Endowed and Annual Scholarships

The Adeline Estes Patrick Endowed Scholarship was established by Sr. Linda Patrick, SNJM ’67, the daughter of Adeline Estes Patrick. In the summer following Adeline’s graduation from 8th grade, her mother died. Instead of continuing her own education, she spent her high school years caring for her six younger siblings. Her commitment to the Catholic faith and education led her and her husband to purchase a home in Holy Redeemer Parish where her six children were educated. Her love of learning provided a strong support and inspiration for her children.

Selection Criteria:

The applicant must have a strong desire to attend St. Mary's Academy and value doing service. Preference will be given to an applicant who has been impacted by the death of a parent and/or who is matriculating from Holy Redeemer School.

Dr. Donald V. Romanaggi, a native Portlander and longtime supporter of St. Mary’s Academy, established this scholarship in honor of his late wife Agnes Stoffel Romanaggi. Dr. Romanaggi built an impressive career as an allergist and Mrs. Romanaggi worked alongside him throughout his career, helping in his office. Dr. and Mrs. Romanaggi had five children and greatly valued raising them and providing them with high-quality Catholic educations. Because of his great love of his wife, education and science, Dr. Romanaggi established this scholarship to help a young woman with an affinity for science attend St. Mary’s Academy.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must demonstrate an affinity for science. She must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0 while attending St. Mary’s Academy.

The Ann Dwyer McDougall '31 Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established by the family of Ann Dwyer McDougall. A woman of strong Catholic faith, Ann Dwyer McDougall graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in 1931. She believed that ethics and education went hand in hand and that each individual had an obligation to “lead and serve in the community.”

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must possess a concern for others, an interest in community service and intellectual curiosity, and a potential for leadership. Preference will be given to Catholic students. She must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 or above while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Both Ann Welch McDonald ’58 and her sister Mary Virginia Welch ’43 graduated from St. Mary’s Academy and were forever grateful for the all-female, college preparatory, Catholic experience. They felt it was the ideal setting to mature from young girls to mature faith-filled women who aspired to make a difference. Initially, Ann first attended Holy Child Academy and found that there were divisions among the girls based on their social economics. Once she transferred to St. Mary’s she immediately noticed the fellowship and respect for each other. Along with the excellent academics and the strong faith foundation, it was clear that St. Mary’s Academy fostered a culture that values the equality of the students and champions the individual contributions that make up their community. Each young woman was encouraged to find their unique God-given gifts and to develop the confidence to share them. Ann believes in the school’s mission and wants to help enable other young women to have the same opportunity.

The Ann Welch McDonald ’58 endowed scholarship is targeted to young women who qualify to attain this excellent educational experience that may not have been possible given their circumstances. Candidates should be those who are ambitious about their academic endeavors who have a variety of interests and who value the opportunity to be a part of something larger.

Selection Criteria

Recipients must demonstrate ambition for her academic endeavors as well as an interest in a variety of extra-curricular activities. Preference will be given to a Catholic student matriculating from a public school.

Amy Kathleen Gregersen’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 24 from injuries suffered from a car crash in Montana. Amy was a vivacious soul. Whether she was reading her favorite Jane Austen novel, organizing a recycling program or staying in touch with her many friends and close family, Amy was a light that encouraged everyone to make the world a better place. She was passionate about the Spanish language and culture. Amy lived with a family in Spain as part of a student exchange program the summer between her junior and senior at SMA. She majored in Spanish and International Studies at the University of Oregon and studied in Sevilla, Spain during her senior year of college. Friends considered Amy extraordinary -- filled with joy, humor and intelligence. She began her career working with the Spanish community as an interpreter for Washington County Health Dept. to help Hispanic people receive healthcare services. Her plans were to enter law school so she could provide legal advice to Hispanics. Sadly her dream was not realized. This scholarship allows a student who shares similar ideals to obtain a St. Mary’s education and fulfill her dreams.

Selection Criteria:

Student must have an interest in continuing her involvement in the Spanish language and/or the Latino culture, or be of Hispanic heritage. Student must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in Spanish class to renew the scholarship.

The Arntson Family Scholarship was established by a family who believes in the value of a St. Mary’s education and has a long family history with our Portland community. The family has two daughters who have benefitted greatly from their experience at St. Mary’s Academy. The parents recognize the academic, spiritual and social growth in their daughters that can be attributed to their St. Mary’s education. They also recognize that providing financial support helps to ensure excellence and opportunity for young women.

It is preferred, though not required, that applicants for this scholarship are of Hispanic descent.

Marylu and Ray Arrigotti were a quintessential Catholic couple who sacrificed much to send all four of their children to Catholic schools, first to Sacred Heart Grade School, then George to Central Catholic and Raemarie '76, Laureen '79 and Coralynn '83 to St. Mary's Academy. Ray provided for the family through his engineering career and was truly a family man. Marylu was a middle school teacher and filled the family home with her love of music and theatre.

Raemarie, Laureen and Coralynn participated in theatre and music at St. Mary's under the direction of Marylu's dear friends Jim Erickson, Sr. lgnatia Ann, Steve Knox and Michael Snider. She was prop mistress for nearly every show between the mid 70s and mid 80s, mentoring students and keeping an eye on her daughters. George played the piano in the stage band and ventured into some drama at Central Catholic. Ray attended nearly every performance and took so many pictures it is said that a flip book could have been made into a movie from all the photos.

For the Arrigottis, theatre is not just for honing one's talent, but also for learning life skills: discipline, responsibility, confidence, teamwork and trust. After graduation, George became an accomplished engineer, following in Ray's footsteps, and continues to play piano at weekly parish Masses. Laureen, Coralynn and Marylu participated in community theatre and Raemarie shared her love of music with her first grade students.

The Arrigotti family created this scholarship so that the legacy of Marylu and Ray would live on forever in the community that provided so much joy for their daughters, not to mention the exceptional education it provided as a launching pad into their careers: Raemarie as a successful and much-loved teacher, Laureen as a high level banker and Coralynn as a fundraiser back at St. Mary's.

Every day of their 50+ years of marriage, Marylu and Ray lived their faith and values in support of their children and other children, whether through Ray's role as a scoutmaster, Marylu's role in theatre and teaching, or in the countless other activities that filled their lives.

Selection Criteria

The successful candidate must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average. She must demonstrate a passion for theatre and/or music and embrace the values described in the biography section of this agreement as important throughout her life.

Preference will be given to a student whose application demonstrates that she not only understands the valuable lessons learned in the theatre but also has a strong interest in a STEM field, much like Ray and George Arrigotti.

Information coming soon.

Information coming soon.

Information coming soon.

The Betty Fogarty Endowed Scholarship was created to honor the memory of a beloved member of the St. Mary’s Academy community. Many students knew Mrs. Fogarty well, particularly those who were frequently tardy for school, because she served tirelessly for 18 years on staff starting in 1967 assisting Sister Idamae, SNJM with fundraising. She then provided secretarial support in the front office before becoming the school’s attendance secretary for many years, retiring in 1985. St. Mary’s will be forever grateful for Betty's service and dedication.

She and her husband Dennis Fogarty raised eight children and selflessly put all six of their daughters through St. Mary’s Academy: Kathleen Fogarty Sugai ’69, Sheila Fogarty Manning ’70, Lori Fogarty Ellingson ’73, Denise Fogarty Bray ’75, Mary Fogarty Oliver ’77 and Chris Fogarty Crise ’80. In the fall of 2013 her granddaughter Madeline Crise joined the St. Mary’s community as a freshman.

The Fogarty family endowed this scholarship so that their beloved mother’s memory would live on forever in the community she served, loved and supported. She was and indeed continues to serve as a wonderful role model for young women. Betty embraced her Catholic faith and the values of St. Mary’s Academy. She was committed to living her faith through service to others, kindness and prayer, especially when faced with challenges and adversity. It is the hope of the family that a student who receives this scholarship be a young woman who embraces these values and understands how they can guide her through life.

Selection Criteria

Preference will be given to a student who is matriculating from a Catholic grade school. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.5 while attending St. Mary’s Academy.

This scholarship was established by Mary Laughlin ’60 to honor her parents, William (Bill) James Richard Laughlin and Mary Honorine O'Malley Laughlin and to express appreciation for their dedication and sacrifice while raising their family of three boys and two girls. This included providing a Holy Names education for all of them. It is also meant to be a token of gratitude to the Holy Names Sisters for all the educational benefits that they provided over the years to the Laughlin/O’Malley family.

Mary and Bill’s own children were not the first in their family to receive a Holy Names education. After moving from Wisconsin to Tacoma, Washington, Mary O’Malley attended Holy Names Academy in Seattle as a boarding student in the 1920s. She was undoubtedly happy to find an SNJM school (Holy Redeemer) near the family’s NE Portland home. All five Laughlin children attended this school which their father and most of his 8 siblings had also attended. The exceptional education Bill received had to have played a significant role in his winning a city-wide competition for a full 4-year scholarship to Columbia Prep, an all-boys Catholic prep school.

After their graduation from Holy Redeemer, there was no question where Bill and Mary’s daughters would go to high school. Both Mary Laughlin ’60 and Jean Laughlin Miller ’68 graduated from St. Mary’s. Mary continued her SNJM education at Marylhurst with a double major in education and social sciences. She began her 36-year teaching career as a Peace Corps volunteer for 3 years in Ethiopia, followed by stints in Seattle and Washington D.C. After a year studying Spanish in Spain, Mary returned to Portland for another degree in art history and then 26 more years of teaching at Sabin Elementary in NE Portland. She credits the SNJM sisters with demonstrating the highest standards of teaching. Mary’s sister Jean graduated from PSU, married and had two daughters, Betsy Miller Frost ’94 and Mary Miller ’99, also SMA alumnae. After raising her children Jean spent many years in the Vancouver School District.

This scholarship continues the Laughlin family’s nearly 100-year relationship with the Holy Names Sisters and is intended to provide deserving young women with the benefits of a St. Mary’s education.

Selection Criteria

Scholarship award shall be granted to selected students who meet the following criteria.

• Her family must demonstrate significant financial need.
• Preference will be given to a student of color or one born into a recent immigrant family or is herself an immigrant.

The Blues Note Scholarship was established by a family with strong ties to the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. This scholarship helps a student with an interest in and appreciation for music fulfill her dream of receiving a St. Mary’s education.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must demonstrate an interest in music, have participated in vocal and/or instrumental music studies and have a desire to further her musical proficiency. Preference will be given to a student of a cultural or racial minority.

The Bob and Sue Harold Endowed Scholarship was established by Bob and Sue Harold, parents of Joan Harold Chaney ’94. Bob and Sue and the Harold Family have been loyal supporters of the mission of St. Mary’s Academy for many years. When Bob was young he attended a Sisters of the Holy Names elementary school and as a result of his SNJM education, developed a deep respect for the beliefs and values of the Sisters of the Holy Names. When it came time for Bob and Sue to send their daughter, Joan, to high school, they knew that she would get the best education, as well as instill the important values of the Sisters of the Holy Names, at St. Mary’s Academy.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate’s scholarship application will demonstrate her desire to attend an all-girls college-prep Catholic school and explain why this is personally meaningful to her. Some of the core values of St. Mary’s and the Sisters of the Holy Names are dedication to justice, development of the whole person and service to the poor and disadvantaged. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0 while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Information coming soon.

This scholarship was established to honor the exceptional life of Cassandra McCann: January 21, 1989 – March 2, 2015. Her friends Mia Feller ’07 and Camber Hansen-Karr ’07 spearheaded a scholarship fundraising campaign among Cassandra's family and friends so that her legacy would live on. Cassandra loved St. Mary’s and spent her high school years cultivating a passion for theatre, dance and film that lasted throughout her short, but extraordinary life. Her talent for and devotion to the arts were enduring gifts to cast members, classmates and audiences alike. Cassandra modeled what it is to fall in love with the craft. While her path was diverted by cancer, her aspirations remain alive within each person whose life was touched by her wondrous spirit. Through this scholarship, Cassandra’s gifts will continue to enrich performing arts at St. Mary’s Academy for future generations and serve as a source of inspiration to young women who wish to follow in her footsteps.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must demonstrate a profound passion for one or more of the performing arts, including but not limited to theatre, music, dance, technical theatre, costume/set/lighting design, film or playwriting. She must maintain a grade point average of 2.5 or above while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Claire LaRue was born in 1924 in Verona, New Jersey, a small town that she remembered fondly throughout her life. As a child growing up during the depression, finances were difficult for her family. She went to work in New York City after high school, without the opportunity to attend college, which she sorely regretted. While in ninth grade, she met her future husband, Gordon Howe, who was immediately smitten with this lively, vivacious and extremely extroverted young women. Claire and Gordon dated throughout high school and while Gordon attended Cornell University. When World War II broke out, Gordon enlisted in the Navy and spent four years in the Pacific as an officer aboard a troop transport ship. Claire was visiting Gordon in Seattle, where his ship was being serviced, when the war ended and they quickly got engaged. They married in New York in 1942 after which they settled down in New Jersey and had three children: Nanci, Glenn and Karen. They were loving and involved parents with a strong affinity for education, including core academics, but also arts, culture and international awareness. Claire spoke often of her regret at not attending college, and worked at the Board of Education in New Jersey to help make sure that her children had the opportunity for higher education. She was very proud that Nanci earned both a master’s degree and now works at Stanford University; Glenn earned a doctorate and is a professor at Oregon State University; and Karen earned a master’s degree and works in Portland in energy services. Claire had four grandchildren, including her namesake, Claire JingQing FitzGerald,

the adopted daughter of Karen Howe and James FitzGerald who graduated from St. Mary’s in 2015. Claire was passionate that women have the opportunity for advanced education and was very proud to have a granddaughter attending an all-girls high school with strong scholarship support.

When Claire was 60 years old, Gordon was transferred to Tucson, Arizona where Claire became very active in P.E.O., a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of disadvantaged women by providing funding through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and support via mentoring and other programs. She would be extremely proud that part of her legacy will support young women who want to attend St. Mary's in preparation for continued higher education.

Selection Criteria:

This scholarship is intended for a young woman whose family has a need for tuition assistance. Preference will be given to applicants who represent diversity within the current St. Mary’s community and have a strong interest in science.

This endowed fund was established by Colonel Mary J. Mayer, USAF, a native Portlander and lifelong Catholic, who first encountered the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) when she earned her undergraduate degree from Marylhurst University. She was a Spanish and English teacher for three years before being commissioned into the United States Air Force in 1972. Throughout her 30+ year career, she served in a variety of intelligence, personnel policy, administrative, contracting, program management, and special duty assignment positions in the continental United States and overseas in Southeast Asia, Panama, and Spain.

She is an outstanding graduate of Air War College, Air Command and Staff College, and Squadron Officer School – and has a master’s degree in Human Resources Management from Central Michigan University. She has a multitude of prestigious military awards to her name including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Meritorious Service Medal (3 awards), Defense Superior Service Medal (2 awards), and Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2 awards), to name just a few.

After retiring from the Air Force in December 2002, Colonel Mayer was hired by KBR Government & Infrastructure into a senior executive leadership position responsible for overseeing the worldwide procurement and supply management organization, consisting of over 2,000 employees and a spend of $6-8 billion annually.

Mary served her country with pride and honor throughout her illustrious career. In retirement she continues to support her community by serving on many Boards associated with the military, veterans, women’s issues, and the arts. She is especially proud to have served on the Governor’s Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs and on the Oregon World War II Memorial Foundation Board of Directors.

Mary attributes much of her success in life to her faith, her family upbringing, and her education by the Sisters of the Holy Names. Mary is ever grateful for her deepened faith, her strong intellect, and her strength of character that were all developed at Marylhurst and laid a foundation for the rest of her life. Since Marylhurst is no longer in existence, she wishes to support another all-girls Catholic SNJM school whose tradition of excellence mirrors that of her alma mater. She has found that in St. Mary’s Academy.

Selection Criteria:

Preference will go to the daughter, granddaughter, niece, or sibling of any individual who is currently serving or who has ever served in any of the United States Uniformed Services (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard, Public Health Service, or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Student should have demonstrated community service and an appreciation of an all-girls Catholic education. Student must maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average while at St. Mary's.

The Bryan Concannon and Debi Dereiko family members are strong advocates for a St. Mary's Academy education -- a passion that has grown from their personal journey. Their SMA volunteerism is boundless, with serving on the SMA Board of Directors, chairing the annual SMA auction and Food for Thought tuition assistance luncheon, and much, much more. In addition, they know the impact a St. Mary’s education can make on the life of a young woman as their daughters Hannah Concannon ’07 and Maryann Concannon ’10 are alumnae.  Through their generosity, Bryan Concannon and Debi Dereiko are making a lasting tribute to the people and programs at St. Mary’s Academy. The Concanon-Dereiko family put this scholarship is in place to ensure that young women have access to the same outstanding education, opportunities, as well as personal growth and empowerment that Hannah and Maryann did, even if their families cannot afford the full tuition.

Norman (Norm) Creitz created this scholarship in 2002 because he believed St. Mary’s Academy provided his daughters with an extraordinary education that set them on a path of success as strong young women with the kinds of values with which he was raised.

Norm was always very proud of his German and Swiss heritage. He was the fourth generation of what is now a six generation inner-city family on both his mother’s and father's side. His mother, Lenore, was Portland Rose Festival Queen in 1929 and his father, Albert, was a concert violinist and concert master of the Portland Symphony Orchestra (aka Oregon Symphony).

His college studies were interrupted so he could serve in the US Air Force during the Korean War, after which he returned to the University of Portland where he graduated in industrial engineering.

Norm and his brother were taught a strong work ethic at a very early age of 6 and were required to wash and dry the dishes every evening for which they were paid ten cents each. Norm collected old newspapers and magazines from the neighborhood and sold them to the scrap man. He had a newspaper route at the age of 9 consisting of the delivery of 150 Oregon Journal newspapers to the downtown office buildings. When he was 10, he went to work in a service station, and at the age of 12 was hired by a small grocery store to sweep floors, stock shelves and fill in as a relief cashier. He was required to join the grocery clerks union. When he was 15, he worked for Kienows Food Stores and later at the age of 17 was manager of the service department at Motor City Car Wash. Upon graduation from college at the age of 23, he sold construction equipment. He started his own business, Columbia Equipment, in 1970, and was a past president of Oregon Machinery Dealers Association. He later added four Columbia Rents stores. Norm was one of the founders of Cascade Sports Car Club in 1953 and raced his MGTC and Triumph TR3 at Portland International Raceway. He had been investing in real estate since he was 25 years old and enjoyed managing his investments until his passing.

He enjoyed spending time at his home at Cannon Beach. He always had a dog or two with most of them named Fritz.

Norm was always a voracious reader and learner and wanted the best in education for his four children:  Gregory, Diana, Suzanne, and Matthew. His daughters graduated from St. Mary’s Academy:  Diana Creitz in 1979 and Suzanne Creitz in 1982.

Norm wanted his scholarship to support a young woman who graduated from an Oregon grade school with a need for tuition assistance to access a St. Mary’s education.

The Darlene Whisler Hoyt '31 Memorial Scholarship was created in Darlene’s memory by her husband, Robert Hoyt. Darlene Hoyt graduated from St. Mary's Academy in 1956. Deeply compassionate and caring, Darlene chose a career in psychiatric nursing. Early in her life she worked at many different things; however, once Darlene had earned her undergraduate degrees (BS in nursing, BA in sociology) and a graduate degree in psychosocial nursing, she established herself both in the public sector (with the State of Oregon) and in private practice as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. In her personal life Darlene cared deeply for family, for friends, and for her animals. She was a professional activist, an initiator, a master at connecting people to one another, and ultimately, was a resource for others. She was especially committed to helping those individuals making an honest effort to overcome real and significant obstacles in their lives. She was fiercely competitive. She was highly intelligent, a voracious reader, curious and inquiring with a questioning mind - all qualities that led to an ever-widening circle of knowledge and, after much soul searching, back to her church and faith. Later in life Darlene served the Benedictine Sisters as an Oblate. Despite a final and crippling disease, she remained spiritually committed and was physically active until very nearly her last day.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate’s scholarship application will demonstrate how she exemplifies compassion and commitment in her life, and possesses both a healthy competitive nature and an inquisitive mind. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.5 while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Information coming soon.

Information coming soon.

This scholarship was established by Dolores Lucille Roy Heuvel ’46 and her family. Throughout her entire life and well into her 90s, she often spoke of the deep impact St. Mary’s Academy had on her life. She regaled her family with stories of her teachers and the friends she met there, especially “Bebe”, who took a shy young woman and helped her navigate through a new school.  Dolores, through this experience, became a confident and excellent student, as so many young women have at St. Mary’s Academy.

Dolores lived with her widowed Mother, Mary Ellen Roy, who was a devout Catholic.  She attended Ascension Church in the Mt. Tabor neighborhood of Portland most of her life.  Dolores attended Ascension Grade School. Then, she was able to continue her Catholic education at St. Mary’s Academy, thanks to a scholarship for tuition assistance.

Dolores married Harold James Heuvel who attended Central Catholic High School in 1952. They then moved to Albany, Oregon where they owned and operated several successful businesses for many decades. Together they raised four children: Debbie, Mark, Susan and Steven, who continued the tradition of Catholic education at Albany’s St. Mary’s School.

Now in her 90s, Dolores continues to offer love and wisdom to her family, in no small part, due to her Catholic upbringing and education. She believes that without tuition assistance, she never would have been able to attend a Catholic high school. It is with deep gratitude that Dolores established this scholarship to help other young women, much like herself, benefit from the extraordinary education offered at St. Mary’s Academy.

Dolores Lucille Roy Heuvel ’46 has made a lasting tribute to the people and programs of St. Mary’s Academy through a generous gift establishing this endowed fund.

Selection Criteria

Recipient must demonstrate that she appreciates the value of a Catholic education, particularly in an all-girls environment. Preference will be given to a Catholic student. The recipient must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average while attending St. Mary's Academy. 

This endowed fund was established through the estate of Donna C. Kuzelka ’66, a proud alumna of St. Mary’s Academy and a woman of deep faith. She was grateful for the all-girls Catholic education she received at St. Mary’s. She felt that much of her success in life could be credited not only to her family upbringing but her well-rounded educational experience at St. Mary’s Academy. She felt that her faith, her intellect and critical thinking ability were all developed at St. Mary’s and laid a foundation for the rest of her life.

Donna stayed involved at St. Mary’s over the years and was proud to learn that the same high level of excellence in academics as well as the faith development was all still very much the standard. She appreciated the evolution of the education to include STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math), she was pleased to know that St. Mary’s was committed to its tradition of extraordinary history, literature and theatre programs.

Later in life, when Donna was preparing her long-term estate plans, she thought about St. Mary’s and wanted to support the efforts of her beloved alma mater to continue providing this top-of-the-line education for young women today and into the future, regardless of their families’ ability to pay full tuition.

Selection Criteria

Student must have an interest or proficiency in history, literature and/or theatre as demonstrated by her grades, teacher recommendations and responses on her admissions application, and hope to continue pursuing her education in these academic areas while at St. Mary’s. Student must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average while at SMA.

The Dr. Molly A. Mack ’68 Memorial Scholarship was created in memory of Dr. Molly A. Mack ’68 by her estate. She was a professor in the Department of Linguistics at the University of Illinois. After graduating from St. Mary's Academy she received her B.A. degree in English from Willamette University, her M.A. in English from the University of Vermont, and her Ph.D. in linguistics from Brown University. She greatly valued education and wished to establish a scholarship to help young women attend St. Mary’s Academy.

The Dustrude-Tung Family Scholarship was established by Weimin Tung and Ann (Dustrude) Tung, parents of alumna Maryann Tung ’09. Maryann received an excellent education at St. Mary’s Academy, which equipped her to move on to the University of Illinois for a BS in Electrical Engineering (EE), and to Stanford University for a doctorate in EE.

Weimin grew up in Taiwan in extremely poor conditions. But Weimin’s mother constantly encouraged her children, “We are poor today, we are poor tomorrow, but we do not have to be poor the day after, if you work hard.” This has become the Tung family’s motto and has been passed down from generation to generation. Ann grew up on a farm in rural Oregon; her family did not have much money either. Both families believed in working hard to achieve excellence.

Weimin and Ann were drawn to math and science in high school and university, and pursued careers that depended on these strengths and skills. Weimin worked 36 years at Portland General Electric as an electrical engineer. He was the main architect for the power system serving Intel’s expansions in Hillsboro between 1992 and 2006. Ann started out as an educator, spent three years as a nutritionist with refugees in Somalia, became a registered dietitian, and worked 23 years as a clinical dietitian at Adventist Medical Center, Portland.

Because of their humble backgrounds, Weimin and Ann want to provide assistance to students so they can also receive the excellent education at St. Mary’s and achieve their dreams.

Selection Criteria

Recipient must have an interest in and proficiency for math and/or science as demonstrated by her grades, teacher recommendations and responses on her admissions application and hope to continue pursuing her education in these academic areas while at St. Mary’s and beyond. She must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average while at St. Mary's.

This scholarship was created by the family of Eleanor Dacey Percy, led by Steve Percy, president of Portland State University and SMA Board Member.  Eleanor was a much-beloved wife, mother, student, teacher and so much more. Alongside her husband, Harold S. Percy Jr., Eleanor raised five children:  Stephen, Scott, Martha, Gary and Katherine. As an adult, she summoned the courage to return to school, earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, following her calling as a teacher-- a vocation that lasted 30 years well into her 80s. Immaculate Heart School in Watertown, New York was the beneficiary of her expertise in and love of teaching 11^th and 12^th grade English including Advanced Placement classes.

Eleanor’s family would like this scholarship to provide tuition assistance to a student who has developed an early interest in and aptitude for English/Language Arts as demonstrated by grades, teacher recommendations and self-identification. Preference will be given to an applicant who demonstrates a true love of the written/spoken word.

Elizabeth L. McGinley graduated from St. Mary’s in 1937. She had two brothers and a sister and never married. She held her alma mater in high esteem throughout her life and was ever-grateful to St. Mary’s. She donated each year until her passing in 1990. In her estate plans, she left gifts to her sister, her brothers, her niece and to St. Mary’s Academy with the intention of starting this scholarship to help provide deserving young women the opportunity she was afforded. Elizabeth truly wanted to pave the way for those that might follow in her footsteps.

This named endowment was established by Ellie’s family, friends and the many people who loved her, starting with her parents, Tim Landis and Madeline Landis.

Eleanor Claire Landis lived her life to the fullest. She relished spending time with family and friends talking, baking, watching movies, hosting lemonade stands and playing soccer and basketball. Ellie treasured every holiday, celebration, party and time spent with others. She cherished family trips throughout the Western United States and even Europe, but one of her favorite trips was to the bookstore. Ellie was a voracious reader, devoted to learning, which may be why St. Mary’s Academy was her dream school. As a freshman, Ellie fully engaged in all things St. Mary’s and in every opportunity and experience of what it meant to her to be a St. Mary’s girl. At the tender age of 13, Ellie was confronted with a diagnosis that no child should have to face. And yet, Ellie became even more committed to devouring every precious moment she had. The many people whose lives Ellie Landis touched feel abundantly blessed by her joy for life and wisdom far beyond her years, “Life is beautiful. Life is the best gift anyone could have.”

Ellie’s family and friends established this scholarship so Ellie’s inimitable legacy would live on at the school she so dearly loved. It is intended to enable a girl who loves all-things St. Mary’s to experience this unique all-female educational environment. Like Ellie, the successful applicant will be invested in learning (minimum 3.0 GPA) but have a variety of interests. She will be full of joy and hope, even in the face of adversity.

Selection Criteria

The successful candidate’s application will demonstrate that the student is positive and hopeful in the face of adversity and filled with a love for life and a passion for all-things SMA, much like Ellie. She also must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average, be committed to her schoolwork (especially reading) but have extra-curricular interests as well.

Esther Berger had a strong faith. She always believed in the importance of education for young women. A daughter of immigrants, she was born on a farm in Helvetia, Oregon. At the age of fifteen, she moved into town and worked as a maid so she could complete her high school education. Esther then went on to college and became a nurse. She obtained a college education in an era when higher education for women was a struggle. In 2018, her great granddaughter graduated from St. Mary’s. Esther’s family knew that she would be proud to support young women in pursuit of an education through this scholarship.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate for this scholarship will show a sincere desire to develop socially, spiritually, and academically into an extraordinary young woman as a St. Mary's Academy student.

Edwin Eugene Mayer worked as a pharmacist at Owl Drug store in downtown Portland where he built a photo-finishing business (precursor to Sawyer’s) after serving in the U.S. Army in World War I. In 1920 he married Eva Regina Mayer who worked in the office at Oregon City Woolen Mill. Soon, the Mayers bought into Sawyer's Photo Finishing Service with Eva’s modest inheritance and a loan from Edwin’s father and sister-in-law.

Mayer and his business partner, already the nation’s largest producer of scenic postcards in the 1920s, developed a new device for viewing stereo images, building upon the old-fashioned stereoscope, by using Kodachrome 16mm color film images held between cardboard. The View-Master, wildly popular and distributed worldwide was used by the US military, the travel and tourism industry, and eventually as toys. It continues to evolve and remains relevant today.

Edwin served in leadership roles on the boards of several Catholic organizations including Catholic Charities, Loyola Retreat Assn., Friends of the Library at University of Portland, Serra Club, Knights of Columbus and St. Ignatius. He was also active in the United Fund until his untimely passing in 1956.

Eva was an accomplished pianist and enjoyed playing on a beautiful grand piano in the living room of the Mayer home. Eva served on the board of directors for the Seminary Tea, Mount Angel College, Christ Child Society and was president of the Edwin E. Mayer Foundation. She was a well-known philanthropist who helped support Providence Hospital, Marylhurst College and many other organizations and charities until her death in 1979. Together, the Mayers had six children and many grandchildren.

This scholarship was established at Marylhurst College, the alma mater of their daughter, Sue Corrado, to honor Edwin’s sister, Sr. Rose Augusta who was president of the school at the time. However, after 125 years in operation, Marylhurst University closed its doors in 2018 leaving the descendants of the Mayers with a decision about the disposition of their endowed fund. Since Marylhurst was a Catholic University that grew out of St. Mary’s Academy, initially served women only and provided exceptional education, lifelong friendships and spiritual development, the family determined that St. Mary’s was the ideal place. Sue Corrado’s aunt, Bernice Mayer ’29, and her sister, Margaret Mayer Uffelman ’39, both graduated from St. Mary’s, as did Sue & Al Corrado’s daughter Missy Corrado Lowes ’75 and daughters-in-law Mary Jo Henkel Corrado ’74 and Antoinette Baricevic Corrado ’79.

Selection Criteria

Preference will be given to a student who demonstrates an affinity for and who seeks a future in the arts.

Tom and Marilyn Fink believe in all girls Catholic education, Marilyn herself having graduated from Marylhurst College. The Finks have demonstrated their passion and commitment to all girls Catholic education throughout their lives together. Tom served as Chairman of the Board of Directors at St. Mary's Academy and as a member of the Board since 1997. For Tom and Marilyn, St. Mary’s was the ideal choice for their three daughters, Amy Fink Wilson ’95, Jeani Fink ’97 and Molly Fink Soong ’99 who benefitted greatly and went on to fulfilling lives of leadership, accomplishment and contribution within their communities and careers. Motivated by their own experiences as generous supporters and grateful parents, the Finks created this scholarship to provide this unique all girls Catholic college-preparatory educational opportunity to students who otherwise may not be able to attend St. Mary's Academy.

The Frances Bocci Heinig '45 Music Scholarship was established in memory of St. Mary’s alumna Frances Bocci Heinig ’45. Frances was a very artistic woman whose first love was music. She excelled in music at St. Mary’s, and upon graduation she received a music scholarship to Marylhurst, where she attended for two years. In her memory, Frances’ sisters, Jean and Mary, along with her nieces and great-nieces, established this scholarship to benefit a student who exhibits excellent musical potential.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must demonstrate an interest in music, have participated in vocal and/or instrumental music studies and have a desire to further her musical proficiency.

Information coming soon.

Information coming soon.

This scholarship was created by the Hotchkiss family, whose SMA legacy originated more than four decades ago when Martha Hotchkiss began working for St. Mary’s as a greatly respected history and math teacher in 1972. Martha knew the importance of all-girls schools since she herself was educated at Holy Child Academy, one of Portland’s former single-gender Catholic schools. Martha along with her husband Loren, both believed in empowering young women by providing a culture in which to develop their natural inclination for math and science, leading to fulfilling work in life. Not surprisingly, they chose St. Mary’s for their daughters Deanna ’83 and Michelle ’87, who went on to successful careers in engineering and technology. Both sisters credit St. Mary’s with giving them the leadership skills and confidence to thrive both in college and the workplace, especially in the male-dominated engineering field. In time, Michelle’s daughters Elise ’13 and Emily ’15 as well as Deanna’s daughter Marie ’19 all thrived at St. Mary’s.

The Hotchkiss family believes that engineering is an ideal way for a woman to give back to her community through her intellect, creativity, passion and hard work.

Selection Criteria

In the spirit of giving back to St. Mary’s, it is the intent of the Hotchkiss family that this scholarship be awarded to a student with an early interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering or math) with a dream of making the world a better place through a career in one of these fields. Preference will be given to a student who is matriculating from a Catholic school. Student must maintain a minimum of a 2.75 cumulative grade point average while at St. Mary's.

Jane Mary Vistica, aka Sr. Rita Rose Vistica, had a distinguished career as a university French professor and spent her retirement years as a quintessential volunteer serving her parish community. Sr. Rita has been a member of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary since shortly after her St. Mary’s graduation in 1951.

After earning her bachelor’s degree from Marylhurst University (then College) in 1956, Sr. Rita taught at the Academy of the Holy Names in Spokane, Holy Names Academy in Seattle, and her own alma mater, St. Mary’s Academy.

In 1960, she earned her master’s and doctoral degrees in French from New York’s Fordham University, during which time she won a Fulbright Scholarship affording her two years in Paris working on her dissertation. While in Paris she met Sisters from all over the world, witnessed the unfolding of Vatican II, and was part of a select delegation to have a semi-private audience with Pope John XXIII in 1962.

Sr. Rita returned to Portland to teach French at Marylhurst from 1965 to 1974, inspiring hundreds of students with her enthusiastic teaching methods, serving as head of the French House dormitory and occasionally taking student groups on winter-break seminars to Paris. In 1974, Sr. Rita was hired by Portland State University, where she taught French until her retirement in 1998.

Never one to rest on past accomplishments, Sr. Rita spent more than 15 years of her retirement as the quintessential volunteer at her parish, St. Mary’s Cathedral. Up to 800 adults per year attended her signature “Tuesdays at Cathedral” adult faith education programs. Sr. Rita was the event planner of major Cathedral celebrations, the sacristan and a member of the Archdiocesan admissions board. In 2013 St. Mary’s Academy was humbled to honor her with an Alumnae St. Mary’s Academy Award for Excellence in Education.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate will be a Catholic student coming to St. Mary’s because she wishes to receive a Catholic education. Preference will be given to a student whose application demonstrates that she shares some of the same values, interests and gifts as Jane Mary Vistica.

This scholarship was established by Judith Letcher Heath ’67 in memory of her husband Jim who was very supportive of her educational goals including her pursuit of an advanced degree that enabled her to engage in fulfilling work. He was also a source of strength for his two daughters who were the light of his life. Judith respected and admired Jim’s commitment to ongoing education for himself and others. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in economics from the University of New Mexico and, after military service, worked in a family-owned business. But, Jim knew he wanted to teach and returned to school in his mid-thirties and earned a doctorate in history from Stanford University going on to teach American History at PSU from 1967 until 1993 as one of the program’s most beloved professors. Based on testimonials from former students, he was a brilliant teacher whose success could be partly attributed to his break from academia, which allowed him to relate learning to life.

Jim Heath was supportive of his wife Judith making philanthropic gifts to her alma mater St. Mary’s Academy and would have been delighted to see this scholarship helping a young woman from a family with little means who sees that learning is not merely for the sake of receiving a degree, getting a job and earning a living. Jim taught those whose lives he touched that learning is a lifelong endeavor to be treasured for the joy it brings in and of itself.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must demonstrate a passion for lifelong learning. Preference will be given to a student from a working-class family.

John and Florence Dolan were hardworking, faith-filled, family-focused community members of Portland, Oregon throughout their adult lives. John started A-Boy Supply Co. in 1960 and together they built a thriving family business.  A second family business, Globe Lighting, was started in 1976.

Florence made raising their eight children her priority. She was the heart and soul of the family, loving and accepting of all, acting as a mother to many, even beyond her own children. However, Florence was a pioneer in her own right. She is known nationally as the petitioner winning the landmark 1994 U.S. Supreme Court case Florence Dolan v. City of Tigard -- a property rights case that defined the boundaries of government "takings.” John and son Dan started the case, and after John’s death in 1993, Florence and Dan continued the appeal to the United States Supreme Court.  She won by a 5 to 4 decision. The legal standard set by that case is still law today.

John and Florence loved life, good food, beloved family, and travel, including the Oregon Coast. They volunteered as active members of their church and their community. Their sons attended Central Catholic and their daughters attended Holy Child Academy and St. Mary’s Academy, furthering a long and rich family legacy of all-girls Catholic education. Not only did John and Florence’s daughters attend, but so did Florence’s nieces, daughter-in-law, and multiple granddaughters, great-nieces, and a great-granddaughter.

John and Florence had a fierce faith in God and they wanted the best in Catholic education for their children and other people’s children, which is the reason it is so fitting that an endowed scholarship in their names be in force at St. Mary’s Academy, supporting students whose families would not be able to afford the full tuition without a scholarship. 

Scholarship Criteria:

The successful candidate for this scholarship will demonstrate in her application materials that she appreciates the value of a Catholic education, particularly in an all-girls environment.  Student must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average while enrolled at St. Mary's.

This scholarship was created by alumna Kari Yakubisin ’01 and her husband Tim Clemens, both of whom are deeply committed to service of their community. Even as a young woman, Kari taught Sunday school, volunteered at the public library and tutored kids in science and math. Her love of giving back to her community grew at St. Mary’s Academy with two of her favorite events: Hands Full of Heart and Christmas Baskets for needy families. That passion continued to develop in college when she cared for and tutored underprivileged kids. Kari joined the Navy in 2005 as a nuclear trained Surface Warfare Officer after graduating from Vanderbilt University on a full Navy scholarship with a Bachelor's Degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology. She also received a Master's Degree in Engineering Management from Old Dominion University in 2012. As of 2015, she has served for ten years, has been stationed on four different ships and is now a Lieutenant Commander. She received the Navy and Marine Association Leadership award in 2014.

Tim graduated from Sunset high school in 2000 and is also deeply committed to service to his community through his life’s work. He worked with the Federal Police at Miramar and then joined the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office. He also was a volunteer baseball coach for a local Little League.

Both Kari and Tim believe in giving back to their community. They hope to leave the world a better place than they found it by dedicating their lives to public service.

Selection Criteria:

This scholarship is intended for a young woman who holds a deep commitment to service and wishes to continue to develop that passion at St. Mary’s Academy and throughout her life. The recipient of this scholarship award must maintain a grade point average of 2.75 or above while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Kate Jeans-Gail ’97 was a bright young woman filled with love, passion for life, and a desire to serve. Inspired by the work of Mother Teresa and her own mother, Kate made a significant difference during her short time on this earth. Kate studied anthropology and biology at Smith College. One summer she and St. Mary’s friend Kori Pienovi ’97 traveled to India to serve with Mother Teresa’s Sisters of Charity in Calcutta. They slept on boards, worked tirelessly for long days and endured filthy conditions. Mornings they bathed, changed, and lovingly cared for orphans. Afternoons they comforted the dying.

Kate adopted Mother Teresa’s wisdom that one can live simply and compassionately anywhere. After graduation Kate served in the Peace Corps in Morocco, and then took a job with Teach For America in NYC.

In December of 2003 Kate’s extraordinary life and the life of her mother, Victoria Jeans-Gail, were cut short by a tragic car accident.

SMA teacher Lindsay Andersen wrote the following about Kate: “In her actions she was my knight: moral, courageous, and kind. She feared nothing yet defended the helpless; she loved beauty but could immerse herself in the squalor of Calcutta. She was an agent of change but was attached to traditions. Kate was no saint: she resisted authority and nursed long grudges against those who exercised it gratuitously. She was ambitious for accomplishment yet capable of living on nearly nothing. These tensions between her nature and her sympathies gave her the energy and creative inventiveness that the world will miss. She made us all better.”

Kate loved St. Mary’s and was devoted to all it had to offer, including the academics, the service and social justice opportunities, and the friendships. She was a Blue, through and through!

This scholarship was established by family and friends of Kate so that Kate can continue to be a beacon of hope as well as a role model to future generations of St. Mary’s students. It is intended to provide funding to a student who, like Kate, has a passion for social justice and who understands the value of an all-girls environment where a young woman can find her voice and the confidence to use it.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate’s scholarship application will demonstrate a passion for and commitment to social justice through service. Preference will be given to a student who demonstrates her understanding of the value of attending an all-girls Catholic high school.

Contagious laughter was a hallmark of Katharina Wengert Kratz which gained her a legion of friends during her life from 1905-1987.  She was also described as diligent, hard-working, energetic, enthusiastic, and unselfish with her time and energy.  Katharina was born in Hauenstein, a small town in West Germany as the third of nine children and the oldest girl.  In her early twenties, she left her hometown for Bavaria to enter the religious order of Franciscan Sisters but her health would not permit her to stay more than two years.  After leaving the order, she became reacquainted with old friend, George Kratz, who had to secretly correspond and had the assistance of Katharina’s parish priest in making his intentions known. Their wedding was in May, however due to Hitler’s Nazi Germany, she was not permitted to leave Germany immediately. Finally in November, she joined George in the US and they were reunited in Portland.  Soon, they moved to New Jersey where they started a small manufacturing company creating gym and ballet slippers for use with trampolines and gymnastics.  Their business was small but highly successful.  Even the US Gymnastic Olympic Team wore their slippers.  In 1947 they returned to Portland and were very active in Holy Redeemer Parish for many years.

In 1936, the Kratz family grew with the addition of Eleanor “Ellie”, who was born in New York, lived in New Jersey and came to Portland as an 11-year-old. She was taught by the SNJM sisters at Holy Redeemer School, St. Mary’s Academy and entered SNJM novitiate as Sister Christa Mary soon after her SMA graduation in 1954.  During her career, she completed her teaching degree at Marylhurst College and taught primary grades in SNJM schools in Oregon and Washington, including nine years at the Assumption in North Portland. She served as principal at schools in Newberg and The Dalles and after completing CPE training, she served as hospital chaplain for nine years in Lewiston, Idaho.

In March, 1987, Sr. Ellie’s mother, Katharina, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer requiring surgery and aggressive treatment. By November, all traces of cancer were gone and she regained her spunk and laughter. However, in November of 1987 Katharina suffered a severe stroke and died the day before her 82^nd birthday.

Sr. Ellie Kratz, SNJM ‘54 created this scholarship in her mother’s name, Katherina Wengert Kratz to support the tuition assistance of a student whose family cannot afford the full tuition. The successful candidate will display an interest in attending and staying involved in the St. Mary’s community.

The Katherine "Peggy" O'Neill Higgins '43 Endowed Scholarship Fund was created by her family to continue the tradition of strong Catholic education, such as she received at St. Mary's Academy.

Peggy was born in Portland in 1925 and graduated from Holy Redeemer Catholic Grade School in 1939. She was awarded a scholarship to continue her education at St Mary's Academy. Peggy was an honor student during each term she was at St Mary's, and the word used to describe her in her senior year book was "intellectual".

Peggy went on to attend Marylhurst College, where she served as the junior class president. During her senior year, she received the Joan of Arc Award, given to a senior "on the basis of character, scholarship, participation in student activities and loyalty to the traditions of Marylhurst". Peggy graduated from Marylhurst in 1947 with a degree in chemistry and began her professional career as a Lab Technician at Harborview Hospital in Seattle, Washington.

Peggy married Jim Higgins in August 1949, and soon after, moved to Seattle, Wash. Peggy paused her professional career to raise their six children. She was a very active volunteer in her church and neighborhood community. She loved sewing, baking, reading and time spent at her family cabin in Long Beach, Wash. Later she returned to her work as a lab technician at Swedish Hospital in Seattle Wash.

Peggy was ahead of her time in pursuing a STEM degree. She always felt it was important for women to be educated and pursue their dreams. To honor this, her family has established this scholarship in her memory.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average. She must have a strong interest or affinity in STEM. Preference given to students matriculating from a Catholic grade school.

Information coming soon.

Lois Dayton Surber graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in 1937. Some of her greatest contributions to her community were made during the last 25 years of her life when she lived in Los Angeles. Much like the Sisters of the Holy Names, she had a special concern for the underprivileged, especially women in need. She was always very active in Big Sisters and counseled young expectant mothers.  She served as past president of the Los Angeles Angels of Service organization of professional women and she helped found the Downtown Women’s Center in Los Angeles in 1978. This is a center for impoverished homeless women (known at the time as “street” women) to get a bath and a hot meal. She painted the walls, cooked & served food, designed a cookbook and sold it to raise money for the center, titling it the “LA Street Cookbook”.

When she passed away in 1986 after a heroic 4-year battle with blood/bone cancer, she was just a few months short of celebrating her 50^th reunion year at St. Mary’s – something to which she was very much looking forward. She left behind a daughter, Carroll Walters, a son, Michael Krause, and four talented grandchildren, also hundreds of friends she greeted daily as social director of the Los Angeles Athletic Club for 20 years, and hundreds of grateful “street women” for whom she cared and nurtured for nearly 10 years.

Lois always encouraged her cousin, Ralph Rathjen, to send his daughter, Bonnie Rathjen, to St. Mary’s Academy. Bonnie affectionately called her cousin Lois “Auntie Lois”, graduated from St. Mary’s, became a physician, and founded this scholarship in her “Aunt’s” name.

Selection criteria:
The successful candidate must demonstrate a commitment to community service.

Information coming soon.

The Bodzek family moved to Portland in 1943 after having lived in Idaho and Spokane, Washington. In September of 1943 their eldest daughter, Pauline, began her senior year at St. Mary’s Academy and graduated with the Class of 1944. Pauline loved St. Mary’s but with only one year as an SMA student, she was delighted that her younger sister, Marian, could be an SMA girl seven years, first as a 6th grader, when St. Mary’s still had a grade school, through her senior year at St. Mary’s, graduating with the Class of 1949. Marian was a talented musician and spent many hours learning, practicing and performing violin with the St. Mary’s Academy Orchestra. Throughout her life, Marian enjoyed music and continued to be ever grateful for the opportunities St. Mary’s offered her, not only academically but also musically. She felt it truly enriched her life. Later in life, Pauline and Marian established this scholarship in honor of their beloved alma mater.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate’s scholarship application will articulate a love of music and a desire to continue her education at St. Mary’s. Preference will be given to a student with an interest in the violin or other string instrument.

Information coming soon.

Information coming soon.

This scholarship was established in memory of Mary and Mike Serres who faithfully raised five children. Like many parents, they wanted to provide the best start in life for their children, so they chose St. Mary’s Academy for their daughters because they valued a high level of excellence in education. Their four daughters graduated from St. Mary’s: Diane Serres Love in 1953, Dorothy Serres Canavan in 1955, Doreen Serres Hune in 1956 and JoAnne Serres Ulrich 1965.

The four Serres daughters took full advantage of the empowerment that the all-female Catholic education at St. Mary’s provides. They benefitted from the exposure to fields of study that at the time were not traditionally female, such as math and science, and used them in their respective careers. Diane went on to Marylhurst and became a teacher and Dorothy followed soon after and pursued a career as a medical technologist. Doreen attended University of Portland’s nursing program and JoAnne attended Portland State University and launched a career in banking.

All four women made service a part of their lives, due to a passion for social justice instilled in them by the Sisters of the Holy Names.

Selection Criteria:

Student must demonstrate a passion for math or science and a commitment to community service. The recipient of this award must maintain a grade point average of 2.75 or above while attending St. Mary's Academy.

In 1996, Mrs. Mary L. Harding, the loving aunt and godmother of Mary Ann Cook Moffitt ’65 created this scholarship so that Mary Ann would be forever remembered at the school she loved. Known as well organized and an excellent writer, she was a proud member of the 1965 yearbook staff.

This scholarship is for a student who requires tuition assistance to attend St. Mary’s. 

The Mary Clark Memorial Endowed Scholarship was created by Mary Clark, a woman who understood the value of faith, philanthropy, community service, family and hard work.From the moment she was introduced to St. Mary’s, the all-female environment, which nurtures the gifts and talents of young women, resonated with Mrs. Clark. Ensuring that all qualified girls could attend St. Mary’s was always important to Mrs. Clark, so she established this scholarship to provide tuition assistance to students.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate for this scholarship will be able to describe how she has had to rely on her personal motivation to meet a goal in the past and describe how a St. Mary’s education will strengthen her ability to overcome obstacles and meet her goals in the future. 

Information coming soon.

This scholarship was created by alumnae from the Marylhurst College Class of 1969. These women initially banned together in the spirit of gratitude to create an endowed scholarship at their alma mater for the purpose of providing tuition assistance to young people wishing to attend Marylhurst University. However, after 125 years of operation, Marylhurst University closed its doors in 2018 leaving the class of 1969 with a decision about the disposition of their endowed funds.

Since Marylhurst was a Catholic University that grew out of the Sisters of the Holy Names’ founding of St. Mary’s Academy, Marylhurst initially served women only--providing exceptional education, lifelong friendships and spiritual development. Following the closure of Marylhurst, the Class of 1969 determined that St. Mary’s Academy was the ideal place for their endowed funds. True to its original purpose, the scholarship will serve a young woman who wishes to be in an all-female educational Catholic environment whose family would otherwise not be able to attain a premiere education for her.

Selection Criteria:

Preference will be given to a student with demonstrated commitment to community service.

Student must maintain a minimum 2.5-3.0 cumulative grade point average.

Known for her kindheartedness and passion for the arts, Maybelle Clark Macdonald grew up in a philanthropic Oregon family working for the greater good. She and her husband Fred Macdonald created the Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund in 1970.

Throughout her life Maybelle looked to help the most vulnerable populations especially women and children. The foundation’s mission states that its goal is to relieve the misfortune and promote the well-being of mankind.

Maybelle Clark Macdonald, known to friends as the ever stylish yet humble Middy, was a compassionate philanthropist whose generosity has left an indelible mark in Portland and throughout Oregon.Education is just one of the pillars of her lasting legacy.The foundation provides support in the following areas:education, cultural arts, human services, medical needs and public benefits.

Maybelle Clark Macdonald was kind, gentle and faith-filled.She wholeheartedly supported Catholic education, Catholic values and Catholic organizations.Her selfless altruism is a model to which many aspire.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate’s application will demonstrate her passion for receiving a Catholic education, doing community service and/or participating in the arts.

Barbara McCarthy founded The McCarthy Family Scholarship initially in 1991 in memory of her mother- and father-in-law, Don and Peggy McCarthy. Later, she added the legacy of her late husband, Don McCarthy, upon his passing in 2010. The McCarthy Family believed whole-heartedly in Catholic education. When Barbara began teaching at St. Mary’s, she saw that the all girls’ environment St. Mary’s provided was far more than a traditional Catholic school offered. The family began to see how it builds young women into strong leaders and women of service.  The Holy Names Sisters who founded the school are still very much at the heart of the school’s mission to educate young women into leaders with values.

Barbara has always had a love of math and science. She sees how skills in these areas can help make a woman successful and independent in our world. Barbara faithfully served St. Mary’s Academy as a math teacher from 1991-2002 and was well-respected, as she imparted her love of math on hundreds of young minds.

It is her desire that this scholarship assist a young woman with a propensity for math and/or science and a dream of a career in a related field. She believes SMA students gain all they will need to go on to the next steps in their lives by being a graduate of St. Mary’s Academy. 

Selection Criteria

Candidate must demonstrate a proficiency for and interest in Math and/or Science with the hope of one day working in a related field.

Information coming soon.

Information coming soon.

Information coming soon.

In 1986, Melanie Burns Kemper ’70 told a friend that she would someday start a scholarship in her mother’s name in the hopes that the world would remember her. In 2001, when her mother died, Melanie fulfilled her promise.

Dorothy (Nikki) Burns was born in 1920 in Thermopolis, Wyoming. She loved that fact! Early life was full of many challenges, changes and moves for Nikki and her mom. They lived in several places in Washington and even with her grandparents in California for a time. Nikki (nicknamed after her mother’s third husband), discovered Saturday morning radio opera broadcasts in elementary school and listened to them throughout her life.

She stood 5’10” tall and loved that! She was wicked smart, got excellent grades, and was athletic; none of those were coveted attributes in the high schools of the ’30s. But she made it to the University of Portland School of Nursing, graduated magna cum laude in 1942 and embarked on a career in healthcare. She married in 1944, during the war and loved working as a Head Nurse, but had to quit when she started having children.

Nikki Burns believed in the power of a good education, and saw that Catholic schools offered the best available. She had three daughters and sent all three to St Thomas More Grade School, and two to Catholic high schools. Melanie Burns Kemper ’70 graduated from St. Mary’s. All three girls earned undergraduate degrees. Melanie and her older sister went on to earn advanced degrees, while the younger daughter went straight on to a career that enabled her to retire in her forties.

Once her daughters were on their own, Nikki went back to work but it was short-lived because so much had become computerized and was unfamiliar to her. It wasn’t long before her Alzheimer’s worsened, but she faced the challenges with grace. She handed over her car keys when she had gotten lost one too many times, signed over her finances to family, and realized when it was time to move to a senior care home.

This graceful symphony- and opera-loving woman who raised three daughters and gave them what they call a “glorious childhood”, began disappearing before their eyes in the late 80s. She came to love cuddling stuffed animals, having Winnie the Pooh read to her and having her hand held. She was lonely and had lost her confidence, often taking to her bed because she said she knew how to do that right. Near the end of her life, she could not even recognize Melanie, her own daughter, who had been there for her through it all.  However, Melanie was comforted to hear Nikki say that she always felt better when she was around.

Melanie created this scholarship with great love, in her mother’s honor, so her story would be told forevermore at the school that gave her and her daughter, Nicole Kemper ’01, the kind of extraordinary education Nikki so greatly valued. Appreciation of all-female education is often passed along from generation to generation resulting in Legacy families at St. Mary’s. The Nikki Burns Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to the daughter, granddaughter or niece of an alumna of St. Mary’s or another all-female high school or college, who wishes to carry on the family tradition of all-female education.

Selection Criteria:
The recipient of this scholarship must be the daughter, granddaughter, or niece of an alumna of St. Mary’s Academy or another all-girls high school or women's college.  Preference will be given to an applicant who understands the value of her place in the legacy of her family, standing on the shoulders of those who came before her and setting the stage for future generations.  She must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.5 while attending St. Mary’s Academy.

This endowed scholarship was established by the family and friends of Nikki Remington Walter. In AP Biology at St. Mary's Academy, taught by Sister Caroline Raschio, Nikki discovered her passion for science. Nikki said, "To me, human biology requires a unique way of thinking, since the answer key, (the human body) already exists. Biological research requires thinking backwards to search for answers about how the body works so we can fix it when things go wrong."

After SMA, Nikki earned degrees in biomedical and electrical engineering from Duke University, and went on to a successful career in science at OHSU, studying the causes and effects of chronic alcohol consumption. She specialized in data analysis, using bioinformatics to mine genetic datasets. She particularly enjoyed data visualization- how to present data effectively and efficiently to identify genetic or behavioral patterns. Nikki said, "The best thing about my job? I get paid to think. Biological research generates some answers and always morè questions, and I enjoy constantly being faced with new data and new challenges."

In addition to her accomplishments in the field of science, Nikki was a devoted supporter of the arts and music. She supported her husband and son in both theatrical and musical performances throughout their lives together. She would be quick to acknowledge the important interplay between music and science.

Nikki was forever grateful for her SMA education and inspired SMA students to explore careers in engineering by sharing her time through the Alumna-Student Mentorship program. This scholarship furthers her desire to support the efforts of her beloved alma mater to continue providing this top-of-the-line education for young women today and in the future.

Selection Criteria:

Candidate must have an interest and proficiency in science and preference will be given to an applicant who demonstrates interest and proficiency in music.  Recipient must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average.

This scholarship was established in memory of an extraordinary St. Mary’s Academy alumna, Patricia M. Obradovich ’76. Throughout her life she was helpful, kind and dedicated to serving others. Patti’s third grade teacher believed that she could become the first female US president. At St. Mary’s, Patti’s true passion for service developed through projects such as student government, Second Wind, and the trike-a-thon fundraiser for which she garnered widespread publicity by involving local politicians. Upon graduating with a double major in political science and economics from Willamette University, she became an economist at the Army Corps of Engineers. In her 21 years of service, she received a record 26 awards for outstanding performance, is now an honored member of the Army Corps of Engineers "Wall of Distinction", and was honored by Senator Gordon Smith in Congress. Established by Patricia’s family and friends, this scholarship provides an opportunity for a young woman committed to community service to attend St. Mary’s Academy.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must demonstrate a strong commitment to service and maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.75 while attending St. Mary’s Academy.

Information coming soon.

Diane Spitznagel was enthusiastically involved in the Catholic education of her three children, despite her upbringing as a non-Catholic. Her children, Tom Spitznagel, Debbie Spitznagel Ryan ’89, and Steve Spitznagel started their education at St. Thomas More Catholic School in Southwest Portland where Diane often participated in, and frequently led, fundraising efforts. As her children went on to high school, she continued her volunteer efforts at each of their schools: Jesuit High School, Beaverton High School and of course, St. Mary’s Academy. Diane served on the St. Mary’s Board of Directors, co-founded and co-chaired the first Food For Thought tuition assistance luncheon, and both she and her husband, Carl, wholeheartedly supported SMA events and projects.

Her selfless gifts of time and service did not end with her children’s schools. She visited ill friends, made meals for a struggling elderly friend, and gave of her time and big heart in countless other ways.

 Diane offered this same level of determination and grit to her booming floral business. She delighted in creating exquisite floral centerpieces for receptions and offered a word of comfort and calm to many a blushing bride.

At the Easter Vigil in 1994, she solidified her devotion to the Lord and the Church by becoming a Catholic. Upon her untimely death, Carl was heard saying, "She was one of the Lord's most faithful servants."

Diane had a deep love for St. Mary's Academy as she saw first-hand the loving environment and challenging curriculum that put so many young women on the path to success. She would be thrilled to know that an endowed scholarship exists in her name to ensure a St. Mary's education for anyone who desires but may not be able to afford it.

The Rebecca Barendrick Memorial Scholarship was created in Rebecca’s memory by family, friends, and former classmates. Rebecca was valedictorian of the St. Mary’s Academy graduating class of 1986. She went on to graduate from Dartmouth College and the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. She excelled in both academia and athletics. She was a member of three state championship basketball teams and was named to the all-state soccer team. She was a four year varsity soccer player in college and on the All-Ivy team while at Dartmouth. Becky was funny, smart and creative and was cherished by her friends and family. It is the family’s intention that this scholarship seeks to assist a young woman in realizing her dream to attend St. Mary’s Academy.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate for this scholarship will demonstrate how very much she wants to attend St. Mary’s, and her intention to take advantage of the wide range of opportunities St. Mary’s offers: academically, socially, athletically, artistically, etc. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain a grade point average of 2.0 while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Richard “Dick” Mathews was married to Virginia and was the father of Mary Mathews Stevens ’80 and Molly Mathews Bjorklund ’85. When he passed away in August 2011, his family and friends established this scholarship in his memory. Dick was a great man who worked hard, played hard and loved his family. Dick served as a medic for the US Army during World War II and spent the later part of his career as an accountant for Tri-Met. He loved skiing at Timberline Lodge and that’s where he met his true love, Virginia. Dick also liked being on the water, whether crabbing in Nehalem Bay or water skiing on Lake Oswego. He loved to go, go, go. His adventures took him to Mexico, China, Ireland and more with family and friends. Dick and Virginia loved the many cruises they took with family because of the special times spent together. Family and faith were the most important things to Dick, which is why Dick and Virginia sent their daughters Mary Mathews Stevens ’80 and Molly Mathews Bjorklund ’85 to St. Mary’s Academy.

The Rita Bateman Memorial Scholarship was established after the death of Rita Cereghino Bateman by her daughters Barbara and Marilynn. Rita Cereghino Bateman was born in Portland, Oregon, in 1915 to Italian immigrant parents. Tragically, Rita’s father died of a heart attack when she was just 12, and one year later her mother died. Rita, the eldest of three, became an orphan along with her two brothers. These difficult childhood events led Rita to develop a spirit of fortitude, independence and self-sufficiency, which she demonstrated throughout her life.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must be from a single-parent household, and maintain a grade point average of 2.5 while attending St. Mary's Academy. Preference will be given to an applicant who has demonstrated participation in community service. Preference will also be given to an applicant from an immigrant family.

The Rosemary Dwyer Frey '24 Memorial Scholarship was established by the family of her sister, Ann Dwyer McDougall. Rosemary Dwyer Frey, a 1924 graduate of St. Mary’s Academy, was a “lover of learning” and possessed a deep appreciation of her Catholic education.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate’s scholarship application will demonstrate a keen interest in learning and desire to achieve her potential in both academics and leadership. Preference will be given to Catholic students.

Information coming soon.

The Shannon Warden Endowment was established in appreciation of the positive impact St. Mary’s has had on one of its families and with the desire to help young women have the same outstanding experience. The Endowment’s goal is to provide students and their families with the financial support needed to allow focus on growth, development and education without the financial strain that can come with pursuing a private education. In addition to financial need, a student’s level of commitment to community service will be strongly considered in determining qualification for the scholarship.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must demonstrate participation in community service and maintain a 3.0 grade point average of above while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Sharron Monroe Andersen ’56 and Ione Rosellini Monroe ’32 Scholarship

Ione Rosellini Monroe ‘32 raised her daughters, Sharron and Barbi, essentially alone. After a long day of work at Charles F. Berg, she would go to Yamhill Marketplace to buy what she needed for dinner. Ione was a dedicated mother who made a happy home for her daughters, a devout Catholic who went to daily Mass and a talented seamstress who made all her daughters’ clothing, including an exquisite wedding gown for Sharron. Ione was a strong woman but her life as a single working mother was not easy. She passed away at just 54.

Ione wanted the best for her daughters, including a Catholic education that would prepare them for life. Both girls graduated from Holy Redeemer and St. Mary’s, experiencing 12 years of SNJM education, just like Ione did. At SMA Sharron wrote for the Miss Print student newspaper. She was quiet, reserved and always got good grades. While at a Halloween party her junior year, she met young Richard Andersen, a Central Catholic student. They hit it off, started dating and attended each other’s proms. They both went to the University of Portland and wanted to get married. Sharron was naturally brilliant and did well in college, but after two years she decided to start working to save for a wedding and a down payment on a first home. She worked for Robert Sprouse in the downtown Portland office of Sprouse Reitz and was a member of the Women’s Business Association and the Professional Assistants’ League.

In 1961, Sharron married her sweetheart, Richard, and in 1967 the couple was blessed with the birth of their daughter, Lisa. Sharron stopped working outside the home and dedicated every moment to her family, tending to the home and garden, and cooking amazing meals. A great education was of utmost importance to Sharron, so Lisa became the third generation to attend St. Mary’s where Sr. Mollie Reavis, SNJM kept Sharron secretly informed of Lisa’s progress. Lisa remembers her mother as unimaginably supportive. Even when Lisa chose a college far from home in San Francisco and then abroad, Sharron selflessly encouraged her to follow her dreams.

Sharron was a class act, always unassuming, but the consummate wife, mother and cook who loved entertaining. At Christmas she would have to stagger arrival times to accommodate all the guests who attended her open house. She never forgot to send birthday cards. Dick’s work in federal law enforcement had him travelling frequently so he appreciated that she took on the role of FFO (family financial officer), balancing checkbooks to the penny and assuring savings growth for their retirement. But those retirement plans were never realized because Sharron journeyed to her heavenly reward on Good Friday of 1999, just one year before that planned retirement and days before her 61^st birthday.

Barbi Monroe Nelp ’59 and Richard Andersen decided to start a scholarship at St. Mary’s to honor both Ione Rosellini Monroe ’32 and Sharron Monroe Andersen ’56. Ione, Sharron, Barbi and Lisa all had a special place in their heart for St. Mary’s and gained lifelong friendships here.

They want to help young women whose families can’t fully afford tuition, particularly alumnae who want their daughters to attend. They felt this was the best and most lasting way for their family legacy to live on and help others at the same time.

Selection Criteria
Family must demonstrate financial need through the FACTS application.  Preference will be given to the daughter of a St. Mary’s Academy alumna.

Information coming soon.

Arlene Cummings was born on January 1, 1923 in Troutdale and graduated from Kenton Secondary in Gresham. After high school, she held a variety of positions in retail shops and offices to save money for college.

She started working towards earning her undergraduate degree, but then did something that is a unique distinction for someone who ultimately became a Sister of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. She was one of 100,000 women who enlisted in the US Navy’s corps of female members, better known as the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), established by Congress in 1942 and signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II.

Arlene was baptized Catholic in 1944 in Washington, D.C. while still in the service after which she attended Holy Names College in Spokane, finishing her bachelor’s degree at Marylhurst. In 1947 she entered the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, becoming Sister Catherine Frances.

Sr. Arlene had a notable teaching career that began with four years in Medford, followed by time at Holy Names College in Oakland, California to earn her master’s degree. She taught at St. Frances in Eugene and Holy Names Academy in Spokane. Then, in 1960 she began an illustrious 25+ year tenure at St. Mary’s Academy in Portland.

She was universally respected as a superior English teacher, leader and administrator. She demonstrated a genuine interest in her students and a sincere concern for their success. Her specialty was teaching the highest-level advanced students.

In the decades that she served as head of the English Department at St. Mary’s, Sr. Arlene was greatly appreciated for offering guidance and support to fellow faculty members.  She was known for her inspiration, her example and her love. She mentored new teachers, even helping with lesson plans when needed. She consulted with her staff to make certain that teachers were comfortable and confident in their assigned classes, matching their interests and expertise with the needs of the department.

She made friends feel not just accepted, but cherished for a lifetime. Some of the best St. Mary’s teachers of the era felt privileged to count Sr. Arlene as a friend, including Sr. Beverly Miles who considered Arlene a true soulmate. For a time, Sr. Bev and Sr. Arlene were housemates with a poodle to whom they taught tricks that were later showcased for guests, always culminating in hilarity and uncontrollable laughter.

Longtime SMA English teacher, Jeannie Allen, says that Sr. Arlene’s inimitable smile and unexpected dry sense of humor first come to mind when thinking of her friend. Then, she remembers all that she learned from Sr. Arlene as Allen was transitioning from Social Sciences to teaching English. “She made my life easier. She was invaluable to me,” says “Miss Allen”, as she was known at SMA.

In addition to being a talented English teacher and administrator, Sr. Arlene had an eye for the artistic. Jeannie Allen still has a photograph that Sr. Arlene took that reminds her of her dear friend.

Sr. Arlene was daring and courageous in all ways, from working as a welder in the shipyards during the war to her leadership style at SMA, where she continued teaching until just days before her passing one day after her 61^st birthday in January of 1984 from cancer. The St. Mary’s Parents Club, Arlene’s siblings and many friends created the Arlene Cummings, SNJM Scholarship at the school she served and loved.

Scholarship Criteria

The successful candidate will demonstrate deep commitment for community service, and a passion for English/Language Arts. 

This scholarship was established in honor of a St. Mary’s legend, Sr. Beverly Miles, who has taught piano and voice, been musical director of plays, and conducted and led countless choirs in schools, parishes and communities for more than 65 years. At St. Mary’s, she brought the music department to extraordinary heights in the 60s, 70s and 80s. Because of her great love of teaching music, through artistic development, she brought her students outside the choir room by providing performance, travel and cultural opportunities such as recitals, concerts and performances at civic events throughout Portland, Washington, California, Canada and even Europe. This paved the way for the Marians who are now recognized for their community appearances.

Beverly Miles graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in 1951 and went on to Marylhurst University, then USC where she earned a master’s degree in Music. Having grown up in a family that treasured music, she was led to join the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, a community whose charism emphasizes the importance of the arts, especially music. Sr. Bev taught and modeled that charism with grace, style, dedication and a contagious sense of humor from 1960-1985.

Sr. Beverly nostalgically says that working with young women at St. Mary’s was a truly rewarding calling. She clearly saw that education for girls in an all-female environment fostered singular strengths and created leadership skills and uniquely lifelong friendships. Sr. Bev says, “Teaching teenage girls during their transition to womanhood was very challenging, exciting and fun, with the blessing of many wonderful relationships.”

During her 25 years at St. Mary’s, Sr. Beverly earned the admiration, respect and love of scores of students, many of whom can now boast performing arts careers of their own. One such student, Kathy Richard ’75, founded this scholarship in honor of her beloved teacher and mentor. Due in part to Sr. Beverly’s teaching, Kathy went on to have a successful career as an accomplished musician and teacher.

Many young women come to St. Mary’s, not only for the extraordinary education, but to participate in its award-winning and acclaimed arts programs. This scholarship is intended to provide assistance for a student who will honor Sr. Beverly’s legacy through

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate’s scholarship application will manifest her love for the performing arts such as music, theatre or dance (with an emphasis on music) in her application and through participation. This scholarship is intended to provide access to a St. Mary’s education with preference given to a young woman of color. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.5 while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Catherine Cecilia Ford graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in 1926. She went on to receive a B.A. from Marylhurst College, an M.A. in history from Seattle University and a Masters in Scripture and Theology from St. Mary’s School of Theology at Notre Dame, Indiana. She joined the Sisters of the Holy Names and took the name Sister Consuela Maria.

She was a devoted teacher and school administrator, including serving two years as president of Marylhurst College. In 1967, she started 10 years of ministry at the Newman Center at Oregon State University. Her door was always open to welcome students, especially young women struggling for a sense of self-worth. She then joined St. Mary Magdalene Parish and became one of the first women to hold the position of pastoral associate. She continued to serve the community until her death in 2001, at the age of 94.

Sister Consuela was not only an accomplished woman but worked hard to mentor and empower young women in the community. She would be proud to know that more than 30 girls in her extended family have gone on to graduate from St. Mary’s. Her family members that have endowed this scholarship want to celebrate the strong and compassionate woman that she was, as well as an almost 100 year legacy of St. Mary’s graduates.

Selection Criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must show a desire to help others in their community, and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA while at St. Mary’s. Preference will be given to girls interested in STEM subjects.

Nancy Moore ’47, best known at St. Mary’s Academy as Sr. Ignatia Ann, master-minded a tradition of extraordinary theatre at St. Mary’s Academy. She mentored young women, not only in the craft of theatre but far more, she taught discipline, teamwork, commitment to excellence and pride in success. She believed in her students. She pushed them and made them reach deep to call upon their passion for the art. Affectionately known as “Iggie,” this brilliant woman served the St. Mary’s community for 18 years from 1959 to 1977, during which time she inspired literally thousands of SMA students, parents and community volunteers to combine their talents, their love and their hard work to create theatrical productions literally beyond compare.

Sr. Ignatia Ann played a vital role in advancing the commitment of the Sisters of the Holy Names to the arts at St. Mary’s. She set the bar to which all future productions strove to achieve. She is a legend at St. Mary’s and alumnae who loved her founded and contributed to this scholarship to immortalize this wonderful woman and all that she generously gave to St. Mary’s.

Selection Criteria:

Student must show a passion for theatre and/or music. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain a grade point average of 2.5 while attending St. Mary's Academy.

Information coming soon.

Sister Mary McNassar ’58 was born in Davenport, Iowa, the third of 11 children. Mary attended St. Mary’s Academy and, after graduating in 1958, she joined the Sisters of the Holy Names at Marylhurst. In Portland, she taught at Holy Redeemer, the Madeleine and Christie schools and served as Vice Principal at St. Mary’s Academy. She also served as Assistant Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Spokane Diocese. She had a master’s degree in Educational Psychology, received her Doctorate in Psychology from Pacific University in 1988, and became a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Mary was in private practice for several years until her retirement in 2005. Bill and Carolyn Winter, longtime benefactors of St. Mary’s and parents of alumna Mary Winter Graves ’83, established this scholarship in Sister Mary’s name. Bill had a special bond with the McNassar family, as Sister Mary’s parents, John Leo and Mary Katharine McNassar, Sr., also were Bill’s godparents. “I spent a lot of time growing up in the McNassar household,” Bill said. “Sister Mary and her family were wonderful role models, and were a huge influence in my decision to convert to Catholicism at age 17. I learned that being a Catholic involves prayer, a faith life, Catholic education, and a commitment to family and community.”

Selection Criteria:

Student must show a strong desire to be at St. Mary's Academy. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0 while attending St. Mary’s Academy.

Teacher, advocate and devoted member of the Sisters of the Holy Names for 59 years, Sister Patricia Nizic (Ann Christine) ’50 passed away September 2012 at the age of 80. But she lives on in the hearts of her family and through this St. Mary’s scholarship they established in her name.

While a student at St. Mary’s, Sister Patricia’s vocation was nurtured by her music teacher, Sister Marietta Coyle, and a year after graduating she joined the Sisters of the Holy Names. She started her career as a music teacher after graduating from college. Eventually she moved into classroom teaching, and earned her master’s degree in counseling. For a brief time, she even worked as St. Mary’s Vice Principal during her long and varied career as an educator in the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA), as a counselor and as a choir director.

Her niece, and long-time St. Mary’s teacher, Patty Gorman had this to say about her aunt Patricia, “My aunt was very passionate about social justice and about her politics, particularly when it came to the environment, poverty and women’s issues. She had strong beliefs about people living out the Gospel by caring for one another, and by being good stewards of the earth.”

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate’s scholarship application will demonstrate her passion for and commitment to social justice through service to her community and the way she lives her life. Preference will be given to a student who participates in the fine arts in addition to having a commitment to service as described above.

Information coming soon.

“I can take you by the hand and take you with me into the Black community; I can walk with you into your community.  And if I walk with you into your community I don’t walk as a stranger, I walk as your sister.”  - Sr. Thea Bowman

Thea’s grandfather was born a slave. In 1937, she was born in Mississippi the only child to middle-aged Methodist parents, her father a physician and her mother a teacher.  At the age of nine, with her parents’ consent, she converted to Catholicism and, at the age of 15, she joined the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration as the first and only Black nun in her religious congregation.  Gifted with a brilliant mind, an unforgettable mezzo-soprano voice and a charismatic personality, Sister Thea became a nationally acclaimed educator, religious leader and Black activist. Diagnosed with cancer in 1984, and in failing health, Sr. Thea worked while seated in a wheelchair and taking frequent rests in the sound studio to record a collection of spirituals, Songs of My People in 1988.   This collection of gospel hymns meant so much to her and was an integral part of her ministry.  In 1989, Sr. Thea was the first Black woman invited to address the US Conference of Catholic Bishops.  She challenged the bishops on racism including a message of reconciliation, which continues to be relevant.  She spoke of the advantages of education, the need for all people to have a voice and a role in the work of the Church, “many who serve among us do not feel the obligation or need to learn or understand Black history, or spirituality, or culture or life, Black traditions or rituals. . .” Concluding her remarks Sr. Thea invited the bishops to join her in singing and swaying to We Shall Overcome.  A life lived remarkably, Sr. Thea passed March 30, 1990.  On November 14, 2018 the US Bishops endorsed the sainthood cause of Sister Thea Bowman.

“What does it mean to be Black and Catholic?  It means that I come to my church fully functioning. . . I bring myself, my Black self, all that I am, all that I have, all that I’m worth, all I hope to become.  I bring my whole history, my traditions, my experience, my culture, my African-American song and dance and gesture and movement and teaching and preaching and healing and responsibility as a gift to the church.”  Sr. Thea Bowman, FSPA

This scholarship was sponsored by Carol Beauchamp-Gredvig ’67, not only in deep appreciation for the outstanding education she personally received at St. Mary’s, but also in recognition of the many life-long friends gained while at St. Mary’s. It is time take a stranger’s hand and, “walk as your sister”.

Carol and her beloved late husband, Scott, shared values of giving back, lifting someone else’s spirit and simply doing what was right. This scholarship is one example of the ways they lived those values, by raising up the story of someone whose legacy deserves to be more widely known.

Selection Criteria: The successful candidate’s scholarship application will demonstrate her personal embodiment of some of the values by which Sr. Thea lived her life. This scholarship is intended to provide access to a St. Mary’s education for a young woman of color with preference given to an African-American student.

The St. Mary’s Academy Faculty Endowed Scholarship was established in 2017 to honor the outstanding service, innovation and commitment of St. Mary’s Academy teachers. Inspired by the day-in day-out dedication and excellence of the teaching staff, 2013-2017 Principal Kelli Clark and her husband Steve Kucas, endowed a scholarship in honor of the faculty. The success of St. Mary’s students depends on positive, dynamic relationships of care and the passion for excellence that the faculty embodies.

Community members who would like to honor the outstanding work of the faculty or faculty members themselves may be inspired to help grow this fund and ensure access to a St. Mary’s education in perpetuity. Going forward, faculty will participate in the selection and recognition of the SMA Faculty Scholar. Since 1859, the leadership of the faculty has delivered the highest-caliber college prep education, while at the same time educating young women through the mission, values and charism of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary.

Selection Criteria:

This scholarship will be awarded to a student who exemplifies a hunger for learning, a drive for excellence and a heart of compassion as seen in relationships and service. The successful candidate must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate that she is motivated and committed to her education at St. Mary’s Academy.

The Teri Mariani ’70 Endowed Scholarship was established by a woman who could easily be called the quintessential “True Blue” alumna. Teri Mariani ’70 left a lasting impression on the field of athletics in Oregon, something she would not have been able to do, she says, without the foundation of values and life skills she acquired at St. Mary’s Academy. Her resume includes a stint as a professional athlete and a 30+ year career as administrator and coach at Portland State University. Coach Mariani holds the distinction of being the most victorious PSU coach of all time with more than 660 wins. Teri is a triple Hall-of-Famer, inducted into the State of Oregon’s Hall of Fame in 2003 as well as the Halls of Fame at PSU and the Portland Softball Association. Even more admirable than her career in athletics is the generous service she provides to those less fortunate. She has organized clinics for young athletes and spent her Christmas bonuses on toys and clothes for needy children. She is beloved for selflessly providing a helping hand whenever needed by family, friends, professional colleagues and aspiring student athletes. Teri is also a leader among alumnae of St. Mary’s Academy. She loyally steps forward when asked to help ensure that the community will continue to thrive for future generations of young women. Teri’s accomplishments show that courage, commitment, drive and ability can lead to success. She also demonstrates how kindness and compassion to others are far more important.

Selection criteria:

The recipient of this scholarship must demonstrate her desire to grow and develop as a person who contributes positively to those around her through participation in a group or team activity. She must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.25 while attending St. Mary's Academy. Preference will be given to a student who is matriculating from a Catholic grade school.

Young Teri Wu spoke no English when her impoverished family immigrated from Taiwan. Teri’s Catholic grade school offered her generous tuition assistance. Her father began teaching at the University of Portland and her mother ran a Chinese restaurant. Life improved. Teri thrived at St. Mary's where she felt safe to develop her intellect and explore her passions for singing with Beverly Miles, SNJM ’51, theatre under the direction of Ignatia Ann, SNJM ’47 and art with Rose Marie Strassel, SNJM ’31, who once said to Teri, “I don't know if you're going to follow the instructions for this assignment or not, but I know it's going to be interesting." Those are the words of a woman who truly inspired Teri for a lifetime. Teri then earned her degree in Fine Arts while caring for her ailing parents and running the family restaurant.

Teri soon met Andrew Nowak, a Yale economics grad with old-world values and an entrepreneurial fire that matched hers. Andrew had a brilliant mind for economics and mechanics as well as an innate sense for investing. He ran a fluid air component business. He founded a high-tech company automating the lumber industry that he later sold to “Envision”, one of two companies that equips every airport in the world for luggage scanning since the September 11^th terror attacks.

Teri’s business ventures include an import store, jewelry design, custom special events clothing, a children’s book with speaking engagements, and even a couple of original inventions.

Together, Teri and Andrew have owned and run a yacht dealership and a resort in Belize. They are the proud parents of two successful adult children: daughter Nadia Nowak '99 who is an accomplished emergency room nurse with a master’s degree from Columbia University and son Nick who is a successful private investor.

Selection Criteria:

Teri credits St. Mary’s with the development of her entrepreneurial fearlessness. This scholarship, established by the TAN Foundation, is intended to provide for a student who is interested in either the field of economics, business or in being a fearless entrepreneur.

It is quite possible that nobody loved St. Mary’s Academy more than Margaret A. Wiese Thompson. She was proof of the successful mission of the school through her faith and strength; a woman who wasn’t afraid to use her voice. She demonstrated her gratitude for St. Mary’s by attending reunions including her 70^th class reunion at Founders’ Day in 2004 and the 150^th Anniversary of the school’s founding in 2009. She was generous to St. Mary’s each year and made a transformational gift in 2004 of $500,000 towards the addition of the third floor wing of classrooms and student commons. Even this does not compare to the pride and enthusiasm that emanated from her when she spoke of her alma mater. Her passion was contagious to everyone who was blessed to be in her presence.

Born to Margaret Ann Chambers Wiese and Arthur John Wiese in Portland on September 28, 1916, Margaret graduated from St. Stephen's School and St. Mary's Academy, just beginning her life-long commitment as a Catholic. Her mother thought the University of Oregon was too wild, so Margaret attended Oregon State University and graduated with a major in home economics. While teaching at Florence High School in Florence, Oregon, she met and married the Principal and love of her life, Thomas S. Thompson, in 1941.

Margaret was a gracious and equal partner with her husband in his career as a college administrator at Lewis and Clark College; Washington University in Missouri; Knox College in Illinois; University of the Pacific in California, and Morningside College in Iowa, where Tommy served as college president until 1978, when they retired to Stockton, California.

Margaret was involved in community activities both in the Midwest and in Stockton including the League of Women Voters, AAUW and St. Joseph's Hospital Auxiliary. She was a member of PEO (professional employer organization) sisterhood for 45 years.

She and Tommy traveled extensively in the US and internationally, and she planned vacations and celebrations for 30+ family members. They spent winter months in Palm Desert, where Margaret was known for her Super Bowl Parties. She was an active and generous supporter of private education, including St. Mary's Academy, University of Portland, Pacific University and Morningside College

Her pastimes included crossword puzzles, reading and book discussion groups, politics always a vocal and ardent liberal, golf, travel, family, as well as a Stockton Symphony supporter and regular performance goer for over 30 years.

When Tommy, her husband of 58 years, died she moved to an active retirement community in Stockton where she hosted parties, played bridge four times a week, took classes and served on committees.

Known by her friends as a gracious hostess, a style-setter, an outgoing and caring person, she is remembered fondly as a vibrant, active and feisty a good and loyal friend. Her sense of humor, a little Irish blarney, and inimitable positive attitude endeared her to many. Margaret maintained lifelong friendships with people she had met across the US in various college towns, and on military bases during WWII and the Korean War.

Most importantly, she was the loving, caring and beloved matriarch of a large family. She and Tommy raised four children: Roger, Tom, Pam and Mary Ann, who are all now living on the West Coast and have children and grandchildren of their own who saw Margaret as a role model because of the way she cherished her spouse, valued family and had deep and personal faith. They say she lived a long life, so they had many opportunities to gain inspiration and motivation from her American spirit of living life to the fullest and her Irish spirit of rising above hardships with strength.

In her final days Margaret reminded her family that she was born before women could vote. She died happily believing that the country had just elected its first female president. Margaret passed into eternal life on November 10, 2016, just over a month after celebrating her 100th birthday.

Information coming soon.

In December of 2012, Mark and Mary Stevens ’80 presented Mary’s mother, Virginia Mathews, with a $2 million Christmas gift to St. Mary’s Academy to establish an endowed scholarship fund in her honor. The gift was the single largest individual donation in the school’s history. A portion of this gift established the Virginia Mathews Endowed Scholarship, which provides tuition assistance to ensure access to a St. Mary’s education for middle income families.

Family is very important to Virginia and the entire Mathews family. The family loves to ski, travel and just spend time together. Virginia’s Catholic faith is also a big part of her life and is why she and her late husband Dick sent their daughters Mary Mathews Stevens ’80 and Molly Mathews Bjorklund ’85 to St. Mary’s Academy. The Virginia Mathews Endowed Scholarship was established because of the Stevens’ love for Mary’s mother, Virginia, and their wish that St. Mary’s Academy remains accessible to middle class families.

Selection Criteria:

The successful candidate for this scholarship will have a sincere desire to attend an all-girls Catholic high school. She will also understand the inherent rewards of hard work and close family ties – a couple of the core values that middle class families treasure.

Information coming soon.

Marcy Moore Forman graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in 1967 and went on to Portland State University and began a 10-year banking career. In 1970, she married her high school sweetheart Wes Forman after he was discharged from the Army. Wes, a Central Catholic alumnus, still chuckles about waiting for Marcy on the front steps of SMA because boys weren’t allowed inside the building. Wes began his career with Elte, Inc., a heavy construction company owned by his uncle, Till Forman. A few years later when Marcy joined Wes at Elte, Inc. “Uncle Till” thought they made a great team. Wes and Marcy have one son, Nick, and two grandchildren, Phoenix and Daphne.

Wes and Marcy’s belief in the merits of single-gender education has inspired their generous support of St. Mary’s Academy, including Marcy’s term on the Board of Directors and her service as the founding chair of the Alumnae Advancement Council.

They believe that girls benefit immensely from an all-female education and want it to remain available to young women in Oregon. The late Shawn Marie Barry, SNJM believed that St. Mary’s inspires ordinary girls to be extraordinary young women. Wes and Marcy consider themselves ordinary people who benefitted greatly from a Catholic education.

Selection Criteria:

This scholarship is intended for an “ordinary girl” who dreams of becoming an extraordinary young woman through her education at St. Mary’s Academy. This scholarship is not based on writing skills but rather the applicant's personal desire to grow and develop into an extraordinary young woman at St. Mary’s Academy, which should be demonstrated in her scholarship application answers. The recipient of this scholarship must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 while attending St. Mary’s Academy. Preference will be given to a student from a practicing Catholic family.

William Randolph Hearst is an important figure from the 20th century whose influence extended to publishing, politics, motion pictures, the art world and everyday American life.

Born in San Francisco, California, on April 29, 1863, as the only child of George and Phoebe Hearst, young William had the opportunity to see and experience the world as few do because of his father’s successful mining career. At the age of 10, Hearst and his mother toured Europe, gathering ideas and inspiration from the grandeur and scale of castles, art and history.

In 1887, Hearst became proprietor of the San Francisco Examiner. Shortly after, he purchased the New York Morning Journal, which would become the second in a long list of newspaper holdings that Hearst acquired throughout his life. He started one of the first print-media companies to enter radio broadcasting and was an early pioneer of television. Hearst was a major producer of movie newsreels and is widely credited with creating the comic strip syndication business. In 1902, his interest in politics led to his election to the United States House of Representatives as a congressman from New York.

In addition to his successful business endeavors, Hearst amassed a vast and impressive art collection that included classical paintings, tapestries, religious textiles, oriental rugs, antiquities, sculptures, silver, furniture and antique ceilings. Much of this collection found its home at the Hearst Castle and Hearst’s various other properties.

He was married to Millicent Willson and the couple had five sons. William Randolph Hearst died on August 14, 1951, and is interred in the Hearst family mausoleum at the Cypress Lawn Cemetery in Colma, California.

The Hearst Foundations are national philanthropic resources for organizations working in the fields of culture, education, health and social services. In addition, the William Randolph Hearst Foundation operates two programs, the United States Senate Youth Program and the Journalism Awards Program.

The Hearst Foundation was founded by William Randolph Hearst in 1946. The mission of the foundation is to identify and fund outstanding nonprofits to ensure that people of all backgrounds in the United States have the opportunity to build healthy, productive and inspiring lives.