Our History
Staples Tuition Grants is the single largest
distributor of tuition grant dollars in Westport, CT.
Each year Staples Tuition Grants supports dozens of
Staples High School seniors and graduates, awarding over $200,000
this last year in college scholarships up to $5,000.
We receive 100% of our funding from individuals,
trusts, private foundations, local businesses, and civic organizations.
Many of our donors have established continuing
awards in memory of a beloved family member; in honor of a respected teacher or
coach; or, in support of a specific academic endeavor. Generous donations may be
named in honor of a particular individual or interest. Please contact the
committee for more information. Staples Tuition Grants Committee welcomes
contributions of any amount to the general fund.
As the needs of our Staples High School seniors and graduates
increase, so must our resources if we are to continue our mission of closing the
gap between college costs and student resources.
Our Work
In each of the last five years, between 50 and 90
Staples graduates and postgraduates have received tuition awards up to
$5,000.
Students submit their applications in April.
An applicant's need is reviewed and assessed based on personal and family
financial data, the cost of the school the student is attending, all financial
aid received and a personal interview with each new applicant.
At the Tuition Grants Award Night in June,
recipients are notified of their awards, and donors are honored for their
contributions. All grant checks are mailed by the Committee directly to the
school to be attended.
Because Staples Tuition Grants is a needs-based
organization, the Committee does not discriminate by school, whether private or
public, vocational or academic, in-state or out. Likewise, a student GPA or
academic program does not determine the amount of an award.
The Staples Tuition Grants Committee is comprised
of dedicated volunteers, all Westport residents, serving single,
three-year, overlapping terms.
Helping Staples High School students in need achieve their educational goals
has been our
mission for over sixty-five years.
Named Award Profiles
Each year, ongoing named awards established by individuals, companies and civic groups are granted to Staples graduates with demonstrated financial need. This booklet contains a short biography and/or background of the people or groups behind each of these awards. Some have been given continuously for over 50 years, some are new this year and others are in-between. All are important components of Staples Tuition Grants.
It is an honor for Staples Tuition Grants to administer these awards, as we have done each year since 1943. In the hopes of creating a lasting history for each award, we present this booklet. We are grateful to the many donors who contribute faithfully to STG so that each and every graduate of Staples may have a chance to pursue an education beyond SHS.
We would like to thank Dan Woog as much of this information has been gathered under his guidance and dedication. Thanks also to STG Advisory Board members, Joyce Eldh, Lee Bollert and Peggy Kamins.
Interested in establishing a multi-year named award?
Please contact: giving@staplestuitiongrants.org
Individuals With a Named Award
Dorothy R. Adams: Dorothy Adams was a beloved teacher and principal at the wooden Bridge Street School and its later brick incarnation, Saugatuck Elementary. She retired in 1952 and is still remembered as a common-sense educator, sympathetic to kids in need. A disciplinarian with a desire to find the best in each student, her stay-after-school punishment often ended positively-sometimes even with stamp trading, as she was an avid philatelist. She came by her educational roots naturally. Her grandfather, Ebenezer Banks Adams operated Adams Academy for 30 years, starting in 1837, on Morningside Drive North.
Dr. Jean Beasley: Dr. Jean Beasley was a female African-American pediatrician in Westport, at a time when both were very rare anywhere in the country. She practiced with her husband, Dr. Albert Beasley. Her career was cut short when she died at a young age.
Richard L. Beckelman: After working for two decades as an electrician, Richard returned to Brooklyn College at age 42 as a night student. Eight years later he earned a degree in history - with honors. He discovered that education satisfied his soul, and completed him as a human being. His dream of earning a graduate degree was, sadly, unfulfilled; Richard died suddenly at age 55.
Beatrice Smoot Bennewitz: Beatrice was long known as a realtor in Westport but she also spent many years as a PTA volunteer, having begun her career at NBC and the United Nations. Her tremendous sense of humor and extraordinary positive attitude inspired her three children - all Staples graduates - and everyone who knew her.
Bruce Betts: Bruce Betts coached many sports in Westport, and spent over three decades as a Staples, middle school and elementary school physical education teacher. He is best known for founding the Staples boys volleyball program, and turning it into a perennial state powerhouse. The ever-smiling Bruce is a Staples graduate himself (Class of 1964).
The Bowes Family: Frances Bowes and Diana Bowes Weller established this scholarship in 2010. Believing that the town of Westport "does such a phenomenal job of educating its kids, culminating with Staples," Diana hopes the award "will allow students to build on the strong, rich education they receive here."
Cameron Bruce: A 2010 graduate of Staples, Cameron Bruce was an engineering student at Queen's University in Canada when he died in an accident early in his freshman year. He was an accomplished musician, playing trumpet with the Staples symphonic orchestra, band, and jazz band. He played "Taps" at Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies in Westport. He was a 4-year varsity swimmer, serving as captain of the team, and earned Academic All American honors. Cameron was also an AP Scholar with Distinction and a Commended 2010 National Merit Scholar. He was active in Staples Players, and served as a deacon at Saugatuck Congregational Church.
Richard Cion: Richard was a devoted father of five, and a Princeton University and Harvard Law School graduate. He was a supporter of education and academics in Westport, at all levels and in all ways.
Rita L. Damoc: Having pursued a career in special education in the 1960s, during the field's infancy, Rita taught for 10 years. At the time of her death she was a supervisor in the special education program in Wallingford, Pennsylvania.
Noel de Caprio: Noel Pasacreta de Caprio was a member of the Staples Class of 1957 who passed away in 1998. She was the founder and owner of Noelle Spa for Beauty and Wellness in Stamford and a pioneer in her industry, as the creator of the day spa concept. In 1987, following a diagnosis of breast cancer, she incorporated healing, wellness and aesthetics into her business so that others affected by cancer would know they could still feel healthy and beautiful.
Irwin Donenfeld: A 22-year veteran of the RTM, and active in many civic causes, Irwin Donenfeld was also the longtime owner of Coastwise Marine. This was his second career, and enabled him to embrace his love of fishing. Prior to that he worked for many years at his family's publishing concern, DC Comics.
Doug Donovan: Doug Donovan, SHS '79, was a talented student and Staples soccer player who went on to excel at Lehigh University. He was just beginning his career as a civil engineer when he died in an automobile accident. At the time of his death, he was working on plans for what later became Wakeman Park.
Charles M. Elliot: "Chuck" was the youngest of 10 children. He loved the theater, broadcasting - any public forum. When he died of cancer in 1984 at 19 years old, his family felt the greatest tribute would be a scholarship at the school he and all his siblings attended.
David and Geri Epstein: Geri Connell Epstein and the late David Epstein co-founded The Geri and David Epstein Private Foundation. This foundation provides grants for medical research and educational opportunity. Geri Connell Epstein was born and raised in Queens, earning her BA and MA at Hunter College before working for the New York City Commission for the United Nations. David Epstein grew up in Bridgeport and was a graduate of Bucknell University. He began his professional career in advertising, and later established a successful commercial real estate investment and development company. The Epsteins have lived in Westport for more than 25 years and have been committed supporters of the Westport community, providing college scholarships to Staples High School graduates as well as support for the construction of the new Levitt Pavilion. An avid golfer, David Epstein also served as a trustee of The First Tee Foundation, whose programs seek to positively impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices via the game of golf.
Sharon Frey: A Westport native who impacted many lives, far beyond her own four children, Sharon taught at the Nature Center and Community Nursery Schools. She was active in Westport PTAs and the Girl Scouts, and was a teacher's aide in elementary schools. She was the librarian at Green's Farms Preschool, prior to her untimely death.
James F. Gillespie: Jim Gillespie was a well-respected psychotherapist in Westport. The Gillespie Center - which serves homeless men - is named for him, in honor of his contributions to town life. He died at a young age, after being struck by a car while vacationing in France.
Eric Goldschmidt: A 2007 graduate of Staples, Eric was studying at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore when he lost his battle with cancer in early 2011. A highly acclaimed photographer who frequently contributed to WestportNow, he was also keenly involved with Toquet Hall and the local music scene. Eric is remembered as a creative, humorous, dedicated friend to all, and a young man who fought his illness with grace.
Cele and Joel Greene: The Greenes were lifelong educators. Cele was a reading specialist in elementary school, who understood the importance of literacy for all. Joel was an electrical engineer, who also taught night courses. After retiring and moving to Westport, Joel substitute taught well into his 80s.
Mary and Arthur Hardt: The Hardts always affirmed the importance of education. Mary worked in the private sector, then became a home economics teacher who encouraged all of her students to attend college. Arthur, a businessman, was an avid reader of history and biographies. He drew upon the past to analyze the present, and work toward a better future.
Preston Hirten: Preston Hirten was a key member of Staples High School's 2006 state finals soccer team. A fierce competitor on the field, and a gentle spirit and friend to all, he spent part of 2009 in Ghana, working on soccer and educational projects with young players. Preston was entering his junior year at the University of Mary Washington when he died suddenly of a rare heart condition in August 2009. The Staples soccer program has initiated a "#15 Award" in honor of the number he wore so proudly.
William D. Horne IV: Bill Horne, an avid chemistry student who is also remembered for his warm sense of humor, died while in high school. He was a member of the Staples Class of 1971.
Louis Joseloff: Louis Joseloff, a Polish-born émigré, founded the Economy Grocery Co. with his brothers which later merged with First National Stores. It became the Finast chain, and today is known as Stop & Shop. His daughter Libby married Leo Nevas, the late Westport attorney. All three Nevas children - Jo-Ann, Bernard and Marc - attended Staples High School. Louis' older brother Robert settled in East Norwalk and in 1916 built the Fine Arts Theatre in Westport. His grandson, Gordon, is Westport's first selectman.
Ann Kiester and Katy Macieski: In 1982, the summer before their senior year at SHS, newly appointed cheerleading captains and best friends Ann and Katy died in a car accident. The entire Westport community was affected by their deaths. Ann's mother, Betty Ann Kiester, attended STG ceremonies each year after this award was established. She often commented that the award recipients - typical teenagers - happily reminded her so much of Ann and Katy.
Joe Koeller: Joe Koeller was the strict but loving principal of Long Lots Junior High School. He nurtured many outstanding teachers. He loved his school, and his students. He was a volunteer with many organizations, including the Red Cross, Community Garden and St. Luke Church.
Michael Kowall: Michael Kowall was just 13 when he died on the soccer field, after colliding with a goalpost. His teammates and the Westport Soccer Association established this fund for him.
Dr. Elliott Landon: Dr. Landon, Westport Public Schools' Superintendent has served the town since 1999. This award was initiated to celebrate and note his 10th anniversary as Westport's chief of schools. He oversees the district's 's five elementary, two middle schools and Staples High School.
Judy Levine: A dedicated speech and language pathologist, Judy served the Westport school system for over 20 years. An unforgettable woman, she touched the lives of students, teachers, family members and friends.
Susan R. Malloy: A life-long artist and long-time philanthropist, Susan is a graduate of Skidmore College. She also studied at the Arts Students League. Her family spent many summers in Westport, before she moved here full-time. The Malloy family has supported many charitable organizations and initiatives in Westport over the years, including the Westport Arts Center, Westport Public Library and the Westport Historical Society.
Joe and Mel Mioli: Fixtures on Main Street for over 37 years, brothers Joe and Mel have watched generations of Westport's youth grow up in what is the true center of our town, Westport Pizzeria. Their restaurant consistently supports many charitable organizations that serve Westport. Joe Mioli served Westport's citizens in Hartford too, as a popular state representative.
Leo and Libby Nevas: Leo Nevas, an international human rights advocate, Jewish community leader and prominent Westport attorney, and his wife Libby Joseloff Nevas, recognized for her many years of service at the Norwalk Hospital and the Connecticut Braille Society, were dedicated long-time Westport residents who touched the lives of many through their philanthropic and humanitarian outreach.
Lillian Odell: Lillian Odell was a long-time educator in Westport and the first principal of Coleytown Elementary School, when it opened in 1953.
Arthur and Anne Pollak: Anne Pollak gave her first cello solo recital at age 11 and went on to graduate from Juilliard and to perform with The New York Philharmonic. Arthur Pollak was an Austrian immigrant who received his Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Columbia. He held over 20 patents. Anne and Arthur moved to Westport in the early 1950's and lived here for the remainder of their lives. They both loved music and could always be found surrounded by the sound of opera. Anne also played the harpsichord which Arthur handcrafted for her. They never had children of their own but were very close to their niece and nephew.
Thomas Price: Thomas Price, a self-made man with an impeccable work ethic and unmatched motivation, instilled these values in his nine children and 30 grandchildren, and generously provided all of them with opportunities. A scholarship was created in his memory to give a student a chance to seek education and success, just as his own offspring did.
Frank Reagan: After working in journalism Frank started a public relations firm in Stamford, before returning to his first love of news writing. He and his wife Rita were 40-year residents of Westport, and raised three daughters here. All were Staples and college graduates - the youngest, thanks in part to Staples Tuition Grants.
William J. and Dorothy Rosenbloom: Pillars of the Westport community, the Rosenbloom family's particular interest was Temple Israel. Dorothy started and helped grow the temple's Adult Jewish Education program, where she is remembered as a generous, lovely and vivacious woman.
Anne and Louis Rosoff: The Rosoffs were generous philanthropists. Anne served on the board of Staples Tuition Grants. The STG award they established joins others in their name, including those at the Yale University School of Music and Georgetown Law School.
Grace K. Salmon: Grace King Salmon was a founding member of the Westport Woman's Club. At her death in 1939, a trust was left in her name to benefit the town of Westport. Her many legacies include a park built on reclaimed land across the river from her home on Riverside Avenue, and an award established with Staples Tuition Grants.
John and Evelyn Santella: A noted Saugatuck couple, John ("Chip") was an ardent supporter of Festival Italiano from its early days. Years ago, when an earthquake devastated Italy, he helped bring young survivors to Disney World. He owned an accounting firm which his son Dominic now runs. His wife Evelyn was often seen selling Festival Italiano raffle tickets. She loved Compo Beach, and doted on her three sons and her grandchildren. Her magnetic personality, sense of humor and carefree lifestyle drew in all those around her.
Lou Santella: A native of Westport - and the unofficial "Mayor of Saugatuck"- Lou's day job was a barber (for 43 years on Riverside Avenue), but he worked tirelessly on local projects. He revived Festival Italiano, and chaired many events for his church and the Sons of Italy. He mentored many people, and befriended all.
Philip Schuyler: A long-time New York City journalist and PR man, Phil Schuyler enjoyed a second career writing for Westport newspapers. In his 80s, he served as sports editor of the Westport News. Among his many accomplishments, he invented the singing telegram. His family lived in Westport since the 1700s.
Betty and Ralph Sheffer: Betty and Ralph Sheffer were very active in Westport civic life, in every area from politics and education to the library. Ralph was a longtime RTM moderator. A foundation established in their name has donated millions of dollars to local causes, including scholarships, building projects and organizations.
Kenneth Sweetnam: A basketball and baseball player at Staples, Ken Sweetnam died in an automobile accident while in college. His family remembers his greatest talent was being in the middle of a diverse group of people and making them all feel special and welcome.
Joan Wilder: Joan Wilder was a "soccer mom" before the term became famous. The mother of four boys, she was active in a variety of causes in Westport. She died at a young age, of cancer.
Susan Ryan Wilhelm: Susan was known for her talent of bringing people together and making them feel special. Children, parents and co-workers gravitated to Susan's outsized personality. She raised three children as a single mother, while battling pancreatic cancer. A long-time employee of the Westport schools, she worked as an instructional aide and beloved school secretary at Long Lots, in the Teachers' Center at Staples, and the Curriculum Center.
Anne & Edward Yass: Anne and Edward Yass came to know Westport while visiting their son and family from their home in New York. A career pharmacist, Edward served in World War II. He is described by family as a wonderful, considerate, kind, sincere man who was adored by his children and grandchildren. Mainly a homemaker, Anne was engaging and gregarious, and relished her time with her children and grandchildren. Anne and Edward, both first-generation Americans, raised their three children to value their education and engage in the issues of the day.
Theodore W. (Ted) Youngling: Theodore W. (Ted) Youngling spent over four decades as a businessman and civic volunteer. A three-sport athlete at the University of Delaware, and a veteran of both World War II and the Korean War, he was an assistant football coach at Duke, VPI and the University of Oklahoma before moving to Westport. While here, he coached Pop Warner football and Staples football. Beginning in 1966, Ted served on the Westport Board of Education, RTM and Recreation Commission. A charter member of the Westport EMS, he was the father of four Staples graduates.
Trusts, Foundations & Community/School Organizations
Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation: Created in 1998 and named for the co-founder of SUBWAY, this foundation attempts, with scholarships, to replicate the chance Mr. DeLuca was given 44 years ago, when at 17 a family friend loaned him $1000 and the idea to open a submarine sandwich shop. That in turn enabled him to earn money for his college tuition.
The Democratic Women of Westport: Formed in the 1960s to further the aims of the local, state and national party, the DWW gives this annual award to a worthy female student with an interest in and desire to study or be involved in the political process.
Horace C. Hurlbutt Memorial Fund: The Hurlbutt family has been associated with Westport since its founding as a town. Horace Hurlbutt's will of 1932 established a trust that was to be used expressly for scholarships.
League of Women Voters: A nonpartisan group, the LWV encourages informed and active participation of citizens in government, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. The LWV Award supports a student who has shown an interest in, or participates in, government or politics.
Mid-Fairfield County Association of Realtors: This professional organization supports Staples graduates in need of financial assistance as they pursue higher education. The MFCAR also supports other local philanthropic causes.
Service League of Boys (SLOBs): This Staples High School club allows parents and sons to work together on educational and charitable projects that foster community responsibility. With its fundraising efforts, the club makes an annual donation to STG in honor of Staples' principal, John Dodig.
Sportsmen of Westport: The Sportsmen of Westport support an annual award that promotes student-athlete values. Founded in 1960, the Sportsmen honor distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions on the playing fields and in the community.
Staples Guidance and Physical Education Award: The annual Staples Dodgeball Tournament - co-led by the guidance and physical education departments - funds this award. Students organize their own teams, pay an entry fee, then battle through a fun, exciting event.
Staples High School Class of 1950: A reunion committee led by Karl Taylor scoured the internet, using everything from funeral directors to realtors for news of each member of their class. To celebrate their 60th reunion in 2010 they raised funds for STG to honor three favorite teachers with whom they are still in touch.
Staples High School Class of 1960: Six energetic women began the planning for their 50th reunion in 2010, committed to finding every member of their class. In the end, they accounted for 96% of their fellow Stapleites using a very informative, interactive website they designed. SHS '60 donated funds to STG in honor of this milestone reunion.
Staples High School Student Assembly: The Student Assembly - the Staples student voice for the school and Collaborative Team - sponsors an annual 5K Run in the Sun fundraiser. The money collected supports a fellow Staples student via Staples Tuition Grants.
Westport Arts Center: The WAC is a visual and performing arts organization. Since the 1960s, the WAC has worked to preserve Westport's rich cultural heritage, and the town's tradition of supporting and celebrating the arts.
Westport Garden Club: Started by eight women and two men, in 1924, the Garden Club's roots run deep in Westport history. Today, club members continue to preserve the town's natural beauty. The Staples Tuition Grants award is supported by the club's annual plant sale.
Westport Republicans: Westport Republicans is a group of men and women who see themselves as Westporters first and Republicans second. Proud of Westport, they seek to preserve its historic, educational, and artistic legacies. With their "Westport First" award Westport Republicans support a student who demonstrates leadership and fortitude in the face of adversity, and whose openness, creativity and willingness to participate in spirited debate and compromise allows democracy to flourish.
Westport Rotary Club: Since 1923, the Westport Rotary Club's membership has included a wide variety of Westport residents and business people. Members raise funds to support a broad array of organizations, including Staples Tuition Grants.
Westport Schools' PTAs: Each Westport school PTA sponsors an award in its name. These grants go to a student who attended that school during his or her public school career. The SHS PTA's annual Homecoming Sponsorship fundraiser provides a large number of grants.
Westport Sunrise Rotary/Dick Eldh: This award is named for the Westport Sunrise Rotary but honors the sprit and commitment of former president Dick Eldh. Dick was a founding member of Sunrise Rotary. His goal-oriented approach and can-do spirit brought countless projects to fruition for the organization. He is remembered by his fellow Rotarians as "an absolute gem."
Westport Weston Foundation: The Fable family of Westport set up a trust 30 years ago to assist students needing financial help while pursuing higher education. The Westport Weston Foundation now manages the fund.
Westport Young Woman's League: The WYWL is a non-profit philanthropic organization of women committed to promoting a sense of community through volunteerism, social activities and fundraising.
Corporations with a Named Award
Chartwells: The food service company that provides dining options for the Westport School System donates an annual scholarship each year to a student who intends to pursue a career in the food, dining or hospitality industry.
Terex: Westport-based Terex Corporation is a diversified global manufacturer. Terex products are used in construction, infrastructure, quarrying, mining, shipping, transportation, refining, energy and utility industries.
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