If you are a high school student looking for scholarships to help pay for college, you’re in luck! The Safford High School Scholarship and Education Foundation has scholarships for graduating SHS students. Foundation members will be coming to the school this spring and will go through the application process with you. Start documenting all volunteer hours, leadership opportunities you have had and dates that go along with those. Plus, by getting an early start, you’re increasing your chances of having more to add to your application, thus making it more likely to be awarded a scholarship. The ever-increasing cost of college is upon you. Allow us to possibly help offset that cost.
Student applications are judged based on: (1) Demonstrated potential for success in post-secondary education through his/her academic achievement while in high school. (2) Meeting the criteria (if any) specified by the specific scholarship. (leadership, athletic involvement, musical ability, etc.) (3) Submission of a completed application by the specified deadline.
SHS Foundation Report Card
Over $35,000 in scholarships were awarded in May of 2018.
* Five new scholarships were started in fiscal year 2017-2018. New scholarships include: Tommy Clonts Memorial, Susan Bonefas, Dr. Anita L. Riddle, Adie Lindsey, and John A. "Jack" Riddle.
* Including the first awarded scholarship of $500 in 1988, the Foundation has awarded $616.000 in scholarships!
* The Foundation retained its recognition as an organization to which donations can be given on a tax-deductible status.
* Officers serving the Foundation for 2017 - 2018 are: President, Randa Owens McKinney (Class of '72); Vice-President, Donna McEuen McGaughey (Class of '77); Secretary, Brenda Bonefas Hawkins (Class of 1984); Treasurer, John Bonefas, former SHS Principal; Historian, Mitzi Bingham (Class of '92); and Publicity, Mindy Maylen Wilson (Class of '68). Other Board Members: Gayrene Rogers Claridge, Julie Spalsbury Cluff, Mike DeLaO, Cindy Forgach DeMarcus, Tad Jacobsen, Sandra Holguin Jurado, Nicole Evans Lunt, Darlee John Maylen, Karen Ramirez-Ragland, Denise Davies Reis, Rhonda Huffman Sears, Dr. Mark Tregaskes, and Ken VanWinkle.
Class Reunions
UPCOMING CLASS REUNIONS
If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.If your class is planning a class reunion, please send us the information so it can be posted on this website. We can also provide you with addresses for many of your classmates. Contact John Bonefas at: jbonefas1@gmail.com for assistance.
Scholarship Funds
The number and value of scholarships for 2019 will be announced in late February of 2019.
The following fully-funded scholarships are awarded from each of these funds at the Annual SHS Scholarship Assembly in May. The value of each scholarship and the number of scholarships per fund will be posted annually in February. To donate to one of these scholarships send a check to: SHS SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION 734 11th ST SAFFORD AZ 85546
GOV AKER – Gov Aker, an avid golfer, organized the first fundraising golf tournament for the SHS Foundation. Upon his death, the SHS Scholarship Foundation started the Annual Gov Aker Golf Tournament. A $1000 scholarship is awarded to one female and one male athlete who have strong academic backgrounds. The remainder of the Gov Aker Scholarships are open to all students.
JOHN BONEFAS – John Bonefas spent 29 years at Safford High School as a teacher, coach, and administrator. John's wife Susan in conjunction with the SHS faculty started this scholarship upon his retirement in l996. The recipient of this scholarship demonstrates outstanding community service.
CLASS OF 1970- Funded through donations made by members and friends of the Class of 1970, this scholarship is open to all students. In May of 2012 one $500 scholarship was awarded.
CLASS OF 1972 – Members of the Class of 1972 who cared deeply for SHS funded this scholarship. The recipient of this scholarship demonstrates outstanding leadership. In May of 2012 one $500 scholarship was awarded.
CLASS of 1974 – Funded through donations of members and friends of the Class of 1974, this scholarship is open to all students.
WALTER CLIFFORD JR. - Funded by the Safford FFA and the Clifford Family, this scholarship recognizes the years of service Mr. Clifford provided baling hay for over 20 years as an FFA volunteer. As a community farmer, Mr. Clifford was dedicated to the FFA program. This scholarship is awarded to FFA students.
CAROL DAVIES-CLASS OF 1960 - Carol Davies, a 1960 graduate of SHS, dedicated countless hours to the Safford and State FFA programs. Her family financed this scholarship which is open to all students.
BOB FAUNCE – Bob Faunce spent much of his teaching career at Safford High School as a math teacher, coach, administrator, and athletic director. He seldom missed a school activity or event in which the Bulldogs participated. The recipient of this scholarship demonstrates outstanding ability in mathematics.
FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS OF AMERICA-FBLA - Funded through the Safford FBLA Chapter and began in 2013. This scholarship is open to to graduates who were active members in the Safford FBLA Chapter and displayed outstanding leadership qualities.
FFA ALUMNI- Funded through the Safford FFA Alumni organization, this scholarship is awarded to graduates from the Safford FFA program.
LAFE NELSON- Funded by the grand children of Lafe Nelson. Mr. Nelson dedicated his life to education spending most of his career in the SUSD system as superintendent. He cared deeply for his students and staff.
RALPH HAWTHORNE – A 1968 graduate from Safford High School, Ralph Hawthorne spent the last 12 years of his life as an SHS counselor. In honor of Mr. Hawthorne’s concern, dedication and support of SHS students, this scholarship is awarded to a student desiring to attend a four year university who demonstrates good work habits, respect for others, high standards, and integrity.
ZEL HAWTHORNE - Zel Hawthorne served as a DECA teacher at Safford High School for 17 years leading students to numerous Arizona and National awards. She served as a member of the SUSD School Board and as one of the original founders of the SHS Scholarship Foundation. This scholarship is open to all students.
DELBERT HOUSEHOLDER – As a life-long valley resident, Mr. Householder committed to recognizing young people from the Gila Valley for their achievements. He served on the Graham County Board of Supervisors for several years funding this scholarship by dedicating a percentage of his Supervisor’s salary. This scholarship is awarded to at least one student from each valley high school and the Graham County 4-H. Preference is given to those who have not received any other scholarship or financial assistance beyond their family’s resources.
ELLIOTT JENSEN – Elliott Jensen gave his life for his country during World War II. Loren Burrell funded the majority of this scholarship in memory of his 1942 classmate. This scholarship is open to all students.
AGNES SMITH KNAPP – The children of Agnes Knapp Smith funded this scholarship in honor of their mother. Mrs. Knapp had grandchildren attend Safford Schools for 30 continuous years. The recipient of this scholarship has taken AP classes, weighted and EAC classes and has been active in NHS with plans to attend a four year university.
JAN KONOPNICKI – This scholarship has been funded by the Konopnicki family in honor of Jan Konopnicki, who had a love for education. Preference for this scholarship is given to students choosing a career in education.
VIRGINIA LATTA - This scholarship is funded by Ms. Virginia Latta. She served Safford High School as principal for several years. This scholarship is open to current year SHS graduates with strong preference given to a student that is the first member of their family to attend college.
JUDY MOSER - This scholarship has been funded by the Moser Family in honor of Judy Moser, a wonderful teacher for Safford Schools. Her diligence and caring had a positive impact on hundreds of students. Preference for this scholarship is given to students choosing a career in education.
HARVEY & LORETTA OLSEN – Native Nebraskans, Harvey & Loretta Olsen moved to Safford in 1950 and later opened a successful carpet business. The Olsen’s were loving and caring people and named several non-profits as recipients of their estate including the SHS Scholarship Foundation. This scholarship is open to all students.
H. D. OWENS FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP - H. D. HEAVY OWENS was a 1947 SHS graduate and a renowned Safford businessman for over 65 years. Heavy valued education and family. His family has started this scholarship to honor his loving care of family. One $500 scholarship will be given annually.
JONATHAN MONZINGO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP - This scholarship is sponsored by Jonathon's parents, Judy and Garry Monzingo. This $500 scholarship is available to a SHS graduate, that has or will soon enlist in any branch of the United States Military. Funds are designated for the enlistee to assist family members traveling for important military events the enlistee participates in. Financial need is consider in the selection. If the original applicant does not qualify an alternate will be chosen. Preference is given to applicants that have already enlisted.
LUISA GABALDON PERCY – Luisa Gabaldon Percy taught Spanish at SHS in the l930’s. Her family funded this scholarship in recognition of her commitment to education. This scholarship is open to all students.
FAYE W. PHILLIPS – Faye Phillips was a 1936 graduate of SHS who funded this scholarship based on her interest in academic achievement. Preference is given to students who are eligible for admission to a college or university with a G.P.A. of 3.0 or better and in need of financial assistance.
MELVIN POWELL – Melvin Powell, an SHS and Gila Jr. College (EAC) alumnus, grew up in Safford attending grammar school in what is now the Safford City Hall. Mr. Powell served his country as part of the famed Bushmasters during WWII and later worked for the Forest Service and Postal Service. Ruth Powell School is named after his wife, a long-time educator for Safford Schools. This scholarship is open to all students.
DR. ANITA L. RIDDLE - Dr. Anita Riddle is a 1980 SHS graduate. She was valedictorian and student body president and went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in chemical Engineering from Cornell University. While working for ExxonMobil, she earned a Master of Engineering Management degree and a Doctor of Engineering degree in Chemical Engineering from Lamar University. She retired from ExxonMobil in 2018. The recipient of this scholarship is a female who has declared engineering as a major.
JOHN A. "JACK" RIDDLE - This scholarship is in memory of Jack Riddle who was the Mine Superintendent for the Phelps Dodge Safford Mine from 1975-1981. Mr. Riddle earned a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Arizona and worked as an engineer in the mining industry in Arizona, Mexico and Chile. He and his wife, Silvia Iriarte Riddle, moved to Bisbee, Az for retirement. The recipient of this scholarship is a male student that has declared engineering as a major.
RYDER RIDGWAY - Ryder Ridgway was a long time Safford resident known for his knowledge of and writings about the history of the Gila Valley. His family funded this scholarship to recognize his many contributions to the valley. This scholarship is open to all students.
SHS ALUMNI – Funded through donations from SHS Alumni of all classes, this scholarship is open to all students.
D. B. STAUFFER - Del Stauffer was an icon in the field of Agriculture Education. Over his many years at the helm of the Safford FFA program, Mr. Stauffer made a positive impact on hundreds of students. Funded by the Safford FFA and the Stauffer Family, the recipient of this scholarship is an active Safford FFA member.
BONNIE WADDELL – This scholarship honors Bonnie Waddell, the mother of the SHS Foundation’s founding father, Dr. William Waddell. This scholarship is open to all students.
WILLIAM & BARBARA WADDELL – This scholarship honors the original founders of the SHS Scholarship Foundation for their vision and contributions. This scholarship is open to all students.
CLEO BELL WHITMORE – This scholarship was established in 2018 by friends and family of Cleo focuses on a loving mother of four that carried that love of children to many children as she served as a foster parent for 22 years. She encouraged all to invest in people. Her goal was to encourage other to always strive to do their best without making excuses.the original founders of the SHS Scholarship Foundation for their vision and contributions. This scholarship is open to all students.
DONALD R. WILSON – Don Wilson came to Safford in 1945 as a teacher of science and mathematics. In 1948 he became principal, a position he held until 1962 when he was appointed superintendent until his retirement in 1980. He was active in numerous community organizations. This scholarship is open to all students.
Other Scholarships:
DR. WILLIAM WADDELL – This scholarship is given annually to one or more teachers within the Safford Unified School District. Dr. Waddell, a SHS graduate of 1936, was the visionary behind forming the SHS Scholarship Foundation and funded this scholarship.
GRAHAM COUNTY TRANSITION TEAM – Funds for this scholarship are being raised by individuals interested in assisting students with special needs continue their education and transition from school to the workforce. The transition team awards this scholarship in the amount of $500.
The following funds are not completed so no scholarships are awarded at this time. When these funds reach our prescribed funding level, we will award scholarships from them.
SUSAN K. BONEFAS – Funding for this scholarship was started by Susan's family. Her long and storied career began at the Public Health Hospital in Tuba City, AZ. In 1967 she and her family moved to Safford where she spent many years in assorted positions at the local hospital. She volunteered for many causes especially helping the elderly and sick.
DONALD HOPKINS – Donald Hopkins, a 1972 SHS graduate, has served the SHS Scholarship Foundation for years. His expertise with financial and investment matters are invaluable to the Foundation. He started this fund out of his interest in providing young people the opportunity to better themselves.
CLASS OF 1977 – Members of the SHS Class of 1977 are contributing Funds for this scholarship.
CLASS OF 1979 - Members of the SHS Class of 1979 are contributing funds for this scholarship.
ALTON MONTIERTH - This scholarship has been started by the family of Mr. Montierth as a memorial to his service to youth. Mr. Montierth taught in Safford schools for decades.
SUSD Teacher Scholarships
Through the William Waddell fund the Safford High School Scholarship and Educational Foundation annually provides some funds to assist teachers within the Safford Unified School District. Applications are due April 1st of each calendar year. To obtain an application go to the home page of www.shsalumni.org and click on the downloads sections at the top center of the page. One of the downloads is the teacher scholarship application. If you have questions send your question via email to: jbonefas1@gmail.com
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