A lifetime of giving… that is what comes to mind when you hear the names Jack and Rose McKinney.
Jack and Rose were both educators in the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation until they retired after 34 and 27 years, respectively. Jack and Rose are passionate about learning and instilling a good work ethic in the lives they touch and their two boys.
Jack and Rose became familiar with the Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) when their son Bruce passed away in 1992. Tom Miller, who knew the McKinneys through the Mt. Vernon School Board, introduced them to the new philanthropic prospects through the community foundation in its inaugural year.
Bruce attended Vincennes University and had a passion for the arts, animals, Boy Scouts, and his family. Jack and Rose formed the Bruce McKinney Memorial Scholarship Fund in 1993 to honor his memory and provide educational support to other students. Bruce was a talented artist, therefore the scholarship benefits a student who has been a member of the Mt. Vernon National Art Society. The McKinneys were one of the first donors to establish a scholarship fund with HCCF.
Jack and Rose are thankful for HCCF and its work for the community. “It gave people like us a chance to start and make a difference in the community… Kids can benefit from scholarships, community projects, and more,” they explain.
Jack and Rose gave the gift of learning to so many students over the years, gave the gift of love and home to their two adopted boys, and gave the gift of perpetual education support to their community. Jack and Rose, members of the John Hancock Legacy Society, have written HCCF in their will to continue their legacy in this community.
Bruce was a graduate of Mt. Vernon High School in 1988. Growing up, he excelled in tennis and had a passion for animals. Bruce graduated from Vincennes University in 1990 with a degree in Commercial Art.
A tragic accident claimed his life in 1992, and his parents, Jack and Rose, formed this scholarship in 1993 to honor his memory and provide educational support to other students. Bruce was a very talented artist, therefore the scholarship benefits a student who has been a member of the Mt. Vernon National Art Society.
Applicants must be graduating seniors of Mt. Vernon High School and be residents of Hancock County, Indiana. See guidebook for a complete list of requirements.
