BCEF is pleased to announce that it has received a $130,000 donation according to the stipulations set forth in the will of James E. Fritsch. The wishes of Mr. Fritsch, who lived in Batesville until the time of his death, were that the donation be earmarked to establish a new academic scholarship for Batesville High School (BHS) graduates, which will begin this year. While the money cannot be used to fund new programs within the school system, it will instead enhance the learning opportunities for our graduates through financial assistance for their further education.

James E. Fritsch passed away in 2012 after working for 30 years as an engineer with General Electric. According to his obituary, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and was known for his quiet and courteous nature. Batesville residents may remember seeing him on his daily drive around town, which he enjoyed. He never married, leaving behind three nieces in Ohio.

BHS seniors who are interested in applying for the new James E. Fritsch Memorial Scholarship may download a scholarship application from the school website. Two thousand dollars will be made available annually for scholarship distribution, which may be given to one individual or spread among multiple winners in varying amounts. Scholarship applications are due Monday, March 28. Questions about this scholarship should be directed to BHS Guidance Counselor Tricia Stephens at 812-934-4384.