April 1, 2006 – The Rotary Club of St. Thomas has changed the name of its scholarship fund to honor the late Richard F. Kirwan.
Kirwan, who passed away last month, was one of the founders of the fund that was established in the 70s, according to Terry Robinson, club president. (See "Richard F. Kirwan Dead at 74").
"Richard Kirwan was a vital member of the scholarship committee for many years," Robinson said Friday. "He had a passion for providing higher education for the territory's youngsters. Upon his passing, the Rotary board met and voted unanimously to rename the fund the Richard F. Kirwan Scholarship Fund."
Robinson said a special guest has been invited to the scholarship presentation luncheon this year. "We are looking forward to the honor of having Helen Kirwan, Rich's widow, present the first Kirwan scholarship in May to a student from our adopted school, Charlotte Amalie High School. It is for the University of the Virgin Islands."
The scholarship foundation is a not-for-profit 501c(3) corporation, Robinson said. "In this way individuals making contributions can claim them as a tax deduction," he said.
"Presently, there is $13,000 specifically identified for the scholarship. This comprises $3,000 from Roger Kirwan, Rich's brother; $5,000 from Clearwater Consulting; and $5,000 from Phyle Industries, an EDC company no longer on the island."
To contribute to the scholarship fund, mail a check to:
Rotary Club of St. Thomas Foundation, Inc.
The Richard F. Kirwan Scholarship Fund
P. O. Box 10501
St. Thomas, VI 00801.

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