Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) – Seniors from area schools were celebrated at two separate events hosted by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF). $907,749 in scholarships were awarded to 229 students this spring through the Grand Haven, Allendale and Coopersville Area Community Foundations competitive scholarship program and funds held by GHACF. The recipients, their families, and the generous donors who established scholarship funds were all celebrated during the GHACF annual ice cream social held July 22nd.
This includes those earning a one-time or multi-year award in 2025 and renewal installments approved for scholarships awarded in previous years. There were 40 first-generation recipients, 22
two-year awards, and 3 four-year awards.
“The scholarship ice cream social is always a joyous event and one we look forward to every year,” said GHACF President, Hadley Streng. “It’s a celebration of not only the bright future ahead for these students, but also a way of honoring those who supported them along the way.” “When I found out I was a community foundation scholarship recipient, I felt incredibly grateful, as I’m sure many of you did too,” said scholarship recipient James Friggins in his remarks at the even. “It shows that people in this community believe in our potential to make a difference. It’s reassuring to know that our goals and aspirations are reachable, and that we’re being supported every step of the way by family, friends, teachers, coaches, neighbors, and many others in West
Michigan.”
Scholarships are awarded based on varying criteria including financial need, academic achievements, field of study, and whether a student is the first in their family to continue their
education after high school.
The top graduating students from Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Western Michigan Christian High Schools were also celebrated at the 39th annual GAHCF Excellence in Education event, held at the Spring Lake Country Club. As is tradition, students were joined by educators who had a significant impact on their lives and their academic achievements. There were 71 attendees at the gathering which also included family members, loved ones, coaches, counselors, administrators, and others sharing in the celebration of the students graduating in the top ten percent of their class.
“Education is one of our priority areas, so to steward funds and partner with the community for the Excellence in Education event is always an honor,” said Streng. “It is incredible to witness the value placed on education in our area, and the support students receive to work toward their goals.”
About the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation For more than a half-century, the GHACF has been regularly recognized as a national top 100 Community Foundation and one of the largest in Michigan. A public, charitable organization serving Northwest Ottawa County community since 1971, the Foundation encourages philanthropy by individuals, families, corporations, and organizations; and serves as a steward of their charitable funds and legacies. In addition to awarding grants, the GHACF also offers technical support to for impact organizations, convenes community leaders on issues of importance, and advocates for the for-impact sector. For more, visit ghacf.org.
Courtesy of Grand Haven Area Community Foundation
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