Damien White Memorial Scholarship Fund

TYPE OF FUND: Scholarship

DATE ESTABLISHED: April 2024

PURPOSE: To provide a scholarship to a deserving Elkins High School graduating senior who can demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form and has maintained a GPA of 2.5 or above, and who is planning to pursue a 4-year degree, 2-year degree, or trade school certification.  The student can attend any school with any area of study.  The scholarship will be renewable for up to four years, with a total award of $4,000, distributed in increments of $1,000 per year.  The student must demonstrate a 2.5 GPA each year to remain eligible for scholarship renewal for the upcoming school year.  If student “A” receives the scholarship and, for any reason, does not renew the scholarship for year two, another student “B” will be selected for the final three years of student “A’s” scholarship availability.  After the first four years, four students will always receive the scholarship every year. 

DISTRIBUTION: On the recommendation of the Scholarship Committee and final approval by the Board of Directors of TCF.

BACKGROUND: Damien White, a graduate of Elkins High School, embodied resilience and overcame numerous obstacles. He earned both a bachelor's and a master's degree from West Virginia University. Damien served as a middle school counselor and high school soccer coach in Loudoun County, Virginia, where he made a lasting impact on his students, friends, and community.

In 2023, he fought bravely against glioblastoma, but unfortunately, he lost his battle and passed away at the young age of 45. He leaves behind a legacy of determination, humor, resilience, loyalty, service to others, and kindness. We hope that this scholarship will help other individuals like him achieve their goals of improving their lives and positively impacting their communities.