Dick Nourse, owner of Pioneer Family Auto, recently made a $50,000 contribution that will positively impact students from elementary school through college.

MARIETTA, OHIO — Dick Nourse, owner of Pioneer Family Auto, recently made a $50,000 contribution that will positively impact students from elementary school through college.

“I’ve had an association with the Nourses now for more than 35 years,” said Pioneer Family Autos General Manager Mark Herrington. “As long as I have known them, they have been focused on training and educating. They have been a friend of education since the company started in 1976.”

When Nourse heard about the Marietta City School and Washington State College of Ohio vision, he knew it was the future of education in our community – the Diploma Plus opportunity would give students a stepping-stone from high school to college or a career.

The partnership between WSCO and MCS creates a new education model that is designed to transform education and provide students with early exposure to college and career preparation. Students will exit high school with a Diploma Plus an industry credential; college credits, certificate, or degree acceptance; acceptance to the military, acceptance to an apprenticeship program, or employment.

“We are fortunate to have the support of Mr. Nourse, both for the levy and for the college,” said Washington State College of Ohio President Dr. Vicky Wood. “He understands that education is the foundation to success and growth for our community.” The scholarship established by Nourse will support two $1,000 annual scholarships at WSCO with preference going toward students in the automotive services and/or diesel truck systems programs.

“The community we live in, the people that reside here, and the businesses and industries that invest in us already make this a great area,” said Herrington. “We want to keep the MOV thriving by investing in the community in which we live. To do that we need to make sure our children get a quality education. Mr. Nourse believes in this partnership as our children’s best chance for a brighter future.”