Gladys Faye Hancock, born Feb 15, 1909, was the daughter of Claude Archibald and Minnie Inez Ostermeier Hancock. She was a 1926 graduate of Mt. Comfort High School. Gladys attained her teaching degree from Indiana Central College; however, she later continued her education through courses at Butler University and Indiana University.
After graduation, Gladys immediately returned to her alma mater to teach high school, and after the consolidation, she moved to Mt Vernon High School. She taught Mathematics, Latin, and Girls Physical Education classes. Gladys also served for many years as the sponsor of the senior class and helped regularly with production of the school’s yearbook. She was truly dedicated to her students.
Gladys retired from teaching in 1974 after 44 years of teaching only because she was needed at home to care for her father. She was very family oriented and very strict when it came to education. Gladys was married to Donald Shumway for 17 years until his death in 1967. Gladys and Don never had any children of their own, but in her eyes she had many. Gladys passed away on April 1, 1988. A student shares, “One of my favorite memories of Gladys was when she took my senior class to New York City and Washington D. C. The year was 1948.”
This scholarship was established in 1975 by the Mt. Comfort Alumni Association, many members of who had Gladys as their teacher and wanted to honor her dedication to education.
Applicants must be graduating seniors from Mt. Vernon High School, be current U.S. citizens, be current residents of Buck Creek or Vernon Township in Hancock County, Indiana. See guidebook for a complete list of requirements.
