The donor reception event held by the Oak Park and River Forest High School Scholarship Foundation on May 1 was a poignant celebration of student potential and community dedication. The event, attended by students, parents, faculty, staff, donors, and board members, showcased the profound impact of donor and community support: 127 scholarships were awarded, 92 scholarships totaling $222,150 by the OPRFHS Scholarship Foundation. The Community Foundation contributed 30 scholarships totaling $103,000, and OPAAC (Oak Park Area Arts Council) provided five fine arts scholarships totaling $12,500, amounting to a total of $337,650, showcasing the community’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities for Oak Park students.
President James Keleher welcomed attendees, highlighting the shared goal of advancing education. Among the highlights was the introduction of four new scholarships, each with a unique vision and backstory:
Oak Park Bank Scholarship: Sponsored by Oak Park Bank, this scholarship supports students who excel academically and demonstrate involvement in extracurricular and community activities.
Thomas O. Miyata Memorial Scholarship: Honoring the legacy of Thomas O. Miyata, this scholarship supports five graduating seniors committed to higher education, reflecting Miyata’s belief in education’s transformative power.
Follett Educational Foundation Take the First Step Scholarship: Established in memory of Alison E. O’Hara, this scholarship supports five students taking their first significant steps toward higher education.
Nell Behr Aquatic Scholarship: Created in memory of Nell Behr, a 2019 OPRF student, killed by a drunk driver in 2023 just nine days after graduating college, This scholarship supports students involved in aquatic sports, reflecting Nell’s passion. Behr’s family was present to award the inaugural scholarship.
The evening was a display of gratitude and forward-looking enthusiasm. Keleher expressed appreciation for the collective effort in making the scholarships possible, acknowledging students, parents, faculty, staff, donors, the Community Foundation, and board members. The event not only celebrated academic and personal achievements but also strengthened community ties, serving as a bridge toward future educational and professional endeavors for many young individuals.
Christine Baissac
Managing director
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