Ralph and Marie McCarthy recognized the importance of always trying your best, no matter what you attempted. They believed you did not have to be the best, but to have done your best was key.
Established in 2003, the Ralph and Marie McCarthy Memorial Scholarship Fund now honors the couple's legacy by helping students seeking to do their best by providing college scholarships. The fund distributes an annual award to one graduating senior at Sturgis High School who will be attending a two- or four-year college or university.
Because the McCarthy's supported and encouraged participation beyond the classroom through sports, student government and other extracurricular activities, the scholarship seeks to award students who have been involved in these activities regularly throughout high school. Believing also in the importance of volunteerism and community service, McCarthy scholars represent those students who have willingly devoted time to making their school and community a better place.
Meet Amy Chen: The 2021 Ralph & Marie McCarthy Memorial Scholar
This year, Sturgis High School senior Amy Chen will benefit from the McCarthy's legacy. Chen has been named the annual recipient of the award, which will support her as she transitions to the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor where she plans to study International Relations in the fall.
Amy ranks no. 1 in her graduating class with a GPA of 4.184. She is co-captain of the Girls Varsity Tennis team and a member of numerous extracurricular activities including Student Senate, Business Professionals of America (BPA), Key Club, Quiz Bowl and the Youth Advisory Council. Through her involvement, Amy has volunteered regularly in support of local charitable programs and projects, dedicating dozens of hours to community service throughout all four years in high school.
As a leader and resource for local philanthropy, the Sturgis Area Community Foundation works closely with donors and charitable agencies every year to fuel positive change where we live. Our grantmaking framework is the vehicle that provides funding for scholarships and charitable programs that create impact. These investments are powered by the generosity of donors who have entrusted the Foundation to meet our community’s needs. If you have questions about our specific programs, or would like to know more about our work, please contact our office at sacf@sturgisfoundation.org.