Scholarship established for Preston County students
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MORGANTOWN - Your Community Foundation of North Central West Virginia Inc. announced the establishment of the Mary Lou (Street) English Scholarship, created by the English family to honor the memory of their mother and provide educational opportunities for students from Preston County.
Once fully endowed, the scholarship will support students who are residents of Preston County and are pursuing post-secondary education at a vocational school, technical school, community college, or four-year college or university. Current high school seniors will receive preference, although current post-secondary students are also eligible to apply. Preference will also be given to students who demonstrate financial need and a strong commitment to extracurricular activities.
Mary Lou’s children established the scholarship in 2026 to honor a woman whose heart remained connected to Preston County throughout her life. Born and raised in Masontown, Mary Lou grew up on the Wolfe brothers' farm and graduated from Masontown High School in 1953, where she was involved in numerous activities, including serving as Senior Class President and Student Council Secretary. She was also active as a member of the band, chorus, basketball team, cheerleading squad and National Honor Society. She went on to attend West Virginia University and graduated in 1961 with a degree in home economics.
"My mom never lost her connection to Preston County," said Robert English, Mary Lou's son. "Although she lived in several different places throughout her life, Masontown and the people there always held a special place in her heart. We wanted to honor her memory in a way that reflected who she was and what was important to her, and we felt helping young people from her hometown and surrounding communities pursue their education was a meaningful way to do that."
Mary Lou married William English in 1959, and they shared 66 years of marriage while raising three children. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, known for her love of cooking, sewing and crafting. She also dedicated many hours to helping others through volunteer work, including with Meals on Wheels and Northside Common Ministries in Pittsburgh, where she lived.
"An endowed scholarship is a gift that can continue giving long after the person it honors is gone," said Patty Showers Ryan, President of YCF. "The English family has created a wonderful way to celebrate Mary Lou's life and her connection to Preston County while investing in the future of students from the community she loved. We appreciate the opportunity to help the family carry her legacy forward."
The English family has pledged to grow the fund to $25,000, at which point it will be available to Preston County students through YCF's scholarship program. The family invites others who knew Mary Lou, or who believe in supporting local students, to contribute to the fund.
"Reaching $25,000 is an important goal for our family because it will allow the scholarship to have an even greater impact," English said. "We would be grateful to anyone who would like to contribute and help us continue Mom's legacy of caring for others and giving back."
To learn more about the Mary Lou (Street) English Scholarship or to make a charitable contribution, visit ycfwv.org or call 304-296-3433.
About Your Community Foundation of North Central West Virginia
Established in 2011, Your Community Foundation of North Central West Virginia connects donors with opportunities to strengthen Harrison, Marion, Monongalia, Preston and Taylor counties through charitable giving, grants and scholarships. Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2026, YCF has awarded nearly $15 million in grants and scholarships since its founding and manages more than 175 charitable funds.
For more information, visit ycfwv.org or call 304-296-3433.