In 2005, Pat and Patty Schmelzle and family established the Kathy L. Schmelzle
Academic Scholarship through the Nemaha County STEP Foundation in loving memory
of their daughter Kathy. This $750 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating senior
from Nemaha Central High School who plans to pursue a degree in teacher education.

The 2025 recipient is Alayna Scism, daughter of Benjamin and Kelsey Scism. Alayna
discovered her passion for working with children through a summer nanny position,
which inspired her to pursue a career in education. She plans to major in Early Childhood
Special Education at Northwest Missouri State University.