Ashland Source – Ashland County Ohio News & Info
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When Emilee Dennison received her scholarship in memory of Shanna Stoffer this year, it was more than a typical scholarship presentation. The donor made sure Stoffer’s legacy was part of the moment.
Shanna’s daughter, Kaley, personally presented the award to Dennison, an Ashland University student studying early childhood education (and a Mapleton alumna).
“Although Shanna’s daughter can no longer watch her mom’s giving heart, by presenting this scholarship in memory of her mom, she can carry on that legacy of helping others,” said Shanna’s nephew Evan Stuart, who took the lead in creating this special legacy.
The Shanna Stoffer Memorial Scholarship honors Stoffer – who was only 40 years old when she passed away from cancer last November – in ways she lived her life. Some may know Shanna from her 20 years as a teacher and administrator at Park Street School.
“My family and I wanted to find a way to ensure my aunt’s legacy of giving back to the community would live on forever. Given her heart for early childhood education, a scholarship fund was the best way to do this,” said Stuart, who was one of her students.
Eligible applicants must be an Ashland County resident or Crestview High School student, regardless of residency, and must pursue a career in the field of education. Additional eligibility information can be found here.
“The two most important factors (in creating this scholarship) were early childhood education and/or a life touched by cancer. Cancer has touched the lives of many in and around our family,” he said, adding that cancer’s impact prompted the family to create Strong Choice Foundation, Inc. as well as to create an endowed scholarship in Shanna’s memory.
Recipients reflecting Shanna’s strong community spirit and giving heart also stand out.
“Very seldom would you find Shanna without a smile on her face, especially when it came to children,” Stuart said.
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