Waupun High Alumni Remembered With Scholarship Of Honor

We are proud to announce the establishment of the Rachel Bosveld Scholarship of Honor.  It will be awarded this coming spring at Waupun High School, where Rachel graduated from in 2002.



Bob and Darlene Nueske have known the Bosveld family for years and were touched by Rachel’s story. She was the first woman from Wisconsin to die in the Iraqi conflict and was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and her 2nd Purple Heart on what would have been her 20th birthday.   The Nueske’s are the generous sponsors of this annual award at Waupun High School, where she graduated from in 2002.  Rachel joined the Army upon graduation.

“Darlene and I have known Rachel’s family since our teenage years.  After Rachel was lost, we always wondered, just what could we do?  As I became closely involved with the Brian LaViolette Foundation, the vision was clear,” Bob Nueske states.  “The Rachel Bosveld Scholarship of Honor means a great deal to us, as we know the community and students of Waupun High School will always remember this brave young woman and also be inspired to make a difference in their life.”
Her brother Craig described his sister as an artist who loved to draw forest scenes, play the violin and act in her high school drama club. She hoped one day to become a graphic artist.



“I’m grateful for the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation and to Bob and Darlene Nueske for making the scholarship possible,” said Marvin Bosveld, Rachel’s father. “She was honored to serve, to be able to go and I was proud to have her serve.”

The Rachel Bosveld Scholarship of Honor will be awarded to a student who plans to enter into our armed forces or into the fields of public safety or community service.  These noble fields include education, ministry, police science, fire safety and medical fields.

“Rachel was a very energetic, happy go lucky, giving person and I think her thoughts were always helping other people in any situation and those who were less fortunate,” said Rachel’s mother, Mary Bosveld.  

We look forward to paying tribute to this amazing young woman every year.

Living with Honor

This past May, Brian’s Foundation established the Sal Giunta Scholarship of Honor at JFK High school in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where Sal graduated from in 2003. It was a very special evening for this Medal of Honor Recipient as he presented the first annual scholarship in his name paying tribute to Sgt. Joshua Brennan and Spc. Hugo Mendoza.


Sal was back in his home town last week for his first ever book signing. Living with Honor was released today. He has now put his experiences serving into a memoir by himself with Joe Layden.

More than 300 people turned out to the Barnes and Noble Bookstore in Cedar Rapids to pick up his new book and hear Sal speak. "I didn't expect this, not in a million years, this is cool,he states. "I think it's a story that needs to be told because us, as Americans, enjoy so many freedoms every single day without having to worry about it personally, but there are people that go out every single day and worry about our freedoms. They worry on our behalf and fight on our behalf and I think that's very important.”

Sal's interview from the Today Show aired December 2nd and can also be accessed here: Today Show interview

Pick up a copy of Living with Honor today at a bookstore near you.

THANK you.

It is getting cold out there. Even though it happens every year, it seems to take awhile to adjust to the cool days and dark nights. Yet, this time of year reminds me of the simple things I am grateful for... a warm place to live, blankets, winter hats and warm hugs.
Brian LaViolette
After our simple needs are met, we are able to reflect on other aspects of our lives we are grateful for.

Through Brian's Foundation, we are blessed to work with a lot of amazing individuals. Many we communicate with on a regular basis and some our paths may cross only once, but they remain in our hearts. We have the privileged to work with many families and be a small part of their lives.

Working with schools worldwide, we experience eye-opening cultures and the differences in each. The recipients we assist and inspire warm our hearts on these cool nights.

 Our family is so, very thankful.

The Times are a Changin'

Social media has made a big impact in this world. Please help us keep up with this effective way of sharing our story through our website, facebook and linkedin. By clicking on the icons below, you can share with friends, family and coworkers.

If you are a proud sponsor of Brian's Foundation, a past scholarship recipient or have seen the impact we have in the communities we serve, we encourage you share with others.

These changing times allow us to share in each others journey!




A big thanks to Envano for working with Brian's Foundation on our interactive marketing!  

Five Scholarships presented in Poland

It is hard to believe that 9 years has passed since we awarded our first scholarship in Poland.  Brian's Foundation has presented 53 scholarships so far through the Nidzica Foundation.  Thanks to this years' sponsors, the Robert Nueske Family, Dr. and Sue Smullen and the Weyers Family Foundation 5 students received scholarships the first part of September.


They were awarded to (left to right):  



Mateusz Smoliński-Management and Engineering  Production, The Main School of  Rural Farm  in Warsaw

 Daniel Traczewski-Economics /Finance and Accounting/Computer Science and Econometrics, University of Warsaw

 Karolina Pawlowska, National Security, Naval Academy in Gdynia

 Magdalena Dobrowolska- Internal Security, University of Warsaw

 Renata Bruzdziak-Finance and Accounting, The Main Trade School in Warsaw

2008 Scholarship recipient donates back to Brian's Foundation

When Ben Fischl received the Brian LaViolette Scholarship in 2008 he stated, "As if I wasn't excited enough to go into the Academy, now I have a great legacy to carry with me," referring to Brian LaViolette and the mission of his foundation.

 As with all of our scholarship recipients, he is special to us. Over the last 4 years, we have seen him grow even more passionate and more determined to make a difference.

Ben with Doug and Renee LaViolette in 2008

When we met Ben at the age of 18, we knew he had great compassion for others and life in general. We see it shine through him even more as he begins his last year at the Air Force Academy. 

Last year, we received an email from Ben stating that his loans have been paid off and he knew that this scholarship was meant for school expenses. After figuring out what other school costs he'd have this next year, he knew he'd have some of the funds left over. He donated $1,000 back to Brian's Foundation. Compassion.

Ben joined us at 'What's Right with America' on 11.11.11 and inspired the audience.

"I think it is so important to do for others exactly what has been done for you. I want future generations to be blessed by Brian's scholarship in the same way that I was," Ben stated on why he decided to give back to the Foundation.

After his sophomore year, Ben....Continue reading here!

Part of Jet Air event proceeds to benefit Brian's Foundation!

The Jet Air Group of Green Bay, Wisconsin is throwing a big event on October 19th and graciously donating the proceeds to Brian's Foundation and the Honor Flight Network.   

It is going to be a good one!  Let Me Be Frank Productions is performing an all new musical that you will not want to miss. There will be dinner, vintage photos, live auction and more!


Please join us on October 19th...you won't be sorry!  For more details, please see below and call Jet Air at 920-494-2669.

You'll be glad you did!

A fresh look to Brian's Foundation!

20 years ago on August 8th, we knew our lives would never be the same. And they weren't. What we didn't know was that so many lives would also change because of the loss of Brian on August 8, 1992.

Brian in the Summer of 1992

This feeling is bittersweet. We miss Brian so so much. But we are also very proud of what the foundation in his name and memory has become.

We are pleased to announce the fresh look to the Brian LaViolette Foundation. The changes are subtle, but important.

We are bringing Brian into the redesigned logo. Our original logo shown below had 3 people over water. Now 4 people are represented. Brian is represented by the white figure and the spirit he left behind.

The other three figures symbolize Doug, Renee and Kim LaViolette who established the foundation in Brian's name and memory 20 years ago this month.

The wave below continues to represent the Bay of Green Bay where Brian drowned. Three steps in the wave symbolize the steps filled with hope by the LaViolette family and the journey to higher education for our scholarship recipients.

Arketype's talented team contributed the new design. 

Brian and Kim during a Florida vacation

As we reflect on this hard day for our family, we are thankful for all that the Foundation has accomplished in Brian's name.  We look forward to continuing this amazing journey with you...

Thank you, 

Doug, Renee and Kim

Everyday We Are Reminded...

Everyday we are  reminded of the courage and sacrifice of our brave men and women serving our country in uniform.

On a daily basis, we have the privilege of sharing their stories and today as a family we wanted to share that of 1st Lieutenant Todd Lambka, who wrote in part '' I will serve humbly and honorably to the best of my ability in Peacetime and in combat leading soldiers in our Military, representing the greatest Nation''


Todd with his twin brother Jordan who also serves and father Brian.
Todd graduated with honors from the United States Military Academy in 2010 and we were lucky enough to be introduced to him when he received the 2010 Robert Foley Scholarship of Honor.

His life has always been an example of personal determination, a true role-model for his family, friends and the men and women he lead in battle.


Sadly, on August 1st, First Lieutenant Todd W. Lambka was killed along with Private First Class Jesus J. Lopez of San Bernardino, CA while on patrol. They died in Paktika Province of wounds sustained during an attack with a roadside bomb and another improvised explosive device. They were assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, out of Fort Riley, Kansas.

Paying tribute to 1LT Todd Lambka and PFC Jesus J. Lopez 
After Todd received the scholarship, he wrote a very long, heartfelt letter, part of which included:

 "I am humbled and extremely honored to be chosen to receive this significant award, the LTG (R) Robert Foley Scholarship of Honor, and I am equally touched that I can now be part of the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation and can only promise that I will serve humbly and honorably to the best of my ability in Peacetime and in combat in part to honor the memory of Brian and all that he did on earth, as well as continue the proud tradition in joining the Long Gray Line and living “DUTY, HONOR, COUNTRY.”

 Today, I finish a significant chapter in my life, graduating from West Point, but I begin to embark on a more significant chapter… leading soldiers in our Military, representing the greatest Nation… indeed, as I begin my life as an Officer in the Profession of Arms… it is clearly evident to me… the “Journey is the Reward!”--2nd Lt. Todd W Lambka, 22 May 2010.

 We too are humbled and promise to honor and remember you now and always.

 Doug , Renee and Kim LaViolette

Special night at EAA

It was a special night for Brian’s Foundation at yesterday’s EAA AirVenture. We awarded the 9th annual Tom Hudner Scholarship of Honor at EAA’s First Wing Dinner. Medal of Honor recipient and great man, Tom Hudner was in from Maryland to present the scholarship to Lucas Benish.

2012 Tom Hudner Scholarship of Honor recipient, Lucas Benis with Tom Hudner
Ever since he can remember, Luke has been fascinated with flight.Whether it was attending the annual EAA AirVenture or just looking up as any aircraft flew overhead. It’s an understatement, to say he’s excited and proudly looking forward to a future in the aviation industry and would like to study a branch of engineering. After college he would like to join the U.S. Military or pursue a civilian engineering career and work as an aerospace engineer for an agency like NASA or a company like Boeing.

Last years recipient, Margaret Viola was also able to join!

A community coming together to honor a local hero...

"I don’t think we could possibly honor Danny enough or his family for their service to our country and the hard work and sacrifice they have all made to defend our freedom."-Steve Miller of Texas Roadhouse in Sheridan, Colorado.

The Grand Opening of Texas Roadhouse in Sheridan, Colorado was dedicated in Honor of Navy SEAL Danny Dietz.  
David Carter created this beautiful mural which hangs on the wall of the restaurant.
They went above and beyond.  Not only does this beautiful mural of Danny and his fellow men hang in the restaurant, but the funds raised from their opening night went to the Danny Dietz Scholarship of Honor endowment. The night raised more than they had envisioned...$7227.81.   $1,250 will now be awarded annually--forever--in Danny’s name!
Danny's mom, Cindy is pictured here Jake Hart and Steve Miller of Texas Roadhouse

The Danny Dietz Scholarship of Honor was established 6 years ago at Heritage High School.  Danny was a 1999 graduate there and joined the Navy three months later.  While in high school, he played football his senior year and was active in weight training and swimming.  Danny had two weeks left of service in Afghanistan when he was killed on June 28, 2005.  


We welcome Al Timmerman to our Board of Advisors!

Al Timmerman is a graduate of the FBI Academy in Quantico VA.  He retired after 34 years of Law Enforcement with the Green Bay Police Department and the Ashwaubenon Department of Public Safety. 

He also served as Interim Public Safety Director for the Village of Ashwaubenon, managing police, fire and EMS services. Al is currently a partner and CEO of Jet Air Group, Austin Straubel International Airport.

Al’s passion is flying his helicopter. He has flown 238 young eagles for EAA programs.  His three grandchildren, ages 7,4 and 1 also keep him very busy.

We are thrilled to have Al as our newest member of the Brian LaViolette Foundation Board of Advisors.  He and Jet Air have been great supporters and share the passion for our mission. Jet Air is hosting an event, The Golden Age of Aviation, on October 19th and Brian’s Foundation is one of the beneficiary. Click here for more details: Golden Age of Aviation event. We can't thank them enough!

Wow.

Last week, we received an update from last years' Brian LaViolette Scholarship recipient, Nikitha Murali. 

She told us about her first year of college and all we can say is WOW.  

After our selection interview with her, we knew she was special and would go on to do great things, but everything she has accomplished in one year is astonishing.  
Nikitha with the LaViolette's after the 2011 Scholarship presentation 
Nikitha is getting ready for her second year at the University of Chicago. She's currently pursuing a degree in Comparative Human Development, which means she is studying neurology, anthropology, biology, and psychology.
  
She has a minor in biology with plans to ultimately go to medical school. 

Prior to attending college, she had accomplished a lot, including organizing a medical health camp in a small village in India during her years at Ashwaubenon High School.  While that was quite the undertaking, it pales in comparison to what she has done her first year in college.

To read more about Nikitha's first year of college, please click here Niktha's first year of college..  You are sure to be 'wowed'.
  

Moved by a moment thousands of miles from home....a note from Doug LaViolette

Three weeks ago I had the privilege to spend time in Normandy, France and witness one of the most moving moments of my life. 

It was my first visit to one of the most hallowed places on earth. What I will remember most, is one of last things I saw. 

Leaving the Normandy Beach Memorial Museum, 
I discovered a single display that needs no words to describe 
the loss and love of one country to another.


I snapped this photo as a young French student was sharing this moment with a friend.

I will always wonder what she was ''saying'' as she emailed the picture she had just taken.  There is no doubt in my mind, it was profound and moving.

You see, I've learned that in these far away lands, they not only appreciate their freedom....


they remember why they are free and are teaching their children who gave them that freedom.  




Community and Business Come Together to Honor Local Hero and Raise Funds for a Scholarship in his Name

The Grand Opening of Texas Roadhouse in Littleton, Colorado was dedicated in Honor of Navy SEAL Danny Dietz.  

It was also a fundraiser for the Danny Dietz Scholarship of Honor endowment. The night raised $6878.93, which brought the endowment to a point that $1,250 can be awarded annually--forever--in Danny’s name!
David Carter created this beautiful mural which hangs on the wall of Texas Roadhouse
The Danny Dietz Scholarship of Honor was established 6 years ago at Heritage High School.  Danny was a 1999 graduate there and joined the Navy three months later.  While in high school, he played football his senior year and was active in weight training and swimming.  Danny had two weeks left of service in Afghanistan when he was killed on June 28, 2005.  

The Scholarship of Honor Program through Brian's Foundation recognizes a graduating high school senior with plans to enlist in the military or pursue a career in public safety or community service. These noble fields include fire safety, police science, teaching, nursing, EMT, ministry and more.  

The mission of the Scholarship of Honor  
'To honor, to remember, those who serve while recognizing dedication, community service and selflessness in those who follow in their footsteps"



Changing the World

"This is such a tremendous honor for me to be able to come back and say I'm giving back to the community that helped raise me," said Sal Guinta at John F. Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on May 1st.
Medal of Honor recipient, Sal Giunta presented the first annual Sal Giunta Scholarship of Honor at his alma mater.  This scholarship is special, because it honors the two soldiers he tried to save, Sgt. Joshua Brennan and Spc. Hugo Medndoza. 



Abi Gray is this years recipient  She has applied to the United States Air Force Academy and plans on studying Areospace Engineering. In Abi's words, "I want to help my community and country as much as I am able so that I can give others the same feeling of gratuity to this country that I experience every day."



When asked about the Scholarship of Honor, Sal replied, ""I'm so proud of that. I think anytime you have people trying to help people it's a good thing and I want to do a good thing. People helping people is positive," said Guinta.


“I can't even dream this stuff up. It's just wild how not part of my plan this was, and how great of a new plan this has created for me,"

Please take a few minutes to view this wonderful news story on our first annual Sal Giunta Scholarship of Honor at JFK High School in Cedar Rapids, IA as well as the growth of Brian's Foundation

Our first Scholarship recipient of the year!

Adam Tisch of Pulaski High School (pictured 2nd from the left) received our Junior Achievement Scholarship during this year’s Business Challenge. His team, Double A Inc. with Adam Stczynski earned 2nd place and they will compete later this month at the Wisconsin JA Statewide Business Challenge Championship.

They are pictured with their mentors, Lonni Hampton and Jim Olson of Schenck SC.

Inspiring Lives One Scholarship at a Time

Are any of these scholarships in your area?  Please see the presentation dates and locations below..

Junior Achievement-Awarded during Business Challenge on February 18th

Victoria Parmentier Scholarship: Ashwaubenon High School, WI--May 16th at 6:30

Brian LaViolette Scholarship: Partners in Education Youth Celebration, WI--May 22nd at 7:00pm

Ken Kubsch Scholarship: Manitowoc High School,WI-- May 23rd 7:00pm

Ollie Bogsted Scholarship: Suring High School, WI-- May 26

“The Journey is the Reward” Scholarship: Suring High School, WI--May 26

Above and Beyond Scholarship: Oconto High School, WI-- May 30 7:30pm

Esther Cleveland Safford Scholarship: Oconto High School, WI-- May 30 7:30pm

Robert Safford Scholarship: Oconto High School, WI-- May 30 7:30pm

“The Journey is the Reward” Scholarship: Oconto High School, WI--May 30 7:30pm

South Africa Scholarship: LEAP School Science and Math, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa--Summer of 2012

NWTC: for Oconto and Suring High School, WI-- Fall 2012

Poland Scholarships (5): Nidzica Foundation Award Ceremony, Nidzica Poland--Fall 2012

St. Norbert Scholarships (4): DePere, WI --October 2012

The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation is proud to have received the highest possible rating on Charity Navigator. 

This four-star rating designates Brian’s Foundation as an official “Give with Confidence” charity, indicating that our organization is using its donations effectively based on Charity Navigator’s criteria.