Whitworth University senior McLane Stone, an Orcas Island High School graduate, had planned to work rather than attend school this year to save enough money to finish his undergraduate education. Postponing his senior year meant he wouldn’t have been able to walk with his class at Commencement in May, and he would have had to put his graduate school aspirations on hold. But recently, Stone learned that he will graduate this spring after all, thanks to a $28,037 scholarship from the Woodrow Foundation. The scholarship covers tuition and books for the 2008-09 academic year.

“The scholarship has made it possible to pursue my education without the fear of being unable to finish it,” says Stone, who is ineligible to receive state financial aid because of his major in theology. “My parents’ ability to support me financially is limited, so the scholarship has been a blessing for them as well.”

Stone plans to attend seminary and earn an M.Div. He hopes to become a pastor and serve as a marriage and family counselor.

Stone has played on the football team at Whitworth since his freshman year and served as a resident assistant during the 2006-07 academic year. He also has volunteered at the Rockwood at Hawthorne retirement community, in Spokane, has worked at Whitworth Child Daycare at Whitworth Presbyterian Church, and has served as a middle-school youth coordinator at Orcas Island Community Church.

“McLane is uncommonly honest about himself, quick to tell the truth when he has failed, eager to set a positive trajectory for his life, and willing to take responsibility for his actions,” stated Whitworth Professor of Theology Jerry Sittser in a letter of recommendation. “He is an absolutely winning young man, very talented (both academically and athletically) and upright of character.”

The Woodrow Foundation Scholarship is awarded each academic year to one student at Whitworth University. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must have a 3.75 or higher GPA, demonstrated leadership skills, and high financial need. Students are nominated by an academic department; the nominations are reviewed by a university committee that selects five finalists. The final selection is made by U.S. Bank, which serves as the trustee for the Leon Woodrow estate.

Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private, liberal-arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA). The university, which has an enrollment of 2,600 students, offers 53 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.