Forget Me Not Scholarship

The Forget Me Not Scholarship Fund was created in 2002 for the purpose of enabling young men and women in the State of Kansas to enroll in an accredited college, university, seminary, junior college or vocational technical college in the United States. Two $500 scholarships are awarded annually: (1) to a high school senior graduating from an accredited high school in the State of Kansas, and (2) to a high school senior graduating from high schools in Cimarron, Dodge City, Pratt, Bishop Carroll (Wichita) and Kapaun/Mount Carmel (Wichita). Scholarship awards will be paid directly to the institution of the student's choice and be applied to tuition, fees and educational expenses.

In September 2001, over 2,000 people participated in a commemorative race honoring the lives of Jason Befort, Heather Muller, Bradley Heyka and Aaron Sander, who died tragically on Dec. 15, 2000. The funds raised through this race form the basis of these continuing scholarship awards.

In his 26 years of life, Jason Befort gave it all he had. His determination was admirable and his love was genuine. He worked hard, he played hard and was intense in all aspects of his life. Jason was never without a smile or hello. Competitive in sports, he was a perfectionist in every way. His loves included his family, his friends, the Cubs, the K-State Wildcats and life. They say you have to love yourself to pass it on. Jason did both.

Brad Heyka had a sincere love for life including his family and friends. His passion for life was catching and he enjoyed bringing people together and bringing out the best in them. Through this quiet leadership role he had attracted many new friendships in an ever-growing circle. His sense of humor should not be forgotten- it was contagious. His quick wit instantly brought a smile to your face. His passions included golf, KSU sports, competition, fairness, the desire to excel and concern for others.

Heather Muller was filled with a love for God, a love for life, and a love for children- especially her "teenies" with special needs. She had a rare talent for singling that she shared with all. Her prayer-filled life was a life of service to others of all ages and backgrounds. Heather impacted hundreds of people throughout her life and will continue to do so.

Aaron Sander graduated from high school in Cimarron, where his body now rests, before going to Wichita to earn a degree in finance from WSU. He spent the following six years working in the field of finance before taking the last six months of his life to discern a vocation in the priesthood. Aaron was a kind, gentle man full of love and peace. He had a special charm that attracted many because he genuinely cared for those he met. He had a passion to learn and find his purpose in life, because he knew it was to serve God's people.

Selection Criteria:

Selection will be made without regard to race, color, sex, religion or national origin. Consideration will be given to leadership qualities, community involvement, work experience, honors and awards, and participation in clubs and organizations. Awards will be made with regard to financial need and academic achievement. A scholarship nominee may not have a blood or marriage relationship to any member of the donor family, any member of the selectioncommittee, or any member of the Wichita Community Foundation board of directors or staff, even though the nominee meets the other criteria for the scholarship.