Who we support
The Garee Lee Smith Scholarship

Since 2006 the Heffernan Foundation has assisted employees and their families with education expenses through the Garee Lee Smith Scholarship Program. Garee was one of Heffernan’s first employees, and she truly embodied the Heffernan Spirit of Giving, when she passed away, the Garee Lee Smith Scholarship was created in her memory. Since its inception we have given $645,000 in scholarships through this program.
Each year 10 recipients are chosen from applications received. The individuals chosen all epitomize hard work, dedication, ambition, as well as a strong commitment to support their communities. We hope to carry on the spirit of giving that Garee inspired for years to come.
2024 Recipients
Allyse Naworski
University of Tennessee
Ishan Hossain
St. John’s University
Matthew McKoy
Midwestern University
Zoe Diederich
University of Florida
Kayla Kienast
Azusa Pacific University
Stella Hautau
Southwestern University
Bonnie Swiatkowski
California State University, Long Beach
Elizabeth Earl
California State University, Northridge
Abigail Schiller
University of Arizona