PHOTO PROVIDED Pictured, from left, are Fred Lingle, Denny Merrifield, Keystone Central Foundation Secretary Deb Smeltz, Linnette Thuran, Dennis Marasco, Patty Dunlap, Bill Danis, Jerry Blanchard, Marian Lang and KCF Board Member Deana Myers.

MILL HALL — Members of the Bald Eagle-Nittany (BEN) Class of 1964 recently gathered for a luncheon at Haywood’s and made a generous donation to the Keystone Central Foundation’s Jess Long Family Scholarship for Academic Excellence.

The gift recognizes the lasting impact of Jess Long, a dedicated high school teacher at BEN who inspired generations of students to strive for excellence.

The scholarship was created by his former BEN student, Howard Peters, and other members of the Keystone Central Foundation’s Alumni Hall of Fame.

Long was not only an educator, but also a mentor and guiding force in the lives of countless students. His unwavering belief in their potential encouraged them to push beyond perceived limits, embrace challenges, and pursue their goals with passion and determination.

The BEN Class of 1964 expressed pride in contributing to a scholarship that reflects the values and spirit of one of their most influential educators. Their donation also serves as a call to fellow alumni and community members to honor Long’s memory and invest in current students.

Individuals wishing to contribute to the Jess Long Family Scholarship for Academic Excellence may do so by contacting the Keystone Central Foundation at keystonecentralfoundation@gmail.com.