Lawndale High Alumni Scholarship Fund
The Lawndale High Alumni Scholarship was established to honor the legacy of Lawndale High School graduates and support the next generation of Cardinals as they pursue college or trade schools.
The idea for the scholarship grew out of the generosity of my fellow classmates from the Class of 1974. As Mary Rezzuti Sutherland, Merrilee Willis Greene, and I planned our 50th reunion, we set up a GoFundMe to help cover event costs. The response was incredible! Donations came in that allowed us to bring Mary and Merrilee’s vision to life: a fun, affordable gathering that felt more like a backyard family reunion than a formal event.
And even more meaningful, we had funds left over—enough to award a $500 scholarship to a member of the Class of 2024. We also established the Alumni Scholarship Fund - the essential financial entity to support the scholarships.
While that first scholarship was part of our 50th reunion celebration, it was never meant to be a one-time effort. In 2025 we awarded two scholarships, and this year five Seniors from the class of 2026 will each receive $600. The goal is for the scholarships to continue as an annual tradition, one that reflects the spirit of paying it forward and brings together alumni across generations to support graduating seniors.
If this resonates with you, please consider becoming a part of it. Every contribution - no matter the size - helps to continue this effort and expand what we’re able to offer future Cardinals. By giving back, we not only celebrate our shared history, but also help ensure that future Cardinals have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and succeed.
Donate HERE and become a Cardinal Champion.
If you want to touch the past, touch a rock. If you want to touch the present, touch a flower. If you want to touch the future, touch a life. – Author Unknown
(100% of your donation is tax deductible and 100% goes to scholarship recipients.)
Leslie (Carlisle) Hamburger
Class of 1974
Founder
Lawndale High Alumni Scholarship | Lawndale High Alumni Scholarship Fund