Salem-Keizer Public Schools
Generations of music — Withnell Music Scholarship
![A group of nine people, including students holding certificates and adults, pose for a photo in front of a backdrop with school logos.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1782749253/salkeizk12orus/ruf4zxopuvzyhcc0n4ml/os-whitnell-scholarship-1200x675.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1782749253/salkeizk12orus/ruf4zxopuvzyhcc0n4ml/os-whitnell-scholarship-1200x675.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1782749253/salkeizk12orus/ruf4zxopuvzyhcc0n4ml/os-whitnell-scholarship-1200x675.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1782749253/salkeizk12orus/ruf4zxopuvzyhcc0n4ml/os-whitnell-scholarship-1200x675.jpg","width":1200}])
For nearly 30 years, the Withnell family has invested in the future of Salem-Keizer student musicians, helping generations of graduates pursue their passion for music beyond high school.
That tradition continued this year as six graduating seniors from Salem-Keizer Public Schools were selected to receive the 2026 Withnell Music Scholarship. Through the longstanding partnership between the Withnell family and Salem-Keizer Public Schools, each recipient received a $1,000 scholarship to support continued musical studies in higher education.
A lasting legacy of support
Since establishing the scholarship in 1996, the Withnell family has demonstrated a deep commitment to Salem-Keizer students and the district's music programs. Over the years, dozens of graduates have received support through the scholarship program as they pursued music studies in college.
The impact of this community partnership has extended far beyond financial support. More than 20 former scholarship recipients have returned to Salem-Keizer as music educators, inspiring and teaching future generations of student musicians.
Reflections from a former recipient
Speaking during the June board recognition, Hendrik Mobley, orchestra teacher at Straub Middle School and a former Withnell Music Scholarship recipient, reflected on the scholarship's impact.
"As a former Withnell Music Scholarship recipient myself, it was especially meaningful to help recognize this year's recipients as a Salem-Keizer staff member. Reflecting on my own journey, I remain incredibly grateful for the opportunities this scholarship provided and proud to see its legacy continue through these talented students."
Hendrik Mobley, Straub Middle School Orchestra Teacher
Mobley said the scholarship serves as both an investment in students' futures and a reflection of the strong support system that exists throughout Salem-Keizer.
"Our students benefit from exceptional music educators, district leaders who prioritize arts education and community partners like the Withnell family who believe in their potential," Mobley said. "What we have in Salem-Keizer is truly special, and these students are a reflection of that collective commitment."
The 2026 scholarship recipients
The 2026 Withnell Music Scholarship recipients included:
- Jeramyah Acosta, West Salem High School
- Ellie McCartin, West Salem High School
- Emma Losch, Sprague High School
- Emilia Seden, McKay High School
- Talia Mesecar, McNary High School
- Susy Tussing, McNary High School
Salem-Keizer Public Schools extends its sincere gratitude to the Withnell family for their continued generosity and partnership. Their ongoing support has helped generations of students pursue their passions, achieve their goals and share the gift of music with the community.