News Summary
The Ed & Irene Fleis Education Foundation received over 150 scholarship applications, surpassing the available funding for the first time in its history. Only 75 students were awarded scholarships of $1,200 each, emphasizing the increasing financial challenges among students in Leelanau County. A total of $90,000 was distributed, with a new scholarship introduced this year. The foundation has awarded over $840,000 since its inception, reflecting its commitment to supporting higher education within the community.
Leelanau County, MI – For the first time in the nearly three-decade history of the Ed & Irene Fleis Education Foundation, the number of applicants for scholarships exceeded the number of available awards, with over 150 students vying for funding in 2025. Only 75 students were chosen to receive scholarships worth $1,200 each, resulting in a significant gap between applicants and winners.
The recipients were selected through a confidential and independent process conducted by the Maple City/Cedar Lions Club. This year, the foundation distributed a total of $90,000 in scholarships to students from Leelanau County or those with familial ties to the area. These scholarships are intended to assist students pursuing a college or university degree, trade, vocational certificate, or diploma.
The surge in applicants underscores the financial challenges faced by students in Leelanau County, illustrating a growing need for educational support in the community. Since the foundation was established in 2006, it has awarded more than $840,000 in scholarships to nearly 500 students, reflecting its commitment to fostering higher education.
This year also saw the introduction of a new scholarship, the Cassie Thurow Memorial Scholarship, awarded to Madelyne Whitten, who plans to attend Western Michigan University. Additionally, Chloe Apuzzo received a Fleis family scholarship in memory of Jim and Rita Cwengros, and she will be heading to Rutgers University. The foundation is actively looking into ways for other families and businesses to set up their own named scholarships, with details on this initiative expected to be revealed later this year.
Funds for the scholarships are primarily raised through donations, a golf outing, and an online auction. The upcoming golf outing is scheduled for Saturday, August 2, at Sugar Loaf and is open to the general public, providing an opportunity for community members to contribute to the scholarship fund.
This year’s scholarship winners represent various educational institutions, including:
- Max Nielsen – Alma College
- Kariesue Taghon – Aquinas College
- Miriam Hahnenberg – Ave Maria University
- Rachel Hiester – Benedictine College
- Esme Durbin – Boston College
- Madison Damer – Bryant University
- Jenna Salas – California State University, Long Beach
- Naomi Elenbaas – Calvin University
- And many more students across different universities and colleges.
The record number of applications highlights the increasing financial needs among students in the local community. The Ed & Irene Fleis Education Foundation remains dedicated to providing vital resources to support students in achieving their educational goals, a mission that has gained increasing importance as the number of applicants has surged this year.
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Additional Resources
- Leelanau Ticker: Fleis Foundation Scholarships Announced
- Leelanau Ticker: Fleis Education Fund Scholarship Applications Open
- Record Eagle: Fleis Foundation Scholarships Announced
- UpNorthLive: New Foundation to Help with Scholarships
- 9&10 News: Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation Awards
- Wikipedia: Scholarship
- Google Search: student scholarships
- Google Scholar: educational funding
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Scholarship (Education)
- Google News: educational scholarships
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
