This scholarship was established to honor Gene for all the years he taught at W.F. West high school, but more importantly to show our sincere appreciation to my dad for the positive impact he had on my life personally, and now through his influence on our children’s lives. This impact is priceless.

Gene and Shirlie Verley both started their teaching careers in the Bay Area of California, Gene worked to earn his Master’s degree in Business education in 1964. That spring, they applied for teaching jobs all over Washington, but Chehalis offered the best situation for their careers and family. Gene taught business courses at W. F. West from 1964 to 1988, and was the department chair for most of that time. He coached Bearcat baseball for 5 years and served as ASB Advisor, helping out at Bearcat sports events. Shirlie also spent most of her career at W.F. West (1967-1989) as head of the English department, and all three of their children are W.F. West graduates.

We want candidates to apply for this scholarship who aspire to obtain a college business degree, specifically those who may not qualify for other scholarships, but have a solid work ethic and a desire to make something of themselves. Gene says, “Thank you, Chehalis.”