Bill Adamson (LHS Class of 1951) was born and raised in Rochester, the son of Joe and Helen Adamson. His father graduated from Heffron High School in 1921 (Heffron was the forerunner of Lourdes High School). As children of Irish decent, Catholic education was very important to the Adamson family; a solid education was deemed essential to leading an adult Christian life.

Bill and Carrie’s four children - Joe (1983), Michael (1984), Michon Schaefer (1986), and Patrick (1988), all attended St. John’s Elementary School and graduated from Lourdes High School. In 2007-2008, ten grandchildren represented the 4th generation of Adamson’s attending Rochester Catholic Schools.

The Adamson philosophy has always been to support the church, school, and community both physically and financially. With the establishment of this scholarship in 2007, the family wishes to continue that goal by providing tuition assistance to worthy Lourdes students.

Click here for more information.

Click here for more information.

The Baker Family Scholarship was established in 2019 in honor of Earl and Mary Baker who provided all six of their children with a superior Catholic education at Lourdes High School. The six Lourdes graduates are Deidre (Deedee) Baker Hedrick (1951), Mary Baker Culhane (1953), Marcia Baker Schug (1954), John Baker (1960), Kathleen Baker (1963), and Margaret (Maggie) Baker Grill (1964).

This scholarship was started by Dan and Dorothy Bell in October of 2014. Dan taught English at Lourdes during the late 60’s and early 70’s. Dorothy was on the St. John the Evangelist’s HSA, the school board and served for a number of years as a board member of the Lourdes Foundation. The Bells have five children who went through the RCS system all graduating from Lourdes High School; Elissa ’91, twins Alex and Davin’94, Andrea ’97 and Ingrid in ’01.

The Bells feel that Lourdes High School prepared their children well for college and beyond, and would like to help other students have the opportunities their children had.

This scholarship is established by Javon & Vita Bea in memory of their oldest daughter, Sara, who passed away at age 27 in 2003. Sara inspired others to face the challenges placed before them and had a strong work ethic. The Bea’s desire for this scholarship is to help students with special needs attend Lourdes High School.

Javon and Vita Bea have six children, five of who attended Lourdes High School. Sara who is now deceased was the eldest and attended public school due to her severe disabilities. Rebecca (Bea) Remick, ’96, Maria (Bea) Neuner, ’98, Joanna (Bea) Benning, ’04, Theresa (Bea) Halverson, ’06, and Javon Daniel Bea, ’10. The family hopes that a student with a disability can be positively impacted and given the opportunity to flourish at Lourdes High School with the aid from this scholarship.

Established by Jeff and Marnie Bigler in 2017, this scholarship is for students of a coach or faculty member and in grades K-12 at Rochester Catholic Schools.

This scholarship was started by Art Birdseye and daughter, Barb Jensen, April 2012 when Maryann Birdseye died of cancer.

Michael “Biker” Birdseye died of natural causes on his 43rd birthday in November 2005. He was a 1981 graduate of Lourdes High School. This scholarship was established in loving memory by his family and friends.

Michael (Biker) loved football and played on the 1979 LHS team that won the state championship. After high school he attended the University of St. Thomas and graduated with a major in entrepreneurship.

He was proud of being a Big Brother at the Rochester YMCA and providing many opportunities for his “boys.” He loved to fish and camp, and travel to Nicaragua. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was known for his warm heart and big smile!

Established in 1992 in memory of E. Elliott Briese who generously gave his talents and resources to Lourdes High School.

This scholarship is established in the name of Chuck and Jerry Brown, long-time supporters of Catholic education. Jerry was a 1946 graduate of Lourdes, and their five children attended St. Pius X elementary school with two of them going on to graduate from Lourdes, Jeff ’66 and Greg ’67. Chuck and Jerry were Charter members of St. Pius X and were very active in the school and parish during their lives.

The Cafarella Family Scholarship was established by Tom and Heidi Cafarella in memory of parents Vernon and Joan Cafarella. As with Vernon and Joan, Tom and Heidi are strong supporters of Catholic education. Their children, Jack ’20 and Alex ’22, attended Rochester Catholic Schools from preschool through high school. Tom and Heidi wish to support the mission of Catholic education by providing this scholarship to families seeking an exceptional education for their students at RCS. 

Established in recognition of the many years of service that Gene. Campbell gave to the Lourdes High School hockey program as a coach and mentor. Mr. Campbell was head hockey coach at Lourdes from 1982 through 1996.

Besides success on the ice, his teams represented Lourdes well through their commitment, dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Established by Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter in 2005 to perpetuate their strong belief in the value of Catholic education. In 1955 Marc and Helen owned and operated the Marlem Marine & Sporting Goods Company in St. Paul, but relocated to Rochester where they purchased a wholesale beverage company and later opened Marlem Investment Company.

They always felt Lourdes was a very fine institution and valued the quality of education it offered. This was one of the reasons they moved to Rochester. Their two daughters, Mary and Sue, are graduates of Lourdes. Mr. Carpenter was one of the earliest members of the Lourdes Foundation Board of Directors. He served for many years and was an emeritus member.

This scholarship was established in 1987 in honor of Mr. Vincent Cashman, who was a loyal supporter of Lourdes High School. All of the Cashman's children graduated from Lourdes. The scholarship is awarded to an incoming freshman from St. John’s Grade School.

Established to commemorate the 50th class reunion of the Class of 1953 to promote quality Catholic education and the perpetuity of Lourdes High School.

Established by the Class of 1954 on the occasion of their 50th class reunion with funds raised especially through the efforts of classmate, Mr. Don Fox. The Class wished to support students today in obtaining a Catholic value based education.

This scholarship was established by graduates of the Lourdes High School Class of 1955 on the occasion of their 40th class reunion. Members of the class wish to provide to today’s students the same opportunity they had to obtain a Catholic value based education at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship, established by the Class of 1959, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship, established by the Class of 1960, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship was established by graduates of Lourdes High School Class of 1961 on the occasion of their 50th class reunion in 2011. Then in 2012, the Class of 1961 wanted to make their scholarship awardable before the new school opened.

A letter writing campaign went out to all the classmates stating that there were some anonymous classmates that would match their gifts if given before March 31, 2013, and they succeeded in their goal.

The Class of 1961 stated that the reason they wanted to fund this scholarship was to provide to today’s students the same opportunities they had to obtain a Catholic value based education at Lourdes.

This scholarship was started by a generous anonymous donor offering to match dollar for dollar any donation to the scholarship, and was established by the graduates of the class of 1964 on occasion of their 50th class reunion.

This scholarship, established by the Class of 1965, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship, established by the Class of 1967, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship, established by the Class of 1968, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship, established by the Class of 1969, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

Established by graduates of the Class of 1972, this scholarship helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

The Class of 1975 created the scholarship in 2025 to support Lourdes High School students in grades 9-12, ensuring that families have support to attend LHS. 

Established by graduates of the Class of 1976, this scholarship helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship, established by the Class of 1991, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship was fully funded in May 2014 after a five month effort by the LHS Class of 2014. This was the first class in Lourdes High School history to ever have fully funded their class scholarship before their graduation.

The LHS Class of 2014 had also lost a classmate during their sophomore year. They choose to remember Wyatt Currie ’14 by including him in the naming of the scholarship.

This scholarship, established by the Class of 2018, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

Established in 2001, by Robert Conway, Lourdes High School Class of 1962, to honor his parents’ commitment to Catholic education.

In gratitude and thanksgiving for our Catholic faith and the Rochester Catholic Schools assisting in the growth of faith and providing a great education for our children: Patrick, Paul and Ann, we establish a fully funded scholarship for students of the Rochester Catholic Schools. In doing so, we would like to give others the opportunity to attend Rochester Catholic Schools to receive an education and benefits like our family has received.

We anticipate that the students receiving this scholarship have a strong Catholic faith open to growth and witnessing with a strong desire to do their best in their academics. Additionally, we will be supportive to them through prayer to keep them valuing themselves, their faith and their education.

Fully funded in 2011 after Jim’s death, The Jim & Judy Daly Scholarship recognizes a student already in the private school system who possesses an outstanding attitude and exhibits strong efforts to improve in all areas of life.

Jim (Lourdes `56) and his wife Judy, taught, valued and rewarded hard work, as they raised six children who all graduated from Lourdes. Terry ’80, Tom ’84, Tim ’85, Molly ’89 Jim ’91, & Kelley ’94. It is the family’s wish that the recipient be well rounded with strong Catholic values, is loyal and wants to go to college.

The recipient of the scholarship desires to overcome his or her academic challenges and above all else, exhibits an unwavering positive attitude and deep personal integrity.

Established in honor of Jim and Gervais Deutsch, who dedicated their lives to their family, the community, and Catholic education. Jim, fondly known as “Big Daddy,” was instrumental in the Lourdes High School golf program. Jim and Gervais have been avid supporters of Lourdes High School athletics and activities.

This scholarship was established by the Doran family in memory of Henry “Hank” Doran '54 and Mary Clare (Kenan) Doran ’54.  Hank passed away in 2007 and Mary Clare in 2023.  Mary Clare's sister, Peg Kenan '59, became part of the scholarship prior to her death in 2016.  

The Doran and Kenan families have a long history of Lourdes graduates spanning three generations. Hank and Mary Clare were high school sweethearts who were both enrolled at Lourdes High School by widowed mothers. The quality, faith-based education they received at Lourdes gave them a good start in life.  It was their wish that future students have the same opportunity through this scholarship. 

Hank enjoyed a long career at IBM, and Mary Clare was a graduate of the St. Mary's School of Nursing.  Peg was also in the field of nursing, working in several areas of the country before returning to Rochester.  She was always ready to help others, especially her nieces and nephews, and supported the scholarship’s growth. 

The second and third generations of Lourdes graduates from the Doran family include the children, grandchildren and grand-nephews of Hank, Mary Clare and Peg. They appreciate the excellent college preparation they received at Lourdes and are grateful for the lifelong friends and greater community they are a part of as Lourdes graduates.

Fully funded in 2010 by John and Maureen Lawson in honor of both of their mothers who had since passed away. John and Maureen are big supporters of LHS and the Lourdes Foundation with John Lawson currently a foundation board members.

Established in 2017 in honor of Kenneth Lee Drew, a 1958 graduate of Lourdes High School. This scholarship helps make an education at Rochester Catholic Schools possible for families with students in preschool through high school.

Established in 1995, and funded by local organizations, clubs, and individuals to honor Gene Eiden who has given so much to Lourdes High School and the Rochester community in time and music support when called upon.

Established to remember Kathleen Erickson, a loyal and active supporter of Lourdes, by her family and friends.

Established in 1995 by the LHS Student Council and funded by Lourdes students.

Established in 1996 through the generosity of the Lawrence Ferguson family whose children are graduates of Lourdes High School.

The Ron and Helen Gathje Tuition scholarship will assist a student and family with tuition costs. Ron Gathje passed away on August 24, 2011 after a three year battle with lung cancer and it was decided by his wife Helen (Weis, class of l952) and family to start this in his memory and in her honor.

Ron was a sheet metal worker who along with his wife Helen put their five sons, Steve(‘73), Pete(‘75), John(‘81), Jim(‘82), Mike(‘84) and daughter Donna (Mueller,’78) through St Pius grade school and LHS. They sacrificed a lot, but never complained knowing how important a Catholic education was. They were always very involved in their children and grandchildren’s activities from sports to music to theater.

So in order to honor their hard work, faithful support, sacrifice and dedication to their children in obtaining a Catholic education, his family and friends would like to keep paying it forward through this scholarship. Ron and Helen have been members of St. Pius X church since 1954.

"He didn't tell me how to live, he lived and let me watch him do it."- Charence Budington Kelland

Established by Tim and Kathy Geisler in 2017, this scholarship helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

Established in August 2003 to honor Ruth & Nestor Goblirsch who, while they had no children of their own, were great advocates of Catholic education.

The class of 1989 created the Derek Gossman Excellence in Mathematics scholarship in memory of Derek Gossman. The scholarship is intended to support an LHS student who has a love for mathematics, is kind and helpful to others, and attending LHS. We are honored to remember Derek Gossman with this scholarship.

Established in 2010 to honor Charles and Margaret Gray for their avid support of Lourdes High School. Charles "Chuck" Gray a '46 graduate of Lourdes and Margaret were among the founders of the Lourdes Foundation. Their 4 children Barb '70, Pat '73, Kate '76 and Dan '81 all graduated from Lourdes.

The Anne and Tom Haddad Family Scholarship was established in 1991 by their children, Lourdes graduates Tufia ‘91, Holly ‘94, and Briana ‘98. In their memory and in support of their commitment to higher learning, Catholic education, and service in the community, the scholarship is awarded annually to a college-bound senior who exemplifies leadership, integrity, service and Catholic values. Anne and Tom led a faith-based and value-inspired life with a shared passion for science, arts, history and nature. Click here for more information.

Chuck Haggerty, LHS class of 59’ and Carleen Haggerty, LHS class of 61’ 

Chuck and Carleen have been married 61 years and both attended Catholic schools in Rochester
for 12 years, through Lourdes High School. We have always been strong supporters of Catholic Education, especially in Rochester, Minnesota. Our education gave both of us the basis and foundation for our adult lives. That is why we strongly support Catholic education in Rochester. We hope there will be a number of of kids who go to Lourdes High School on the financial support we give them.

My grandparents, Dick and Beverly Hexum, have always had a strong faith and have consistently given back to the community whenever opportunity arises. That is exactly what they saw when they created this scholarship, an opportunity.

The opportunity for a deserving candidate to have the privilege of attending Rochester Lourdes High School and getting a top notch faith based education. This is very important to my grandparents because they were able to see how my education and time at Lourdes High School has played a major role in shaping me into the person I am today.

I began attending Lourdes my sophomore year and can sum up my experience with one word, incredible. From the administration, faculty, staff, and coaches to the students, the school was just incredible for me. School and hockey taught me numerous life lessons while also creating lifelong memories and relationships with not only my fellow students, but also my teachers and coaches.

Lourdes also prepared me for my college education tremendously by giving me the necessary tools and habits to succeed. It is a family that I will always be proud to be a part of, first as a student and now as alumni. – Charlie Hexum 2009 LHS Graduate

This scholarship, established in 2018, helps make an exceptional, Catholic education possible for families with students at Holy Spirit School.

This scholarship will help make an exceptional Catholic education possible for families with students at Lourdes High School.

The Kapraun Family Scholarship was established in 2013 by the Kapraun children, Deborah, Gregory and Michelle (Kapraun) Marsh, along with friends, as a gift to Clarence and Barbara Kapraun on their 50th wedding anniversary on August 3, 2013.

This scholarship also honors the 50 years that Clarence Kapraun has spent as a Math and Science teacher at the middle school and community college levels. The Kapraun family has a strong history of supporting Catholic education and education in general. Clarence and Barbara both attended St. Joseph’s College in Rensselaer, Indiana. Clarence served as a Catholic School board president and member for their local Catholic schools. Deborah Kapraun, also a St. Joseph’s College graduate, is a secondary education teacher in Beijing, China. Michelle Marsh’s sons attended Bishop Dwenger Catholic High School of Fort Wayne, IN; Andrew ‘09 and Adam ‘13.

Greg and Sue Kapraun have been very active with the Rochester Catholic Schools programs and athletics. Both Sue and Greg are active volunteers. Sue served as President of the Home and School Association and Greg as a coach. Both of their sons attended RCS at Holy Spirit Grade School and Lourdes High School; Alex ‘11 and Kyle ‘13.

It is hoped that this scholarship continues to enable future families the ability to experience the excellence of academics and faith that a Catholic education can bring.

This scholarship was established in 2011 and awarded for the first time in 2012. Earl “Bill” Kesler ’54 and Mary ’53 met while students at Lourdes High School. All of their children; Brian ‘78, Pam ’79, Julie ‘81, Dan ‘85 and Mike ’91 are graduates of LHS and all are still active in their church and alumni events. Bill passed away on September 13, 2016, and Mary passed away on December 29, 2019.

V. John Kriss established this scholarship in memory of his beloved wife Mary Lou who passed away in 2009. Mary Louise (Krumpelmann) Kriss graduated from Lourdes in 1958, as did her two brothers, John ’57 and Richard ’60 (deceased 2006).

Mr. V. John Kriss was born and educated in New York through Catholic schools. He has been a strong supporter of Lourdes High School and Catholic education over the years. Mr. V. John Kriss and his wife Sandy made the initial gift to establish this scholarship in 2015.

Established in honor of Mrs. Kutzke who was teacher for 12 years at St. Francis School and the principal of St. John’s School for eight years at the time of her death from cancer in 2005. She was known for her tireless leadership and true love of working with children.

This scholarship was started by Fritz Kvaternik in honor of his aunt, Sr. Adrine Kvaternik, a Benedictine Sister and teacher. It is also in honor of his Aunt Anne Kvaternik, a devout Catholic and a nurse who passed away in 2014. The scholarship was first awarded in 2012.

Established in 2004 by Maxine Langdon in honor of her parents and the values they taught.

Established to honor Kenneth Steven Langdon his wife, Alice and daughter, Maxine, in December 1997.

Established in 1998 by Maxine Langdon to honor her mother, Alice.

Fully funded in 2011, this scholarship was initiated in 2011 by the Leary Family in memory of William (Bill) Leary. Bill moved to Rochester with his family in 1957 and graduated from Lourdes High School in 1959. He and his wife, Jan were strong advocates of Catholic schools, and all three of their children graduated from Lourdes.

The Lent Family was active at Lourdes during the late ‘60s and ‘70s while their children attended. They volunteered for projects and attending many sport, musical and social events. Their boys were on the hockey team when it was started.

Established in 2017, this scholarship makes an exceptional, faith-based education possible for younger students, in grades PreK-8, at Rochester Catholic Schools.

As strong supporters of Catholic education, Mike and Mary establish this scholarship in gratitude for the love, support, and education their two children received while attending Lourdes High School.

Mike and Mary both grew up with Catholic education in Iowa. They believe high school years are important for both college preparation and admission. They are thankful for the gift of a community of wonderful families who surrounded Andrew ’10 and Daniel ’07 as they went through St. John’s and Lourdes. Through this scholarship, established in 2016, they want to give another student the opportunity for that same foundation.

Established in 1993, using endowment funds held by Lourdes Foundation.

The Lourdes High School Music Endowment was established to subsidize the significant funds needed to provide for the wide range of music activities offered at Lourdes High School.

The Lourdes High School Theatre Endowment was established to encourage and sustain robust theatre productions at Lourdes High School.

This scholarship is awarded at the end of a student's junior year to be applied to the senor LHS tuition. Students who are in Trap Shooting are eligible for this scholarship. They must complete the RCS/LHS financial aid application to be considered and must be a member of the Trap Shooting team. 

The Doug & Sue Luebbe Family Scholarship was established in 2017 to provide tuition assistance to worthy Rochester Catholic School students. The three Luebbe children, Lauren (Price) 2006, Kristen 2009, and John 2013, all attended St. John’s Elementary School and Lourdes High School.

It is our belief that Rochester Catholic Schools gave them an excellent, well-rounded education, providing the foundation for successful college experiences and professional careers to follow.

It’s our wish that recipients of this scholarship will value the educational opportunity they are being given, and apply themselves fully towards a successful future.

Established in 1995 to recognize Joe Mayer for his many years of leadership and dedication to the Lourdes community.

The Mayhood Family scholarship was started in 2013 after David Mayhood’s 50 year reunion of the Class of 1963.

Established in honor of Robb McDonald by his parents, Dr. & Mrs. Thomas McDonald, to support drama and fine arts students.

Lourdes Alumnus Tom Murphy coached the Lourdes High School boys’ golf team for 29 years. During his legendary career; the Lourdes golf teams had 17 state tournament appearances, won 21 sub-section titles, 19 HVL conference championships, 7 Don Bosco conference titles, and an astonishing 6 state team championships. During that time, Tom coached four players to individual state championships.

Tom was inducted into the Minnesota Golf Coaches Hall of Fame in 2004 and into the Rochester Quarterbacks Club in 2008. In 2007, he was named the Rochester Amateur Sports Commission Coach of the Year. Tom was honored by the Lourdes Foundation as Outstanding Coach of 2008, when he was inducted into the Lourdes High School Sports Hall of Fame.

Established to honor the memory of Jessica Murray who died in June 2002 while she was a junior at Lourdes High School. Jessica was especially admired for her spirit and courage during her year-long battle with bone cancer.

Established to honor Agnes and Ralph Nigon, who were both graduates of St. John’s High School, the predecessor of Lourdes High School. Ralph was the president of the first Lourdes High School Council. All nine of their children and several grandchildren are also Lourdes graduates.

This scholarship was fully funded in 2011.

Denny Nigon stated, "Over the past forty-three years, I have had the privilege of serving Lourdes High School as a teacher, coach and administrator. It has been a professional lifetime of great challenge and greater joy! As I enter my retirement experience I can't help but feel great pride in the realization of how Lourdes High School has grown to become one of the most respected Catholic High Schools in the state of Minnesota. This growth is directly due to the tremendous loyal commitment of dedicated parents, teachers, benefactors and Rochester Catholic Parishes. There are few high schools that enjoy the sense of family and loyalty that

Lourdes alumni and present students and families share. The constant challenge of making quality Catholic education affordable to those that would choose it has been a priority for as long as I can remember.

The generosity and sacrifice of Lourdes families and benefactors has served as a catalyst for the success that we enjoy.

Without this sacrifice and generosity I am sure that Lourdes and in fact the Rochester Catholic School system would not exist today.

An exemplary example of this commitment comes in the story of the Lourdes Foundation. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have formed a lasting relationship with the Lourdes Foundation. Since it's establishment in 1974 the Lourdes Foundation (original name Lourdes Development Fund) has disbursed $1,335,783 in tuition assistance to

1,192 Lourdes students. This amount of tuition assistance has enabled Lourdes High School and the Rochester Catholic School system to meet the ever present challenge of rising tuition.

As I transition into retirement I pray in thanksgiving for all of the gifts that I have received as a student, teacher, coach and administrator at Lourdes High School. I am sure that with the building of the new Lourdes High School the tradition of commitment, loyalty and excellence in education will continue for many generations to follow. May Jesus live in our hearts forever and Our Lady of Lourdes protect us!"

2011 Denny Nigon with presentation of the Dennis L. Nigon Scholarship Certificate

This scholarship is in honor of the late Rosie and Jerome Nonn, parents of Gerry Nonn. Rosie passed away in 2013 and was a strong proponent of Catholic Education. She saw that all eight of her sons went to St. Francis Xavier School in Cross Plaines, Wisconsin where her husband Jerome also went to elementary school. Rosie generously supported the education of children in Central America during her lifetime.

Gerry and Mary Anne have three children. Rachel ‘06, Danielle ‘09, and Ryan ’16 are graduates of Lourdes High School and Holy Spirit. The Nonn’s are fans of everything Lourdes. This scholarship was started while Gerry served as President of Lourdes Foundation.

Established November 2015. Sarah and Danny O’Brien are parents of twins, Michael and Steven, who graduated in 2015 and of Jack who is currently in 6th grade at St. Francis of Assisi where Sarah works in the school kitchen.

Danny and Sarah are both volunteers and strong supporters for athletics at Lourdes High School and were honored with the 2015 Woodruff Award at the Annual Meeting of the Lourdes Foundation. In her acceptance speech, Sarah shared the strong influence Danny’s mother had in enrolling their children in Catholic school.

This community has grown to be important to their family. Danny grew up in Houston, Texas, where he and his brother attended a Jesuit High School and his three sisters were at the Catholic high school for girls across the parking lot. His father worked six part-time jobs to pay their tuition. “We are very grateful we can do this and help others,” says Danny.

This scholarship was established in 2019 through Attorney’s Title Guaranty Fund (ATGF) in tribute to the late Louis M. Ohly, attorney at law. This scholarship is awarded to a deserving senior with demonstrated interest in and potential for a career in law. Click here for more information.

Established in honor of Fr. Perrizo who was a priest in the Winona Diocese and served as administrator of Lourdes High School from 1943-1951. He influenced many people with his steady Catholic presence and jovial personality.

Bret and Karen Petersen established this scholarship in appreciation for the faith based education and personal enrichment received by their three children, Claire Petersen McNeil ('05), Kirsten Petersen ('07) and Connor Bedford-Petersen ('10). We hope this scholarship assists future students in receiving similar lifetime benefits.

The Ralph Peterson Memorial Scholarship was established in 2008 by Dr. John Gould (1955 LHS graduate) to honor this former teacher and coach at Lourdes High School.

In his own words, Dr. Gould comments on why he wanted to honor the legacy of Coach Peterson: “It may seem strange to establish a memorial scholarship for a coach/faculty member 50 years after he left Lourdes, especially as he was only on staff for five years. But Ralph Peterson never forgot us, and we never forgot him.

His actions showed us that he was an even better person than he was a coach…which was pretty good in itself. Coach Peterson has been elected to five coaching halls of fame.” Ralph was inducted into the Lourdes Sports Hall of Fame in 2016.

This scholarship was established in memory of James Powers and in honor of his wife, Bunnie in 2008. The Powers are, and continue to be, active members and leaders of the Catholic community in Rochester. James was a 1946 Lourdes High School graduate. He was an energetic and effective member of the Rochester community, and served as an alderman and also on many nonprofit boards.

His father, Joseph, was one of the founding members of St. Francis of Assisi parish. Bunnie has also been a long time volunteer in the St. Marys Hospital Auxiliary.

Premier Bank Rochester has been part of the Rochester community since 1990. Throughout that time they, along with Chairman Donald B. Regan, have been committed to support faith-based organizations in the area. The entire family of Premier Banks has a strong appreciation for education, which led to the formation of the Premier Banks Scholarship in 2014 to support faith-based education for children with financial need.

Premier Banks was presented the President’s Award at the Lourdes Foundation 2014 Annual Meeting. When asked why they chose to so generously support the students at Lourdes, they said, “We consider it an investment in our community. Our children are the finest investment we can make. The scholarship may open a door for a student who may not have had an opportunity to attend Lourdes.”

Gerald Price moved to Rochester in 1959. Gerald was a 1961 graduate of Lourdes High School and a 1965 graduate of the University of St. Thomas. Mary was a 1966 graduate of St. Mary’s School of Nursing. Gerald and Mary raised 4 children: Chris, Brian, Jeff and Lisa. All 4 children graduated from St. John’s Grade School, Lourdes High School ad the University of St. Thomas.

Gerald and Mary have been active members of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, both having served on the Parish Council. Gerald has also served on the Lourdes Foundation board, as has his son Chris.

The RCS Tuition Aid Endowment Fund is awarded to any Rochester Catholic Schools student in grades K-8 who through the FAIR process demonstrate financial need.

This scholarship is established by Mr. Kenneth (KC) Reed ’72 to help students attend Lourdes High School. Mr. Reed, a retired Rochester Policeman, is part of a multi-generational family line of Lourdes graduates. KC’s mother, Lois (Nigon) Holland graduated in 1946. KC and Cindy’s son, Connor ’08, went through St. John’s and played football at Lourdes. KC’s siblings, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews are also Lourdes graduates. This scholarship is a way for KC to “pay it forward” into the future.

The Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) and Institute for Educational Initiatives (IEI) at the University of Notre Dame established the Mary Ann and Jack Remick/ACE Scholarship in 2019 in honor of the Remick's 50th wedding anniversary. The Remicks are long-time, generous supporters of Catholic education at Notre Dame and Rochester Catholic Schools. This scholarship is presented to a Lourdes High School student in their honor each year.

The Knights of Columbus have a long history of supporting Catholic education. This scholarship, established in 2009 by the Rochester area Knights of Columbus, provides an even stronger connection with the Rochester Catholic Schools and Lourdes High School.

Recipients of awards from this scholarship are needy students who might not otherwise have the means to attend Lourdes. The tenets of the Knights are Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism and this scholarship is in direct support of those tenets.

This scholarship was begun with a donation from the Rochester Knights of Columbus Donor Advised Fund created after the 2006 sale of the K of C hall built in the 1950’s. The hall was part of the original Rochester council 1013 est. in 1905 (now Harold Gentling Council 1013 at St. Johns Parish).

This scholarship also provides future Knights, family members and Councils a vehicle to continue their ongoing support of Catholic education in Rochester through additional donations to the fund.

The Richard and Shirley Sonsalla Scholarship exists to assist a student attending Holy Spirit Catholic School entering preschool-grade 5.

The Rathke Family Scholarship was created in 2025 by Stanley Rathke '57 in honor of his family. The scholarship is for any 9-12 Lourdes High School student with preference to involvement in athletics or activities, although this is not required. The Rathke Family pictured here all attended Lourdes High School:

David Rathke '54, John Rathke '56, Stanley Rathke '57, Ronald Rathke '58, Kathleen Hines '61, Alan Rathke and Janice Meyers '63

Both Jeff and Michon were blessed with the opportunity to receive a Catholic education. Jeff attended Mary Our Queen Elementary School and Creighton Preparatory School in Omaha, Nebraska and the University of St. Thomas. Michon is a graduate of St. John’s the Evangelist Elementary School, Lourdes High School in 1986 and the University of St. Thomas. They have four boys who are also fortunate to be part of Lourdes.

Jacob graduated in 2014 and is majoring in Business/Biology at the University of Notre Dame. John graduated in 2016 and is in the direct admit Physical Therapy program at St. Louis University. Ryan is class of 2018 and Riley 2020. All of the boys actively excelled in sports; basketball, track, cross country, football and Nordic skiing. They were in National Honor Society and enjoyed Kairos, other retreats and the community opportunities afforded them.

We strongly believe in the importance of investing in the future of others and providing others an opportunity to grow and develop into their own best self.

The Diane Schwinghammer Staff Development Endowment provides professional development and training opportunities for Rochester Catholic Schools employees.

As a lifelong elementary school teacher in the Rochester Minnesota area, Mary Lou Sebesta (Warren) loved educating children. Believing that an education should be available to all, it was Mary Lou's wish that a scholarship fund for K-3 children be established in the Rochester Catholic Schools system.

Established in memory of James and Helen Sheehan, graduates of St. John’s School, the predecessor of Lourdes High School. All six of their children and many grandchildren are Lourdes graduates. Catholic faith and education were extremely important to them.

The Shaffer Family Scholarship was established in 2024 in honor of R.Boyd and Bea Shaffer who provided their three children John '52 , Mary '55 and Mike '60 with a superior catholic education at Lourdes High School ( RCS ) and beyond. The scholarship is available to all scholars in grades 9-12 attending Lourdes High School priority given to those in financial need or minority status.

The Ethan Smith Aviation Scholarship is awarded in memory of Ethan Smith, 2020 Lourdes High School graduate. Ethan studied aviation following high school and obtained his commercial pilot's license. In addition, he also earned his associate’s degree in business. His dreams were big and his smile wide! He was a Lourdes athlete and a positive influence on the hockey, cross country and track teams and among all of his friends. Ethan passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022. This scholarship honors him and all who seek similar dreams. The winner of this scholarship will be awarded a $500 scholarship to a graduating senior entering an aviation field (flight, mechanical, other aviation considerations). Additionally, the family will add a lifetime aviation education package, if applicable.

The recipient will be a student in financial need chosen in accordance with approved policies and procedures of RCS. 

The scholarship will be awarded to a student with the following criteria: 

Financial need and:

The student must be a volunteer at St James coffee who is enrolled in LHS 
-or- 
A student of a parent volunteer at St James coffee and are enrolled in one of the Rochester Catholic Schools
 

The St. Francis of Assisi School Endowment Fund supports the operations of the school.

The St. John the Evangelist Endowment Fund supports the operations of the St. John the Evangelist campus.

The St. Pius X Endowment Fund supports the operations of the St. Pius X campus.

Established in honor of Mary Stewart whose nieces and nephews are graduates of LHS. Ms. Stewart was a private duty nurse who traveled extensively with her employers.

This scholarship was started in 2013 by Isabel Theobald. After the death of her husband James, Isabel raised her four sons as a single mother and they all graduated from Lourdes High School.

This scholarship is established in the family name and includes their sons and their spouses; William ’87, Steven ’89 and Genevive, J.Paul ’91 and Roxanne, Joseph ’97 and Lauren.

Isabel’s grandchildren from her son Steven and his wife Genevieve are enrolled in Rochester Catholic Schools. Isabel believes in Catholic education because, “you get religion and a great educational background all at once.” She credits the success of her sons to their Lourdes High School education.

In 2016 Teresa chose to begin a new scholarship that will be awarded to an elementary student in Rochester Catholic Schools.

The need for tuition assistance at this level is great. Teresa worked for fourteen years with elementary students at Holy Spirit and helping students and families in this age group is something she is excited to be able to do.

Your loyal support for the Gary Vanselow Memorial Scholarship has assisted over sixteen students to attend Lourdes High School and will continue to be awarded every year going forward.

Thanks to your generosity, we are able to start this new scholarship which truly makes a critical difference for students and their families.

Established by Rod and Betty Walter’s children, Terry Walters, Greg Walters and Denise Marino, who attended St. John’s School.

Established in 1993 by Mr. and Mrs. William S. Wentink to honor their daughter, Amy, who died in 1982 and would have been a graduate of the Class of 1994.

Established from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. William P. Wentink.

Established by Jim’s father to honor his son’s memory and give back to the Lourdes community. Jim was a 1972 graduate who was killed in an accident in the fall of that year. He was an all-around athlete and the first goalie for the Lourdes hockey team.

Established in 2002 through a bequest of the estate of Dr. Lloyd M. Williams, this scholarship is given to a Lourdes High School graduating senior who intends to pursue a career as a teacher. Irene Williams was a Lourdes graduate, and both Dr. and Mrs. Williams indicated their pride in the caliber of students at Lourdes high School. Click here for more information.

This scholarship was fully funded in 2011.

“We believe that our children are the future, and we want to help make a Catholic education at Lourdes affordable and accessible to all,” Ron Yanish

Ron and Dianne Yanish have been wonderful supporters of Rochester Catholic Schools. Their philanthropy has helped create opportunities for so many in our Catholic community and in the Rochester area community as a whole.

In addition to being long time members of Lourdes Foundation’s Legacy Society, Ron and Dianne have created the Ron & Dianne Yanish FamilyScholarship. This scholarship will make it possible for high school students in need of tuition assistance to receive a Catholic education at Lourdes. Like all endowed scholarships through Lourdes Foundation, this scholarship will continue to provide tuition assistance as long as Lourdes High School exists! Ron explains his motivation to assist Lourdes students by saying “both Dianne and I believe in the passage ‘much will be expected of those to whom much has been given.’ ”

Established in 1983 by the Ray Zeman family in honor of Susanne Zeman, an avid supporter of Lourdes athletics and activities. She was an outstanding sports fan who attended countless events.