A Rogers High School alumnus and his wife have pledged $100,000 to support graduating seniors from Rogers High School.
Lt. Col. Ronald Eckert USMC (Ret.) and Kathie Eckert’s donation to the Thompson Scholarship Fund will help ensure future generations of qualified Rogers High School graduates have financial support to pursue higher education, according to a press release sent by a trustee from the Thompson Scholarship Fund.
The Eckerts, who currently reside in Daniel Island, S.C. and maintain a second home in Middletown, sought a meaningful way to give back to the school that played a pivotal role in Ron’s achievements.
“We searched for the best resource for Rogers High School students for two months, speaking with several individuals,” Ron Eckert said. “Eventually we spoke with Colleen Murray, President of the Rogers High School Alumni Association, who recommended the Thompson Fund as a way to support my alma mater. Meetings with the fund’s board of trustees further reassured us that we could positively impact Rogers students for years to come.”
Established in 1913, the Thompson Scholarship Fund provides tuition to Rogers High School graduates attending recognized colleges or universities.
Board chair Dave Galvin stated, “The Trustees are honored to steward the generous gift from Ron and Kathie. Their support helps sustain our mission to provide financial aid to Rogers graduates. In recent years, the fund has awarded six to eight four year scholarships annually, and their donation ensures this tradition will continue.”
“We are excited to support a fund that empowers students to achieve their dreams, and we look forward to seeing the impact of this gift starting in 2025,” Kathie Eckert said.
Ron’s connection to Rogers High School dates back to 1955 when he joined the school’s football team. He became co-captain in 1957 and earned spots on the Providence Journal-Bulletin All-State and Sporting News National High School All-American teams that year.
“To say this was a highlight is an understatement,” Ron said, recalling his selection to represent Rhode Island in the 1958 National All-American game in Hershey, Pennsylvania. “My teammates, as well as the Big 33 team members were the finest high school athletes I could imagine. I wondered why I was so blessed to be in their company.”
Ron’s football career continued at Upsala College on an athletic scholarship. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the USMC in 1963 and played for the Quantico Football Team.
After two tours in Vietnam, Ron returned to coach football, becoming Head Coach and Athletic Director for USMC Athletics. He retired after 20 years of active service and went on to work as a consultant for the NFL’s Washington Redskins for 19 years and as an NCAA Division 1 Official for 14 years.
In 2021, Ron was inducted into the Rogers High School Athletic Hall of Fame for outstanding contributions to the school and the sport.
“My time at Rogers High School was a pivotal part of my journey,” Ron said. “Kathie and I are excited to see how our contribution helps future graduates reach their potential through the Thompson Scholarship Fund. We are hopeful that our gift will favorably influence a decision to attend Rogers High School.”
The Eckerts’ story began in the summer of 1961 when Kathie, visiting family in Newport, met Ron, a lifeguard at Easton’s Beach. They reconnected in 1966 and married the following year. Now, 57 years later, with three daughters, their journey continues with this significant contribution to their community.
For more information about the Thompson Scholarship Fund or to donate, contact Dave Galvin at dgalvin@starshep.com or Matthew Leys at mleys@cphnpt.com.
