More than 150 scholarship and assistance funds

Samantha,
Betsy Belshaw Nursing Scholarship

Chemeketa Foundation

Below is our full list of Foundation scholarships and assistance funds.

Foundation Annual Student Scholarships

Established by Pat Abeene, this scholarship supports part- or full-time students seeking a degree in early childhood education, visual communications, or a transfer degree.

This scholarship supports Oregon high school graduates who are members of Storm men’s or women’s basketball teams and have demonstrated athletic integrity and team leadership. This fund is named in honor of Rick Adelman, former head basketball coach for Chemeketa and the Portland Trailblazers. He is retired NBA coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

This scholarship supports part-time, first-generation college students ineligible for federal financial aid entering the Wine Studies program at Chemeketa. The scholarship is named after retired, former Wine Studies faculty member, Al MacDonald, for his commitment to the program and the wine industry.

Established in loving memory of Alex Buczynski by his family and friends to make education possible for students in the Fire Science, Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic, Addiction Studies, or Addiction Counselor programs. His kind, gentle nature was only out shined by his contagious smile.

Established by AAUW (American Association of University Women) whose mission is to advance equity through research, education, and advocacy

Established by Chemeketa's AAWCC Chapter whose mission is to change lives through education, service, and leadership development.

The Obsolete Fleet Chevy Club gives back to the community with their support of scholarships for students in the Automotive program.

Initially established by the Metropolitan Portland Automobile Dealers Association to encourage education and training in the Automotive workforce.

This scholarship was established by a gift from Jim and Catherine Baltimore to help full-time students studying career or technical trades at Chemeketa.

The friends of Barbara Cockrell & Chemeketa Education Association established this fund to honor Barbara's service to students and Business Services at Chemeketa. For students in Business and Management.

A graduate of Chemeketa's Nursing Program, Elizabeth "Betsy" Belshaw established this scholarship in support of student-parents in the program.

Willamette Valley Vineyards established this scholarship in honor of Betty's substantial contributions to the wine industry.

John and Betty Gray strived to improve the quality of early childhood development by promoting the education of professionals working with children. This scholarship was made possible through grants since 2004 from the Betty Gray Early Childhood Development Endowment Fund at the Oregon Community Foundation.

Established in loving memory of BJ by her husband John. BJ worked on the Chemeketa Salem campus for Portland State University helping many students transfer and support collaboration between institutions. BJ was known for her generous spirit, exuberant laugh and unyielding zest for life. For students seeking transfer degrees in Human Services, Psychology and Sociology.

Robert Corey, entrepreneur and founder of Bob’s Secret Sauce and Bob’s 19-Cent Hamburgers, established this scholarship to encourage education in the community.

Established by Diana and Egon Bodtker, this scholarship supports underrepresented students pursuing a certificate or degree in life science, physical science, and mathematics or engineering programs.

In honor of retired Chemeketa employee Brian Bay, this scholarship supports the next generation of emergency personnel serving our community.

In thanks to the generosity of the Oregon wine industry to the Bryce Bagnall family during his illness, this scholarship was established in loving memory of Bryce by his wife Marcia and the Supporters of Bryce.

Established by Chemeketa faculty and community partners in 2022 to provide assistance to students enrolled in the Building Inspection Technology Program.

Yamhill employer Cascade Steel extends its commitment to the community by supporting scholarships, encouraging a well-trained workforce.

Established by the family of Cassy Hanson after her death at a young age. This scholarship will support full-time students who have returned to college after an absence.

This scholarship was established by a gift from Ana Castilla, DDS, MS, PC. Dr. Castilla founded Castilla Orthodontics in 2013 and since then has, along with her amazing team, created thousands of beautiful smiles in the Salem area community.

Charlie and Loretta both attended Chemeketa after their retirement and, in their estate, provided a generous planned gift to support future generations of students. Loretta and Charlie considered themselves to be life-long learners and worked hard to provide opportunities for others to further their education through scholarship programs with Salem–Keizer School District and Chemeketa Community College. This scholarship supports students in professional-technical programs at Chemeketa.

Charles Langdon "Lang" Wroton and Herta Wroton, were known for their community involvement and dedication to local nonprofit organizations. Their legacy of giving continues through this scholarship in support of students at Chemeketa.

Established by the Chemeketa Board of Education to support students in certificate and/or degree programs seeking to advance their lives through education.

Established by the retired Chemeketa employees of the Emeritus Association, this scholarship continues their commitment to students pursuing their dreams.

Funded by employees and many people in the community, this scholarship supports students pursuing a certificate or degree at Chemeketa.

Founded in 1924 and admitted to the Garden Club of America in 1928, the PGC's mission is to stimulate the knowledge and love of gardening, to aid in the protection of native trees, plants and birds, to encourage civic beauty, and to improve and protect the quality of the environment through programs and action in the fields of conservation and education. This schoalrship supports students in the Horticulture Program at Chemeketa.

The Chemeketa Bookstore established this fund to ease the pressure on students facing the rising costs for books and supplies.

Former Chemeketa President Gretchen Schuette established this scholarship in memory of her parents, Carl and Esther Gerstacker. This scholarship encourages students to continue and complete a baccalaureate degree at WOU. WOU offers a partner scholarship upon the student's successful transfer.

The Chemeketa Foundation was founded in 1973 by a small group of people who saw the value of Chemeketa Community College. They believed in education and saw the need to help student-parents attend college. This scholarship remains a focus of the Chemeketa Foundation.

The family, friends and colleagues of Clayton Vorse, long-time friend of Chemeketa, established this scholarship to carry on his legacy of helping students to have the opportunity to attend college.

When John and Nancy McClintock established the Clint Foundation in the early 90’s, they sought to empower hard-working students who have a desire to better their communities. This scholarship from the Clint Foundation supports students who work while attending college.

Established by Bobbie and John Clyde, long-time Chemeketa employees who created this scholarship fund in retirement to help support student-parents. Their focus is supporting first generation college students in need of childcare assistance who hope to make a positive impact and increase represention for Latinx Communities. While John passed away in 2018, Bobbie continues to be actively involved with their scholarship fund and recipients.

Established by a planned gift from Craig Clark, this scholarship continues to support students.

Established by former Chemeketa Board member, Marilyn Crouser, the Crouser Family Scholarship helps students who are taking an art class to round out their college experience.

Chandler family, friends and associates at Prudential Real Estate Professionals established this scholarship in memory of Dan Chandler, founder of Prudential Real Estate Professionals in Salem. Dan was committed to helping people achieve success in their lives.

In honor of the 29 years of leadership and values of former Maps Credit Union President Dan Penn, Maps Credit Union provides scholarships for seniors graduating from area high schools.

This scholarship was established in memory of beloved instructor David Swenson by his friends and family. David died in 2004 after having achieved the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa. At the time, David was a dedicated instructor of Computer Science at Chemeketa, and an active volunteer and supporter of the community.

Available to student athletes in any program, this fund was established in the honor of Dennis Melcher, a Chemeketa women’s basketball coach for 20 years.

Established by Dick and Foundation Board Vice President Betty O'Brien to encourage education and careers in Horticulture.

Established by E. Pat Smith to help full time, first-generation, CTE students.

Established by Ed and Mary Jane Phelps to help students in the nursing program.

Eileen Simpson strongly believed in the benefits of early childhood education and established the Early Childhood Education Scholarship to encourage an educated workforce in this industry.

This scholarship helps provide assitance to students pursuing an education in emergency service programs at Chemeketa. Eligible programs include Emergency Medical Technology, Criminal Justice (Law Enforcement & Corrections), and Fire Protection. Preference is given to veteran students at Chemketa.

Chemeketa faculty in the ESOL Program began this scholarship to encourage adult students transitioning from the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and English as Non-native Language (ENL) Programs to continue on to a Chemeketa degree or certificate.

This fund, established by Eugenia Margosian Becker, provides opportunity for students in the social services or sustainability management fields who have overcome personal obstacles and have a vision for improving their lives through education.

This fund is established initially by a gift from the Foundation board of directors, former board members and friends of Andrew Bone and Nancy Duncan recognizing their many contributions to the Foundation and college after their retirements. Andrew retired in 2017 and Nancy in 2019.

The Chemeketa Exempt Employees Association supports students and promotes community service with this scholarship.

Edna Corrick established this fund in loving memory of her late husband Fred.

This privately funded scholarship provides single-parent students the opportunity to change their future through education.

First Interstate Bank is committed to reinvesting in the community and helping families access education.

The Frank & Evelyn Schmidt Family Foundation established this scholarship in support of Horticulture education and careers.

Established in memory of George, the “Founding Father” of Chemeketa’s Human Services Program.

Past president Gretchen Schuette established this scholarship supporting students who demonstrate through personal experience and/or public commitment a dedication to the interests of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) community.

In December of 1994, six community members established Scholarships for Oregon Latinos (SOL) in memory of George Puentes Jr., a young man whose life exemplified his commitment to educational excellence. SOL is committed to providing education opportunities for Hispanic/Latino students so they may become contributing members of society and leaders in their communities.

This fund was set up in partnership with the Give a Little Foundation in support of full-time, first-year students from Yamhill County who have experienced homelessness during their high school years.

Established in loving memory of Gregory Wineland by his parents Hal and Kirsty Wineland, a retired Chemeketa employee and long-time supporter of Chemeketa students.

In the interest of supporting Chemeketa values of diversity and college access, this scholarship was established by the Midland Area Community Foundation and the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation with extensive funding and leadership of former Chemeketa President Gretchen Schuette.

Chemeketa staff and community established this scholarship in honor of former President Gretchen Schuette’s leadership at the college and in the community when she retired, supporting students with exemplary leadership traits.

Established by a gift from the estate of Harry D. Haley in 2001, this scholarship continues to annually support student scholarships.

Funded by staff, this scholarship helps students continuing their education at Chemeketa who have completed the High School Equivalency Program.

Established by a gift from Linda Herrera and friends in honor of her retirement after 30 years at Chemeketa. This scholarship hopes to inspire a new generation of community leaders, educators, and students pursuing STEM careers.

The Hillside Foundation established this Nursing Scholarship to help support availability of healthcare services for the elderly population in Yamhill County. Preference is given for students with financial need who are pursuing a career focus in Geriatric Nursing and/or are qualified as second-year nursing students.

Julie Huckestein, current Chemeketa President, and her husband Jim established their scholarship to support students seeking Transfer degrees in Education or Early Childhood Education Degrees and Certificates at Chemeketa.

Former Chemeketa Health Sciences employee, Ilene Hirsh and her husband Stu established their scholarship to help student parents enrolled in the Nursing Program.

Initially established by Oregon Educational Electronics Technicians Association (OEETA), this scholarship assists students who demonstrate a strong aptitude for a career in industrial electronics.

A lasting gift from the estate of Ingeborg Burke provides this scholarship for students in apprenticeship and skilled trade programs.

Established by Jackson Family Wines to support students enrolled part or full-time in the Wine Studies Programs carrying a 3.0 GPA.

This scholarship memorializes Jim, a Chemeketa Psychology instructor. Open to full-time students seeking a transfer degree.

Established from friends and colleagues of Janet Carlson for her many years of service in the community as a Marion County Commissioner. This scholarship helps students who are on parole, probation, or have a previous history of criminal justice involvement requiring correction supervision within the state of Oregon.

Janet and Theodore Urton established this scholarship to encourage awareness of mental health issues, reduce the stigma of these conditions and spread awareness. In the event no eligible applicants meet the criteria, the scholarship may be opened to include applicants who are pursuing psychology, neurobiology and counseling.

Established by the estate of Merlyn and Elizabeth Javens.They both were strong advocates for equal rights and cared deeply about contributing to organizations that suppport them.Their hope is the recipient will improve their education and give back to their own community.

Established by a gift from the estate of Jeanette Rustin to assist students in the Chemeketa Nursing Program, this scholarship memorializes Jeanette’s generosity.

Lee Jepsen established this fund in loving memory of his son, Kirk Jepsen, a Chemeketa student, who was killed in an auto accident during the summer of 1980.

Initially established in 1999 by former Chemeketa President Jerry Berger and his wife Vicki in their commitment to student advancement, helping students who exhibit leadership potential in their first year at Chemeketa.

Established by Ron LeBlanc to recognize the wonderful work of nurses who cared for Jill during her heroic battle with cancer and to provide support to Chemeketa students pursuing nursing careers.

Established in 1996 by John G. Canfield in memory of his wife Edith, the first director of ABE/GED programs at Chemeketa from 1969 to 1978.

This scholarship was established in the memory of John P. Martin who worked in the local steel industry his whole life. He was the owner of Zephyr Engineering, a design, fabrication, machining and welding business. This scholarship is intended to be a reflection of his knowledge, curiosity, brilliance, and desire to be the best within the field, and a spark to ignite the same enthusiasm and opportunity for students and their future.

Remembered for his love of life, learning, and community involvement, Joshua died in a tragic accident. His memory lives on, helping students achieve their educational goals through this memorial scholarship established by his parents.

In support of students in the Dental Assisting Program at Chemeketa, Craig Tylosky and Beverly Dilley initially established this scholarship in memory of their daughter Julie, who was a student in the program.

Chemeketa staff established this scholarship to provide assistance to Hispanic/Latino students enrolled in any program who, without such help, could not pursue their educational objectives.

Single-parent students benefit from this scholarship initially established by Parviz and Maudie Samiee in memory of Laverne.

This scholarship was created to assist students who demonstrate, through personal experiences and/or public commitment, a dedication to the interests of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) community.

This scholarship was initially established by a gift from Brad Whiting of OEM, Inc. to encourage student education and innovation in the field of manufacturing.

Marion Polk Dental Society established this scholarship to support dental education and careers.

Mell and Eva Schwartz established this scholarship to help student-parents cope with the financial stresses of raising children while they are going to Chemeketa.

The Willamette Valley Chapter of the Model A Ford Club of America gives back to the community and supports students with this scholarship.

Family and friends remember Montez Bailey for his spirit of leadership and community with this scholarship. Montez was the victim of a lethal shooting in 2009 in Salem.

Established in loving memory of Nate Turner by his friends and family. The scholarship supports students enrolled in Fire Science or Paramedic programs. Nate was a cherished member of Beaverton Fire Station 67 and died tragically in a climbing accident.

Established by former Chemeketa President, Don Newport, to provide assistance to full-time students who are also engaged in leadership roles.

Community partner NORPAC, established this scholarship to encourage education.

Established by the Northwest Automotive Trades Association of Salem.

During a period of increased demand and shortage of nurses, Chemeketa established this scholarship to assist students in the Nursing Program.

To encourage students pursuing a degree and enrolled in the Law Enforcement or Criminal Justice Program at Chemeketa, the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association (OSSA) annually supports this scholarship.

Oregon State Credit Union (formerly OSU Federal Credit Union) supports education and invests in our community with this scholarship for Chemeketa students in Business Programs.

Established in honor of former Director of the Chemeketa Financial Aid Office Pat Galligan for her years of service.

Rob Pillmeier established this scholarship in loving memory of his mother, Patty, to help student-parents.

Paul and Carol Manka established this scholarship to help support students who are the first in their family to attend college. Paul was a first-generation student, and both he and his wife were awarded scholarships during college that led to their success.

Established by the Polk County Master Gardener's Association for graduates from Polk County who are pursuing a degree in Horticulture, Viticulture, or a transfer degree in Entomology.

Established by Chemeketa Faculty to assist students pursuing a degree or certificate in Psychology.

Formerly Amity Vineyard Scholarship, established by Vikki Wetle and Myron Redford to support education in our community.

To encourage students returning to college, Laura Lesher established this scholarship for nontraditional students who plan to transfer to a 4-year institution in Oregon.

Established in honor of Rhonda Wood’s long tenure at Chemeketa. This scholarship provides assistance to students enrolled in the Emergency Medical Technology and Paramedic Programs at Chemeketa Community College to help with tuition and other educational expenses.

Jim and Carol Dickerson established this scholarship in memory of Rob and Chele for students in Fire Protection or Emergency Medical Technology Programs.

In 2010, Eva initially established this scholarship in memory of her husband Robert, his love of learning, support of education and his fondness for working with metal. Upon her passing, Eva continued to support Chemeketa scholarships with a planned gift.

One of the visionary founders of the Oregon Fire Instructors Association and Chemeketa's Fire Science Program, Bob will be remembered for his service and passion for fire protection.

This scholarship was established to provide assistance to students living in Yamhill County, who are currently enrolled in transfer degree courses at Chemeketa Community College.

Rosemari Davis established this scholarship to support students in the Nursing Program upon her retirement as the CEO of Willamette Valley Medical Center.

The Saff Family Scholarship offers students from all backgrounds access to higher education. Preference given to students in under-served communities who have a strong desire to use their education to improve their own lives, as well as their local and global communities.

Founded in 1997, Salem Hardy Plant Society continues to promote horticulture education through it's support of scholarships for horticulture students at Chemeketa.

The Salem Masonic Lodge #4 established this scholarship in 2000 to assist deserving students. The lodge hosts an annual dinner held at the Salem Masonic Temple, inviting the student and their family to attend.

Encouraging education in the Salem area, the Salem Rotary Foundation provides scholarships to graduates of North Salem High School or South Salem High School. In 1949, Ernest Duvall received a scholarship from the Rotary Club of Salem to help pay his tuition at Willamette University. Fifty-six years later, Dr. Ernest Duvall ensured the scholarship would continue to provide scholarships for students with his gift of $50,000 to Salem Rotary Foundation.

Established by the Oregon Mid-Valley Purchasing & Supply Chain Management Association, this scholarship is awarded to students carrying at least 8 credits per term and pursuing a degree in Procurement and Supply Chain Management at Chemeketa.

Established by long-time supporter Larry Smith, this scholarship supports students pursuing manufacturing programs at Chemeketa. As a volunteer for the Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) in Salem, this scholarship will give preference to students who are coming to Chemeketa after finishing the CTEC program.

This fund was established by a gift from Kathi Steffensen to support students in an Apprenticeship Program (Plumbing, HVAC, Electrician, or Sheet Metal).

Frederick and Ernestine Sterett provided for student success with a lasting gift from their estate.

Established from the Marvin Ray Straughan Trust.

Established in loving memory of Chemeketa employee Sue West and her battle with cancer, this scholarship provides assistance for students seeking a career in health care.

The McMinnville Sunrise Rotary Foundation established this fund to provide assistance to students who reside in Yamhill County.

This scholarship supports students in the High School Partnerships programs who have achieved academic success while overcoming obstacles and demonstrating self-efficacy in active learning. The fund is named in honor of Dr. Susan Murray, a longtime advocate of youth and creative visionary at Chemeketa Community College.

This scholarship was established by Terry Hall, a former Yamhill Valley and Salem Campus instructor in both nursing and the CNA program. She also developed the dialysis program at Chemeketa. She will be funding her scholarship via a $50,000 endowment to support Nursing students. Terry says, “I hope every recipient will experience the blessings the profession of nursing has given to my family and me.”

Chemeketa President Cheryl Roberts and Miller Adams established this scholarship with respect and honor for the example of leadership set by their parents.

The Chemeketa English Department Faculty established this fund to support full-time English Majors who have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

A bequest established by Tom J and Alice R. Berntson for students who are actively engaged in Math and Science tutoring and seeking a degree or certificate at Chemeketa.

The Trumbo/Lowe Family Scholarship was established by Mark and Jennifer Trumbo supporting Yamhill County High School graduates seeking Career & Technical certificates and degrees. Mark was a longtime Chemeketa Community College employee where he served as the Director of the McMinnville Campus for 19 years before his retirement in 2000.

Unrestricted fund for student scholarships.

Established by Theodore and Janet Urton to support students on parole with a sincere desire to turn their lives around through education and become worthy, law abiding citizens. Their scholarship will support students attending part- or full-time in any certificate or degree program at Chemeketa.

This gift, established by Lee and Erma Vásquez, supports students attending Chemeketa's Yamhill Valley campus. As a retired Yamhill County Sheriff, Lee and his wife Erma wanted to help local students have the same opportunities given to them that made a difference in their lives. As a former member of the Chemeketa Foundation Board of Directors, Lee believes in the excellent educational programming and commitment to student success that is the essence of Chemeketa.

The Vista Masonic Lodge #215 established this scholarship to assist two Chemeketa students annually reach their academic goals. The lodge hosts an annual dinner, inviting the student and their family to attend.

Established by the Visual Communications faculty at Chemeketa, this scholarship is awarded to a full-time student pursuing a degree in graphic design.

This scholarship was established in memory of long-term Sheriff, W.L. “Bud” Mekkers of Yamhill County. These funds provide assistance to second-year students enrolled in one of the following programs at Chemeketa Community College: LERE, CORE, Criminal Justice, or Juvenile Justice.

To assist in alleviating the shortage of health care workers in Yamhill County by Willamette Valley Medical Center.

The Willamette Valley Street Rods Club gives back to the community with this scholarship while supporting students in the Automotive Technology program.

The Erath Family Foundation established this scholarship to encourage education in the Viticulture industry.

Established by Dick and Gayle Withnell to support students in the Music Program who maintain a 3.0 GPA or above.

Family and friends honor Larry Nesland’s 35 years of dedicated service at the Chemeketa McMinnville campus and his passion for teaching Math.

Initially started in 2012 by Chemeketa Foundation board members Bob Emrick and Lee Vasquez and their friends established this scholarship for student parents residing in Yamhill County.

Mary M. Young and her son Mark established this scholarship to help students pursuing a certificate or degree. The Young family greatly values education, both for employment and for personal growth.

Student Assistance Awards and Programs

Awarded annually to honor Art Program students at the Annual Student Art Show, this fund is supported by staff contributions and art sale proceeds.

Supported by private donations and student fund raising, this fund provides emergency financial assistance for student nurses.

In support of our College Inside Program, this fund supports scholarships for student-inmates at two local men's prisons.

Established to support students in English-as-a-Second-Language programs at Chemeketa.

Financial assistance for students who could not otherwise participate in the graduation ceremony, this fund assists with the cost of college regalia.

Through private donations, including a major gift from former Chemeketa President Gretchen Schuette, this fund supports art gallery projects that extensively explore diversity, power and responsibility.

Supports students in Chemeketa’s High School Programs.

This fund provides assistance with textbooks and supplies for students reentering the community after incarceration.

Established by staff, this fund provides emergency financial assistance to full-time fire science and paramedic students.

Staff developed this fund to provide emergency financial assistance to international students.

Library collection endowment fund.

This award was established in memory of long-term Sheriff, W.L. “Bud” Mekkers of Yamhill County. These funds are to provide uniforms, equipment, and required testing for first-year students in law enforcement.

In memory of Ron Anderson for students enrolled in GED classes, this fund assists with a portion of the test fee.

The Chemeketa Athletics Program receives vital support through private donations, student and staff fund raising.

This fund provides monthly support for stocking the Food Pantry. Also, student retention is supported with emergency student assistance not covered by community resources or Financial Aid awards.

This staff-supported fund provides textbooks for the TRIO Student Support Services lending library.

Funded by staff and private donations, this fund provides emergency financial assistance to students in the Visual Communications Program.

The Willamette Valley Amateur Winemakers Society (WVAWS) began this fund to provide emergency financial assistance with program-related costs for students in the Viticulture or Winemaking Programs.

This fund provides monthly support for stocking the Yamhill Campus Food Pantry. Also, student retention is supported with emergency student assistance not covered by community resources or Financial Aid awards.

This fund provides financial assistance for Yamhill Valley Campus students to take the GED test.

Chemeketa Community College Foundation

4000 Lancaster DR NE

PO Box 14007

Salem, Oregon 97309

503.399.5148  |  503.365.4747