanent residence in Merrick County. This scholarship will be awarded to a student who is majoring in agriculture, business and/or the medical field.

  • The Edna I. Widman Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior at Central City High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who demonstrates financial need and who is also enrolled in a two or four-year program.

  • The Edward Gentleman Memorial Scholarship was established in 2023. Mr. Gentleman was born in Archer, NE on October 8, 1920. He was the third of four children born to John Joseph Gentleman and Elizabeth M. (Schueth) Gentleman. He married Rachel Gertrude Reimers on January 25, 1948 at Columbus, NE. They had no children. He is a World War II Veteran having served in the 91st Infantry Division. He had been a Funeral Director for John A. Gentleman Mortuary in Omaha, NE (who was a distant relative) and John L. Ziegenhein & Sons Mortuary in St. Louis, MO. The Edward Gentleman Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a Twin River High School senior with a GPA greater than 3.0 and demonstrating a financial need. Possibility of renewal is available for prior recipients based upon reapplication and maintaining a 3.0 GPA. This spendable scholarship will remain in place until 2040 to benefit Twin River students.

  • The Edward Mitchell Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who lives in Merrick County and/or who graduated from a Merrick County school. Applicants must also demonstrate financial need to be considered eligible.

  • The Elton & Nancy Erickson Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who lives in Merrick County and/or who graduated from a Merrick County school. This scholarship will be given to a student who is enrolled in a 4-year program of study in the field of nursing, agriculture, education or computer science. In addition, academic performance, leadership, involvement in school activities as well as reliability and courtesy will be taken into consideration when awarding this scholarship.

  • The Elwin & Lucile Ferris Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who lives in Merrick County and/or graduated from a Merrick County school. This scholarship will be given to a student who was involved in 4-H and/or FFA and who is planning to pursue a career in agriculture, music or art. Financial need may also be considered for receipt of this scholarship.

  • The Emil & Dorothy Czarnick scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior of Twin River High School who is attending a 4-year school, majoring in a teaching program. This scholarship will be given to a student who graduated with a 3.0 GPA or higher and who demonstrates involvement in school and community activities.

  • The Ernest & Peggy Nabity Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior of Central City or Palmer High School. This scholarship will be given to a student with a GPA above 90%, who is enrolled in a 4-year program, who was involved in vocal music or band for at least two years, and who displays honesty, cooperation, good study habits, respect for others, as well as responsibility on a daily basis. Lastly, the applicant must also provide a letter from a church official verifying regular attendance as well as two letters of recommendation from high school teachers. Other things being equal, the family’s preference is that the scholarship is given to 4-H members, preferably with three or more years of membership.

  • The Ervin & Bonnie Blauhorn Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior of Central City or Palmer High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who is in the top ¼ of his or her graduating class, demonstrates financial need, is enrolled in a
    4-year program and who exhibits high character.

  • The Ethel Sweet Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior with an address in Clarks. This scholarship will be given to a worthy student who demonstrates financial need and plans to attend a 2 or 4-year program. This scholarship shall be renewable, not to exceed five school years. Satisfactory scholastic progress as well as proof of continued enrollment must be provided (transcript required).

  • The Eugene Fishburn Scholarship is awarded annually to a college student with a Chapman area address. Scholarship(s) will be given to college students who have junior or senior status and who can demonstrate academic success.

  • The Gail Gregg Ferris Registered Nurse Scholarship was established in 2022. This scholarship is awarded annually to Central City High School senior with a GPA greater than 3.0 and who is planning to become a registered nurse. Preference will be given to an applicant involved in activities. Applicants must answer an additional essay explaining why they want to become a registered nurse.

  • The Gary Bader Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who is a resident of Merrick County. The scholarship will be given to a student who was previously a beef cattle exhibitor in the local 4-H program. An additional essay question pertaining to his or her time showing beef cattle will be required.

  • The Gary Monter Memorial Scholarships are awarded annually to a high school senior of Palmer High School, Centura High School and Elwood High School. These scholarships will be given to students who demonstrate leadership, effort and responsibility.

  • The Glen D. & Doris E. Neel Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior with a Clarks address. This scholarship will be given to a student with an above average GPA, who is enrolled full time in an accredited 2 or 4-year program and who can demonstrate financial need. The recipient must be responsible, dependable, have high integrity and have been involved in school activities/organizations. The Neel family intends preference to be given to students who are attending college in the state of Nebraska and who are pursuing an LPN or Nursing degree.

  • The Gregory Rinkol Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior from Twin River High School with a Merrick County address. This scholarship will be given to a student with a GPA of 3.0 or above and who is enrolled in a 2 or 4-year program. The recipient must also demonstrate financial need, as well as leadership skills, a courteous and friendly attitude and participation in extracurricular activities.

  • The Griffith Family Scholarship is awarded annually to a college student with sophomore status or higher, who either lives in Merrick County and/or graduated from a Merrick County school. This scholarship will be given to a student who is an elementary education major with a GPA of 3.0, who can demonstrate financial need and who also has volunteer experience with elementary students.

  • The Guy & Pauline Lamberson Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate of Palmer High School who is a current college junior/senior or a graduate student. This scholarship was created by the descendants of Guy & Pauline, who resided in Palmer.

  • The Henry “Bud” Santin Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior of Palmer High School. This scholarship will be awarded to a student with a cumulative GPA of 90% or higher who plans to attend college on a full-time basis and who can demonstrate leadership qualities in school and civic organizations. The Santin family intends preference to be given to a student who is pursuing a degree in Agriculture, if possible.

  • The Hohnroth Family Scholarship is awarded annually to a 2 or 4-year program who is in their second year or higher. This scholarship will be given to a student who is a Merrick County resident and who has been a member of a Merrick County 4-H Club for five (5) years and/or a member of FFA for three (3) years.

  • The Hunter Philip Hawthorne Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a Central City High School graduate. This scholarship will be given to a student with a grade point average between 3.0 - 3.5.

  • The J. Oren Hoback Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or sophomore in college who lives in Merrick County and/or who graduated from a Merrick County school. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing a degree in agriculture, with a preference toward farming and/or ranching. The recipient must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher, as well as be involved in community service.

  • The Jack & Dorothy Burger Scholarship is awarded annually to a college student who has sophomore status. This scholarship will be given to a student who is a Merrick County resident and who is pursuing a degree in Education with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

  • The James & Marilyn Heins Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior from Central City High School or college student who graduated from Central City High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who has a GPA of 2.5 to 3.5 and who demonstrates financial need. Three letters of recommendation are required (one each from a teacher, pastor and employer).

  • The Joel Holbrook Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to high school senior from Central City High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who has participated in band three to four years of high school. The recipient of this scholarship must be of good character, respectful, responsible, cooperative and reliable. Most importantly the recipient must enjoy, excel and be enthusiastic about music as “music was a big part of Joel’s life”.

  • The Justin "Skippy" Bennett Memorial Scholarship was created in 2023 by Justin's parents, Allen & Delores. This scholarship will be awarded annually to a high school senior from Palmer Public Schools who demonstrates financial need. Preference will be given to a student enrolled in youth ministry or youth counseling. If there is not an applicant who meets that criteria, students planning to study in any program that benefits youth will be considered.

  • The Karen and Danielle Bannister Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior from Central City High School or High Plains High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing a degree in Education (Elementary or Secondary). The recipient must have an average or above average GPA and have a letter of recommendation from a high school teacher explaining why that teacher feels the applicant will be successful as an educator.

  • The Larry Dearking, DVM Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who resides in Merrick County and/or who has graduated from a Merrick County high school. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing a 2 or 4-year degree or a professional degree in an agricultural related field.

  • The Larry Meyer Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who has graduated from Twin River High School and also has a Silver Creek address. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing any area of study.

  • The Leanne Zmek Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or a graduate of a Merrick County High School. This scholarship will be given to a student who is enrolled in an accredited Beauty or Barber School and who demonstrates financial need.

  • The Leonard & Doris Aerni Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a senior student or college student who is a Merrick County resident and who has a physical or intellectual disability. This scholarship will be given to a student who is pursuing a degree at a community college, technical school or business school.

  • The Leroy Hongsermeier FFA Memorial Scholarship was established in 2022. This scholarship is awarded to a Merrick County or Hall County resident that is also a Central City High School or Grand Island Northwest senior with a GPA of 2.5 or above. The applicant must be enrolled full time in a program of study in the agriculture field, such as animal science or ag education, and must also be active in FFA, including participation in 3 local and 2 non-local (district, state, national) events. Preference will be given to an applicant with Supervised Agriculture Experience involving livestock. Applicants must answer an additional essay explaining how FFA has been beneficial to them and how FFA has prepared them for the future.

  • The Les Johnson Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior with a Silver Creek address. This scholarship will be given to a student who is in the upper half of his/her graduating class and demonstrates good leadership and good citizenship. Preference will be given to applicants who intend to participate in intramural or intercollegiate athletics and who intend to pursue a degree in Wildlife Management, Forestry or Agriculture. Both letters of recommendation required for the application must come from high school teachers.

  • The Lindner-Van Pelt Heritage Scholarship is awarded annually to a Merrick County resident who is a high school senior from Central City High School or Palmer High School. College and non-traditional students are also welcome to apply. This scholarship will be given to an applicant with a grade point average at 80% or above and who is pursuing a career in agriculture, education, business or science.

  • The Lonny & Wanda Duennerman Family Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school student who has an intellectual or physical disability and is seeking education and/or training post high school. If no student meets the above criteria, the scholarship can be awarded to a student seeking a degree in special education or a degree field that works with children with disabilities.

  • The Mary Chochon Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior from Palmer High School with a GPA of 90% or higher. This scholarship will be given to an applicant who will be majoring in math or science (first preference), computer science (second preference) or education (third preference). The applicant must be enrolled full-time and must demonstrate leadership qualities in school and civic organizations.

  • The Matthew Fishburn Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to one male and one female student from Central City High School. These scholarships are given to students who demonstrate courtesy and friendliness to elders, faculty and school employees, willingness for leadership and responsibility, compassion toward their fellow students and others, adherence to religious principles of their choice, patriotism to flag, country and general citizenship. The recipients of these scholarships are determined by a vote of the faculty at Central City High School. There is no application process for this scholarship.

  • The Maynard & Lois Fullington Scholarship is awarded annually to a student who has sophomore college status and is a graduate of a Merrick County High School.

  • The Merrick County Pork Producers Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who is a resident of Merrick County, demonstrates financial need and is enrolled in a 2 or 4-year agricultural program. Preference will be given to applicants who have participated in 4-H and/or FFA.

  • The Merrick County Youth Council Scholarship was established in 2023 to support a senior residing in Merrick County or attending Central City High School, High Plains Community Schools, Nebraska Christian Schools, or Palmer High School. Applicants to be considered should have high community involvement and a spirit of volunteerism. Students interested must also answer an additional essay to explain the desire and importance of what being drug-free means to them.

  • The Merrick Foundation Founders Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who is a resident of Merrick County and who intends to return to Merrick County upon completion of their degree. This scholarship will be given to a student who demonstrates community service and involvement in community and school activities.

  • The Merrick Foundation Industrious Student Scholarship is awarded annually to a Merrick County resident who has a GPA of 2.0-3.5 and who is pursuing any form of continuing education.

  • The Michael V. Bittinger Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior from High Plains Community Schools or Central City High School and who has a Clarks or Central City address. This scholarship will be given to a student who is in their second year of college.

  • The Myrtle & Jim Clarke Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate of Central City High School or Nebraska Christian High School and/or who is a resident of Central City, Clarks, Fullerton, Hordville, Polk or the lake areas south of Central City. This scholarship will be given to a student who demonstrates financial need, has a high GPA and demonstrates achievement outside of school.

  • Phoebe McCullough and Barbara McGuire lost their lives in an automobile accident on September 8, 1988. The families and friends of Phoebe McCullough and Barbara McGuire set up an education fund in memory of these two dedicated educators and members of the community. An annual education grant will be given in their name to a worthy senior graduating from Central City High School that exemplifies the following characteristics:
    • Upper ½ of graduation class
    • Beginning to realize his/her potential and demonstrates the desire to work to better themselves
    • Sense of responsibility toward the community and an appreciation for what the community has offered them
    • Courage to be his/her own person while still being able to work as a member of a team
    • Sense of humor and love of life
    • Demonstrates true character and has personality
    • Accepts responsibility and enjoys a challenge
    • Has developed an appreciation for education and the learning process
    The recipients of these scholarships are determined by a vote of the faculty at Central City High School. There is no application process for this scholarship.

  • The Ralph Stanley & Ella Halstead Severance Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a traditional or non-traditional student who is a resident of Merrick County and who demonstrates financial need.

  • The Ray & Mildred Miller Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student from western Merrick County. One letter of recommendation detailing leadership and moral character must come from a school official.

  • The Raymond, Leonard & Lois Steger Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to high school senior or college student who is a graduate of a Merrick County High School and who is majoring in a medical field.

  • The Raymond W. Starostka Scholarship is awarded annually to a college student who is a Merrick County resident. Preference will be given to a student who is pursuing a degree in Agriculture or Science.

  • The Richard (Dick) Chochon Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior from Palmer High School with a GPA of 90% or higher. This scholarship will be given to an applicant who will be majoring education. The applicant must be enrolled full-time and must demonstrate leadership qualities in school and civic organizations.

  • The Richard Mattson Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a Merrick County resident who has sophomore college status. The student must be enrolled at a Nebraska college and be majoring in Agriculture. This scholarship will be given to a student who has a GPA of 3.0 or higher and who demonstrates financial need.

  • The Robert & Lillian Krug Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who is a Merrick County resident. The student, who must have an above average GPA, must also have participated in the Merrick County 4-H Program for at least 4 years and/or who has been an active member of a Merrick County FFA Chapter for at least 2 years. Three letters of recommendation are required: one from a teacher, one from a pastor and one from an employer.

  • The Russ Russell Scholarship is awarded annually to a Merrick County high school senior who has participated in 4-H equine activities. The student must be enrolled in a 2 or 4-year equine related field of study and demonstrate financial need.

  • The Silver Creek Alumni Scholarship is awarded annually to one male and one female student with a Silver Creek address. The student must have attended Twin River High School or a surrounding area high school. This scholarship will be given to a student who is enrolled in a 2 or 4-year program of study.

  • The Stanley Ferris Agriculture Scholarship was established in 2022. This scholarship is awarded annually to Central City High School senior with a GPA greater than 2.5 and who is pursuing a 2- or 4-year program in the agricultural field. Preference will be given to an applicant involved in activities.

  • The Summer Paulsen Simon, Class of 2001, Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to graduate of Central City High School. The first preference is that this scholarship will be awarded to a student who is battling or who has overcome a serious or life threatening health issue such as cancer, heart conditions, seizures, epilepsy, etc. All applicants will be required to answer an additional essay question describing how battling their diagnosis has changed his or her outlook on life. Lastly, if no applicant applies with a life threatening health issue, this scholarship will be awarded to a student pursuing a degree in early childhood education.

  • The Tim Christensen Memorial Scholarship was established in 2022 and is awarded annually to a Central City High School senior. The scholarship will be awarded to a student with financial need, a GPA of 3.0 or above, and who is pursuing an ag-related program, with preference to equine. The student must have also participated in 4-H and/or FFA. Preference will be given for sports involvement. Applicants must answer an additional essay question - What are three things that you love about your country?

  • The Tom & Nancy Wagner Scholarship Fund is awarded annually to a high school senior at Central City Public Schools who lives within District 4. It is open to any student attending a public college or university, who demonstrates financial need as well as has a GPA between 2.5 and 3.5.

  • The Tom & Teri Beck Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior from High Plains Community School who has a Merrick County Clarks address. This scholarship will be given to a student who has acceptable scholastic achievement and who is pursuing a degree in agriculture or elementary education. The recipient of this scholarship will be a student who demonstrates involvement in school activities as well as the qualities of leadership, effort, reliability, patriotism, courtesy and friendship.

  • The annual Tyler Hook Hillmer Memorial Scholarship is granted to a high school student enrolled in High Plains, Twin River, Palmer, or Central City. Eligible recipients should maintain a current GPA ranging from 2.5 to 3.5, showcase financial need, and actively participate in at least one extracurricular activity throughout their high school years. Additionally, the chosen student should embody qualities such as kindness, honesty, cooperation, respect for others, diligence, helpfulness, responsibility, high integrity, dependability, and sound judgment, as valued by Tyler's family.

  • The Vernie L. Lock Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who resides in Merrick County and/or who has graduated from a Merrick County high school. This scholarship will be given to a student who is enrolled in an accredited Beauty or Barber School.

  • The Virgil & Nora Lindner Scholarship is awarded annually to a student with an Archer, Central City or Palmer address who is pursuing a degree in agriculture or education. The recipient of this scholarship will have an above average GPA. Recipients may also be non-traditional or college students.

  • The Warren & Virginia Marsh Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who is a resident of Merrick County and who demonstrates acceptable academic achievement and financial need. Students entering the medical field will be given first preference. Second preference will be given to students in any other health-related discipline/field.

  • The Wayne & Mildred Hilder Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student who is a resident of Merrick County and who is enrolled in or attending a nursing school. For high school seniors, it will be required to be in the top 1/3 of your graduating class.

  • The Willa Freelend, Women In Business Scholarship is awarded annually to a senior or college student that is a graduate of Central City High School. This scholarship will be given to a female student who has demonstrated community service and good citizenship qualities. This applicant must be pursing either a 2 or 4 year degree in business related studies. The selected applicant will need to be in attendance at the Scholarship Tea to accept the 2020 scholarship award.

  • The William & Emma Steffen Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior or college student, who graduated from a Merrick County High School. This scholarship will be given to a student with an average or above average GPA who demonstrates leadership in student organizations, good moral character and behavior and who performs assigned tasks in a dependable, organized manner. When awarding this scholarship, first preference will be given to students who plan to attend or are attending an accredited school of nursing in the state of Nebraska. Second preference will be to students in any other health-related discipline/field.

  • The William & Velma R. McLean Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who is a resident of Merrick County with an above average GPA and who demonstrates financial need. This scholarship will be given to a student who also demonstrates good character, leadership, involvement in activities, effort, trustworthiness, reliability, patriotism, courtesy, consideration and tolerance of others.

  • The Willis C. Lenz Memorial scholarship is awarded annually to high school seniors at Central City High School. Bill was a proud alum of Central City High School and wanted to support those furthering their education.

  • The You Are Worth It Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school student who has an intellectual or physical disability and is seeking education and/or training post high school. One of the two letters of recommendation required for this scholarship must come from a teacher in the Special Education Department. If no student meets the above criteria, the scholarship can be awarded to a student seeking a degree in special education, physical therapy, speech therapy or occupational therapy. This scholarship is named after the company that was founded by Bailey Graham, a Central City native, who has Down syndrome.

Our Impact Over 12 Months

  • Community Grants Awarded

    $211,830

  • Scholarships Awarded

    $138,900

  • Students Awarded

    166

  • Donations Received

    $935,881

  • Number of Funds

    227

© 2024 Merrick Foundation

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