History

In 1926 West Bend High School alumni contributed to a fund used for $50 book awards given to outstanding graduates. The West Bend High School Alumni Foundation was established in 1945 and solicited funds for book awards and for a broader base of financial support. In 1961 the foundation obtained tax-exempt status and began the scholarship and aid program. The foundation merged with the West Bend Scholarship Fund, Inc. in 1972 and COLUMNS was born.

Board Meeting, 1970 – Dr. John Koehler, Len Bowerman, Jean Kieckhafer and Mary Lou Chapman

Each year, we are grateful for the outpouring of generosity from donors who want to leave their legacy by helping the next generation make their mark. This year alone, COLUMNS awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships to over 100 students.

Whether they have their sights set on colleges, universities, technical colleges, or vocational schools, our purpose is to help these students reach their goals. We encourage all students who plan to pursue higher education to apply. Scholarships are awarded based on evidence of character, leadership, and determination; academic standing; financial need; and meeting the specific requirements of the individual donor, which are varied.

Holiday Pops Concert, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra — Photo by Valerie Hill

Photo Credit: Valerie Hill

1926

The Foundation begins with a fund of alumni contributions to present book awards to outstanding graduates.

1945

The West Bend High School Alumni Foundation is established. Book award program continues.

1961

The scholarship program begins with $600. Two scholarships are awarded.

1972

The WBHS Alumni Foundation merges with the West Bend Scholarship Fund, Inc. West Bend COLUMNS is born. $4,200 in scholarship funds is distributed to 12 students.

1973

West Bend COLUMNS administers 28 scholarships totaling $16,550.

2019

Awards nearly 100 scholarships totaling $425,550 to more than 180 students. Additional funds are also awarded via West Bend COLUMNS administered scholarships.

2023

Over $900,000 in scholarships is awarded to 145 West Bend High School students.

THE COLUMNS IMPACT

I never imagined in 1972 when I received a COLUMNS Scholarship that years later I would be involved and on the board (since 2003) of West Bend COLUMNS, my way of giving back in thanks for the assistance I was given toward becoming a music educator.

—Terri (Wilfer) Kramer, Class of 1972, West Bend East

The scholarship I received from COLUMNS helped me afford to attend a university that wholeheartedly encourages my academic success. I am forever appreciative of the educational support I was given by the COLUMNS foundation.

—Olivia Mathie, Class of 2022, West Bend West

West Bend COLUMNS' commitment to supporting graduating seniors from West Bend East and West High Schools in their pursuit of post-secondary education is truly admirable. The school district is not only grateful but also immensely proud of the support West Bend COLUMNS and the community provide our students. The total amount of scholarships awarded continues to increase yearly, helping more and more seniors and their families alleviate the financial burden of post-secondary education. COLUMNS' investment in students is an investment in the future of our community.

—Jennifer Wimmer, Superintendent, West Bend Joint School District #1

I am grateful to be a recipient of a COLUMNS scholarship as it has helped fund my continued education.

—Sam Geldnich, Class of 2021, West Bend East

Winning a scholarship means that I get to worry less about financial burdens and instead focus more on my academics.

—Brooke Koebel, Class of 2024, West Bend East

The generous people who support COLUMNS scholarships have made it more affordable for thousands of students over the decades to continue their education after high school. As the former principal at West Bend West, I can attest how extremely grateful students feel upon receiving notification they have been awarded a COLUMNS scholarship. Our community is blessed to have such a remarkable organization.