Today we’d like to introduce you to Brock Ostrander.
The origin of the Ostrander Scholar Society dates to the Spring of 1997 when our Founder met National Order of the Arrow Vice Chief, Josh Sain. Mr. Sain was an inspiration to Mr. Ostrander, inspiring him to remain active in the Order of the Arrow and pursue leadership roles beyond local levels. In October of 1997, Mr. Sain passed away after an automobile accident at the age of 19. Mr. Ostrander decided something should be done to keep the spirit of Mr. Sain alive, and thus, the Josh Sain Memorial Scholarship © was created with the blessing and support of Mr. Sain’s family. The first scholarship was awarded in 1999 and interest in the scholarship program began to increase over time.
By 2005, it became clear the scholarship was gaining more notoriety and the number of applicants would likely increase. It was then decided that the program should operate as a non-profit organization to give the general public the option to support the scholarship with their donations. In 2007, the organization incorporated as the Ostrander Scholar Society and established a Board of Directors to help manage its operations. In March of 2011, the Internal Revenue Service determined the Ostrander Scholar Society qualified as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entity.
What makes our scholarships unique is that they’re merit-based scholarships. Currently, we offer two scholarships. The Josh Sain Memorial Scholarship is for Eagle Scouts who are active in Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National Honor Society. The Jo Ann Ostrander “Spirit of the Volunteer” Memorial Scholarship is for youth who give back to their community; applicants must meet certain thresholds of volunteer hours to qualify.
Still, in its conceptual stage, we hope to launch the Michael Rossman Memorial Scholarship in the next few years. This program will be for individuals who want a career in animal services. Launching of this scholarship is contingent upon available funding which we hope to acquire via corporate sponsorships.
The Ostrander Scholar Society hopes to create a volunteer and/or internship program that would allow college students the opportunity to learn business/fundraising skills while earning college credit. December 1, 2017, will mark 20 years since the founding of our organization!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For the most part, it has been a “smooth road” however some years we do struggle with obtaining funding for the scholarship programs.
Our resources are limited so it’s somewhat cumbersome to do effective promotions and advertising, but we are beginning to venture out onto social media and look for other ways to spread the word about our scholarships. We are hoping to secure corporate sponsorships to help provide additional funding for the worthy students we serve.
Please tell us about Ostrander Scholar Society.
We are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit supporting higher education. Our scholarship programs provide incentives for Eagle Scouts to stay active in Scouting and the Order of the Arrow. They also provide an incentive for youth to embrace volunteerism in their community and to set an example for others to follow. What sets us apart from similar organizations is that our programs are not limited to specific geographical areas. Applications are accepted from youth/young adults nationwide! Something else that sets us apart, is our scholarship programs benefit students working on their associates, bachelor’s or master’s degree!
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
I have many favorite memories from childhood but if I had to choose just one I would probably pick being elected as a Section Chief in the Order of the Arrow. At the age of 19, I found myself in the top leadership position for our section, overseeing an area that encompassed three states. The real world business and leadership skills I acquired during that time are immeasurable and I have yet to have an experience in my life that could top this!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.OstranderScholars.org
- Phone: 817-350-0199
- Email: OstranderScholarSociety@gmail.com
Teryn Ezell: Recent recipient of the Jo Ann Ostrander “Spirit of the Volunteer” Memorial Scholarship. (W/ her husband and son)
Brice Steiner: Recent recipient of the Josh Sain Memorial Scholarship
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