Coach K's time with Duke Basketball will not be forgotten.

It seems fitting we would share the details of Coach K’s watch on this special day.

Today, Coach “K”, Mike Krzyzewski is coaching his final home basketball at Duke University.  It’s a journey that began 42 years ago and tonight is his 1562nd game played in Cameron Indoor Stadium, on the hardwood floor that bears his name.

Time will tell what the final score will be for Duke vs Carolina, but we do know the time on a watch Coach K wore and owned, will bring joy and reflection to its new owner.  The big question, will it be yours? 

2.22.22!

We have been eyeing the date 2.22.22 for a while now. Many know that Brian's Foundation enjoys these unique days. It all started with a conversation between Brian and his dad, Doug on 8.8.88. The Foundation has hosted events on 9.9.99, 11.11.11, 11.12.13 and today is not lost on us. With that, we’d like to update you on a powerful ‘little’ project.

Since we announced the "Once Upon a Time Watch Project" late last year with a donation from His Holiness, Pope Francis, dozens of others have joined him in supporting Brian's Foundation- American heroes, celebrities, sports figures, heads of states. We are humbled to say the least.

These timepieces will be auctioned live and online to a worldwide audience through Rago/Wright, an industry leader auction house, later this fall or early this winter. Every watch has as story and if you or someone you know would like to be involved in donating a watch, we would be proud to tell your story too.

“Rago/Wright is proud to share our expertise and auction platform in support of The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation. We look forward to the Once Upon Time Watch auction.” Richard Wright, CEO of Rago/Wright stated.

100% of the proceeds will be used to help Brian’s Foundation continue its mission of providing scholarships and inspiration for generations to come. For more details on the Watch Project, please visit briansjourney.com.

2021 brought challenges and hope. It brought unknowns and gratitude. It also brought 56 new scholarship recipients into our lives.

As those 56 young men and women start out on the next chapter of their lives, we are reminded about possibility. Each and every one of them have already achieved so much in their lives. At 18 years old, they understand what it means to make a difference.

This is just a fraction of the Brian LaViolette Foundation's 2021 Scholarship recipients. Please visit www.briansjourney.com for details on each of our scholarships.

Thank you for your continued support and making a lasting impression in the lives of todays students.

Words of Thanks

"I’ve been so inspired by the Foundation and your family turning Brian’s tragedy into triumphs for students like me. I will never forget this day and I will never forget your advice to stay true to myself.

One of the first things people say about me is I’ve got a great smile. After reading Brain’s book tonight, it sounds like he did too. I get the feeling we have a lot in common. I’ll be sure to keep flashing my smile and spreading happiness just like Brian."

Brady Wittig, Brian LaViolette Scholarship recipient, Ashwaubenon, WI

“I want to express my gratitude and honor in being a recipient of this scholarship. I am both humbled and inspired by the story of Ken’s life. He epitomizes the person and physician I aspire to be someday. With the generosity of this scholarship fund, I feel my dreams becoming more of a reality. I know with such support; I can go forward and change lives as a physician just as Ken did.”

Mia Strazny, 2021 Ken Kusbsch Scholarship recipient, Manitowoc WI

“I am retiring after 33 years in education. I really enjoyed and appreciated all your support through the years. The David Hatfield Scholarship of Honor was one of my favorites and I loved working with you.”

Jan Daniels, Guidance Office, Tunstall High School, Dry Fork, VA

“This scholarship means a lot to me. I can’t believe I was selected as a recipient. Receiving the scholarship means I have succeeded. A lot of people say there isn’t help out there, but this shows that there are others who help.”

Saraza Byake, Andrew Brownfield Scholarship of Honor Recipient, Akron, OH

The Journey to Pope Francis

Last week was a humbling time for us. We had known for a while about the gift that Pope Francis was donating to Brian's Foundation but sharing it with others was truly surreal and significant.

In a special media announcement, that included members of the media, friends, and board members of the Foundation, we unveiled a watch once owned by his Holiness, Pope Francis.

During the hour we spent together, Brian’s best friend, Austin Rios joined in. Austin, an Episcopal Priest who has led a church in Rome, Italy for the past decade shared how we approached him with this idea, how it came to fruition and more about his friendship with Brian.

The “Once Upon a Time Watch Project” is one of our greatest fundraising efforts with the upcoming live and online auction to take place in the summer of 2022. (Details will be released on 2.22.22)

Pope Francis' wristwatch will be front and center in the auction, alongside timepieces worn over the last few decades by the likes of Priscilla Presley, Jerry Lewis, Jan Stenerud and Medal of Honor recipient, Sal Giunta.

Doug LaViolette is pictured here with Mike Calawerts, endowment Campaign Chair and friend of the Foundation. They proudly unveiled the watch from his Holiness and a letter to the Foundation at Nicolet National Bank where the watch is held in safekeeping.

We really hope you take some time to read the rest of the story in the Green Bay Press Gazette article by Natalie Eilbert here. You can also see the news stories by WBAY-TV2 and WFRV-TV5.

The journey continues! Thank you for being a part of it.

Divine Intervention

First annual Matt Schmidt Kindness Scholarship presentation

The first annual Matt Schmidt Kindness Scholarship presentation through Young Life was awarded to Gabe Vasquez from the Schmidt family.

Gabe wrote a beautiful essay about how he has seen kindness from a Young Life leader and plans on paying that kindness forward. In Gabe's essay, he stated: "Kindness is a gift God intended for every human to experience in their lifetime."

Matt Schmidt

The inspiration for the scholarship is Matt Schmidt. Matt was a 2008 graduate of Green Bay Southwest High School and attended UW Stout before coming back to live in Green Bay.

In his element, you could find Matt hanging out with friends and family, running, fishing, golfing, watching the Packers, picking on his younger siblings, hunting, boating, listening to music, grilling out juicy steaks and hanging out in Door County. Although those things were significant in his life, Matt had a true passion to serve the youth in the community through the organization, Young Life. During his last two years, Matts work schedule made it difficult to participate as much as he would have liked, but he still found time to head to camp to be a counselor, participate in the annual Young Life Glow Run, and set up a curling event for the organization.

Everyone who had the pleasure to meet Matt during his short life knew he had a big heart. He was always there for anyone at any time, and was quick to give them everything he had. He was one to always give, and never to take. Matt radiated kindness wherever he went, having the ability to step in and help in any situation. As his final act of kindness here on Earth, Matt donated his organs so that six people could continue his legacy. 

Matt’s family wanted to honor him and help a young man or women on their educational journey. The Matt Kindness Scholarship will be presented annually to a Young Life Student who exemplifies the legacy Matt left here on earth. 

" This is an example that you and your family have set for me and for all who come to know of Brian's legacy. "

I am writing simply to say thank you again,  more than 5 years after receiving the award, I still feel so motivated by your family's choice and belief in me in making a difference in the world. This past year, going through medical school (and in a pandemic no less) has been the most challenging year of my life in terms of rigor and academic stress.

Donglin in 2015- surprise presentation of the Brian LaViolette Scholarship

In preparation to apply for some research fellowships, I was reminded of that morning in high school when your family and mine came to my school to surprise me with the award. Whenever I think of that moment, my heart is filled with warmth and a bit more strength to keep working.

Now, in the clinical rotations of 3rd year, I am learning medicine on the wards and not just from the books. This comes with it its own set of challenges but also rewards - the chance to contribute to the care of another person while learning from it. I should do well to remember that "the journey is the reward," especially on the most challenging of days. 

The other lesson I am learning is that in choosing medicine, I have chosen a field that will always encounter suffering, pain, and loss. There is no easy way to cope except to understand that my calling is to work with my colleagues to face these challenges with hope, innovation, and kindness. This is an example that you and your family have set for me and for all who come to know of Brian's legacy. 

Donglin with her medical school roommates during the white coat ceremony

Thank you for believing in me.

Warmly, 

Donglin Zhang 

We say goodbye and thank you to Ron Weyers, a true treasure.

Ron Weyers (right) with Andrzej Zawiesk learning more about the need for scholarships in Nidzica, Poland.

“Ron was a master of managing by walking around.  He would frequently kick off his shoes somewhere during the day and have to backtrack to find them at the end of the day. He wanted input from everybody on how they could "do better" and always made sure to celebrate success.  He listened. He cared about people and their lives.”

For those of you who knew Ron Weyers, you knew his unique thoughtfulness.  For those of you who didn’t have a chance to know Ron, we’d like to introduce you to him. 

Sadly, the quote above is from his obituary.  But as I read it, I had to smile.  I could envision Ron kicking off his shoes, getting comfortable and making those around him feel comfortable by doing so.   He had a gift for that.

Ron’s schooling started in a one-room schoolhouse and continued in the Army.  He started and ran several successful companies, all embodying a family atmosphere.  In the meantime, he and Colleen raised a beautiful family of their own. 

Ron and Colleen Weyers (right) with Mrs. Betty Bradley (left) and the first John Bradley Scholarship of Honor recipient, Luke Justman in May 2007.

Ron and his family have been one of our biggest contributors and one of our biggest encouragers of Brian’s Foundation.   The Weyers Family Foundation was one of our first sponsors for our scholarships in Poland.  They sponsored the John Bradley Scholarship of Honor at Appleton West High School.  They were a large contributor to the Ken Kubsch Scholarship and continue to provide an annual donation to our Scholarship of Honor program to cover the expenses of the scholarship medal so that 100% of the scholarship funds could continue to go directly to the recipients (this was Ron’s idea and he approached us).

Ron and his wife, Colleen, received the Brian LaViolette Spirit Award in 2015 for all their support to Brian’s Foundation and all they have done for the community.  If we listed everything, it would be a very long list. 

Renee LaViolette, Ron and Colleen Weyers, Doug and Kim LaViolette during the 2015 Brian LaViolette Spirit Award luncheon.

We have no doubt that Ron has touched the lives of tens of thousands of people throughout the years--through his companies, his support to organizations and universities, their Brown County Library branch, and those he met along the way.  We always told him we couldn’t thank him enough for all his belief and support in Brian’s Foundation.  We still can’t, but we will say it once again, “Thank you for everything, Ron.”

The next time I have to backtrack for my shoes, I will think of Ron Weyers.

Gary Wetzel continues to make a difference

By Julie Hoerth with Doug LaViolette

One of the common traits among the Medal of Honor recipients is their modesty. Ask any one of them about their heroic efforts and they’ll all say the same thing. “I’m just a regular guy. Nobody special. Just doing my job.”

None of the honorees exemplifies this more to me than Gary Wetzel.

Meeting Gary for the first time, one might find himself intimidated. A highly-decorated Vietnam War Veteran, Gary worked as a heavy equipment operator in South Milwaukee. A prosthetic arm replaces the one he lost when he was blown into a rice paddy by a homemade grenade while defending our freedom at the age of 19.

On the inside, Gary has a heart of gold. He’s a true Wisconsinite – a proud Harley Davidson-driving Milwaukee man who epitomizes the down-to-earth attitude and strong work ethic that Midwesterners are known for.

Photo by Nick DelCalzo

At the age of 18, Gary joined the United States Army. During his first tour, he was assigned to the 173rd Assault Helicopter Company, the Robin Hoods, where he served as a door gunner. Just ten days away from being shipped home from Vietnam, Gary was gunned down for the fifth time on January 8, 1968. He and his crew found themselves deep in enemy territory, surrounded by hostile fire.

Two of Gary’s fellow crew members were killed outright in the battle. While going to the aid of his aircraft commander, Gary was hit by a grenade that caused severe wounds to his right arm, chest and left leg, and severed his entire upper left arm. Under the circumstances, Gary continued fighting for the next 12 hours.

Despite the fact that he continued to lose blood and pass in and out of consciousness, Gary forged on, grabbing the wounded soldiers around him and dragging them across the rice paddy to safety.

The following morning, Gary and the other survivors were rescued. He was taken to a field hospital where he spent just over a week on the critical list. Gary had suffered spinal damage, and his left arm was amputated. Once they were able to stabilize him, they sent him to a hospital in Tokyo.

Gary was a young man when he sustained these life-changing injuries. He could have become bitter, or hardened, but he chose to move on. Gary spent about five months at Ft. Simmons, outside of Denver, Colorado, where he had various skin grafts, learned to walk again and got adjusted to using his new prosthetic arm.

It is worth repeating, Gary is a true Wisconsinite. Not surprisingly, he is a Green Bay Packer fan through and through. He’ll tell you he’s a fan of “the old black and blue division – when football was football.” During the Medal of Honor Convention in Green Bay that was spearheaded by Brian’s Foundation, we arranged for all of the recipients to attend a Packer game. Gary, along with the other Wisconsin recipients, took part in the coin toss. Gary wore a Bart Starr jersey that day. Standing on the field he made eye contact with Brett Favre and said, “No offense pal. This is my hero.”

Bart Starr, Green Bay Packers, photo by Doug LaViolette, circa 1971

Years earlier, during recovery in Tokyo, Gary had the honor of meeting his hero in person. It was a down time for Gary – he was learning to come to terms with the fact that his arm was gone and the trials he would face as he transitioned back into the civilian world. There were professional football players visiting on the U.S.O. Tour, and someone asked if anyone on the ward was from Wisconsin. The next thing he knew, Bart Starr was in his room. Gary says chatting with Bart lifted his spirits and was just what he needed. When Bart Starr returned home from the tour, Gary read an article about him in American Legion Magazine where he was asked about his most memorable moments from the tour. Bart said what he remembered most was meeting “a little ‘ole red-headed guy that lost his left arm from Wisconsin.” I think it’s kind of neat that Bart Starr and Gary Wetzel had an impact on each other.

That same year, while working as an expediter back in Wisconsin, Gary was approached by three men – a colonel,  a major and a first sergeant – who told him to pack his bags for a trip to Washington to receive the Medal of Honor.  Gary didn’t believe them. He had already been honored with the Distinguished Service Cross – the second highest military honor. In his words, “Nobody thinks they’re going to receive a Medal of Honor.”  It took the men two weeks, but they were finally able to convince Gary that they were sincere. On November 19, 1968, Gary Wetzel received the highest military honor from President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Still, Gary says his heroic efforts were no big deal. He just did what he had to do.  

Today Gary speaks to high school students throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest, relaying his story and trying to teach them about the meaning of sacrifice and patriotism. He teaches them about the realities of war – that it is horrifying, not glorifying – and tries to pass on the message of what it truly means to give back to your country.

While in Green Bay for the 2007 Medal of Honor Convention, he spoke to West DePere High School students.   Gary said that the school visits were his favorite during the convention and if he can change just one student’s life, then he did his job.  Gary continues to make a difference in the lives of students.  And he will make a big one next year, as the sponsor of the $10,000 Brian LaViolette Scholarship. 

Gary Wetzel can say what he wants about being just a regular guy. In my eyes, he is a true American hero.

Once Upon a Time...

While Brian LaViolette's childhood idol, Pro Football Hall of Fame kicker Jan Stenerud was playing for the Green Bay Packers from 1980 - 1983, Brian began wearing his very first watch in August 1981 at the age of 4.

That watch was the Green Bay Packers watch shown here.

As the Brian LaViolette Foundation eyes its 30th anniversary next year, the passage of time is not lost on the LaViolette family. In seeking to grow an endowment that can fund scholarships for the next 30 years and beyond, Doug LaViolette came up with an idea after hearing about Paul Newman’s famous Daytona watch selling for $17.8 million.

Brian himself loved watches, he was really passionate about watches. In his short life, Brian collected seven watches, and now, the foundation is on a mission to collect some famous ones for its “Watch Project."

“We’re looking to gather watches from people who have helped shape this country and the world and eventually auction those watches off. Right now, according to what I’ve been able to research, there’s over four billion watches in the world and we’re only looking for 22,” says LaViolette.

The foundation is off to a great start, with watches from Jerry Lewis, Priscilla Presley, Medal of Honor recipient Sal Giunta, and Brian’s childhood idol, Pro Football Hall of Fame kicker Jan Stenerud, already in safe keeping at Nicolet National Bank.

“What Doug and his family have done is phenomenal, I know he’s getting a lot of help but to keep Brian’s memory alive and be able to help people from law enforcement families, military, first responders is a phenomenal cause, I’m so proud of them and it’s humbling to be part of such a wonderful cause,” said Jan Stenerud during an interview with Jeff Alexander of WBAY-TV 2.

Brian took the liberty of drawing Jan's football card he had hanging on his bulletin board in his bedroom. One unique thing about Jan Stenerud is he also played soccer which drew Brian to him. Pictured below is Jan’s Green Bay Packers watch.

You can learn more about the Watch Project and hear from Jan himself during this WBAY-TV 2 story here.Brian's Foundation will roll out its collection of watches to be auctioned on February 22, 2022.

For more details on the "Once Upon a Time Watch Project", please contact Doug LaViolette 920-655-4098 or doug@thelaviolettegroup.com or visit our website here.

Once Upon a Time... Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation unveils “Watch Project.”

29 years ago this week at his funeral, Brian’s family made a promise to accomplish great things in his memory. Now, the foundation created in his name, is embarking on its greatest fundraising mission yet, centered around time.

“It’s been said that the foundation has a ripple effect and so we do what we can to make the world a better place and each life that has been changed through the foundation goes on to make a difference. We’ve been really fortunate to witness that the last 29 years,” adds Kim LaViolette Mosteller, Brian’s sister, and Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation Executive Director.

As foundation eyes its 30th anniversary, the passage of time is not lost on the LaViolette family. “Our runway is running short, or shorter, and as you reflect on time, time has always been something we held dear in our family, in our life,” says LaViolette.

Brian age 4 looking at his first watch, a Green Bay Packers watch.

In seeking to grow an endowment that can fund scholarships for the next 30 years, LaViolette came up with an idea after hearing about Paul Newman’s famous Daytona watch selling for $17 million.

“Brian himself loved watches, he was really passionate about watches, he started wearing his first watch when he was just four years old, and it was a Green Bay Packers watch, Swiss made,” explains LaViolette.

In his short life, Brian collected seven watches, and now, the foundation is on a mission to collect some famous ones for its “Watch Project.”

“We’re looking to gather watches from people who have helped shape this country and the world and eventually auction those watches off. Right now, according to what I’ve been able to research, there’s over four billion watches in the world and we’re only looking for 22,” says LaViolette.

The foundation is off to a great start, with watches from Jerry Lewis, Priscilla Presley, Medal of Honor recipient Sal Giunta, and Brian’s childhood idol, Pro Football Hall of Fame kicker Jan Stenerud, already in safe keeping at Nicolet National Bank.

LaViolette’s watch wish list aims high, but he has some great connections to acquire ones from past foundation supporters like Jay Leno and Brett Favre, as well as watches from Mario Andretti, George W. Bush, and even the Pope.

“People who help shape the world, they don’t necessarily have to have really expensive watches, and Pope Francis wears this Casio,” says LaViolette.

Just like a teenage boy from Green Bay did almost 30 years ago.

“Every single day I proudly wear Brian’s Casio watch,” says LaViolette with a smile. You can learn more through the WBAY-TV2 story here.

The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation will roll out its collection of watches to be auctioned on February 22, 2022.

Has it been 29 years already?

It isn't often that we meet someone who was there the day Brian drowned.

After seeing the local tv news stories about the Foundation's 1000th scholarship, a Door County paramedic who was on duty the day Brian went missing reached out. We had never met before, but her kindness reminded us that Brian's journey is ongoing. That the Foundation in his memory is far-reaching and that we have no idea how many people are touched in some way by its work.

“It is gratifying for me personally to see what a tremendous difference you have made in people's lives, not only in northeastern Wisconsin, but across the globe.

When Brian drowned, I was one of two paramedics on duty in northern Door County. At the time, we were encompassed by the tragedy of someone so young losing their life, but to see what you have done in his memory gives hope to even those in their darkest days.

I have been privileged to have seen both the despair and the joy of Brian's journey, and count myself among the blessed. Thank you for all that you have done, and continue to do." -- Anne Alberts

It's no surprise that running a small non-profit organization is hard work and has its challenges. Yet in 29 years, we are continually humbled by people like Anne. After she reached out and we asked if we could share her story, she said, "to be able to help you and others, even in a small way, is soul-changing for me."

Thank you all for letting us serve you and the community for so many years. It is truly soul-changing.

What does this scholarship mean to you?

SOME OF OUR 2021 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS SHARE…

I am so honored and humbled to carry on Brian’s spirit within me.  Through the good and the bad, I will always know he is looking out for me.  I will make sure to keep being nice, trusting others and maintaining a good attitude- some great words to live by. 

I’ve been so inspired by the Foundation and your family turning Brian’s tragedy into triumphs for students like me.  I will never forget this day and I will never forget your advice to stay true to myself.  One of the first things people say after me is I’ve got a great smile.  After reading Brain’s book tonight, it sounds like he did too.  I get the feeling we have a lot in common.  I’ll be sure to keep flashing my smile and spreading happiness just like Brian.

Thank you again.  It’s a blessing to have been the 1000 scholarship recipient and here’s to 1000 more in the future!

Brady Wittig, 2021 Brian LaViolette Scholarship Recipient

“This scholarship means a lot to me.  I can’t believe I was selected as a recipient.  Receiving the scholarship means I have succeeded.  A lot of people say there isn’t help out there, but this shows that there are others who help.”

Saraza Byake, Andrew Brownfield Scholarship of Honor Recipient pictured here with Jackie Summer, North High School’s guidance counselor (left)

 “It is an honor to receive the Thomas Hudner Scholarship of Honor.  Both Thomas Hudner and Brian LaViolette’s stories have inspired me in my cadet career.  I hope I am able to carry this inspiration through my future pursuits.”

Isaiah Bastian, Tom Hudner Scholarship of Honor recipient

“This scholarship means a lot to me because it’s a driving force to keep me motivated to achieve all of my aspirations.  I now understand and truly believe that hard work pays off”

Mansha Ghai, 2021 David Parmentier Pay it Forward Scholarship

“I want to express my gratitude and honor in being a recipient of this scholarship.  I am both humbled and inspired by the story of Ken’s life.  He epitomizes the person and physician I aspire to be someday.  With the generosity of this scholarship fund, I feel my dreams becoming more of a reality.  I know with such support; I can go forward and change lives as a physician just as Ken did.” 

Mia Strazny, 2021 Ken Kubsch Scholarship recipient

Life updates from past Scholarship Recipients

Haley R.K. Okamura, 1LT, MS, Operations Officer

I can’t believe it’s been almost 11 years since I was a brand new MS1 at the University of Hawaii Army ROTC program and as a winner of the Nainoa Hoe Scholarship of Honor and receive a gracious donation from the Brian LaViolette foundation.   I commissioned as an Air Defense Artillery Officer in 2015 and spent three years in Fort Sill deploying to Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel.  In 2019 I branch transferred to Medical Service Corps and was selected to serve as a 67J Army Aeromedical Evacuation Officer  where I became qualified to fly the UH-60M at Fort Rucker, Alabama.

I recently transferred to Fort Irwin California to the busiest active duty MEDEVAC in the Army CONUS as part of the C CO 2916th Aviation Battalion, Desert Dustoff!  I currently serve as the Operations Officer for the C CO and am beginning my transition from the UH60M to the UH60L.  I am truly grateful to have been selected to receive such an amazing gift and extend my deepest thanks and aloha to the Hoe family and the Brian LaViolette foundation. 

Nainoa’s dad, Allen Hoe with Haley during the 2010 Scholarship presentation.

Nainoa Hoe graduated from Kamehameha Schools in Kailua, Oahu, in 1995 and was an Army ROTC graduate from the University of Hawaii. He was a person who understood what it meant to serve his country.

In 1999, as a member of the 100th Battalion, Nainoa was selected as the Pacific Area's Army Reserve Soldier of the Year. Nainoa enjoyed karaoke and body surfing. Nainoa and his wife, Emily, were married in June 2004.

He was killed on January 22, 2005.

We didn't do it alone... 2021 Scholarship Recipients

“This scholarship means the world to me. Receiving this scholarship means that I did not let adversity defeat me. I instead defeated adversity. It was not easy to do, but I did it and achieved everything I ever wanted to.”

Mason Vosters, Riley Garbe Scholarship recipient

Mason is joined by 55 other scholarship recipients this year. Many of these young men and women are motivated to make a difference through pursuing degrees in nursing, teaching and other careers on the frontlines.

Brian's Foundation continues to award scholarships in 17 states and 3 foreign countries. We did not do this alone. The school guidance offices, sponsors, selection committees and presenters go above and beyond to make this a life-changing experience for each and every recipient.

On behalf of the following scholarship recipients, their families and the communities we serve, thank you.

Ron Anderson Scholarship: Suring High School-- Recipient, Camilla Doherty

Matt Atkinson Scholarship: Green Bay East High School, WI-Claire Schumacher

Bellin College Scholarship- Green Bay, WI- Madison Monk

Ollie and Helen Bogsted Scholarship: Suring High School, WI- Camilla Doherty

Rachel Bosveld Scholarship: Waupun High School, WI- Brady Gerritson

John Bradley: Appleton West High School, WI-Kylie Olson

Andrew Brownfield: North High School, Akron OH- Saraza Byake

Mike Colalillo: Denfeld High School, MN- Madisyn Hindermann

James Cathey: Reno High School, NV- Aislinn Behan

Esther Cleveland: Oconto High School, WI- Breanna Duncan

Danny Dietz: Heritage High School, Littleton, CO- Cristiano Palazzo

Ben Edinger: Green Bay West High School, WI- Alexander Knutson

Wendell and Shanna Ellsworth (2 scholarships): Belding High School, MI-Carter Houghton and Tara Rackham

Nichole Frye: Lena High School, WI- Chloie Potter

Robert Foley: United States Military Academy, West Point NY- Eston T. Smith

Riley Garbe (2 scholarships): Freedom High School, WI- Mason Vosters and Sage Greiner

Sal Giunta: JFK High School, Cedar Rapid, IA- Aliyah Mally

Joel Gentz: Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN- Kori Howard

David Hatfield: Tunstall High School, Dry Fork VA- Miranda Cochran

Kyle Hemauer: Chilton High School, WI- Kayla Stenz

Ken Hess: AC Reynolds High School, Asheville, NC- Chablis Smith

Nainoa Hoe: Schofield Barracks, HI- to be awarded in August

Thomas Hudner: Fox Valley Composite Civil Air Patrol- Isaiah Bastian

Isaiah Hunt: Bayport High School, WI- Ava Heyrman

Ryan Jerabek: Pulaski High School, WI- Colton Maroszek

Junior Achievement- Business Challenge-Naveen Balu

Len Keller: Auburn High School, Rockford, IL- Amari Hudson

Ken Kubsch: Manitowoc High School, WI- Mia Strazny

Brian LaViolette: Ashwaubenon High School, WI- Brady Wittig

LEAP School Science and Math (2 Scholarships), South Africa- Courage Mlalazi

Eric McColley: Gettysburg High School, PA- Kaelyn Blocher

NWTC Scholarship (2 scholarships): To be awarded in Fall 2021

Nueske Family (2 scholarships): Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School, WI- Kailey Butkowski and McKenna Metropulos

David Parmentier: DePere High School, WI- Mansha Ghai

Victoria Parmentier Scholarship: Ashwaubenon High School, WI- Jaelyn Hoppman

General George S. Patton: Pilsen, Czech Republic,- Simona Schmiedhuberová

Poland Scholarships: Nidzica Poland (2 scholarships)- September 2021

Robert Safford: Oconto High School, WI- Garrett Anderson

Ron Sager: Fox Valley Lutheran High School, WI- Kenzie Mielke

Matt Schmidt: Young Life, Green Bay, WI- Gabriel Vasquez

St. Norbert Scholarships (2 scholarships): DePere, WI --Katie Morrison and Grace Beno

Ken Stumpf, Elmer Burr: Menasha High School, WI- Luke Johnson

"The Journey is the Reward": Oconto High School, WI- Will Sherman

"The Journey is Reward": Suring High School, WI- Carrie Griffin

Jesse Thiry: Luxemburg Casco High School, WI-Lidia Stahl

Brent Vroman: Omro High School, WI- Kyle Dietzen

Joe Welke- Stevens High School, Rapid City, SD- The Learning Center

Ray Zimmerman: Green Bay West High School, WI- Jayda DoBeck

Life updates from past Scholarship Recipients

It is always nice to hear from past Scholarship Recipients and we heard from two last week! We thought you may enjoy hearing from them as well. One we met 9 years ago, the other last year. Enjoy learning a little bit about their journeys!

---

"I cannot express how much it meant to be your 2012 Brian LaViolette Scholarship Recipient. I think of Brian often and thanks to the kindness of your family.

Here we are 9 years later! A few weeks ago, I graduated Summa Cum Laude as a Doctor of Optometry from the University of Houston College of Optometry. Next, I will complete a 1-year Residency in San Antonio, TX, as I was selected to receive specialized training in Ocular Disease and Refractive Surgery.

My family always joked that I’d be in school forever and finally after finishing my "20th grade”, I am officially done with school and so ready to take on the world as an Eye Doctor. You all came into my life at such an important time — as a Senior at Preble High — when I was deciding what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Your support and encouragement meant the world to me and propelled me forward into this amazing career. When school was challenging, I frequently reminded myself that the "Journey is the Reward” and WOW what a Journey it has been!"

Thank you all so much,

Lily Arendt, O.D. 2012 Brian LaViolette Scholarship Recipient

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"I wanted to send you an update on how my freshman year at Marquette has gone and to thank you again for what an amazing honor it was to have received the 2020 Brian LaViolette Scholarship.

I just finished my second semester exams a few weeks ago and am getting ready for a fun and relaxing summer. I am taking a few summer classes and will be studying Urdu, the official language of Pakistan, through UW Madison. It is a program that the Air Force ROTC encourages to teach future officers critical languages.

Additionally, my freshman year was challenging and rewarding. It was a lot of change all at once and navigating a new city and school during covid was definitely a little overwhelming. However, I made a lot of new friends and enjoyed learning topics in engineering. Some of my favorite classes were Calculus, Introduction to Computer Programming, and Theology. I am looking forward to my sophomore year in engineering and the Air Force ROTC program.

Lastly, I just wanted to say that I often think of the qualities Brian possessed and how I can implement his legacy in my everyday life. I am grateful to not only have received the scholarship, but have been able to learn about Brian's story and try to represent all that he encompassed.

Best Wishes,

Lauren Bonetti, 2020 Brian LaViolette Scholarship Recipient

1000th scholarship awarded

It was a proud moment in the Brian LaViolette Foundation's history yesterday when the 1000th Scholarship was awarded in a surprise presentation. Brady Wittig of Ashwaubenon High School received the 2021 Brian LaViolette Scholarship for $10,000.

The four Green Bay news stations were there to capture the moment. You can find each news story by clicking on the photos or links below. We can't thank them enough for sharing the story!

WBAY-TV2's Jeff Alexander interviews Brady Wittig (recipeint), Doug LaViolette (President) and Eric Vanden Heuvel (Partner's in Education) after the surprise presentation.

WBAY-TV 2 Story

Gabriella Premus was on site yesterday morning and learns about how Brady feels about receiving the 1000th Scholarship.

FOX 11 News Story

Channel 5's Kris Schuler shares the story of the Foundation's history and its 1000th Scholarship.

WFRV-TV 5 Story

Matt Kohl interviews Doug LaViolette on what it means to award scholarships after all these years.

NBC26 News Story

6 Years Later, Scholarship Recipient Donates Back

"There is not a time when I hear Danny Dietz's name that I don't stop and take a minute to recognize and appreciate the sacrifice and honor he displayed for this country, but also the impact of this scholarship and what it means.

Paying forward this award is something that I should have done years ago but I am glad to be able to do so now as one of many ways to demonstrate a community-minded life.

I graduated from Colorado School of Mines, summa cum laude, with a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2018. I was offered my dream job of working for Anadarko Petroleum Co. (now Western Midstream) right out of school, with one caveat...I would have to move to Wyoming. In July of 2018 I moved to Rock Springs, WY to work as the facilities engineer at a small gas processing plant. While this provided great hands-on field experience and helped me to learn and develop quickly, living in a small WY town by myself was rather tough.

Thankfully my company was able to relocate me to a facilities engineering role at a gas processing plant in Platteville, CO in March of 2020. Two weeks after I moved back to Colorado, the COVID quarantine hit. I am very grateful to say that my family has maintained a clean bill of health and steady work throughout the past year.

In my free time I most enjoy getting outside and staying active. I am an avid skier and was blessed to be able to ski all over Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming while I lived in Rock Springs. In the summertime I enjoy hiking, dirt biking, and water sports. My current goals for this year are to finish my Certified Personal Training certification, purchase a house, and find more ways to get involved and give back to my community as things start to open back up again.

I'd like to again give a huge thank you to the LaViolette Foundation and Danny Dietz family for the scholarship award in 2015. It truly made a difference in helping me afford to attend Colorado School of Mines with minimal loans.

Thank you,

Nikki Giesen, 2015 Danny Dietz Scholarship of Honor recipient

Inspired by the Brian LaViolette Foundation, "Time" by Lane Lee

We were drawn to the work of Lane Ludtke after seeing a video and song he wrote about rural Wisconsin, highlighting where Doug and Renee LaViolette grew up. We reached out to Lane and learned he was an elementary music teacher in Peshtigo, WI with a passion for writing and producing his own songs.

After learning more about Brian and the Foundation, Lane wrote a song inspired by it. We are proud to present it to you.

Initially the song started as Brian’s story but it quickly changed, as we realized this production of “Time” is everyone’s story.  The theme on this video is to show and appreciate how precious time is for all of us and also, have a positive message that we all can help each other with the time we have.   

In the video you’ll notice snapshots in a photo album, they are actually of Lane’s life and then near the end of the video there are photos of Kim’s son, Walker and at the very end, Brian.

But there is more! You will notice that part of the theme of Time includes watches. Stay tuned for more details on our "Once Upon a Time" watch project benefiting Brian's Foundation.