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A Legacy of Generosity: The M.C. Hess and Margaret Hess Boyle Educational Fund

February 9, 2026

The Washington County Community Foundation is proud to introduce the M.C. Hess and Margaret Hess Boyle Educational Fund, a scholarship created to help local students pursue their dreams of higher education.

Margaret Hess Boyle’s life was rooted in hard work and care for her community. Born in Haddam, Kansas in 1908, she attended school in Narka, KS and spent many years working alongside her husband, Milek C. Hess (M.C.), at their family business, Hess Oil Co., which faithfully served both Republic and Washington Counties. After M.C.’s passing, Margaret later married Thomas Boyle, continuing her life of resilience and commitment to others.

Margaret never had the chance to attend college herself, a reality that inspired her desire to help young people achieve what she could not. Through her generosity and foresight, she created a fund that will provide scholarships for generations to come. One thoughtful gift will forever impact local students as they pursue higher education and build brighter futures. 

Application Details:

Applications for WCCF scholarships open November 1 and are due February 15 every year. Please encourage students you know to apply and take advantage of this opportunity. Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, books, training and educational materials, equipment, room and board, and other necessary educational expenses.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must be graduates or in good standing to graduate from Washington County, Kansas. While preference is given to students from Mahaska, Haddam, and Morrowville, all eligible students are encouraged to apply. Students must plan to enroll full-time in a college, university, community college, or vocational/technical school for the upcoming academic year.