Carroll K. and Gladys I. Gustely Scholarship Fund

The scholarship fund exists to financially assist qualified individuals planning enrollment or enrolled in a two (2) or four (4) year accredited college or university degree program, trade, or technical school in any field of endeavor. Only members, the children or grandchildren of members of First Church may apply. The requirements of this scholarship are that candidates exhibit qualities of character and need. Past academic performance is a further consideration of the selection committee as is current involvement in the First Church community. Notice is made on our website when applications are open each spring.

Please consider donating to the fund to continue the legacy of supporting deserving students.

The fund was established as a memorial by Carroll K. and Gladys I. Gustely, through gifts from family, schools, and many friends, following the death of their son Richard D. Gustely, PhD, on November 8, 1981. Richard, in his short lifetime of 36 years, exemplified through his personal life, devotion to family and dedication to his chosen field of college teaching and economic research.

Carroll and Gladys Gustely were active members of First Church for more than 50 years. Since they established this fund in 1981, additional memorial contributions have been received upon the death of Carroll on July 14, 1992, Gladys on September 4, 2004, and son Robert on October 24, 2009 at age 58.

Robert K. Gustely, MA was devoted to his family, and was a dedicated teacher and guidance counselor in the Akron Public Schools. He was also a fine musician and accomplished flutist who performed in ensembles and as a soloist, including services at First Church.

It is hoped their qualities of compassion, industry, leadership and vision, will, through this scholarship, inspire and help enlighten the path for those who will follow.