by The cost of college can be daunting, and students often seize every opportunity to earn scholarships and financial aid. Among these opportunities, the Lenfest Scholarship stands out—not only for its generous financial support but for its life-changing impact on students’ academic and personal journeys.
A Vision of Opportunity
The Lenfest Scholarship was founded by H.F. “Gerry” and Marguerite Lenfest, successful entrepreneurs in the oil and media industries. Inspired by a desire to give back, the Lenfests created the scholarship to help high-achieving students from rural communities in Central and Southern Pennsylvania pursue rigorous academic opportunities at top-tier colleges.
The goal was simple yet powerful: identify and support students with strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community service—especially those from underrepresented rural areas.
Local Scholars, Big Dreams
James Buchanan High School (JBHS), nestled in one of the rural areas the scholarship targets, proudly had two seniors, Nicholas Garbinski and Renee Sollenberger, selected as Lenfest Scholars.
Active and well-rounded, both students exemplify the scholarship’s ideals.
- Nicholas Garbinski participated in the swim, cross country, and wrestling teams, and was also a member of the JBHS Band. “I’m currently looking into engineering—maybe civil or chemical,” Garbinski said.
- Renee Sollenberger excelled in basketball and volleyball, served as Class of 2017 Secretary, and was also part of the band. “I’m leaning toward a major in the sciences—either biology or biological engineering,” Sollenberger shared.
The pair first learned about the Lenfest Scholarship during their junior year from their school counselors, and both decided to take on the challenge.
A Rigorous Selection Process
According to JBHS guidance counselor Mrs. Lynn Troutman, the application process is multi-staged and demanding.
“There are three rounds,” said Troutman. “The first involves submitting basic information and a short essay. The second requires three longer essays, teacher recommendations, and a counselor recommendation. The third and final round includes interviews with university representatives.”
Applicants typically don’t learn the results until the end of May, which makes for an anxious wait.
A Moment Worth the Wait
Sollenberger recounted how her father couldn’t resist opening the acceptance letter before she got home from practice:
“I came home to find the letter already opened. I just needed to see it for myself. When I read that I was accepted, I felt such relief and pride. All the effort was worth it. My dad even came home with flowers.”
For Garbinski, the wait was just as intense:
“After hearing that Renee got in, I was even more nervous. Holding that letter was one of the most nerve-wracking moments of my life. My heart was pounding. But once I read the word ‘Congratulations,’ I was thrilled.”
Troutman expressed pride in both students, calling them “pleasant, strong academically, and deeply involved in school life.”
“All their hard work and diligence paid off. They are exactly the kind of students Lenfest is looking for,” she said.
What Lenfest Looks For
The Lenfest Scholarship seeks students who demonstrate:
- Strong academic performance
- Leadership abilities
- A commitment to volunteerism and community service
- Readiness for competitive college environments
Both Garbinski and Sollenberger agreed that the process is challenging but rewarding. Their message to future applicants: Don’t doubt yourself—put in the work, and the results will follow.
