Waldie Scholarship Recipients


Ken Waldie Scholarship Award Recipients
Previous Scholarship Recipients
 Lucas Varley 2023 Ken Waldie Scholarship Award Winner

Recipient Name:  Lucas Varley

Award: 2023 BPHS Waldie Scholarship Winner

The 2023 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship recipient of the $14,000 Scholarship is Lucas Varley…Lucas will be attending Pitt and studying mechanical engineering…..Congratulations!!!

Lucas was involved in 3 sports: Soccer and Diving, where he served as Captain and Track & Field as a javelin thrower. 

He was a National Merit Scholar, a member of the NHS, and graduation Marshall.  Volunteer hours were spent at youth soccer camps and charity carnivals. 

________

Dear Ken Waldie Memorial Fund, 

Thank you very much for selecting me as the recipient of the Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship this year. It was a wonderful surprise to receive such a meaningful and generous award. I hope to honor Mr. Waldie with my efforts next year at the University of Pittsburgh. Thanks again for your commitment to helping Bethel Park students succeed. 

 Sincerely, Lucas Varley


2022 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship Winner

Recipient Name: Lily Gaston

Award: 2022 BPHS Waldie Scholarship Winner

Her school and extracurricular activities included National Merit Scholar Finalist; Chamber orchestra (cellist); Class Marshall and National Honor Society serving as vice-president.

Lily Gaston has been awarded the 2022 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship. She was awarded a $ 12,500 check in Ken’s memory. Her application was chosen from 22 other outstanding recipients.

She also volunteered as a youth soccer camp, as a math and science tutor, and at a covid-19 vaccine clinic.

Athletically, Lily was a 4-year soccer letter winner, receiving All-Section honors 3 times and All-WPIAL in 2021.


Recipient Name: Ethan Donovan

Award: 2021 BPHS Waldie Scholarship Winner

Our 2021 Ken Waldie Scholarship Winner is Ethan Donovon. His high school activities include the Debate team, DECA and as a four-year letter winner in soccer, serving as team captain and earning all-section honors. He also excelled in the classroom with a 4.53 GPA.

Outside of school, Ethan played club soccer for Century United and completed an internship at an area wealth management firm.
An essay on “Character” was submitted as part of the scholarship application.

Ethan will be attending Boston College and plans to study finance. He was awarded a check for $11,500 from Frank DelPercio at the school’s annual senior awards ceremony. 


Recipient Name: Sydney Burns
Award: 2020 BPHS Waldie Scholarship Winner

The 2020 Bethel Park High School Ken Waldie Scholarship Winner is Sydney Burns. She was a 4-year Cross Country letterman, serving as team captain her senior year. She also participated and lettered in track as a freshman and sophomore. Other school activities included the Principal’s Advisory Council, serving as Vice-President ,the National Honor Society and Editor-In-Chief of the School Literary Magazine. Sydney also was involved in DECA and is a Class Marshall.

Volunteer time was spent in the pharmacy department at UPMC Mercy, GOLD Teen Leadership Corps and as a liaison for the Bethel Park Board of Recreation. In her spare time, Sydney enjoys Horseback riding.

Sydney will take her talents south, as she will be attending the University of South Carolina. She was presented with a check for $11,500.00 under unique circumstances.


Kelly Shelpman

Recipient Name: Kelly Shelpman
Award: 2019 BPHS Ken Waldie Memorial

Our 2019 BPHS Waldie winner is Kelly Shelpman. Kelly was a Varsity Competitive cheerleader for four years, serving as Co-captian her senior year. She has volunteered for Horses with Hope, and been a leader at children’s cheer camps and for Special Olympics.

Kelly was a member of the National Honor Society and completed course one in American Sign Language.She will be attending West Virginia University and is thrilled to join the “Waldie Family of Recipients.” We are thrilled to add her name to our plaque.

Kelly was presented with a check for $ 11,000 to aid in furthering her education.


Connor Wholey

Recipient Name: Connor Wholey
Award: 2018 Waldie Scholarship Winner

The 2018 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship winner is Connor Wholey. He was a 2-year letter winner on the football team, earning All conference honors his senior year. Connor was a long-time member of the Boy Scouts of America, earning the Order of the Arrow and the highest scout rank…that of Eagle Scout!

Connor was a member of the National Honor Society and Teen Leadership Corps. He graduated with a 4.24 gpa and will continue his education and football career at Carnegie Mellon University. He was awarded a check for $9,000.00 at this year’s award ceremony.

Ken Wadie Memorial Fund & Associates, I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved with this scholarship for selecting me as the recipient. It is an honor be recognized in such a way and with such a generous award. I hope to see the two gentlemen who gave me my award at one of my football games at Carnegie Mellon University.

Thank You

Conor Wholey


Elizabeth Farnan

Recipient Name: Elizabeth Farnan
Award: 2017 Waldi/Shaeffer Award

The Waldie/ Shaeffer Award winner for 2017 is Elizabeth Farnan from Seton-LaSalle. She was chosen from the four outstanding finalists and will be attending the United States Naval Academy.

Elizabeth graduated with a 5.09 GPA while participating in lacrosse, swimming and cross country, where she qualified for the PIAA championship. Her extracurricular activities included class senator, an assistant drum major in the marching band, English National Honor Society and National Merit Commended Scholar.


Ryan Pfab

Recipient Name: Ryan Pfab
Award: 2017 Bethel Park High School

Ryan Pfab has been awarded the 2017 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship. He will be attending Ohio University. He received a check for $ 9,000.00 at the annual school’s award ceremony.

I would like to thank the men and women behind the Ken Waldie Memorial Fund for the wonderful contribution that you have made in my life. With the scholarship award I have received, I will be able to pursue my dream of accomplishing a bachelor’s degree more affordably. As I begin my first semester at Ohio University, I will prepare to embark upon a challenging road to improve myself intellectually and as a person. I will do my best to carry on the memory of Mr. Waldie through my actions and academic performance in the coming years. Once again, thank you for your generous donation.

Sincerely,

Ryan Pfab


Joe Campion

Recipient Name: Joe Campion
Award: 2016 Almanac Waldie/Shaeffer Award

Photo provided by The Almanac

Joe Campion, of Bethel Park High School, was selected amongst eight finalest as the 2016 Almanac Waldie/Schaeffer Award Winner. Joe was a four-year member of the soccer team, President of NHS, a member of the chess team and competed in Ultimate Frisbee. He carried a 4.17 GPA, while earning the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. He will attend the Virginia Military Institute.


Zachary Sedor-Schiffauer

Recipient Name: Zachary Sedor-Schiffauer
Award: 2016 BPHS Waldie Memorial Scholarship

Zachary Sedor-Schiffhauer was awarded the 2016 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship at the schools Senior Award Ceremony. Zachary was a member of the Golf team and the NHS. He also belonged to the French NHS, was class Marshall and a 2015-16 Carson Scholar. He will be attending Case Western Reserve in the fall. Zachary received a check for $ 8,500.00


Dontae Penn-Jones

Recipient Name: Dontae Penn-Jones
Award: 2015 Waldie/Shaeffer Award Winner

On May 31st, Dontae Penn-Jones was awarded the Waldie/Shaeffer Scholarship at The Almanac’s annual Sports Banquet. Dontae wrestled, played football and ran track at Chartiers Valley High School. He has overcome many challenges through out his life. Raised by his grandmother, who passed away during his senior year, he continues to honor her memory. Having completed  basic training in the National Guard, he will be reporting soon to Oklahoma.


Steven Davis

Recipient Name: Steven Davis
Award: 2015 BPHS Scholarship Winner

Steven Davis was awarded the 2015 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship by Frank DelPercio on May 27th. Steven was a 4-year letter winner on the swim team, a member of NHS, and a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. He worked as a lifeguard, volunteered at a local hospital, and while involved with the Boy Scouts, earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Steven received an $ 8,000.00 check to aid with the cost of attending Penn State University.


Ben Haus

Recipient Name: Ben Haus
Award: 2014 Waldie/Shaeffer Award

The 2014 Waldie/Schaeffer Award winner is Ben Haus of Upper St. Clair High School. Ben participated in both football and baseball. He was nominated for Student of the Year, maintaining a 4.08 GPA. His coaches mention his integrity, character and values. Those qualities will serve him well as he will be attending Virginia Military Institute and plans to become a Navy Seal.


Daniel Vater

Recipient Name: Daniel Vater
Award: 2014 BPHS Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship

Daniel Vater, who will be attending the University of Pittsburgh in the fall, has been awarded this year’s Ken Waldie Scholarship. Dan played soccer, serving as team captain. He is a member of the Student Government Association, Ways and Means, National Honor Society, and is an Outstanding Young Citizen Nominee. Dan was a maintenance worker at his church, part of the recycling program, as well as being a Youth Volunteer.

At the annual Senior Awards Banquet, Dan, with his parents present, was presented with a check for $7,500. As part of the application process, an essay on “Honor” was submitted.


2013 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship

Recipient Name: Nick Salicce
Award: 2013 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship

The 2013 recipient of the Ken Waldie Scholarship was awarded to Nick Salicce by Frank Del Percio(class of 73) at the annual BPHS Senior Awards Ceremony. Nick received a check for $ 6,000 to help with the cost of his college education at the University of Toronto. He was a member of both the soccer and track and field squads-serving as captain for both. He was involved in the symphonic band, a member of the NHS and part of the Homecoming Court…


2013 Waldie/Shaeffer Award

Recipient Name: Regan Smith
Award: 2013 Waldie/Shaeffer Award

Our 2013 Waldie/Shaeffer Award winner is Regan Smith from Chartiers Valley High School. Regan was selected from four scholarship finalists. Regan has always desired to be in the military, and will do that as he has enlisted in the Army. He will train to be a Calvary Scout and hopes to eventually work in special forces.In high school he was a letter winner in track, cross country and wrestling with his coaches speaking of his leadership and passion. The Waldie/Shaeffer is proud to add his name to previous winners and finalist.


2012 Waldie/Shaeffer Award

Recipient Name: Austin Wilding
Award: 2012 Waldie/Shaeffer Award

The  2012 Waldie/Shaeffer award winner is Austin Wilding of Upper St. Clair High School. He will be attending the United States Military Academy and was awarded $1,500 at the May 20th Almanac’s Premierer Performance All-Sports Banquet.
Photo by Eleanor Baily from The Almanac.


2012 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship

Recipient Name: Evan Schweitzer
Award: 2012 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship

The 2012 Ken Waldie Memorial Scholarship winner is Evan Schweitzer. Evan was a member of the football and basketball teams, where he lettered 3 years in each sport. A member of the National Honor Society, he carried a 4.5 GPA  

Evan was presented with a $ 6,000 check and will attend Allegheny College where he will continue his basketball career.


2011 BPHS Ken Waldie Scholarship Winner

Recipient Name: Maria Touloumes
Award: 2011 BPHS Ken Waldie Scholarship Winner

Marie was a 4-year letter winner in soccer and a 3-year track letterman. A member of the NHS, she was also active in her Church Youth Group as a Coordinator and President. Maria attended the Blackfoot Indian Mission trip (Montana), the Hosannah Industries Mission (Pittsburgh), and the St. Gregory Palamas Monastery Mission. She volunteered at the Bethel Park Recreation Soccer Tournament and was a member of the Century United CUP Soccer Team.

Maria was awarded $5,000.00 and will attend Johns Hopkins University where she will continue her soccer career.

Recipient Name: Michael Innes
Award: 2011 Almanac Award

US Military Academy
$1000


2010 Bethel Park Award

Recipient Name: Caitlin Brust
Award: 2010 Bethel Park Award

 Caitlin Brust was our 2010 recipient of a $5,000 scholarship to attend Franklin & Marshall College. Caitlin participated in softball, lettering 4-years and serving as Captain her Senior year. She will continue to play the sport in college. In addition she carried a 4.67 grade point average, was a member of the NHS, and involved in Relay for Life.


2010 Almanac

Recipient Name: Keelen Collins
Award: 2010 Almanac

Keelen Collins is the 2010 Almanac Award Winner…He received a $1000 scholarship..He is from South Fayette High School and will be attending the University of Penn on an NROTC Scholarship….


2009 Bethel Park Award

Recipient Name: Alexandra Shiff
Award: 2009 Bethel Park Award

The 2009 BPHS winner is Alexandra Shiff she will be attending Cedarville University and majoring in Sports Medicine. She was a letter winner in Diving and Track. In addition had 2 lead roles in the school musicals, involved in gymnastics and youth group. Also a member of NHS. This years essay was “integrity” awarded $4,500


2009 Almanac Award

Recipient Name: Brad Strimmel
Award: 2009 Almanac Award

The almanac winner is Brad Strimmel of Canon-McMillan High school. Will be attending West Point. Received $1,000..Pictured with Frank DelPercio and Tom Etzel

Dear friends of Ken Waldie,
It is hard to explain how honored I was by the award the other evening. Ken truly sounded like a great man and model American. I hope I can emulate his character and dedication. I am proud to carry his memory with me to West Point this summer. Again, thank you very much. – Brad Strimmel


2008 Almanac Award

Recipient Name: David Neville
Award: 2008 Almanac Award

David received a $1000.00 Scholarship and will attend The United States Air Force Academy..


2008 Bethel Park Award

Recipient Name: Matthew Kaminski
Award: 2008 Bethel Park Award

Matt received a $4000.00 Scholarship to The University of Pittsburgh…Matt is an Indoor Track and Field Letterman…A member of the National Honor Society and Ways and Means….He volunteers with the Jubilee Kitchen and The Relay for Life…His essay on Friendship touched all our hearts..
“It was an honor to have received this award at the Bethel Park High School Awards Ceremony and to have it presented to me by Mr. Frank DelPercio, a former baseball coach of mine. The excitement with which he presented the award to me was truly a memorable one. His tribute to Mr. Waldie at the awards ceremony was heartfelt and inspirational.


2007 Bethel Park Award

Recipient Name: Sarah Spicuzza
Award: 2007 Bethel Park Award

Sarah Spicuzza received a $4000.00 Scholarship to Waynesburg College. Sarah excels in both soccer and track. She is a member of the NHS and Girl Scouts. As part of the application, her essay was on Integrity…Congratulations Sarah.


2006 Bethel Park Award

Recipient Name: Mark Meshanko
Award: 2006 Bethel Park Award

Mark Meshanko received a $4000.00 Scholarship for The University of Pittsburgh/Honors..See an update on Mark under the Special Remarks section..


2006 Waldie/Shaeffer Award Winner

Recipient Name: Meeting the Pope
Award: 2006 Waldie/Shaeffer Award Winner

The 2006 Waldie/Shaeffer Award winner Adam Potter meets the Pope……priceless


2005 Bethel Park Award

Recipient Name: Brian Fink
Award: 2005 Bethel Park Award

University of Pittsburgh-Honors
$4000


2004 Bethel Park Award

Recipient Name: Karen Vaughn
Award: 2004 Bethel Park Award

Karen Vaugh recieved a $4000.00 Schlorship.

Special note from Karen:

I will always remember to follow in the footsteps of Mr. Waldie by recognizing the importance of friends, athletics and academics..Thank you..


2003 1st Bethel Park Award Recipient

Recipient Name: Jeff Mathews
Award: 2003 1st Bethel Park Award Recipient

Our first recipient was Jeff Mathews, who received a $3000.00 Scholarship..

Special note from Jeff:

To be associated with a man like Kenny is a real honor..I will continue to keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers..Thank you once again and God Bless..


Recipient Name: Adam Potter
Award: 2006 Almanac Award

Penn-State-Behrend
$1000


Recipient Name: Aubra Thomas
Award: 2003 Almanac Award

US Naval Academy
$500


Recipient Name: Justin Pratt
Award: 2007 Almanac Award

Carnegie Mellon
$1000


Recipient Name: Mark Deluzio
Award: 2005 Almanac Award

US Naval Academy
$1000


Recipient Name: Tyler Haught
Award: 2004 Almanac Award

US Naval Academy
$1000