Scholarships

119 Scholarships awarded since 2012; $78,470.00 in total distributed.

Aspire Higher Art Scholarship

The Aspire Higher Art Scholarship honors Krista’s creative passions and her dream to pursue a career in the arts. Krista, our Kiki, gave her all in the realm of politics, public affairs, and non-profits, but it was the arts that captured her heart. She loved music, dance, theater and film and was building a career as an actor and screenwriter. It was her ardent desire to make a difference through her artistic talents… to entertain, empower, heal, inspire, soothe, excite and bring people together in significant ways. We seek talented creators who have a passion for the arts, a clear vision of their artistic future and who mirror Krista’s compassionate spirit, her wonderful joy for life, her thirst for learning , her dependable nature, and her zeal to reach for seemingly impossible goals. We continue her story by supporting the dreams of other budding artists.

The Ironman Scholarship Award

The Ironman Scholarship Award honors the memory of Zachary Jamison Weller, Krista’s cousin who passed in 2021 at the age of 35. Zach was a kind and loving soul who faced mental health challenges that kept him from truly developing his gifts. We call this the “Ironman” Scholarship because he was a big Marvel Comics fan, and Ironman was his favorite superhero. Mental health issues were his demons, but his musical talents, were his armor. He is remembered as our superhero for his strength against these obstacles. This scholarship aims to shine a light on youth mental health issues. We seek other “superheroes” in the throes of living with challenges and who are willing to share their stories. Together with Ironman Zachary, this group of brave Avengers will serve as beacons to others striving to overcome their demons.

EJCA Achievement Award

The EJCA Achievement Award honors Krista’s “true grit” devotion to her community through her hard work in local politics. In 1999, at age 24, Krista was elected to the Exeter Town Council and served two terms. During that time, she helped to overcome opposition to The Job Corps Academy. She believed in the mission of providing an alternative path to those in need of a second chance to realize their potential. Krista was a dynamic young woman who worked with heart and head to improve communication and collaboration among council members. Those who doubted her abilities due to age and gender came to respect and admire her hard work and professionalism. It took one more YES vote to make Job Corps a reality and she worked to convince one more council member to make a difference in the lives of these young adults. We continue her support of the Job Corp mission by honoring those who can demonstrate how the Job Corps experience improved their lives.

Camperships for Kids

Camperships for Kids honor Krista’s helpful and kind nature, her active lifestyle, and her work as a teen camp counselor and lifeguard. They help us remember our gal on the go… swimming, rowing, fishing, riding horses, running, rollerblading, gardening, and enjoying any kind of outdoor fun! Her enthusiasm for an active life made her a natural at nurturing campers as young as 5 to play, learn, create, grow, and bloom! It was exhausting but also rewarding to encourage kids to try new things, gain new skills, make friends, build confidence, and have some FUN! Applicants are recommended from social services, teachers, and camps to identify children who need financial support to make a camp or recreational experience possible.

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