2013 Top Scholars


Slade Botts

Parents: Sean and Terri Botts
GPA: 3.75
College: Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Major: Business
Future Profession: Accounting
Favorite subject: History
Favorite teacher: Coach Ketchum
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Goforth who taught me to read.
Example of someone who inspired you: Mrs. Fracek always forced me to do my best and push myself to do good work, and that helped me become a better student.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE helps pay for of the science lab equipment we use to do labs which gives us a more hands on way to learn which is much more enjoyable.
Other comments: Thank you for all of your support.

 


Caden Chase

Parents: Melanie Chase
GPA: 4.02
College: Harvard
Major: Biochemistry
Future Profession: Oncology
Favorite subject: AP Physics and Mechanics
Favorite teacher: Mr. Radebaugh
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Fracek has had the largest impact on my education. She taught how to write a clear and concise essay.
Example of someone who inspired you: Mrs. Kidwell inspired me to achieve by being the first to believe that I could attend an Ivy League school.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE has provided many supplies that enhanced my education, such as SmartBoards and laboratory supplies.
Other comments: I would also like that the counselor’s office at the high school for yelling at me to get things done and cheering me up when I thought things were hopeless.

 


Ellise Crawford

PARENTS: Stan and Audrey Crawford
GPA: 4.33
College: The University of Oklahoma
Major: Pre-Dental
Future Profession: Dentistry and a Missionary
Favorite subject: Calculus with Mrs. Smith
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Johnston
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Susan Thomas, because she caused me to love math and she used many styles to accommodate learning capability.
Examples of people who have inspired you: Mrs. Johnston encouraged me that education is what I make of it and that there is no one to stop me except myself.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE has impacted my education by providing Smart Boards in my classrooms. They make learning much easier for a visual learner like me.
Other comments: GEFFE has provided many of the classroom tools I have been able to use in my classrooms the past 12 years. I appreciate all the effort and fundraising!

 


Taylor Dodson

PARENTS: Patrick and Lisa Dodson
GPA: 4.05
College: The University of Kansas on a Softball Scholarship.
Major Pediatric Health Care
Future Profession: Work with Children in Pediatric Oncology.
Favorite subject: Anatomy.
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Sabra Pierce
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Pierce and Mrs. Clouse have equally had a huge impact on not only my education, but my life as well. They both believed in me and always encouraged me to follow my dreams.
Examples of people who have inspired you: My parents have always inspired me to be the absolute best I can be and to never be satisfied with anything less. As Dad says, “good is the enemy of great.”
Impact of GEFFE: The first time I felt the impact of GEFFE’s generosity was in mid-school. GEFFE funded a mobile laptop cart. As a result, I was able to do research in class with the teacher nearby for any needed assistance.
Other comments: I couldn’t ask for a better community or school district to be raised in. GEFFE’s vision to promote and encourage academic excellence is synonymous with what our community and school district stand for. I am truly grateful to be a Ridgerunner and would love to raise my children here someday.

 


McKenzie Duff

PARENTS: Steve & Angie Duff
GPA: 4.0
College: The University of Arkansas
Major Hospital Administration
Future Profession: Come back to Grove and start a career
Favorite subject: Algebra with Mrs. Smith
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Smith
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Jenny Daftari because she always made an effort to tell each student that they have a purpose, and she was always so encouraging.
Examples of people who have inspired you: All of my teachers have inspired me to become the student that I am today in many ways. They always had confidence in me, never let me give up, and made learning fun.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE has impacted my education in so many ways- from the microscopes given to the Science Dept. to SmartBoards put in each classroom. These materials have made learning more efficient and fun.
Other comments: Our school system, GEFFE, and our community are amazing! They are so giving and are truly passionate about students.

 


Wyatt Dunham

Parents: Vann & Dawn Dunham
GPA: 4.03/3.63
College: OSU
Major Science: Chemistry or Biology
Favorite class/subject: Mathematics/Calculus
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Smith
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Smith’s class. Her classes were always fun, but challenging. They prepared me for the challenges of AP Calculus BC & AP Physics.
Examples of people who have inspired you: I’ve witnessed what has been achieved by older students. That inspired me to use all my potential and do great things.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE provided a grant for my AP Biology and many of the labs and other learning devices that have been available.
Other comments: I would like to thank GEFFE and the Grove Public Schools for their support in my academics, as well as providing opportunities for advanced students to be challenged in Advanced Placement courses.

 


Garrett Hadley

Parents: David Hadley and Meredith Hadley
GPA: 4.0
College: University of Arkansas
Major: Biochemistry
Future Profession: Physician/Geneticist
Favorite subject: Chemistry/Calculus
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Epperson
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Shirley laid the most solid foundation for science and math possible for me to excel in the future. Her skills and discipline are inspirational.
Example of someone who has inspired you: The most inspirational individual for me personally are my parents, hands down. Growing up with their motivation and their personal academic achievements in any area of knowledge pushed me to thrive in school.
Impact of GEFFE: In my AP chemistry class, with Mrs. Epperson, we recently received a grant for much needed graphing calculators. These have allowed us to do precious calculations much more efficiently with much more ease.

 


Sarah Ingle

Parents: Clark & Terri Ingle
GPA: 3.977
College: Northeastern State University
Major: Kinesiology
Future Profession: Physical or Occupational Therapist
Favorite subject: Art
Favorite teacher: Coach Millican
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Fracek has had the biggest impact on my education because she successfully prepared me for college by teaching me how to write solid essays.
Example of someone who inspired you: My teachers have always encouraged me to be ambitious with my school work and even my life because of their positive influence through the years.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE has impacted my education by providing sufficient supplies for my science classes that allowed us to perform laboratory experiments.
Other comments: Grove Public Schools and GEFFE have given me direction since kindergarten, providing the tools for success; but ultimately allowing me to determine my own destiny.

 


Morgan Whitney Knox

PARENTS: Joel & Melissa Knox
GPA: 4.0
College: ORU, NSU, or OU
Major: Pre-Dental/Biology
Future Profession: Dentistry
Favorite subject: AP Literature & Composition
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Linda Fracek
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Fracek because she is the teacher that I have had the longest and has truly prepared me for some of the classes in college.
Examples of people who have inspired you: Mrs. Johnston my chemistry teacher showed me that even if something seems impossible to overcome, hard work and dedication will overcome it.
Impact of GEFFE: My AP Bio and Chemistry classes both received help from GEFFE in providing funds to purchase more technological and advanced lab equipment.
Other comments: I’d like to thank everyone in our community, especially GEFFE, for all the hard work and time they give to invest in our school.

 


Lexi Lane

Parents: Kirby and Robyn Lane
GPA: 4.06
College: Oklahoma University
Major: Pre-Law
Future Profession: Corporate Attorney
Favorite subject: AP History
Favorite teacher: Michael Sadler
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Thomas had the biggest impact on my education because she helped me develop a love of math. I was excited to go to class and hear about the applications of problems through her stories. She made math fun!
Example of inspired you: My parents have always inspired me to do my best and to try my hardest in all things. Having their support has made me want to excel in being a great student.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE has greatly impacted my education in many ways; however the SmartBoards stood out and benefited me the most. Being a visual and hands on learner, interacting and viewing material on the board has brought my learning to a new level.
Other comments: It is very encouraging to a teenager like me to see such active members trying to make a difference in our community. I would also like to thank Mrs. Dubois who has been with me every step of the way of my early graduation and for answering endless questions.

 


Tanner Linn

Parents: Mark & Tammy Linn
GPA: 3.76
College: NEO
Major: Education
Future Profession: Missionary
Favorite subject: American History
Favorite teacher: Mr. Sadler
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Fracek because she has prepared me the most for college.
Example of someone who inspired you: My parents have inspired me to stay strong even when I have wanted to quit.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE has impacted my education by making it more fun to learn. My chemistry class received new graphing calculators which made it much easier to learn. Thank you GEFFE.

 


Sydney Ann McCombs

PARENTS: Chet and Kristi McCombs
GPA: 4.0
College: East Central University
Major Accounting/ Mathematics
Future Profession: Accounting
Favorite subject: AP Calculus/ Math
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Smith.
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Smith, because she made me realize how much I enjoy math and what I want to do in life.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE gave grant money to my AP Calculus class and we received some awesome graphing calculators.

 


Jessica Reed

Parents: Leanna Reed
GPA: 3.97
College: University of Arkansas
Major: Psychology
Future Profession: Counselor or Social Worker
Favorite subject: English
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Tinney
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Wilhelm, my first grade teacher who made learning fun.
Example of someone who inspired you: Mrs. Fracek, my English teacher has always pushed me to do better, and try harder.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE has brought the SmartBoards to all of our classrooms. The boards have allowed us to do some cool things, especially in math class.
Other comments: I feel our community, school, and GEFFE have really tried to give the students the best education possible.

 


Marinda Story

PARENTS: Mark Story & Linda Hite
GPA: weighted – 4.116
College: – Oklahoma State University
Major – Journalism
Future Profession: –Journalist for a fashion magazine.
Favorite subject: –Mrs. Duff’s Art class and Mrs. Fracek’s English classes. My favorite subject is English.
Favorite teacher: – My favorite teachers are Mrs. Duff and Mrs. Steen.
Teacher who has impacted you the most: – Mrs. Fracek has had the biggest impact on my education because she taught me how to write an excellent essay!
Examples of someone who has inspired you to be the excellent student you are today? – I do not think that a certain individual has done something to inspire me to strive for excellence as a student. I think the most inspiring thing for me has been the positive influence and motivation of many of my peers. The influence of others around me that are striving for excellence has encouraged me to do the best that I can.
Impact of GEFFE: – I believe GEFFE has provided lab equipment for Mrs. Epperson’s Chemistry class as well as many other classes. I am in Mrs. Epperson’s Chemistry class this year and I am thankful for ability to have labs thanks to GEFFE.
Other comments: – I am thankful to be a part of a great community and school system. Thank you!

 


Tori Stover

PARENTS: Sadie Jenkins and Travis Stover
GPA: 4.012
College: Oklahoma State University
Major Chemical Engineering
Future Profession: Chemical Engineer
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Smith
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Smith, she has taught me that you can’t just pay attention in class and pass a test, you actually have to study.
Examples of people who have inspired you: I can’t narrow it down to one teacher, many teachers have congratulated me on my academics, and that makes me want to excel more.
Impact of GEFFE: Many classes have received GEFFE grants, which enabled my teachers to purchase more books and equipment to help expand our knowledge.
Other comments: GEFFE has helped in so many ways, I would like to take this chance to thank every one of you that has participated.

 


Erin Swartz

Parents: John & Carmel Swartz
GPA: 4.39
College: University of Arkansas
Major: Biology
Future Profession: Medicine (Physician)
Favorite subject: Anatomy
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Fracek
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Fracek has definitely had the biggest impact on my education. She has taught me how to write about anything and everything which will be a vital skill in college.
Example of someone who inspired you: I don’t have any specific examples, but my parents do set incredible examples for me each and every day. It is because of them that I choose to succeed.
Impact of GEFFE: My interests take place in science lab atmospheres. Almost every time I am in a lab I use a microscope that has been provided by GEFFE.
Other comments: I am so thankful for the establishment of GEFFE. Without its financial support, my learning process would have not been as enjoyable or efficient.

 


Ashleigh Rena Tramel

Parents: Bryan James Tramel and Gara Leigh Tramel
GPA: 4.079
College: University of Central Oklahoma
Major: Biology
Future Profession: Medicine, Medical Missionary
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Linda Fracek
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Fracek has helped me learn so much and inspires me to be a better student…all with a side of humor!
Example of someone who inspired you: My grandparents and parents motivated me to be who I am today. They have always been supportive and loving, and I thank God for them every day.
Impact of GEFFE: The science and math classes that received a grant from GEFFE have given me a greater appreciation for both fields, and the advancements humans have made in them.

 


Jessica Mae Walker

PARENTS: Bryan & Cindy Walker
GPA: 4.289
College: Jacksonville University – Jacksonville, Florida
College Major: Dermatology
Profession: Build a successful Dermatology practice and start a family.
Favorite class/subject: ANATOMY
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Mandy Jones – (being around her makes me want to be a better person. She loves life and is ALWAYS positive. She also makes everything FUN!)
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Linda Smith – from Anderson, Missouri. She was my 2nd grade teacher that pushed me to be the very best student I could be and not settle for anything less than an “A”
Example of someone who inspired you: Mrs. Mandy Jones ~ Everyday, she is always there for all of her students and helps kids make the best out of each day. I strive to be the BEST I can be because of the example she has taught me over the past 4 years of High School. She shares her love for life and brightens everyone’s day. Her positive attitude is contagious !
How has GEFFE impacted your education? I have taken several science courses throughout my high school career, most of which would not have been possible without the generous donations from GEFFE. (donations of supplies and equipment.)
Other comments: My four years of high school have been very successful in the classroom and on the softball field, but without the support of GEFFE, our community, administrators, teachers, and coaches – none of this would have been possible. Thank you for helping my dreams become a reality!

 


Ryan Wheatley

Parents: Jeannie & Stacy Wheatley
GPA: 4.18
College: Oklahoma State University
Major: Electrical Engineering
Future Profession: Working with medical technology
Favorite subject: Algebra
Favorite teacher: Mrs. Coffin
Teacher who has impacted you the most: Mrs. Coffin, my first grade teacher, inspired me to always be my best. Even at a young age she would teach morality through simple and fun activities.
Example of someone who inspired you: In the first grade, we were making a fruit salad and the teacher found a bad banana. She went on to tell us that in life we want to be the best we can be. She told us that we should never be a bad banana.
Impact of GEFFE: GEFFE has provided many opportunities to my class, not the least of which was helping us put on a spectacular prom.
Other comments: It is nice to know that GEFFE and many people in our community have had our backs throughout school. It’s another reason to strive to do my best.