Scholarships & Special Awards

Recognizing excellence. Honoring influence.

An idea shared by Worthington Christian parents in the late 1980s has grown into a lasting investment in the people who shape our school community. Formerly the PTF Endowment Fund, the Fund for Academic Excellence now supports ten named student scholarships and four faculty and staff awards.

Held at The Columbus Foundation and guided by a volunteer committee of parents, alumni parents, and grandparents, this fund is separate from WC’s endowed funds at National Christian Foundation. Gifts may be directed to a specific scholarship or award, or to the fund’s unrestricted account.

The Fund at Work

Two Ways to Honor Excellence

Through student scholarships and special recognition awards, the Fund for Academic Excellence celebrates the people and values at the heart of Worthington Christian. Each scholarship and award carries its own purpose and history.

10 Named Scholarships

Student Scholarships

Many of these scholarships were established in honor or memory of individuals whose lives reflect a deep commitment to Christian education.

Each scholarship has its own selection criteria, recognizing qualities such as academic achievement, Christ-like character, leadership, and involvement in school life.

4 Special Awards

Faculty & Staff Awards

Worthington Christian’s faculty and staff shape students’ lives through excellent teaching, faithful service, and Christ-centered relationships.

Four award categories recognize individuals whose dedication and influence make a meaningful difference in classrooms and throughout the school community.

Investing in Students

Student Scholarships

Each of the Fund’s ten named scholarships carries a meaningful history and a distinct purpose. Together, they honor individuals and families whose commitment to Christian education continues to encourage students at Worthington Christian. Select a scholarship to learn more.

Alumni Scholarship

Established by the WC Class of 1995, this scholarship represents the enduring connection of all Worthington Christian alumni.

It recognizes a student in grades 9–11 who demonstrates academic excellence, participates in extracurricular activities, and exhibits Christ-like character.

Bechtel Scholarship

Originally established by the WC Music Boosters, this scholarship was renamed in memory of Bob Bechtel, who taught instrumental and choral music at WC for thirteen years before his passing in 2004.

It honors a student in grades 9–11 who demonstrates spiritual maturity, academic success, and continued involvement in music classes and activities.

Custer Scholarship

Established in 1993, this scholarship honors Pastor Jim and Triciene Custer for their steadfast commitment to Christian education.

It recognizes a student in grades 9–11 who demonstrates wisdom, leadership, maturity in relationships, and deep commitment to Jesus Christ. Preference is given to students active in the ministries of Grace Brethren Church.

Davis Scholarship

The Lucille V. Davis Grandparents Memorial Scholarship was established in 2002 by the Dittenber family in memory of Lucille, a devoted WC volunteer who especially enjoyed reading to students.

The scholarship alternates annually between students in grades 1–6 and grades 7–11. Recipients demonstrate strong academic effort, achievement, and a love of reading.

Fette Scholarship

The James H. and Margaret A. Fette Memorial Scholarship was established in 1995 in their memory.

It recognizes an eighth-grade WC student entering ninth grade who demonstrates academic success, extracurricular involvement, and a Christ-like attitude.

Jerele Scholarship

Established in 1991 by Dr. and Mrs. James Jerele, this scholarship honors Dr. Jerele’s parents and their belief in the value of Christian education.

It recognizes an eleventh-grade WC student of high moral character who desires to continue their education at Worthington Christian.

Junior Academic Scholarship

Established in 1989 by the WC Academic Boosters Club, this scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievement.

The recipient is an eleventh-grade student with the highest GPA from the beginning of ninth grade through the second trimester of eleventh grade. The student also demonstrates commitment to academic excellence and participation in WC activities.

Pyles Scholarship

Established by the WC Class of 2007, this memorial scholarship honors Jared Pyles, who passed away on May 31, 2006.

It recognizes a student in grades 9–11 who is active in church, participates in music and/or athletics, demonstrates leadership, and displays Christ-like character.

Walker Scholarship

The Martha Ann Walker Memorial Scholarship was established in 1992 by Edith Walker in memory of her daughter Martha, a beloved WC fourth-grade teacher.

It recognizes a fourth-grade student who demonstrates academic diligence, a cheerful attitude, and enthusiasm for the Bible.

Wanko Scholarship

The Michael Thomas Wanko Memorial Scholarship was established by the Wanko family in memory of their son Michael, who passed away in 1995 at age seventeen. The scholarship draws inspiration from Isaiah 40:31.

It recognizes a student in grades 1–5 who demonstrates high academic achievement, ability in athletics and music, a competitive spirit, and a loving character.

Honoring Those Who Serve

Faculty & Staff Awards

Excellence at Worthington Christian extends beyond academic achievement. Our faculty and staff invest in students through faithful teaching, encouragement, leadership, and service. These four awards recognize individuals whose contributions reflect the heart of our Christ-centered mission. Select an award to learn more.

Teacher of the Year Award

Selected annually by a vote of fellow WC teachers, this cash award honors a faculty member who inspires students to grow intellectually and spiritually.

’34 Impact Award

Presented annually to two WC teachers who have made a difference through the encouragement and inspiration they provide students. The award is grounded in 2 Timothy 4:2.

Trustee Academic Award

Recognizes an individual whose exemplary academic service reflects a generous commitment to students and fellow faculty and staff.

Trustee Service Award

Honors a non-academic staff member whose faithful, often behind-the-scenes service reflects Christ and is essential to WC’s mission.

Continue the Legacy

A gift with lasting purpose.

The Fund for Academic Excellence continues through the generosity of those who value Christian education and the people who make it possible. Your gift can honor a particular scholarship or award, or provide flexibility to support the fund’s broader purposes.

Support a Named Scholarship

Direct your gift to one of the ten named scholarships, continuing the legacy of the individuals and families they honor.

Honor Faculty & Staff

Support one of the four special awards recognizing outstanding teaching, encouragement, academic service, and faithful contributions to the WC community.

Give Where Most Needed Within the Fund

Contribute to the Fund for Academic Excellence’s unrestricted account, which provides supplemental support across its scholarships and awards.

About giving to this fund: The Fund for Academic Excellence is held at The Columbus Foundation and guided by a volunteer committee. It is separate from Worthington Christian’s endowed funds held at National Christian Foundation. Please contact us for current giving and fund designation instructions to ensure your contribution is directed appropriately.