Family establishes Rinehart Scholarship

The first annual Ruth L. Rinehart Education Scholarship in the amount of $250 was awarded to Dhara Patel, who plans to attend the University of Maryland to study pre-medicine. From left, are: front row - Fran Cordell, Dhara Patel, Ruth Rinehart, Mary Lou Barnhart, Suzi McKinnis; back row - Margaret Ayres, Ellen Scott, Ruth Ann Adams and Helen Keckler.

A devoted family said thank you to their mother by bestowing the first annual scholarship in her honor at the Greencastle- Antrim High School awards assembly last month. The seven daughters of Ruth Ludy Rinehart developed the scholarship to be given to a graduating senior who is pursuing further education.

"Our mother has always valued education," Margaret Rinehart Ayres told the assembled students. "When we were growing up, there was an expectation that we could do our best in school. There was always talk about a career and additional education after high school. She encouraged us to pursue our dreams even though we had limited resources. She taught us to work hard and to persevere. She was and is an awesome role model. We learned that no matter how little you have, you can always help someone else. Because of her, we are here today to give something back, to help another student to pursue their dreams."

Rinehart, a nurse, raised her seven girls alone. After graduating from G-AHS, her daughters went on to successful careers in healthcare, education and business. Rinehart also served as a Girl Scout leader and remains active in the Red Cross. Three of her 16 grandchildren currently attend G-A schools, four others have already graduated and are attending college or involved in careers.

Rinehart, 83, said she had a suspicion her daughters were planning something, but thought it was a birthday surprise, and had no idea that it would take place at the awards assembly. "I was surprised and honored to think that I influenced them enough for them to do something like this," she said tearfully.

The first annual Ruth L. Rinehart Education Scholarship in the amount of $250 was awarded to Dhara Patel, who plans to attend the University of Maryland to study pre-medicine.