Rotary Establishes Arkell Scholarship Fund

 

 

 

In close cooperation with the Brentwood Police Benevolent Association, the Rotary Club of Portsmouth’s Charitable Division has established a new memorial scholarship fund to honor fallen Brentwood police officer Stephen Arkell.

 

Arkell, who died in the line of duty last year, was an alumnus and strong supporter of the Exeter High School.  The new fund will underwrite a scholarship for Exeter High students.

 

Funding of the scholarship will begin with the net proceeds after designated donations and expenses of the April 4^th,  5k run/walk race in Brentwood, which was organized by community members to honor the slain officer.

 

“We are honored to have the opportunity to create this new scholarship ” stated Rotary President Patricia Cummings.  “Our club has a strong history of managing and granting scholarship funds, and this past year we gave $35,000 to area students.”

 

Race organizers Curtis Grace, Ptl. Joshua Turner and Sgt. Denny Wood have worked for months to bring the community together for next month’s race event.   As of this week, over 700 runners have registered and community business sponsors are helping to build the scholarship fund.  “We’re going to have a great day April 4,” said Grace.  “We still have openings for anyone who would like to take part.”  Race registration is online at www.officerarkell5k.org.

 

The administration of the new memorial fund will be guided by an advisory committee consisting of Brentwood area residents and members of the Portsmouth Rotary Club.

 

The Charitable Division of the Rotary Club of Portsmouth is an accredited 501(c)3 organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by federal law.  Donations may be made through the race website or by check to Treasurer, Rotary Club of Portsmouth, PO Box 905, Portsmouth NH 03801.   For more information, www.portsmouthrotary.org