Academic Scholarships

The Darke County Scholarship

The Light Foundation presents up to four scholarships to Darke County students. Each student receives a $1,000 scholarship to help them further their education.

Applications are reviewed by a committee that considers the many different aspects of each student’s high school achievements. Some of the scholarship areas that are considered are academic achievement, community service, job responsibility, and the content of their answers on the application.

Eligible students must fill out the scholarship application that opens in January and return it by May 1, 2026.

2025 Winners:

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Gabriella Leeper graduated from Ansonia High School and will be attending The Ohio State University, where she will double major in Sports Industry and Business.

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Allison Muhlenkamp graduated from Franklin Monroe High School and will be attending the University of Findlay, majoring in Exercise Science with plans to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

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Cade Bergman graduated from Versailles High School and will be enrolling at The Ohio State University to study Health Sciences, with plans to become a Physician Assistant through a Master’s program.

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Josh Baker graduated from Greenville High School and will be attending the Hobart Institute of Welding Technologyto begin a career in the skilled trades.

The Dan Pires Scholarship

Each year, The Light Foundation awards two high school seniors from the Greater New Bedford area with the Dan Pires Memorial Scholarship. Danny was a beat reporter for the Standard Times and a close personal friend of Matt’s who passed away unexpectedly in 2008.

The goal of the $1,000 scholarship is to help deserving students further their academic careers in memory of Danny, and each one is presented at the annual Steak and Burger Dinner benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Greater New Bedford. The winners, along with three runner-ups, have the opportunity to attend a Patriots game on behalf of the foundation. Matt Light honors the late Danny Pires for all his work and The Pires family carries on his legacy by giving back to kids who need it.

The 2019 Winners present:

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In December 2020, Matt Light joined the 2020 Dan Pires Scholarship Award finalist at the annual Steak & Burger Dinner where he presented the deserving winner with a $1,000 scholarship from The Light Foundation. Congratulations to Isabella Mercer on her achievement!