HISTORY OF CONKLE-ROWE:
In 2019 we reconstituted the scholarship endowment as the “Conkle-Rowe Scholarship.” This scholarship was once dedicated to Henry Conkle (1979) and added Pat Rowe to its name. Henry Conkle and this change added Pat Rowe to its name. Henry Conkle and Pat Rowe are the two key parishioners who over the past many decades led our ministry to support area students needing help to attend college. Henry Conkle, who first started the church’s scholarship program was followed by Pat Rowe who led the ministry from 2002-2022. Kevin Rowland was chair from 2022-2026 and was succeeded by co-chairs: Julia Boeve and Gloria Weir.
Scholarships for post high school education are awarded annually by the Church. The funds for the scholarship come from the church budget, as well as the Shepherd and Scholarship Endowments. The income from these funds is established by the congregation and given for both vocational training and higher education colleges. Applicants must reside in the Blue Ridge School District and complete a detailed application. Awards are based on need and academic success. We continue the student scholarships until graduation and maintain communication and support with the student throughout these years via our Conkle-Rowe shepherds. The Conkle-Rowe shepherds are assigned to specific scholars so that scholars have one point of contact. This program helps build a one-to-one relationship with the scholars.
For over 48 years the scholarship program has benefited many grateful students who would not otherwise have been able to continue their education beyond high school. Awarding over 180 scholarships in recent years, this school year, 2026-2027, we awarded 16 new college scholarships to freshman scholars - some, the first in their families to attend college. Additionally we continue to support 35 existing scholars this year. Our total awards for all 51 scholars was a record $153,000 in scholarships to scholars attending 20 colleges/universities.
A few years ago, the endowment was just over $100,000.00. Now, through your generosity and bequests, we have a balance of over $1,800,000.00. Our goal is to raise the fund to $2 million dollars, ensuring a solid base for future scholars and assist the ever-growing number of high school graduates in their dreams of a college education. To do this, we need your help.
Donation envelopes are available in the church in September, and throughout the year in Hines Hall. You may also click the button below to donate to the Conkle-Rowe Endowment Fund.
Thank you for your support in helping the young people in our community!
WHEN YOU BELIEVE IN YOUTH AND INVEST IN THEIR FUTURE, YOU CAN CHANGE A LIFE.
WHEN YOU CHANGE A LIFE, YOU CAN CHANGE THE WORLD.
