By Jeff Knapp
June 2, 2006
Shanee Watson was excited and ready to start her freshman year at The Massachusetts Institute of Technology as a chemical engineering major, but faced the reality of the expense of education. Watson, a Crescent High School and Francis Tuttle Pre-Engineering Academy graduate, received a large scholarship from MIT, as well as one from the Logan County Home & Community Council, but was still a bit short of an estimated $46,900 per year cost to attend MIT.
This shortfall was a part of what Bruce Gray had in mind when he helped to establish the Francis Tuttle Foundation. Gray was Francis Tuttle's Superintendent from 1981 to 1997, and after he passed away in 1997, a scholarship fund was set up in his name to assist students in need, like Shanee.
Watson was awarded a $2,600 scholarship from the Bruce Gray Scholarship Fund last week. Presenting the award were Francis Tuttle Foundation Board President Jacque Hughes, Bruce Gray's widow, Pat Gray, and his grandson, Fletcher.
Gray's impact on the Francis Tuttle district remains apparent. From the landmark signage on the sole building of Francis Tuttle's Portland campus to many initiatives he led during his time as superintendent, Gray is still missed by many who served during his tenure.
Watson attended classes in the Bruce Gray Center at Francis Tuttle, and said that she knew he had a great deal of impact on the district. "I appreciate the help, and enjoyed meeting Ms. Gray and Bruce Gray's grandson. When a building is named after a person, they surely meant a lot to many people."
Although she knows it will be a challenge, Watson said that she is happy that the challenge of funding is settled.