Donor Stories

Kaitlin Elizabeth Mahr Memorial Scholarship

December 5, 2018

Jamie Schloegel, Chief Executive OfficerBy Jamie Schloegel, Chief Executive Officer

The Kaitlin Elizabeth Mahr Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in May of 2008, just one year after Katie’s death from suicide. Katie’s parents Todd and Deb, and brother Sam, started the scholarship program to honor her life by awarding two $500 scholarships each year to Onalaska High School seniors who plan to study writing and English in college.

Katie graduated as valedictorian from Onalaska High School in 2005. She was an enthusiastic student who loved school and was a passionate writer. At the time of her passing, Katie was studying English at Lawrence University in Appleton.

The Kaitlin Elizabeth Mahr Memorial Scholarship has provided over $10,000 in awards to students over the past ten years. Todd and Deb Mahr also have a donor advised fund at LCF (Todd and Deb Mahr Family Fund) established to improve the quality of life for La Crosse and Onalaska residents.