Linda Siegel Awarded United Way Scholarship 

            “Thank you, United Way, for believing in me.  This scholarship is more than monetary; it is an honor that I will not soon forget,” wrote Linda Siegel, a sophomore at The University of Akron’s Wayne College, when she received the 2011 Michael J. Manges Memorial Scholarship.

          Mike Manges was a tireless volunteer for the Orrville Area United Way.  When he was killed in an automobile accident in 1993, friends, family and co-workers sent donations to United Way in his memory, and the United Way board started a scholarship fund to celebrate his life.

          From 1994 through 2008, two $200 book scholarships were awarded to graduating seniors in Orrville and Dalton whose teachers chose them for their volunteerism.  Beginning in 2009, the policy was changed, and now $500 is awarded each year to a Wayne College sophomore preparing for a career in social work.

          Mike would be very proud that his legacy lives in the 2011 recipient, who describes herself as a ‘non-traditional student’ majoring in social work with a minor in addiction.

          “I took the long road of life with many wrong turns.  Resuming my education has been a big step in the right direction,” said Siegel, “I hope to be able to give back what has always been so freely given to me: understanding, compassion and hope.”