2025 Scholarship Winners Announced

Reagan Hill and Lana Johnson - The Alaina Day Scholarship. This scholarship supports seniors pursuing degrees or certifications in medical, nursing or related fields.

 

Spencer Gillespie -The Butch Zike Scholarship, created in 2017 by family and friends of Mr. Zike — a proud Whiteland alumnus who dedicated 32 years to CPCSC as a teacher, coach and Athletic Director, and who continues to serve on the CPCSC School Board. 

 

Jacob Witherington - The Sharon Conner Scholarship. Established in 2021 by Sharon Conner and her family, it honors the many teachers, students, staff and friends who enriched her life. Sharon served Whiteland Community High School as a teacher, counselor, and dedicated volunteer. This scholarship supports WCHS seniors planning to attend a four-year college.

 

Lily Donica - The Sharon Conner and Dr. James Shackleford Scholarship. Established in 2021, it honors Sharon and her husband, Dr. Shackleford — a beloved dentist who served the community from the 1970s until his retirement in 2019. This award supports WCHS students pursuing a two-year college or technical school path.

 

Gracie Serrano - The James Sleighter Endowed Scholarship, established to honor Mr. James Sleighter, who served as principal at WCHS from 1959 to 1990. During his 31 years of service, Mr. Sleighter influenced generations of students and inspired scores of teachers and staff. This teacher-nominated scholarship recognizes students who: are involved in at least two extracurricular activities each school year,  demonstrate positive leadership and organizational skills and maintain at least a B- average.

 

Freddie Bast - The Kevin Starnes Memorial Scholarship honoring Kevin Starnes, a proud WCHS Class of 2015 graduate and Vincennes University Class of 2017 graduate. Kevin was a dedicated football player, a talented fixer of all things and a loyal friend who was always there to help others. Kevin tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident on May 20, 2018 and his family and friends came together to create this scholarship in his memory. It is awarded to a deserving student who reflects Kevin’s spirit of helpfulness, friendship and hard work.

Lana Johnson - The Michael L. McElwain and Donna J. (Esteb) Scholarship. A Pathways to the Future Scholarship, this award was created by WCHS alumni Mike (Class of 1969) and Donna (Class of 1971) McElwain. Mike proudly served 43 years with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department.  Donna worked for over 40 years as a registered nurse at Riley and St. Vincent Hospitals. They established this scholarship to support students pursuing Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, or Nursing — fields they have dedicated their lives to.

Alexandra Thayer - The Haveman Family Agricultural Scholarship. Also a Pathways to the Future Scholarship, this award was created by Glenn and Becky Haveman, longtime owners of the Whiteland Orchard for 45 years. Their passion for agriculture and commitment to the future of farming led them to start a scholarship that encourages careers in: Farming, Ag Mechanics, Ag Education, Animal Husbandry, Horticulture and Food Production.  Students must plan to major in agriculture, have FFA/4H involvement, and demonstrate financial need.

 

Gracie Serrano - The Doub Family Scholarship. Honoring a rich family legacy of Whiteland alumni dating back to the 1800s, the Doub Family Scholarship celebrates values of faith, family, hard work, integrity, and responsibility. The Doub family's farmland is now home to Clark-Pleasant Middle School and Ray Crowe Elementary, making this scholarship especially meaningful to our district.

Jacob Witherington - The Jerry Lasiter Scholarship. Named after lifelong Warrior supporter and honorary WCHS graduate Jerry Lasiter (Class of 1967), this scholarship honors students who demonstrate community impact, have had an IEP, or are pursuing a career in Special Education. Jerry’s Warrior spirit continues to uplift and inspire generations.

 

Espoir Emmanuel and Haroon Mardanzi - Pathways to the Future Scholarships. Sponsored by the Clark-Pleasant Education Foundation (CPEF), these scholarships are made possible by generous donations from community members, local businesses, alumni, and CPCSC staff. They are 1,000,  one-year renewable scholarships for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution.  Can be extended to graduate studies if a student finishes undergrad early.

We are beyond proud of these outstanding students and forever grateful to the families and community members who continue to open doors for future Warriors.