Eberly Scholarship Recipients Say Thanks

Oct 23, 2019

13 students attend a luncheon to recognize the generosity of the Eberly Foundation and president Robert Eberly Jr.

eberly scholarship

Taylor Kodric (seated, left), Destinie Olesko, Madison Groover, Chloe Guie, Emily Sloan, Taylor Assad (standing, left), Peter Livengood, Calvin Livengood, Giovani Marian, Robert Eberly Jr., Kathy Eberly, President Geraldine Jones, Jeff Jones, Thomas Victor, Dominick Melchek, Mason Kelly, Katlyn Massey.

 

Students gathered at the Eberly Family Scholarship Luncheon in Kara Alumni House on Oct. 23 to express their gratitude for full-tuition scholarships that have helped them pursue a Cal U degree. 

Robert E. Eberly Jr., president of the Eberly Foundation, and his wife, Kathy, met with 13 recipients of the Eberly Family Scholarship at the event. In all, 24 students are Eberly scholarship recipients for 2019-2020.  

“It was one of the most normal days of my life — until I got the scholarship letter,” said Dominick Melchek, a first-year student majoring in secondary education. 

"It opens up so many doors for my future.” 

Learn more about the scholarships available at Cal U.

“I’m happy to be of assistance,” Eberly told the students. “Cal U has a special place in my heart because of all of you and your successes. I wish you all the very best. At some point, when you’re able, remember this moment and think about doing something that will benefit future generations.” 

The Eberly Foundation was established more than 55 years ago by Robert Eberly Jr.’s grandfather, Orville, who did not finish high school but educated himself by reading and taking correspondence courses. He eventually invested in oil and gas, then got into banking. He established the Eberly Foundation to support education through scholarships and other initiatives. 

The Eberly Family Scholarships are given to residents of Fayette County who are enrolled as full-time students at California University of Pennsylvania. Recipients can renew their scholarships for a maximum of eight semesters provided they maintain a 3.0 grade-point average.

“It’s been such a blessing, and I’m so honored,” said Taylor Kodric, an undergraduate psychology major who is already taking credits toward a master’s degree in school psychology. 

“I’m a first-generation student with three sisters in a one-income household. The scholarship allowed me to focus on my academics and take full advantage of the extracurricular opportunities at Cal U. I’ve been able to work on research projects and my honors thesis, I’ve been active on the SAI Board, I’ve been a campus tour guide and worked in the Academic Success Office. 

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to thank the Eberlys in person for what a difference they have made in my life.” 

President Geraldine M. Jones also expressed her thanks. 

“We appreciate your generosity,” she said. “Your care and concern has helped set the course for our students for the rest of their lives.”