A Brief History

Thermopolis High School classmates Frank Manning and Don “Duke” Bolich are credited with the founding of the Hot Springs County Education Endowment Foundation. At a class reunion in 1990, an idea was born. 

Over the next few months, Duke and Frank discussed the idea of an Endowment. A collaboration with  HSCSD#1 was developed with Superintendent Doug Cobb. After much research and determination, the Endowment took shape. In 1991, with the help of local attorney Mike Messenger, bylaws were developed, a working Board of Directors was appointed, and a process for donations and scholarships was outlined. In 1992, Carmen Eastman, a former Thermopolis High School Spanish teacher, made a significant seed donation of $20,000. Other donations followed and in 1993, the first Endowment scholarship of $600 was awarded. 
Fundraising continued. Stine, Koerwitz, and Hizer Accounting firm in Thermopolis guided investments and savings. Bylaws dictated that only interest and dividends could be utilized, leaving principle untouched. It was important to the Board that the Endowment continue into perpetuity.
The ever-arching goal of the Endowment has been “educational purpose for all graduates of Hot Springs County High School and any citizen of Hot Springs County.” Since the awarding of just one high school scholarship in 1993, the Endowment has expanded scholarship opportunities into undergraduate college years and graduate/professional studies. Numerous other community educational projects and learning activities have also been supported. 
Frank Manning and Duke Bolich were proud of their Hot Springs County roots and experiences. They have shared many times over that growing up in Hot Springs County and being supported by their community shaped their lives and who they became. Both went on to become dentists. Dr. Bolich practiced in Colorado and Dr. Manning in Thermopolis. They remained involved in community activities, good works, and civic projects. They exemplify “giving back”, good citizenship, and the importance of education.  
 

About Us

Hot Springs County Education Endowment Foundation is an IRS qualified 501[c][iii] non-profit organization which manages a perpetual fund that was established in 1990. It is managed by a board of directors selected from the community and Hot Springs County School District. Scholarships and awards are given each year based upon available interest and dividends from investments and savings.

The Endowment Fund is dependent upon non-refundable donations and gifts, made in any amount. Gifts of $100+ are recognized on the “Tree of Knowledge” located in the Hot Springs County School District auditorium. Gifts of one payment of $10,000+ include a plaque and named scholarship.

The Endowment members serve on either of two committees: Finance or Scholarship. The Scholarship Committee awards all scholarships to new high school graduates, undergraduate college students, graduate school students, adult education and special certifications. Students are selected based upon application criteria. Awards vary depending upon monies available each year. Scholarships are available for renewal. The Scholarship Committee will make all scholarship determinations and presentations. However, a named scholarship donor may make the presentation the year of their donation.

The Finance Committee monitors the Foundation’s investments. It also determines awards from Requests for Funds bi-annually. These awards must have worthy educational merit. Projects are never fully funded. The Endowment makes only a contribution to the total cost. The Finance Committee will review applications and make recommendations for all financial awards. Examples include Expedition Yellowstone, regional, national and international competitions or events; special classroom supplies or equipment, etc.

Doug Cobb, Mike Messenger and David Koerwitz

These men were instrumental in the technical organization of the Endowment. Their belief in the value of the project and their dedication to meeting community educational needs drove the Endowment to reality. Doug Cobb was Superintendent of Schools during the initial years in the early 90's of building the Endowment. Mike Messenger, a local attorney, drafted all legal documents and provided wise counsel and direction. David Koerwitz, a successful accountant and businessman, helped establish investments and savings. David's devotion to education in Hot Springs County became a founding pillar for the Endowment.