Jane Gwyn Robertson Zimmermann Scholarship

The Jane Gwyn Robertson Zimmermann Scholarship provides a $3,000 two-year award ($1,500 per year) to an Orange County High School graduate who plans to attend a college or university on a full-time basis. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and they must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants also must demonstrate intent to pursue a teaching career, with preference given to those interested in English or journalism.

The fund was established in 1999 through a request from the estate of Marie Ellis Robertson, to honor the memory of her sister, Jane Gwyn Robertson Zimmermann, who passed away on January 17, 1977. Jane Gwyn Robertson Zimmermann, known to her family and friends as “Gwyn,” was a member of the Orange County High School Class of 1964. During her time at OCHS, Gwyn was involved in numerous activities, including the Debating Club, Future Teachers of America, Latin Club, Spotswood Players, and Girls’ State. She also served as the reporter and historian of the Honor Society, assistant editor of the school newspaper, and manager of the girls’ basketball team. In addition to these activities, Gwyn was an honor student, a National Merit Scholarship semi-finalist, Homecoming Princess, and wrote a weekly column for the Orange County Review.

After graduation, Gwyn went on to receive an AB degree from Duke University, where she served as class secretary of the junior class, and a MAT degree from Simmons College. She went on to teach English and speed reading. She also served as the associate editor of Textile Industries, a trade magazine, in addition to reporting and writing feature articles for various newspapers. The scholarship organization and the Orange County Education Foundation would like to present 1 scholarship to a graduating senior in the class of 2020. The completed application and essay is due to the counseling center by April 17, 2020.

Jane Gwyn Robertson Zimmermann Scholarship Application

Scholarship Winners

• 2021 – Alana Shumake
• 2020 – Emily Johnson