IRON MOUNTAIN — Iron Mountain High School expresses gratitude for the recent anonymous donation in the amount of $10,000 to the Kathleen Harry Memorial Scholarship Fund.

This remarkable donation is a testament to the enduring impact of Kathleen Harry’s legacy, and IMHS is deeply grateful for the support.

Established in 1995 by the Iron Mountain High School Student Council and Music Booster Club, the scholarship celebrates the life and contributions of Kathleen Harry, an energetic educator and talented musician who made a profound impact on our school and community.

Next year marks the 30th year since the community lost Kathleen and the scholarship was established.

Each year, the scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a degree in music or education, ensuring her passion for teaching and the arts continues to thrive.

This scholarship has special meaning for one Iron Mountain School district teacher, Audra (Pickett) DeRidder. She was a recipient of Kathleen’s scholarship when she graduated from IMHS in 2015

“Receiving this scholarship was a real confidence booster for me that I was heading in the right direction by pursuing teaching, especially at a time when I was a little unsure,” she said.

She went on to receive her bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and currently teaches fifth grade math and science at East Elementary School.

The Kathleen Harry Memorial Scholarship has provided countless students with assistance to pursue their dreams, fostering excellence in education and the arts and is a lasting tribute to a beloved teacher and musician whose legacy continues to inspire students.