Communities Foundation of Oklahoma recently announced 580 students will receive scholarships for the 2020-2021 school year, with total new awards exceeding $1.3 million.

In total, CFO has more $3.3 million in scholarships earmarked for students through 2024.

These gifts provide funding to cover tuition, fees, and required materials as they begin, continue, or resume their pursuit of a college degree.

“Working with donors and seeing the way these scholarships can change lives is the work we are passionate about at CFO,” says Teresa Rose Crook, Communities Foundation of Oklahoma executive director.

“It is a privilege to help donors who want to fund education connect with qualified students. We enjoy making giving easier and having a team to help donors and charitable organizations manage their endowments and scholarships.”

In partnership with the Kingfisher Community Trust and other private donors, 23 local graduating seniors were awarded $40,166 in scholarships.

A local example of tribute through scholarships, and new for 2020, is the Doug Fisher Agricultural Memorial Scholarship.

Born and raised in Kingfisher, Fisher taught vocational agricultural at Lomega High School for four years.

After teaching, he worked at the Kingfisher Co-op Elevator, and its subsequent iterations, for nearly 40 years.

After his passing, his family decided to establish the scholarship to memorialize his contributions and passion to the local agricultural community.

The Doug Fisher Agricultural Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating senior of Kingfisher or Lomega high school who meets the requirements.

Applications open in January of 2021 at www. cfok.org/apply.

“We work with donors to manage scholarships that achieve their philanthropic goals,” explains Austin Klososky, director of scholarships.

“From setting up new gifts and memorials, to carrying out donor wishes and ensuring students remain eligible, we handle the details. I love my work, especially the student success stories, knowing these scholarships can change lives.”

For more information about the scholarship process or how to get started, email Austin Klososky at aklososky@cfok.org.