Since Brian Edwin Wagner’s death in a tragic auto accident at age sixteen, his story and legacy have contributed to the futures of many lives in Elmhurst and the surrounding suburbs. Emerging young leaders who are selected for the scholarship dedicated to the life he lived receive $2500 towards their college tuition for their character and potential to lead the way among their peers. Brian was an exceptional example among his classmates. He was a leader who always expressed compassion and empathy towards others. Brian’s testament to make a difference in all his objectives inspired his closest friends and family to create the Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Fund. The BEWSF’s mission aims to encourage high school students to make a positive impact in their lives and the lives of others by exercising sound judgment and committing themselves to volunteer programs in their communities.
For the first time in the BEWSF’s history, a total of four recipients in one year will receive this coveted honor. With humility, each of them accepted the award and are now recognized for their ability to inspire and foster positive change. All have followed in Brian’s footsteps and opened doors for future applicants to do the same. To this date, the scholarship has donated over $70,000 in college tuition aid. The BEWSF founders encourages all high school seniors for school year 2020-2021 to apply. There is no GPA requirement to receive this award.
More information about the BEWSF and application process can be found at https://brianewagnerfund.org/.
Information about the 2020 recipients: Maya Curry, Murphy McFarlane, Jim Hoffman and William Russ are as follows:
Maya Curry (York High School) will double major in Spanish and Biology at UCLA. She stated, “The BEWSF means a lot to me because it reminds me of the endless opportunities that come with exploring my genuine passions to learn and to help others. I am extremely proud to carry on Brian’s legacy through giving my best in all that I do and making each moment count just like Brian did!”
Murphy McFarlane (York High School) will attend Syracuse University. She will double major in Journalism and Environment, Policy and Sustainability. She remarked, “It is truly an honor to receive such a meaningful scholarship, reinforcing the notion that hard work will pay off. Brian’s legacy sets a precedent of leadership, determination, and positivity, which I am proud to have embodied. I plan to uphold these standards at Syracuse University, one day hoping to report on significant societal matters like climate change.”
Jim Hoffman (York High School) will attend the University of Illinois, Urbana/Champaign) and Major in Civil Engineering while participating in Club Track and Cross Country. He commented, “I am honored to receive this reward. It is a privilege to continue the legacy of Brian, and I will make sure that I continue treating everyone with kindness and respect to make sure I truly earn this scholarship. I intend to help others around me and lead by example in all activities I participate in at college.”
William Russ (Immaculate Conception College Prep) will begin studying at the College of DuPage and study Physical Education. He said, “The Brian Wagner Scholarship is the most meaningful reward I have ever received. It is a blessing, and benefits me in many ways. I am proud to be able to carry on Brian’s legacy. I believe I will represent this scholarship appropriately and always continue to inherit leadership skills.”
