New Executive Director Announcement

Family at the Heart, the Future in Focus

January 23, holds a special place in our hearts because it would have been our son Brian’s 49th birthday. It is a fitting time to celebrate his life, share an important announcement, and reaffirm the promise we made to him so many years ago—that we would continue to accomplish great things in his name and memory.

As the Foundation looks ahead, we are grateful to announce that our niece, Kristin Kreuser, has accepted the role of Executive Director and, in essence, become the new caretaker of the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation.

Kristin is a member of the LaViolette family and brings with her a deep respect for Brian’s legacy, along with a clear understanding that this work is more than administration. It is stewardship—of trust, of hope, and of the thousands of students and families who have been touched by Brian’s story since 1992.

Kristin also brings 28 years of experience as a high school teacher at Preble High School in Green Bay. Her lifelong commitment to education and to students makes her a natural and deeply fitting leader for the Foundation.

As Kristin steps into this role, we are incredibly grateful for our daughter Kim, whose decades of leadership, love for her brother, and unwavering devotion to Brian’s legacy continue to shape the heart of the Foundation. Kristin shared with us:

Kristin and Brian together in 1980 after her 1st Communion

I grew up knowing Brian not as a story, but as my cousin—someone whose kindness, humor, and heart left a lasting impression on all of us.

This Foundation has always been part of our family’s life, and stepping into this role feels deeply personal. My goal is to honor who Brian was and to make sure his story continues to create opportunity and hope for students right here in our community.

Under Kristin’s care, the Foundation will continue to be headquartered in Green Bay, with a focused commitment to serving students in the Green Bay area. This transition ensures that Brian’s legacy, built on family, community, and the belief that The Journey is the Reward, will continue to guide this work forward.

We are deeply grateful to the donors, scholarship recipients, families, and Board members who have supported the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation for more than three decades. Their belief and care have made this journey possible.

We are grateful for the past, hopeful for what lies ahead, and inspired that this work— serving students through Brian’s Foundation—will continue to grow right here at home for decades to come.

With gratitude and respect to you all,

Doug & Renee LaViolette

Brian and Kim’s Mom & Dad

& Kristin's Aunt and Uncle

A Closer Look at Kristin

Kristin joined the Foundation as Associate Director in 2024 after teaching language arts for 28 years at Green Bay Preble High School, and has now stepped into the role of Executive Director. An Oconto native, she earned her undergraduate degree at St. Norbert College and her master’s degree from Lesley University. 

As Brian’s cousin, she has been involved with the Foundation for the past 31 years through volunteer work.  She is looking forward to continuing to support the Foundation in her new role.

Kristin and her husband, Terry, live in Green Bay with their two adult children, Sydney and Michael. In addition to working for the Foundation, she also works as a curriculum designer and editor for UNYTUS. During her free time, she volunteers as an usher at the Weidner Center and has a love of travel, books, puzzles, the Packers, and time spent with family. 

A Blessing Beyond Measure

As the new year unfolds, an important new chapter in the life of the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation is being written.

After more than two decades of incredible leadership, our daughter, Kim LaViolette Mosteller, is stepping aside as Executive Director.

Kim was just 12 years old when she lost her big brother Brian in a swimming accident on August 8, 1992. In the wake of that unimaginable heartbreak, Kim helped carry us forward. In so many ways, she helped us survive.

From the very beginning, Kim has always had a way of bringing out the good in people. Her patience, compassion, and genuine love for others made it a joy to watch her not only grow into her role at the Foundation, but truly thrive in it. It’s no wonder her nickname from us has always been "Blessing."

Long before working remotely became commonplace, Kim was leading Brian's Foundation from Asheville, North Carolina, with the same care and commitment as if she were right here at home. She officially joined the Foundation in 2005, helping guide many initiatives—including the early planning of the 2007 National Congressional Medal of Honor Convention in Green Bay—marking the beginning of her full-hearted commitment to this life-changing work.

What mattered most to Kim was always the same—the students and families the Foundation serves. Her focus never wavered from the healing, hope, and opportunity that each scholarship represents.

When Kim joined the Foundation, 157 scholarships had been awarded. As of this writing, the Foundation has now awarded 1,200 scholarships, meaning Kim helped award more than 1,000 of them.

Each one handled with care.

Each one treated as more than a number.

Every family treated with respect, kindness, and extraordinary attention to detail.

Under Kim’s leadership, Brian’s legacy reached far beyond Wisconsin—touching students in 18 states and 3 foreign countries. Nearly 77% of all scholarships have been awarded in honor or memory of others, allowing families to carry forward their own legacies through Brian’s name.

Throughout this journey, Kim balanced her work with grace, becoming a loving wife to Isaiah and a devoted mother to our only grandchild, Walker, who is now seven years old.

Some time ago, Kim shared that she felt it was time to begin a new chapter. Alongside that decision, she helped guide the creation of an endowment campaign, ensuring that Brian's name and the mission of the Foundation will carry on for generations to come, right here in the Green Bay area.

As Kim steps away from day-to-day leadership, we're not quite sure what this next chapter will hold for her. What we do know—without question—is that it will be meaningful.

We are deeply grateful that our niece, Kristin Kreuser, who has spent the last two years working closely alongside Kim, will step in to care for Brian's Foundation and the hundreds of details that come with it. We're also incredibly proud to see that the Foundation will remain headquartered in Green Bay, with a renewed focus on Green Bay-area scholarships and the students they support.

Kim, thank you.

Thank you for being a blessing in our lives and a blessing to the thousands of students and families you have touched. Thank you for carrying your brother's legacy forward with such love, integrity, and heart.

We are just so proud of you.

With all our love, Mom and Dad

A farewell and thank you from Kim

I was just 12 when Brian died—an awkward pre-teen with puffy bangs, buck teeth, and a big brother I adored. Losing him left me lost, but the year that followed brought the Brian LaViolette Foundation and its very first scholarship. I remember sitting with a small committee reviewing applications, not realizing then how deeply this work would someday shape my life.

Brian and Kim together, before the puffy bangs and buck teeth. :)

For 14 years, my parents carried the Foundation on volunteer power. I helped when I could, coming home from college to help with events, but later I moved out of state.  While I was working at the March of Dimes in Asheville, NC, Brian’s Foundation found itself planning the Medal of Honor Convention in Green Bay, establishing new scholarships, and managing the ones we already had. It became clear that it was too much for volunteers alone.

And with that, in 2006 I became the first—and only—employee. I quickly realized the impact Brian’s Foundation had on students, families, and entire communities.

If you would have told 12-year-old me that I’d someday run a foundation in Brian’s name… that I’d write a thank-you letter to Pope Francis, update our website in Czech, or meet scholarship recipients from Green Bay to Poland—I never would have believed you. But the greatest joy has always been hearing from recipients years later and seeing the lives they’ve built. 1,200 scholarships later, I’ve seen more hope and goodness than I ever imagined.

Kim, Renee and Doug LaViolette at one of many Foundation events

As the years went by, we knew it was time for a new direction.  We prepared to partner with other organizations to transition portions of our scholarship work, so we could focus our efforts, make everything more manageable, and ensure that our commitments live on long after we are gone.

We’ve spent the last several years transitioning many of our scholarships to organizations we trust deeply, including our wonderful partners at Green Bay’s CollegeReady- who truly are  some of the best of the best! 

We are also proud to announce our first—and last—Brian LaViolette Scholarship Endowment Campaign to create a scholarship in Brian’s own name.  We are excited and grateful to finally bring that to life.

And now—for the first time in 20 years (or really, 33)—I am stepping away from the Foundation.

I don’t yet know what’s next, and for the first time in a long time, I’m giving myself space to figure that out. But I do know how grateful I am. To everyone who supports the Foundation, and to all the students and families, teachers and board members I’ve met—you’ve shown me how kind and hopeful the world can be.

Thank you for being on this journey with me,

Kim

A Grandson’s Gift: Carrying Forward a Family Legacy of Giving

By Doug LaViolette

Gramma Nueske holding Conner on his first day of life.

I’ll never forget where I was on May 2, 2013. I was in Augsburg, Germany, staying with my friend Bob Nueske in a small guesthouse that already carried decades of memories for me. Many years earlier, during my Army days, that same place had been where my buddies and I enjoyed countless plates of schnitzel and more than a few German beers. But on that spring day in 2013, that old guesthouse became even more meaningful—it became the place where Bob learned he was officially a grandfather for the very first time.

We were on our pilgrimage to Pilsen in the Czech Republic to award a scholarship created to honor General George S. Patton and the men and women who liberated Europe in World War II. It was a trip rooted in history, remembrance, and purpose—but the anticipation of becoming grandparents gave Bob and his wife Darlene’s world an entirely new kind of excitement. Their only daughter, Tanya, and her husband, Derrik, were about to give them the greatest gift imaginable: their first grandchild–Conner.

Fast-forward twelve years, and I found myself in Wittenberg with “Grandma” Darlene Nueske, reviewing the details of the three scholarships she and Bob had established through Brian’s foundation. I also shared with her that, for the first time, we were announcing a campaign to endow a scholarship in Brian's name — a way to touch students for generations to come.

When it came time for me to leave, Conner walked up to me. Even though he hadn’t been part of the conversation that I had been having with his grandma, it was clear that he had been listening within earshot of the kitchen table. With all the seriousness that a young boy can muster, he pulled out his wallet, opened it, handed me the four dollars he had inside, and said,

“I want to help with Brian’s scholarship.”

Conner (Nueske) Satterfield’s $4.00—helping build a dream.

We’ve been doing this work for over 33 years now. Through the generosity of countless individuals, we’ve been blessed to award more than $1.2 million in scholarships. But in that moment — standing in front of a boy who is still full of mischief, curiosity, and the joyful chaos of childhood — no gift has ever felt more meaningful.

Conner is a passionate young person and a remarkable young artist, already doing good in the world even as he’s finding his way in it. His kindness and generosity echo the best of his grandfather, and of course his mom, dad, and Gramma Darlene, too.  

Bob passed away in January 2015, and I wish he could have witnessed this beautiful act by his grandson — a boy clearly carrying forward the Nueske family’s legacy of giving, compassion, and love.

Bob’s good work continues, not only through the scholarships he and Darlene created, but through the next generation — through Conner, who showed us that sometimes the simplest gestures reveal the biggest hearts.

Do You Know a High School Senior? College and Scholarship Application Essay Writing Tips

It's the time of year when many high school seniors are applying for college and scholarship opportunities. The process can be time-consuming and stressful, especially when students are faced with the pressure of writing the application essays. Though it can be a daunting task, there are some ways to make an application essay stand out. 

Respond to the prompt. Though it may be tempting to use the same essay repeatedly, make sure that what you wrote is a clear reflection of what is being asked or what the requirements are for each individual scholarship. 

Focus on one specific story or quality. Avoid writing about too many different ideas or multiple stories. It's more effective to fully elaborate on one specific experience or one personal quality instead of making general statements. 

Be authentic. Having a strong sense of self is important. Understand who you are and then show it in the essay. Don't be afraid to admit if there is an area that needs improvement. The people who are reading your essay aren't looking for perfection, but they are looking for honesty and a desire to improve. Sincerity goes a long way. 

Be personal. If the scholarship is given in memory or honor of someone, take time to learn about that person. Mention them by name in your application and include a sentence about who they were or how their story inspires you. This personal connection shows genuine effort and will help your application stand out.

Use a reliable editor. Don't overlook the time needed to proofread and revise, and the importance of using a good editor. Sometimes thinking something is finished and then walking away from it for awhile before coming back to it and rereading it can be quite effective. It's also quite effective to read your essay out loud to yourself and even others so you can hear how your sentences and ideas flow.

Ultimately, the best essays don’t try to impress—they reveal the real person behind the application by reflecting an authentic voice, showcasing growth, and leaving the reader with a clear sense of of the applicant’s identity and the unique qualities they will bring to the campus community.

Helping a Friend: A Special Auction to Support RT Custer and His Family

At the heart of the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation is the power of community and lasting friendships. Over the years, we’ve been humbled by the generosity of so many — people who’ve shared their time, talents, and hearts to help us honor Brian’s legacy and support deserving students. None of this would have been possible without the incredible relationships built along the way.

One of those friends is RT Custer, co-founder of Vortic Watch Company and Colorado Watch.

In the blink of an eye, life can change. On June 30th, RT suffered a stroke. At just 34 years old, he now faces a long road to recovery, while his wife, Lindsay, and their two young sons, Sawyer (8) and Wesley (6), navigate an unimaginable challenge together.

RT with his wife, Lindsay and their boys Wesley and Sawyer

RT and Vortic Watch Company have been incredible supporters of Brian’s Foundation over the years, standing with us in honoring Brian’s legacy and helping us grow our mission. Now, it’s our turn to stand by RT and his family.

After talking it over as a family, Renee, Kim, Kristin, and I knew we wanted to do something meaningful to help. On behalf of the Brian LaViolette Foundation, we are honored to host a weeklong eBay auction of a very special, brand-new, unworn Colorado Watch Company GCT – DLC Black Case – Machined Dial timepiece.

This watch is number 23 of a limited edition of only 100, chosen in honor of Brian LaViolette’s birthday, January 23 — making it even more meaningful for us to donate.

Crafted with care, the watch features a 42mm stonewashed stainless steel case, a comfortable inlaid caseback, a screw-down crown with deep knurling for easy winding, 42 hours of power reserve, and a smooth automatic movement. It comes complete with its original packaging and papers and is currently listed for $1,995 — but the opening bid will start at just $1,000.

Photos by Ty Alexander

Photo by Ty Alexander

Auction Details:

• Platform: eBay

Click on the image to be taken directly to our eBay page where you can view and bid on the watch in support of RT.

• End: Following Sunday at 9:30 PM CST, September 7, 2025.

• Opening Bid: $1,000

• Includes: Original packaging and papers

• 100% of proceeds will be donated directly to RT’s family

RT has inspired so many through his creativity, generosity, and dedication to his craft. Today, we have an opportunity to give back — not only to RT, but to Lindsay, Sawyer, and Wesley — by coming together as a community to support them during this difficult time.

Please join us by bidding in the auction, sharing this effort, or donating directly to their GoFundMe page. Every gesture of support — big or small — will make a lasting impact.

With gratitude,

Doug, Renee, Kim & Kristin

On behalf of our family and the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation

Update on 2023 Scholarship Recipient!

Halle is pictured here with Eric Vanden Heuvel of the Green Bay Chamber (left) and Renee and Doug LaViolette after she received the award in 2023.

“This is Halle Dessart, the 2023 Brian LaViolette scholarship recipient. I wanted to let you know that everything is going well, and I am excited to go back this fall as a junior to UW Eau Claire.

When I am at school I spend my time working at the YMCA as a lifeguard and volunteering at a local nursing home. This year, I will apply to the education program and be a TA, all to pursue my goal of being a science teacher.  

Thank you so much, as I truly appreciate everything the Brian LaViolette foundation does. “

Neil Armstrong and Brian LaViolette in the same sentence? We have a story for you!

We never thought we’d have a small connection with Neil Armstrong, yet here we are with a powerful story of a Wisconsin man and a donation made to Brian's Foundation from the sale of Armstrong’s watch.

Thank you WBAY TV-2, WFRV Local 5, NBC 26, WLUK-TV FOX 11, and the Press Times for covering and sharing this story!

A special thanks to Chris Roth of WBAY TV-2 for such a thoughtful feature.

An extremely rare piece of American history is now benefitting a local non-profit that provides scholarships to students around Northeast Wisconsin.

To commemorate Neil Armstrong walking on the moon, the Omega Watch Company handcrafted personalized time pieces for the Apollo crew. Several years ago, Stefan Osdene, a watch collector, purchased the watch at a coin shop in Ohio. It had Armstrong’s name on it, but it wasn’t until later that he learned the watch belonged to the famous astronaut.

Tyson Engel, DePere High School Student, Presented with Brian LaViolette Scholarship

Tyson Engel, a senior at DePere High School, is the 2025 recipient of the Brian LaViolette Scholarship of Excellence. The $10,000 award, presented by the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation, is designed to inspire a student to succeed and provide meaningful financial support toward a college education.

The LaViolette Family, along with representatives from De Pere High School and the Greater Green Bay Chamber, surprised Engel in person at school to present the scholarship—an emotional and memorable moment shared with his classmates and teachers. Engel plans to attend UW–Madison, where he will study Biochemistry on a Pre-Med track with an emphasis on pediatrics.

In a note sent to the LaViolettes, Engel expresses his appreciation:  “Thank you to the LaViolettes, and everybody else from the Greater Green Bay Chamber who was involved in the Brian LaViolette Scholarship,” Engel shared. “This has been an otherworldly experience, and I will hold it close to my heart for the rest of my life. I was incredibly touched learning about the amazing person Brian was, and about the resilience and kindness of the LaViolette family.”

Doug LaViolette, Brian’s father and president of the Foundation, reflected on this year’s selection:  “Tyson is a fine young man who embodies so many of the qualities that mattered to Brian—kindness, determination, and a desire to help others. He walks the same halls that Brian and our daughter Kim once did, and it’s especially meaningful to honor Tyson in a place so close to our hearts. We truly believe he will go on to accomplish great things, and we’re honored to support him on his journey.”

Left to Right:  Matt Rentmeester (Greater Green Bay Chamber), Kristin Kreuser (Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation Associate Director), Renee LaViolette (Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation Vice President), Tyson Engel (scholarship recipient), Doug LaViolette (Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation President), Stefanie Delahaut (Greater Green Bay Chamber)

Since 1992, the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation has awarded nearly 1,200 scholarships to students throughout Northeastern Wisconsin, the United States, and beyond. The Foundation was created after Brian LaViolette, a De Pere High School student, lost his life in a swimming accident at age 15. His family made a vow “That in his name and memory, we would accomplish great things.” Thanks to the support of thousands, that promise continues to be fulfilled through each recipient who carries Brian’s legacy forward.

Students selected for the Brian LaViolette Scholarship demonstrate academic excellence, a strong sense of character, and leadership potential. They are team players with a thirst for knowledge, hallmarks of the values by which Brian lived.

The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation has partnered with Partners in Education, a program of the Greater Green Bay Chamber, for the past 19 years. This program brings together leaders from businesses, K–12 and higher education, and the broader community to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and values to succeed in life and contribute to a strong and vibrant region.

For more about Partners in Education, visit greatergbc.org

The General Patton Scholarship was awarded to Dominik Reiterman from Plzeň

Article from City of Pilsen’s website

On Monday, May 5, 2025, Dominik Reiterman, a student at the František Křižík Gymnasium in Plzeň, was awarded the General George S. Patton Scholarship during a moving ceremony at Pilsen City Hall as part of the city’s Freedom Celebration program. In addition to the Scholarship of Honor medal, Dominik received a scholarship check for $1,000, presented in recognition of his character, leadership, and vision for the future.

The General Patton Scholarship is not simply an award—it is a tribute to the legacy of service, sacrifice, and leadership exemplified by General Patton and the liberating forces of World War II. This honor is reserved for individuals who demonstrate a sincere commitment to those same values.

Dominik with General Patton’s Grandson, Pat Waters

Dominik’s essay, titled My Journey, deeply moved the selection committee. In it, he wrote: “Values such as dedication, honour and service to others are not just empty words for me. They are principles that guide my every decision and shape my path. I want to dedicate my life to fighting evil, whether in the military or in the field of security policy. I know the path will not be easy, but I am prepared to sacrifice myself for the greater good. If I can help protect the lives of others, then I know my decision makes sense.”

These words reflect the very essence of leadership. During the presentation, Doug LaViolette shared personal remarks from Dominik’s own reflections: “Dominik, your own words reflect the spirit of service to others—and if you have the opportunity to help, one should do so, even if it costs one’s own comfort or requires sacrifice. That is the heart of leadership and service. Dominik, we are proud and honored to recognize you today not just as a scholar, but as a symbol of hope for what lies ahead.”

Dominik with President of the Brian LaViolette Foundation, Doug LaViolette

Dominik’s dedication is already evident. He has taken part in the EuropaSecura competition, visited the General Staff of the Czech Army, and will soon begin an internship at the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic. After graduation, he plans to attend the University of Defence to further pursue a path of national service.

In honoring Dominik Reiterman, we celebrate not only his accomplishments but also the enduring ties between the Czech Republic and the United States—built on shared values of liberty, sacrifice, and the unwavering belief that The Journey is the Reward.

A Watch that Reached for the Stars--And Will Now Help Others Do the Same

You could feel the anticipation in the air as the packed room at Boston’s Royal Sonesta Hotel prepared to witness history. On April 17, 2025, RR Auctioneer Michael Chambers opened the bidding with a poignant reminder: “This watch brought us all here today.” Thanks to the generosity of Stefan Osdene, the owner of this extraordinary watch, that moment—and the impact that followed—was made possible.

The watch in question—an 18k solid gold Omega Speedmaster—once belonged to none other than Neil Armstrong, the first human to walk on the moon. Armstrong received this historic timepiece on November 25, 1969, just months after his monumental lunar landing, during a ceremony at the Hotel Warwick in Houston, Texas.

Exactly 56 years and 1,840 miles later, in another hotel ballroom—this time in Boston—a new chapter began.

Mark Armstrong and watch donor, Stefan Osdene.

Armstrong’s son, Mark, was in the room, watching as his father’s watch captivated the crowd once more. When the final gavel fell, the Speedmaster had sold for $2,125,000.

It marked another unforgettable auction moment witnessed by Doug LaViolette of the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation—where timepieces not only tell stories, but transform lives.

Proceeds from the Armstrong auction will benefit charities personally selected by Mark Armstrong—organizations that reflect values his father held close, such as exploration, education, and service to others.

We are honored that funds will also support the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation, which recognizes students who exemplify hard work, community service, and the courage to dream big. Together, these causes continue a legacy not only of great achievements, but of giving back—and inspiring the next generation to reach for the stars.

Our deepest gratitude goes to Stefan Osdene, founder of Wisconsin-based Cambridge Gold & Antiques; Bob Eaton and his entire team at RR Auction; Mark Armstrong and the Armstrong family; the watch community; and the media for helping shine a spotlight on this remarkable moment.

The legacy of this timepiece is no longer just about where it’s been—but where it’s going, and the many lives it will help shape along the way

TONIGHT: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Auction Opportunity

At 6PM ET tonight, live from the Royal Sonesta in Boston, Neil Armstrong’s personally worn watch goes up for auction through RR Auction.

Part of the proceeds benefit the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation.

This is a historic moment—not only for collectors, space history enthusiasts, and watch lovers—but for the students whose futures will be forever changed by the generous bidders on this incredible timepiece.

The impact will stretch far beyond tonight—carrying forward a mission that honors hard work, community service, and the power of education.

We’d be incredibly grateful if you would share this exciting news with your network.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The LaViolette Family

& all the students we serve

One Small Step for Neil Armstrong’s Watch - One Giant Leap For Future Generations!

On July 20, 1969, as the world watched in awe, Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the moon. More than five decades later, a remarkable piece of his legacy has resurfaced—a solid gold Omega Speedmaster, owned and worn by Armstrong himself.

The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation is deeply honored to be connected to this extraordinary discovery. The watch, now confirmed to have belonged to Armstrong, will be auctioned at RR Auction on April 17, with online bidding already underway.  

In an incredible gesture, the consignor has pledged a portion of the hammer price to support the Brian LaViolette Foundation’s mission of shaping future generations through scholarships. Additionally, proceeds from the auction will benefit a select group of charities chosen by Neil Armstrong’s son, Mark, including those that Neil Armstrong himself admired—a fitting tribute to a man whose pioneering spirit and generosity continue to make an impact.

When His Holiness Pope Francis donated a timepiece to the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation in 2022, the organization wondered how it could ever follow such a historic gift. If the opportunity ever came, it would have to be something that truly reflected the depth of that generosity and purpose. This moment is that opportunity.

Neil Armstrong

By taking part in this auction, you have the chance to own a one-of-a-kind piece of American history and Swiss craftsmanship—all while supporting causes that change lives, including scholarships that help students pursue their educational dreams and reach for the stars.

To learn more about the Armstrong watch—which, at the time of this posting has a current bid nearning $1.5 million—please see detailed photos at RR Auction.

 About RR Auction
Headquartered in Boston, RR Auction is a globally recognized and trusted source for rare manuscripts, autographs, and historic artifacts. Founded in 1976, RR Auction has curated and auctioned some of history’s most extraordinary items, including astronaut-owned timepieces and memorabilia from pioneering space missions. For more information, visit www.rrauction.com.
To Register or Bid:
RR Auction, Phone: (603) 732-4280, Email: info@rrauction.com

About the Brian LaViolette Foundation

The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation has been presenting scholarship awards since 1992, when 15- year- old Brian LaViolette was lost in a swimming accident.  Brian’s Foundation has presented over 1160 scholarships to date.  Learn more at www.laviolettefoundation.org

Contact:  Doug LaViolette, President. 920-655-4098, doug@laviolettefoundation.org

To Honor to Remember those who Serve

More than 50 million brave young men and women have served our country in uniform with honor. As proud Americans we salute their efforts.

We established the Scholarships of Honor program over two decades ago to recognize graduating high school seniors who plan to enlist in the military or pursue a career in public safety or community service. Each award honors the service and sacrifice of our past and present military heroes.

Learn more at https://laviolettefoundation.org/scholarships-of-honor/about

Andrew Flok

"I would like to say thank you once again for the scholarship, which will be put towards my education through both tuition and tools for my trade.

Your support of me means a lot and I would like to thank you for offering scholarships to students like me, the few who will one day keep the lights on."

Andrew Flok, future Construction Electrician and 2024 Northeastern Wisconsin Technical College Scholarship recipient

Made possible by the Brian LaViolette Foundation

Watch Auction Results

To our incredible supporters,

We are beyond grateful to share that the recent Christie’s Watch Auction raised an astonishing $112,400 for the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation. This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of donors worldwide, whose kindness and belief in our mission continue to inspire us every day.

Thank you!

A heartfelt thank-you to Christie’s Auction House for their exceptional dedication and hard work in making this event a success, and to Eric Wind, whose passion and leadership spearheaded this initiative and brought it to life.

Together, you are helping us honor Brian’s legacy by empowering students to achieve their educational dreams and make a difference in the world.

Your generosity is a testament to the power of community and the enduring belief that The Journey is the Reward.

With gratitude,

Doug, Renee, Kim, and Kristin – and students worldwide!

Doug LaViolette, pictured with his good friend Eric Wind on the day of the Christie's Watch Auction, wears a watch with incredible sentimental value, his son Brian’s treasured Casio. Once an everyday timepiece, Brian’s Casio W-26 is now considered vintage, making it a fitting tribute to Brian’s timeless memory.

*UPDATE* Beautiful pair of timepieces with presentation box being auctioned off to benefit Brian's Foundation

Important Update. . .The Christie’s auction showcased extraordinary generosity with every watch contributing to its success!  

One lot, donated by the Cornell Watch Company of Chicago, Illinois, exceeded all expectations!   Originally estimated at $5,000–$8,000, the lot achieved a stunning hammer price of $20,160, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication that defined this record-breaking contribution to the Brian LaViolette Foundation Watch Auction.  

The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation would like to thank John and Chrissy Warren of Cornell Watch Company, and Roland G. Murphy for their generous time and donation. 

This pair of time pieces are being auctioned off at Christie’s through December 13th at 10:00am EST. You can bid and learn more here.

Unique Piece 1870 PC Wristwatch The unique piece, the 1870 PC (“Paul Cornell”), was created in partnership with Roland G. Murphy, known for crafting America’s finest timepieces since 1992. The 1870 PC is a tribute to the Cornell Watch Company’s highest grade pocket watches from the 19th century and it features a traditionally crafted double-sunk Grand Feu enamel dial and thermal blued hands inspired by the original. Inside, the hand-decorated Schwarz Etienne ASE 200 automatic movement features 33 jewels, a micro-rotor, and an 86-hour power reserve. The watch’s 39mm case is crafted from a mix of brushed and polished 316L stainless steel and is hand assembled, rigorously tested, and warrantied by the RGM Watch Company. 

Paul Cornell Pocket Watch This gilt, full-plate, size-18 pocket watch was made entirely in Chicago and dates to 1873. It was intended for use as a high-grade railroad watch and features the original double-sunk Grand Feu enamel dial, thermal blued hands, and a sterling silver stemwinding case. The movement is signed “Paul Cornell” and is the most elaborately decorated and precise movement grade originally offered by the Cornell Watch Company, featuring 19 jewels, some with gold settings, a lever escapement, and an index patent regulator. Paul Cornell was not only the namesake of the original Cornell Watch Company, but also the founder of Hyde Park, Chicago. Fewer than 10 “Paul Cornell” grade pocket watches are known to exist today. This specific example comes from the Cornell Watch Company’s private collection.

Charles Simon created this beautiful presentation box which will also go to the winning bidder.

True North-Wind Vintage watch fundraiser during WatchTime NYC

“RedBar is a community focused on our members and their love of watches, and we feel very strongly about supporting our community and encouraging support of charitable causes.

We’ve seen a big groundswell of support for the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation within the RedBar community and the watch industry and community at large. 

Photo by Ty Alexander Photography

Photo by Megan Rainwater

“We want to leverage our annual Independents’ Night event, which we have held on the Wednesday before WatchTime New York for many years, to help shine further light on the Foundation and its work, and use the True North-Wind Vintage watch as a fundraiser during the event. We can’t wait to see how much we can raise that night!”

Kathleen McGivney, CEO, RedBar Group

Brian LaViolette Foundation Announces the Release of the Islander Journey Watch

After months of planning, thoughtful design adjustments, and the incredible hard work of dozens of skilled craftsmen, the Brian LaViolette Foundation is proud to announce the release of the Islander Journey Watch today.

Photo by Ty Alexander

This unique limited-edition timepiece was made possible through the generosity of Marc Frankel, owner of Island Watch, headquartered in New York. Marc was introduced to the LaViolette Foundation by Green Bay-based watch photographer Ty Alexander, whose personal connection with both families helped bring this meaningful collaboration to life.

Reflecting on the significance of the project, Marc Frankel has stated, "This is the most important project I've ever worked on."

Photo by Ty Alexander

The Islander Journey Watch not only celebrates Brian LaViolette’s legacy but also aims to introduce the Foundation to a global community of watch enthusiasts.

100% of proceeds from this special release will go toward building a new endowment fund for the Brian LaViolette Scholarship, continuing the Foundation’s mission of honoring hard work, community service, and academic achievement.

Photo by Ty Alexander

Each purchase of the Islander Journey Watch will include:

- A copy of the hardcover book *The Journey is The Reward*, which reflects on Brian’s legacy and the Foundation's inspirational mission.

- A custom deck of playing cards, exclusive to this release.

For more details on the watch and its release, be sure to visit the Long Island Watch YouTube Channel

Or their website here. You can also follow them on instagram here https://www.instagram.com/islanderwatch/