Each of our current scholarships is given in memory or in honor of a branch member or supporter.  This year’s honorees are as follows:

 Sandy Godsey, branch president 1974-75; 50-year member; and historian, 1995-2002, who organized 80 years’ accumulation of branch records and wrote decade summaries beginning in 1923.

Dr. Kate Gregg, first woman to earn a Ph.D. from the University of Washington, 1916; college professor of English; author-compiler of three books of American western frontier history. She passed away in 1954, at which time the branch scholarship program was named in her honor.

Gerald M. Vandeboe (1933-2018) was a gifted Woodley High School English teacher who selflessly mentored students and staff alike, applying empathy and understanding to all he encountered; everyone treasured his insightful words of wisdom. He had early ties to Lewis County and often came to visit. He declared ours to be his favorite charity because we were dedicated to the practicable financial support of students. His widow, Doneen Vandeboe, has continued to provide support in Gerald’s memory because he understood the   importance of scholarships.