Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Continues Annual Tradition

The Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Fund (BEWSF) was created in memory of Brian Edwin Wagner an outstanding young leader who served the Elmhurst community proudly, prior to his untimely death at the age of 16 in 1993. Brian demonstrated a passion to excel in and out of the classroom; he is honored and remembered through the recipients of the BEWSF scholarship every year.

 The BEWSF held their 4th annual “Bags for Wags” Tournament at Visitation’s Valentino Center. The event sold out and over forty teams were present to pay tribute to Brian’s life and to enjoy the evening’s festivities. “Mamma Maria’s “, who was Brian’s part time employer when he was growing up, generously donated pizzas to all attendees. This year introduced an extreme raffle that featured premium prizes like: autographed memorabilia from the Chicago Blackhawks, Bears Cubs and Whitesox; plus a VIP Nascar package. Over $4000 was collected at the fundraiser. All proceeds will benefit the college scholarship which will be granted to three high school seniors prior to graduation this spring. This distinguished award provides funding toward tuition costs to those who epitomize Brian’s finest qualities: integrity, perseverance and compassion. Brian’s mother, Barbara Wagner-Lackey stated, "Bags for Wags was a big success and great fun! We will be able to award 3 deserving students help with their first semester college costs. Thank you to everyone who came out to support this event. It is a remarkable tribute to our son and brother."

 The BEWSF encourages outstanding students who have served as leaders in the community to apply for next year’s award. During the submission process, applicants will have the opportunity to describe how they have made a positive impact in their own lives and the lives of others. The qualifying criteria must be met:

• Must have graduated 8th grade from a school in Elmhurst, IL. or be currently enrolled as a senior at a high school in Elmhurst, IL.
• Submit 2 letters of recommendation from a teacher, coach, boss, community leader, etc.
• Fulfilled 25 hours of volunteer service with an organization that supports a cause you’d like to commit and contribute to 

The open submission period will be from 12/31/14 to 2/28/15. More information can be found at www.BrianEWagnerFund.org.