This scholarship is in memory of Don Bucher, a retired teacher and dedicated volunteer for the Pickaway County community. Don was a Vocational Agriculture teacher and FFA advisor for 32 years serving high school students at Leipsic High School, Paint Valley High School, and Teays Valley High School. He was also an advisor for Pickaway Swine, Beef and Sheep 4-H club while raising sheep during his children’s 4-H years and served on the Pickaway County Fairboard. Don grew up on a farm in Pandora, Ohio and highlights of his career were teaching soil and livestock judging contests and taking school trips to the National FFA Convention. He participated in the Teays Valley Young Farmers and enjoyed hosting the Donkey Basketball fundraiser for many years. He was instrumental in designing the Ag Ed building at Teays Valley High School. Don developed a strong desire to see his students reach their potential and expand their knowledge in ag education.
After retirement from teaching, Don was often found at the Mount Oval Historical House and Farm taking care of the grounds as the Farm Manager. He was devoted to serving his family and church community. Don’s love for the Lord and others was evident by how quickly and passionately he sought to serve with his time, gifts and talents. Don passed away on August 11, 2024, at the age of 74 while still serving passionately in his community.
Eligibility Criteria
- Scholarship applicants must be a Pickaway County Resident and graduating high school senior, already enrolled as an undergraduate student or a vocational school.
- They must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Preferred applicants are involved in 4-H and/or FFA and participate in community activities and extracurricular activities.
Selection Criteria
- 30% 4-H and FFA Involvement
- 25% Academic Potential
- 25% Character
- 10% Extracurricular Activities
Selection Committee
- PCCF Scholarship Committee Member
Award Amount & Payment Distribution
The award amount will be determined by the amount that is held within the fund and the current spending policy according to the Pickaway County Community Foundation’s Policy Manual.
Award money must be utilized toward tuition and academic fees.
Scholarship Renewal
Scholarships can be renewed for up to 4 years following graduation. Recipients must submit a grade report and letter of intent to continue their education along with a one-page summary of their previous year’s academic experiences and activities while attending college.
Contact Information
Pickaway County Community Foundation
770 North Court Street
Circleville, OH 43113
740-477-6207
Application and Award Process
- Pickaway County Community Foundation will send applications to the eligible high schools for distribution for the upcoming academic year. Applications will also be made available on the Pickaway County Community Foundation website and in the office.
- Candidates complete the paper application by the deadline.
- After the deadline, the Pickaway County Community Foundation reviews complete applications for eligibility.
- The Foundation sets up the selection committee meeting.
- Finalists are chosen by the selection committee.
- Interviews of the finalist take place.
- The Foundation sends denial letters to those who did not receive the scholarship.
- The Foundation sends award letters to recipients that include an explanation of the payment request process and the proof of enrollment form.
- Once proof of enrollment has been received by the Foundation, a check will be sent to the recipient’s educational institution.