2021 REF Scholarship Recipients

Congratulations to the Class of 2021! The Raytown Educational Foundation's scholarship program began in 1998 and continues today. Scholarships for this year's seniors include 48 first year awards to 29 students totaling $46,011. Special thanks to our fund holders for investing in our students' futures by establishing these scholarships and to the many individuals who sustain these awards through their generous contributions. Additional thanks to Rolland Studios for providing our scholarship recipients' cap and gown photos. Congratulations, graduates! There are multiple student photos. Whether viewing on a desk or laptop computer, tablet or mobile device, you may need to click "view entire message" in order to see them all. Enjoy.

Aspire Scholarship

Established by Chris and Stacey Payne, business developers and philanthropists, the purpose of this scholarship is to assist first generation students to overcome barriers prohibiting their aspirations for a college education. Recipients are students who demonstrate both strong potential and perseverance towards successfully completing a college degree.

Rianna Ellis College: University of Missouri-Columbia Major: Linguistics   "I would like to express my gratitude to the Aspire Scholarship Committee for selecting me as a recipient of this scholarship. It is truly an honor to have this opportunity, and I am incredibly grateful for this award and the immense help it will bring. This scholarship will allow me to pursue my interests and expand my knowledge by making the cost of a college education more affordable for me and ensuring I have the resources to improve my future. Thank you so much for this incredible opportunity."

Richard Gooden Memorial Scholarship

Established by family, friends, and colleagues in memory of Richard Gooden, Raytown South High School Assistant Principal. Recipients are RSHS students who demonstrate positive school leadership and perseverance through personal adversity.

Olivia Mahl  College: University of Missouri Columbia Major: Investigative Journalism "I wanted to say thank you so much for the scholarship! Receiving this scholarship was a huge shock and I couldn’t be more grateful. This scholarship is going towards my tuition and helps relieve some of the stress! Thank you again it really means so much!"

Clayton James Hugill Memorial Scholarship

Established by the Hugill family in memory of their son Clayton James Hugill, a Raytown High School graduate and proud member of the RHS baseball team. Recipients are RHS students who are baseball team members who support the team and demonstrate hard work on and off the field.

Jonathan Stanley  College: Cowley College Major: Liberal Arts Major   "Thank you for this scholarship award! I feel very fortunate to receive it and know it will help to pay for my college education. I’m excited to start this next chapter of my life in college and continue to work hard to accomplish my future goals."

Jones Family Scholarship

Established by R.C. and Charlene Jones, retired Raytown Quality Schools educators, in honor of R.C.’s sister, Joella R. Sutton. Recipients are students who demonstrate strong academic goals and participation in extracurricular or community service activities.

Daniela Saenz-Quintana College: Johnson County Community College Major: Fashion Merchandising and Marketing "I would like to thank the Jones Family Scholarship for believing in me and investing in my potential. I am eternally grateful to those who have supported me along the way. I will continue to work hard and make Raytown proud. Thank you."

Coach Bud and Gay Lathrop Scholarship

Established by alumni of Raytown South High School’s basketball team members to honor Coach Lathrop, his coaching legacy at Raytown South High School and his wife’s unwavering support. Recipients are RSHS students who are male basketball team members and who demonstrate good character and positive contributions to the team and the school.

Kobe Shahib College: Undecided Major: Professional Sports "Thank you and I am grateful for this scholarship that will help me pursue a career in professional sports." 

Virginia Coleman Latta Scholarship Established by Ginny Coleman Latta to give back to her alma mater and to encourage students to continue their education. Ginny is a RSHS 1964 graduate and also taught Latin at RSHS. Recipients are RSHS students who may be the first in their family to attend college. Anna Hoffman College: University of Missouri-Kansas City Major: Nursing "I'm beyond grateful for the scholarships I have received. Without them, college would be a much more challenging experience. Due to the generosity of the donors, I will now be able to focus more of my time and effort towards my education." Esther Grover McCall Memorial Scholarship Established by Richard McCall in memory of his wife, Esther Grover McCall, a Raytown Quality Schools educator and curriculum coordinator for 35 years. Recipients are students who demonstrate an interest in Family and Consumer Science, Child Development, or Culinary Arts. Rianna Ellis College: University of Missouri-Columbia Major: Linguistics   "I would like to thank the Esther Grover McCall Memorial Scholarship Committee for giving me the opportunity to receive this scholarship. I am so grateful for this aid because it will help cover a portion of my tuition and allow me to save money to use towards other supplies that are necessary for college. The assistance this scholarship provides is greatly appreciated because while it will definitely help me this year, it will also set me up for success in the future. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity." Lisa Munsterman Scholarship Established by Lisa's family members in her memory. Lisa was a Raytown High graduate and became a teacher in the metro area. She always thought of herself as a biologist and saw everything through the lens of a scientist. Recipients are students who intend a career in a STEM related area or public service such as government, military or education. Emily Sadler College: Maryville University of St.Louis Major: Nursing, later Neonatal Nurse, then obtain a Practitioners License. Minor in Spanish. "I'm thankful for this scholarship because it shows my dedication to science and reflects my hard work. This will benefit me in college financially and make handling the cost easier. Thank you." Original Cardinals Scholarship Established by the first three graduating classes of Raytown South High School students, the Classes of 1964, 1965, and 1966, the “Original Cardinals,” to commemorate the 50th anniversary of their graduation. Recipients are RSHS students who demonstrate positive contributions to the school through extracurricular activities and/or community service. Markayla Lottie College: Avila University  Major: Kinesiology  "I want to say thank you to those who’ve come together in order to offer these scholarships not only to me but to the others who were chosen as well. It not only gives us a moment to breathe but it allows us to focus on our education and futures and takes one more stressor off our shoulders. Once again thank you!" Susanne Orrell Memorial Scholarship Established by Don and Geri Orrell in memory of their daughter, Susanne, a graduate of Raytown South High School. Recipients are RSHS female students who demonstrate outstanding study in science or math, like their daughter, Susanne.  Candace Hayes College: Langston University Major: Nursing  "I want to thank all of my scholarship donors. This means a lot to me because I focus more on my studies; and the scholarship will help with the high cost of tuition. More importantly, I am grateful to know that REF recognizes students for their hard work. Therefore, I am a true believer that hard work pays off! Thank you again, Candace Hayes" Sam Phillips Memorial Scholarship Established by the Phillips family in memory of their son, Sam Phillips, a graduate of Raytown High School. Recipients are RHS students who demonstrate financial need and college aspirations. Harmony Hibdon College: University of Central Missouri Major: I am still undecided but I'm thinking maybe science field or editor "I am very grateful for receiving this scholarship because my family is low income and they told me that they would not be able to help me pay for college, so every penny counts and this money is going to help me get the additional education I need to succeed better in the future."  Raytown Arts Council Alyse Stoll Scholarship Established by the Raytown Arts Council in memory of Alyse Stoll who was a prominent member of the Raytown community and a driving force for the Raytown Arts Council. Recipients are students who have a passion for visual or performing arts, including technical theater or set design. Madisen Berry College: New York University Major: Dance with a possible minor in business "I am truly grateful that you awarded me with such a life changing scholarship! It will relieve a lot of financial stress on my family as my older sister and I are both attending New York University, so I am truly thankful!" Raytown Community Pride Scholarship Established by the Raytown Educational Foundation and the Raytown Retired School Personnel Association. Recipients are students who have attended Raytown Quality Schools for four years and who demonstrate positive leadership in their schools and the Raytown community. Madisen Berry College: New York University Major: Dance with a possible minor in business "I really want to give my thanks to you for awarding me with such an amazing scholarship! This has truly helped my family and it relieved so much stress as it has aided us financially. I really appreciate being the recipient of this wonderful scholarship!" Rianna Ellis College: University of Missouri-Columbia Major: Linguistics    "I would like to thank the Raytown Community Pride Scholarship Committee for selecting me as a recipient of this scholarship. I have attended school in our district since kindergarten, and I am so excited to grow and continue exploring the world as a representative of Raytown. I am so grateful to come from a community that continues to foster young adults into leaders, and it is through this award that I will have the resources to reach my goals. Thank you so much for this amazing opportunity." Candace Hayes College: Langston University Major: Nursing  "I want to thank all of my scholarship donors. This means a lot to me because I focus more on my studies; and the scholarship will help with the high cost of tuition. More importantly, I am grateful to know that REF recognizes students for their hard work. Therefore, I am a true believer that hard work pays off! Thank you again, Candace Hayes" Markayla Lottie College: Avila University  Major: Kinesiology  "I want to say thank you to those who’ve come together in order to offer these scholarships not only to me but to the others who were chosen as well. It not only gives us a moment to breathe but it allows us to focus on our education and futures and takes one more stressor off our shoulders. Once again thank you!" Raytown Community Pride Scholarship's Bob Kessel Scholar Award Established by the Raytown Educational Foundation in honor of Bob Kessel, creator of the Raytown Community Pride Scholarship and volunteer Executive Director for 18 years. Recipients are students who embody qualities admired in Bob, optimism, enthusiasm, humility and service.  Madisen Berry College: New York University Major: Dance with a possible minor in business "Thank you so so much! I am truly grateful for being the recipient who is awarded with this incredible scholarship! My family and I will forever be grateful for the aid as it will help me be successful for the future in my career involving the arts." Raytown High School Class of 1956 Scholarship Established by the Raytown High School Class of 1956 alumni to recognize the Class of 1956 and to assure RHS students continue to have access to a college education. Recipients are RHS students whose class rank is number 56 after seven semesters at RHS. Deshon Collins College: Missouri Valley Major: Psychology "My sincere thanks to the Class of 1956. This scholarship will allow me the opportunity to further my education." Raytown High School Class of 1961 Scholarship Established by the Raytown High School Class of 1961 alumni to support RHS students’ aspirations for a college degree. Recipients are RHS students who demonstrate good character, enthusiasm, promise and potential.  Anteria Pratt-Taylor College: University of Missouri,Columbia Major: Political Science "Dear Class of 1961, I graciously thank you for awarding your scholarship to me. This scholarship will help ease stress and help pay for my fall tuition. I will be using my scholarship to embark new ideals for our justice system by majoring in political science. Thank you, Anteria Pratt Taylor" Raytown High School Class of 1963 Scholarship Established by the Raytown High School Class of 1963 alumni to recognize the quality of education they received at RHS, to demonstrate their Blue Jay pride, and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of their graduation. Recipients are RHS students who attended RHS for four years and who demonstrate positive citizenship, leadership and participation in extracurricular activities or community service. Dakota Wilber College: MCC Penn Valley Major: Nursing (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)   "Thank you so much for these scholarships. Each one will help me afford college and avoid student debt. I am really thankful because I am now able to focus on my classes and grades and I won't have to worry about money due. I cannot express my gratitude and I hope to do the same for students in Raytown in the future." Raytown High School Class of 1964 Scholarship Established by the Raytown High Class of 1964 to commemorate the 50th graduation anniversary for the class and to assure that the Bluejays following them will have access to a college education. Recipients are students who demonstrate strong scholarship, leadership, and/or community service. Emily Atkins College: Truman State University Major: Forensic Anthropologist "I am beyond grateful to have been selected as a recipient for this scholarship. Receiving this scholarship will allow me to reach my goals of becoming a Forensic Anthropologist at Truman State University. Thank you." Raytown High School Class of 1969 Scholarship Established by the Raytown High School Class of 1969 alumni during their 50th class reunion to assist RHS graduates access either a college or post-secondary vocational education. Recipients are RHS students who demonstrate good character and citizenship, and participate in extracurricular activities and/or community service. Rianna Ellis College: University of Missouri-Columbia Major: Linguistics   "Dear Class of 1969, I would like to thank you for your generosity in selecting me as a recipient of this scholarship. I am deeply appreciative of this award and the help it will bring me in my pursuit of a college degree. This scholarship will be fundamental in affording the cost of my tuition and fees. I am so grateful for this aid because it will allow me to have the support necessary to complete my goals and achieve success. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity." Raytown High School Class of 1986 Traditions Scholarship Established by the Raytown High School Class of 1986 alumni to commemorate the 30th anniversary of their graduation, to spread their pride in the Raytown community and to instill that pride in future generations of RHS students. Recipients are RHS students who demonstrate participation in extracurricular activities and community service. Rianna Ellis College: University of Missouri-Columbia Major: Linguistics   "Dear Class of 1986, thank you for giving me the opportunity to receive this scholarship. I am so grateful for your generosity because this award will help cover a portion of my college tuition and fees. Because of this, I will be able to save money that I can put towards other supplies that are necessary in college. This scholarship truly means a lot to me because it will give me the resources I need to achieve my goals, and I am incredibly appreciative to receive this assistance. Thank you so much for this amazing opportunity." Raytown High School Cross Country Alumni Brandon Tatom Memorial Scholarship Established by the Raytown High School Cross Country Booster Club and team alumni in memory of Brandon Tatom, Blue Jay Cross Country team member. Recipients are RHS Cross Country students who demonstrate great sportsmanship, build team morale, compete at the highest level, and in spite of adversity do so without the use of alcohol or drugs. Riley Harris  College: University of Missouri Kansas City Major: Engineering "Thank you for helping me and my path forward towards and through college. Like many who come from lower-income homes, money is always a limiting factor towards the future and thankfully, organizations like REF allow that roadblock to be lessened. I am grateful for this opportunity and good fortune, I will carry that with me for the rest of my life." Dakota Wilber College: MCC Penn Valley Major: Nursing (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner) "Thank you so much for these scholarships. Each one will help me afford college and avoid student debt. I am really thankful because I am now able to focus on my classes and grades and I won't have to worry about money due. I cannot express my gratitude and I hope to do the same for students in Raytown in the future." Raytown South High School Class of 1971 Legacy Scholarship Established by the South High Class of 1971 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of their graduation, 2021, to recognize the quality of education they received as a South High Cardinal, and to provide a legacy for the future, especially a legacy of Cardinal friendship. Recipients are students who continue the Cardinal legacy through of good citizenship, leadership, and/or community service. Antonio Waltermate College: MCCKC Longview, to be continued at UCM Major: IT Field of Study, Programming most likely "It is my honor to extend my sincerest thanks to the associated overseers of the 1971 Legacy Scholarship for their consideration and selection. The financial assistance is a welcome contribution to a continued pursuit into post secondary education in combination with the A+ program among others. In light of these troubled times, health issues, and aging parents it has been some relief to be able to rely on others to render some aid. I will remember this generosity from the Class of 1971. They can trust that I will make every effort to pass on the torch when the time does come." Candace Hayes College: Langston University Major: Nursing  "I want to thank all of my scholarship donors. This means a lot to me because I focus more on my studies; and the scholarship will help with the high cost of tuition. More importantly, I am grateful to know that REF recognizes students for their hard work. Therefore, I am a true believer that hard work pays off! Thank you again, Candace Hayes" Raytown PTA Council Joe Herndon Memorial Scholarship Established by the Raytown PTA Council in memory of Raytown Quality Schools Superintendent, Joe Herndon, to honor Dr. Herndon’s leadership and service to the school district and to honor national PTA’s “One Child One Voice” motto to make every child’s potential a reality. Recipients are students who demonstrate potential, good citizenship and extracurricular activities and/or community service.  Presley Stewart College: University of Illinois at Chicago Major: Public Policy   "Going out of state is no easy task, since I'll be so far from home and my community to help me out. However, thanks to this scholarship, there's still a little piece of community with me at UIC to cheer me on." Ahmea Parham  College: Missouri State University Major: Law  "These scholarships will help me buy books for school." Anna Hoffman  College: University of Missouri-Kansas City Major: Nursing  "I'm beyond grateful for the scholarships I have received. Without them, college would be a much more challenging experience. Due to the generosity of the donors, I will now be able to focus more of my time and effort towards my education." Raytown Retired School Personnel Association Memorial Scholarship Established by the Raytown Retired School Personnel Association in memory of deceased Raytown Quality Schools faculty and staff members. Recipients are students who demonstrate an interest in pursuing a career in education. Johnathan Martinez College: University of Missouri Major: History "I am very grateful to receive this scholarship. Thank you very much for giving me this opportunity. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals in the future. I also want to thank Mrs. Hurst for always advocating for these scholarships and making sure that everybody applies for them.“ Cecily Wells College: University of Central Missouri Major: Early Childhood Education "I would like to say thank you for awarding me this scholarship. I'm looking forward to using this award and the support I have received to pursue my dreams of educating the next generations to come." Raytown Rotary Club Service Above Self Scholarship Established by the Raytown Rotary Club in honor of the international organization’s earliest mottos, “Service Above Self.” Recipients demonstrate school and community leadership and service along with academic achievement and financial need. Madisen Berry College: New York University Major: Dance with a possible minor in business "I really want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the recipient to carry this scholarship with honor. My family and I are truly grateful as this will deeply aid me for New York University expenses!" Candace Hayes College: Langston University Major: Nursing  "I want to thank all of my scholarship donors. This means a lot to me because I focus more on my studies; and the scholarship will help with the high cost of tuition. More importantly, I am grateful to know that REF recognizes students for their hard work. Therefore, I am a true believer that hard work pays off! Thank you again, Candace Hayes" J. L. Robinson Memorial Scholarship Established by the Robinson family in memory of James Luther Robinson and James Luther Robinson Jr, business and community leaders and also members of the Raytown Quality Schools Board of Education. The Robinson family gifted the land on which Robinson Elementary School was built. Recipients demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit and plans to major in business.  Ahmea Parham  College: Missouri State University Major: Law  "These scholarships will help me buy books for school." Walter A. and Charlotte Soule Family Foundation Scholarship Established by the Soule family in memory of their parents, Walter and Charlotte Soule honoring their belief that individuals become successful because they are willing to work hard. Recipients demonstrate a desire to help oneself through part-time employment both in high school and college. Dakota Wilber College: MCC Penn Valley Major: Nursing (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner) "Thank you so much for these scholarships. Each one will help me afford college and avoid student debt. I am really thankful because I am now able to focus on my classes and grades and I won't have to worry about money due. I cannot express my gratitude and I hope to do the same for students in Raytown in the future."  Johnathan Martinez College: University of Missouri Major: History "I am very grateful to receive this scholarship. Thank you very much for giving me this opportunity. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals in the future. I also want to thank Mrs. Hurst for always advocating for these scholarships and making sure that everybody applies for them.“    Soule Family Foundation Pillar Scholarship This scholarship was established this year to honor the Raytown Education Foundation's Pillar of Giving Award bestowed on the Family Foundation in 2021. Recipients demonstrate a desire to help oneself through part-time employment both in high school and college. Daysha Sipho College: University of Missouri-Columbia Major: Double Major: International Studies and Environmental Sciences "Thank you for allowing me an opportunity to learn about our environment and work towards bettering our future. Because of this scholarship I’m able to better my future as well as our environmental future."  Kylie Butler College: Rockford University Major: Acting/Directing "Thank you for giving me the opportunity to obtain this scholarship this year. I am thankful to each and every person on the board of REF. With this scholarship, I will be able to attend my first choice for a school, Rockford University. Again, I thank all of you for this opportunity." Cheyli Ferbet College: Northwest Missouri State University Major: Major in Theatre Education, Minor in Scenic Design and Music Education  "Dear Soule Family Foundation, thank you. Receiving this scholarship has helped me financially not have as much debt in the future and helped my family relax a bit. I will be using my scholarship to help me with my tuition for the upcoming year. Once again, thank you!" Turley Twins Scholarship Established by Kole and Karlee Turley, Raytown South High School graduates, to encourage and assist students interested in an engineering career. Both Kole and Karlee were recipients of REF scholarships while in high school and desire to “pay it forward” to assist future Cardinal engineers. Recipients are RSHS students who demonstrate an interest in engineering through enrollment in high school engineering courses and intend to pursue a major in engineering in college. Kara Henderson College: UCM Major: Engineering "I'm so thankful for this scholarship. It was a lovely surprise. I've been working all during high school to help pay for college and this scholarship will definitely help my family pay for my college education." Harold H. Vance Memorial Scholarship Established by the Raytown Sertoma Club in memory of Harold Vance to assist Raytown students meet the financial needs of a college education and to honor Sertoma International’s purpose to meet community needs through service. Recipients are students who demonstrate leadership along with strong school and community service. Candace Hayes College: Langston University Major: Nursing  "I want to thank all of my scholarship donors. This means a lot to me because I focus more on my studies; and the scholarship will help with the high cost of tuition. More importantly, I am grateful to know that REF recognizes students for their hard work. Therefore, I am a true believer that hard work pays off! Thank you again, Candace Hayes" Virtuoso Scholarship Established by the Raytown South High School Orchestra Boosters to assist orchestra students attend college. Recipients are RSHS students who demonstrate strong academics and participation in both middle school and high school orchestras.  Erin Shawhan College: University of Missouri Major: Biology "Thank you so much for awarding me this scholarship. I am very grateful for the ease this will provide in paying for college expenses as well as the aid it will give in the attainment of my goals. I greatly appreciate the belief you have put in me and in my future!" Wilma Wink Memorial Scholarship Established by her daughters in memory of their mother and to honor Wilma Wink’s years as an educator and coordinator in Raytown Quality Schools and a female pioneer in business education. Recipients are female students planning a business career. Daniela Saenz-Quintana College: Johnson County Community College Major: Fashion Merchandising and Marketing "I would like to thank the Wilma Wink Memorial Scholarship for believing in me and investing in my potential. I am eternally grateful to those who have supported me along the way. I will continue to work hard and make Raytown proud. Thank you." Betty Jo Wolfe Memorial Scholarship Established by family members in memory of Betty Jo and to honor her 25 years as a Raytown educator, her deep rooted association with Raytown Quality Schools as the daughter of a former Raytown Superintendent of Schools, and her Blue Jay pride as a graduate of Raytown High. Recipients are RHS students who demonstrate financial need, involvement in extracurricular activities and/or community service. Sirneh Asangwe College: Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts in New York City Major: Occupational Psychology "I would like to personally thank the Betty Jo Wolfe Memorial for awarding me this scholarship. It is an honor to be recognized in this manner and I am forever grateful for the faith they have in my future. With this scholarship, I am more equipped to adjust and acclimate myself to life in New York City. Thank you once more and I look forward to making you all proud!" Heather Woodson Memorial Scholarship Established by family, friends and Raytown High School colleagues, the “Woodson Warriors,” in memory of Heather’s courageous battle with cancer and her profound impact on students as a caring and compassionate teacher and coach. Recipients are RHS students who demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities, sports and/or community service.  Madisen Berry College: New York University Major: Dance with a possible minor in business "I am so very thankful for being awarded this beautiful scholarship. This really means so much to me and I am so glad that I can carry this scholarship with pride! I know with this scholarship that it will financially support me with New York University. I will forever remember and always be thankful for this heartfelt scholarship." Ronald H. Woody Memorial Scholarship Established by family members in memory of Ronald Woody and to honor his athletic accomplishments as a Raytown High School student. Ronald was a 1945 RHS graduate and excelled in track, basketball, and baseball, voted “Best Athlete” his senior year. Recipients are RHS male students who have been members of the RHS track team. De Angelo Brooks College: Metropolitan Community College -Longview for 2 years, then University of Central Missouri Major: Digital Media Productions "I would like to say thank you for the opportunity to receive this scholarship. It will help me pay for books and any extra items that I will need for school. This does mean a lot to me because it will allow me to further my education and continue to develop as a young man." Gary P. Ziegenhorn Memorial Scholarship Established by family cousins in memory of Gary Ziegenhorn, a Raytown South High School Class of 1966 graduate, one of the “Original Cardinals” classes. This scholarship honors Gary’s musical accomplishments playing locally and in Los Angeles, his love for music, and his deep voice and gentle soul. Recipients are RSHS students who demonstrate music is an integral part of their lives. Christina Brown College: New York Conservatory of Dramatic Arts  Major: Film/Television Acting "I would like to thank you for helping me achieve my dreams. Art colleges are often hard to pay for and with your financial assistance it will definitely make a difference. I am very fortunate that I was chosen and I again thank you very much." 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