To honor Elmer Laslo’s 45 years of committed service to its organization, 1st Summit Bank has created a scholarship fund in his memory at the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies (CFA). Between donations from the organization, its board members, and its employees, nearly $30,000 has been raised to create a permanent endowment that will continue to honor Laslo and support opportunities for higher education, forever.
Laslo was named president of 1st Summit Bank in 1977 and continued to serve the organization until his death in January of this year from leukemia and lymphoma. Shortly after, 1st Summit Bank’s board of directors had the idea for the scholarship fund.
“The board wanted to do something of significance that would have lasting value,” said Chairman of the Board John W. McCall. “The partnership with the Community Foundation ensures the proper administration of the scholarship over time, where Elmer’s legacy will transcend future generations.”
The fund will provide an annual award to a student who is pursuing a degree in business or a related field, including economics, finance, and accounting, and who also displays a strong history of volunteerism. Eligible applicants should attend a high school located within the 1st Summit Bank market area of Blair, Cambria, Indiana, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties. The application will be available on the Community Foundation website at cfalleghenies.org/scholarships when their next scholarship season opens later this year in October.
“The Community Foundation is grateful to work with 1st Summit Bank in support of honoring Elmer’s life and work,” said Mike Kane, CFA President. “He was an anchor, not just for 1st Summit, but also for the region. He led by example through his leadership at the bank and his longtime participation in the civic life of the community. He was always forward-looking. This scholarship is a fitting way to establish a legacy of that commitment and foresight.”
Donations to the fund can be made online here or by sending a check to the Community Foundation.
