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The Donovan Harpster
“Called to Teach” Scholarship
The "why"
Donovan Harpster dreamed of becoming a high school teacher. He believed in the quiet power of showing up - for students who felt unseen, for young people who needed support, and for the classroom as a space where lives are changed not just by lessons, but by presence and care.
Donovan passed away in 2024 at the age of 21, before he could fulfill that dream. But his vision, his spirit, and his heart for teaching live on. This scholarship was created in his honor to support students walking the path he never got to finish.
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This scholarship is not just about funding education - it’s about honoring a life. It’s about carrying forward Donovan’s love for learning, his quiet compassion, and his belief in what good teaching can do.
How to support...
This scholarship isn’t just a one-time gift. It’s a promise. Our goal is to fund the Donovan Harpster “Called to Teach” Scholarship in perpetuity, awarding it each year on Donovan’s birthday, March 11th, to honor the life he lived and the path he dreamed of walking.
Every September 7th, on the anniversary of his passing, we will open applications to students who, like Donovan, carry both a deep love for learning and the quiet strength to lift others.
Your donation helps us build a legacy of presence, compassion, and purpose - year after year, student by student, story by story. Together, we can ensure Donovan's heart for teaching continues to shape classrooms - and lives - for generations to come.
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DONATE NOW via bold.org - all donations are tax deductible
How to apply...
If you’re walking the road he longed to walk, we are honored to help you take the next step.
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Any first-generation high school senior or undergraduate student who aspires to become a high school teacher may apply for this scholarship opportunity if they have overcome personal loss, adversity, or hardship and if they show strong character, resilience, empathy, and a desire to uplift others.
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Application is open every:
September 7th - February 11th
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Winner announced every:
March 11th
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APPLY NOW via bold.org
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