Elaine M. Hothem Memorial Scholarship Grant

The Elaine M. Hothem Memorial Scholarship, established by friends and family in 2023, honors the legacy of Elaine Hothem, a passionate advocate for education and literature. Administered by The Dayton Foundation, this scholarship supports graduating high school seniors and current college students from Centerville or Washington Township, Ohio, who plan to major in history, education, or library science. Recipients are expected to have a history of community involvement and extracurricular participation.

The Dayton Foundation
It helps individuals, families, and organizations fulfill their charitable goals by managing permanent funds, awarding grants, and offering scholarships. Having awarded over $1.2 billion in grants and managing more than 4,100 funds, the Foundation acts as a significant regional philanthropic partner committed to strengthening the social, economic, and cultural fabric of the community.
Mission and Priorities
The Foundation’s mission is to help donors and organizations "help others" through philanthropic services, strategic grantmaking, and community leadership. With a vision of creating a vibrant and inclusive Greater Dayton, the Foundation focuses on building capacity for nonprofits, promoting equitable opportunities, and collaborating across sectors to address community challenges. Its priorities include supporting education and workforce development, enhancing health and human services, advancing arts and culture, and responding to urgent regional needs through initiatives like disaster relief and community recovery.
Elaine Hothem's passion in life was her children and the printed word. A longtime employee of the Washington-Centerville Library, she immensely enjoyed reading and the exploration of history. This scholarship was established in 2023 by her friends and family to honor her memory.

Eligibility

Be a graduating high school senior or a current college student from Centerville or Washington Township, OhioPlan to major in history, education or library science (Master’s Degree candidates for library science are eligible to apply)Have participated in extracurricular activities, community service, volunteering and/or employment.