This scholarship was established by the family of Mervin and Eleanor Holzhausen, who were born and raised in Hancock County and graduated from Mt. Comfort High School. Mervin completed his degree at what is now the University of Indianapolis, served his country for 4 years during WWII, then completed his master’s degree at Purdue University. Eleanor graduated from Purdue with a degree in home economics. Mervin served 38 years as a teacher, coach, principal, superintendent, and attendance officer. At one time or another during his career as an educator, he worked for every school corporation in the county. Eleanor worked for several years as a substitute teacher and then as the library aide at Mt. Vernon Middle School.
Because of their dedication to and love for Hancock County schools, their family and friends established this scholarship to benefit graduates of any Hancock County High School.
Applicants must be graduating seniors of a Hancock County public high school, have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and intend to major in education at an accredited college or university in the state of Indiana. Selection will be based on financial need, including financial awards already granted. Preference may be given to a student whose parent is an employee of a Hancock County, Indiana public school.