Missing money may affect scholarship awards

By PATRICK E. LITOWITZ
plitowitz@ncnewsonline.com

Pennsylvania State Police are investigating the theft of funds earmarked for scholarships.

The Lawrence County School Counselors Association contacted state police about the loss of approximately $3,300. Michele McClelland, president of the nonprofit group, said the money was taken during a two-year period.

“Our whole goal is to reclaim the money and to give it back to the students for scholarships,” said McClelland, a counselor at Laurel Junior-Senior High.

The association, which has close to 30 members, includes school counselors from the county’s eight school districts and the Lawrence County Career and Technical Center. The group provides monthly network and professional development opportunities.

The organization’s lone fundraiser is an annual college/career fair held in September at Westminster College. Postsecondary institutions pay a fee to appear at the event.

McClelland said the group uses the funds to award scholarships in May to two seniors from each school district and the career center. “We don’t make any money,” she said.

State police said a 62-year-old woman, who was not named, is a suspect in its investigation. Police said she received $3,355 in checks and failed to forward them to the group’s treasurer. The money was reportedly placed into her personal bank account.

McClelland said the woman is not affiliated with the association. She was hired to provide minor clerical support during the fundraiser.

McClelland said the group had enough money last year to give out scholarships.

“We’re concerned about this year,” she said.