John & Lois Leonard Career & Technical Education Endowment
Lois & John Leonard
History:
Lois and John Leonard were dedicated to education and community support. Lois graduated from Illinois State College in 1937 and worked as an elementary school teacher until 1951, when she and John moved to Chehalis. John, a graduate of Coyne Electrical School, developed his technical skills during his service in the U.S. Navy. While Lois did not continue teaching after relocating, the couple remained active in their community, particularly in youth and church programs. They encouraged students to pursue higher education or vocational training, often providing quiet financial support to lower-income students in college or seminary. Though they did not have children of their own, Lois and John recognized the value of strong vocational programs in schools and worked to ensure students had opportunities to succeed. John passed away in 2003, and Lois in 2018.
Endowment Purpose:
Established in 2020 by the Chehalis Foundation through a nearly one-million-dollar gift from the Estate of Lois and John Leonard, the Leonard Trust supports vocational education. This scholarship provides financial assistance for students pursuing trade school or vocational training, aligning with the Chehalis School District’s Student Achievement Initiative goals for career and college readiness.
Legacy / Endowment Details
The Leonard Trust was created by the Chehalis Foundation in 2020 from a nearly one-million-dollar estate gift from Lois and John Leonard to support vocational education in the community.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be pursuing vocational education or trade school training
- Must demonstrate a commitment to career readiness in a vocational field
- Open to students who align with the mission of the Leonard Trust in supporting skilled trades and technical education
Selection Considerations
- The scholarship is awarded based on alignment with vocational training goals and the student’s dedication to their field of study
- The Trustee for the Leonard Trust is Duane Johnson (W.F. West Class of 1968)
Additional Notes
The Leonard Trust Vocational Scholarship helps ensure that students have access to high-quality vocational training and career opportunities in the trades.