A Classy Thing To Do ~ Sunnyside High School Class of 1953

Updated: Oct 30, 2023

We were surprised we when opened the mail recently to have received a letter from Laura (Harrel) Cooper and Shirley (McDonnel) Martin, 2 members of the Class of 1953. In the envelope was a hand written note and a Cashier’s Check .

The check was from a HAPO Bank in the Tri-Cities where the Class of 1953 held their class checking account. Apparently the Class after holding their 70th Year Class Reunion had decided that it would be their last.

After 70 years we are able to give a helping hand to those that need it!!

The hand written note said, "I's a great pleasure the remaining members of the Class of 1953 present you with this check, $687.89 to go towards the "Scholarship Fund" at graduation. After 70 years we are able to give a helping hand to those that need it!! It was signed Laura (Harrel) Cooper, Shirley (McDonnel) Martin and others! All class members from the great Class of 1953.

We are so appreciative of the Class of 1953 for their gift. The Class of 1953 was the transition Class at Sunnyside High School when a new high school was being built at it's current location from it's previous location at the Lincoln school site (now the District Office) on 6th Ave. A similar donation was sent several years ago to the Alumni Scholarship Fund by the Class of 1952 when they determined that there was not enough surviving members of the class to continue holding their reunions.

The Alumni Fund during their current "Endowment Drive" have challenged every Class from Sunnyside High School to a $10,000 Class Drive to the Endowment Fund that will provide Scholarships to graduates each year into perpetuity. The Classes of 1967 and 1972 have met the Challenge so far.

The SHS Alumni Scholarship Fund is an IRS recognized 501(c)3 Tax Exempt Educational Foundation that was created and dedicated to help SHS graduates pursue their post-secondary educational goals!

Thanks again to the Class of 1953! GO GRIZZLIES!!