Central College names Geisler Penquite Scholars

PELLA — Central College has recognized its 2023 Geisler Penquite Scholars, and a Poweshiek County student is on the list.

The Geisler Penquite Foundation awarded Central College $480,000 for scholarships and the Geisler Library endowment. The foundation has committed $300,000 to expand upon the Geisler Penquite endowed scholarship fund to support students accepted into the education program.

A total of 25 scholarships are given each year with 15 new awardees announced in 2023.

Central's 2023 Geisler Penquite Scholars include Cally Gibbs, Class of 2025, from Grinnell.

The Geisler Penquite Foundation honors students in the education program who display academic success, progress in the education program and leadership qualities in the field of education.

Every scholar will receive a $5,000 scholarship for their junior and senior years. The Foundation established the scholarship program in 2011.

The Geisler Penquite Scholarship was established by Harold and Mavis Hobbs Geisler, named honorary alumna in 2000, and Cecil Geisler Penquite and Loren Penquite in honor of their parents, John Edward Geisler and Gertrude Setzer Geisler. The family also endowed the college's Geisler Library.