Photo by Brian McSweeney

The Holly Ward Memorial Scholarship recognizes a lifetime of leadership, service, and dedication to the Ramona community. A longtime educator, coach, athletic director, and principal at Caney Valley Public Schools, Holly Clyde Ward was known for his commitment to students and his willingness to serve wherever needed. Over the years, he also served as mayor of Ramona and operated several local businesses, including a grocery store, feed store, and laundromat, reflecting his deep investment in the community’s growth and success. Beyond his career in education, he remained actively involved through his church, local events, and years of caring for the Ramona Cemetery. His legacy of hard work, faith, mentorship, and community pride continues to inspire future generations.

This scholarship is for a graduate of Caney Valley High School in Ramona, Oklahoma who is active in service to school and/or community and shows the qualities of a leader. The student must be planning to attend college or a tech training school but lacks the financial resources.

Award Details: 

Up to $250 payable in the first semester to the student’s university, college, trade or tech school. Recipient will be selected based on adherence to prescribed criteria, meaningful content and clarity of essay, financial need, and strong character as demonstrated through a letter of recommendation. Scholarship award recipients may reapply in the general applicant pool; however preference will be given to new high school graduates.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Graduating senior from Caney Valley High School in Ramona, Oklahoma
• Unweighted high school GPA of 2.0 or higher
• Demonstrated leadership and service to school and/or community
• Financial need
• Planning to attend university, college, junior college, trade or vocational school
• Well-written essay, describing a leadership experience you are especially proud of

Required Addendums:

• One letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor
• First page(s) of FAFSA Submission Summary, up to and including the Student Aid Index number. Refer to FAQs for more information.
• Official Caney Valley High School transcript

This application is now closed.