One family's annual donation gives back what was received in Scholarship award

Austin, 1995

Austin Rios received the Brian LaViolette Scholarship in 1995 from DePere High School for the amount of $2,500.  His family graciously donates $100 every year to the Foundation on Brian's birthday. They have now given more than what was awarded to Austin 25 years ago.

After high school graduation, Austin attended Davidson College in North Carolina.  For the past 8 years, he has lived in Rome, Italy and is an Episcopal priest at St. Paul within the Walls.

Austin and Brian, 1992

Austin reflects on Brian and the time he received the scholarship 25 years ago... "I had the privileged to know Brian.  We moved from Texas to Wisconsin and it felt like a foreign country to me.  I felt alone and not sure if people would understand me. I remember sitting next to Brian in 8th grade and we instantly became friends. I could tell he was witty, and he was willing to ask questions others were not. And I found that really interesting and attractive.  It was a really wonderful friendship for me. He was my best friend. And in a time, I really needed a best friend.  He made me feel at home." 

"I was very honored to be one of the first recipients of the Brian LaViolette Scholarship.  Brian's friendship meant a lot to me and the scholarship was helpful in pursuing my undergraduate degree at Davidson.  Currently I am enjoying being a father, husband and Episcopal priest.   

I don't think anyone would have guessed that what started out as a single annual scholarship would grow large enough to offer both national and international awards. I am proud to be one of the now many recipients of this award and wish future recipients the best in pursuing their goals and dreams."  

Austin's wish is coming true through their thoughtful donation every year in honor of Brian.   

"To give back to the Foundation what was awarded to Austin is admirable.  It shows that it made a difference in his life and he wants to pay it forward," says Kim LaViolette Mosteller, executive Director of the Brian LaViolette Foundation.  "Their support is helping future recipients follow their educational dreams."