Johnson named as recipient of first Andreas Memorial Scholarship
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Jacob Johnson, above at center, was awarded the first annual Tyler Andreas Memorial Scholarship recently. Jacob is shown above with his parents, Marybeth and Michael Johnson.
By Chelsey Barrell
The first annual Tyler Andreas Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Columbia City High School senior Jacob Johnson. In addition to the $500 scholarship, Johnson received a trophy and his name on a plaque that will be displayed in the hallway at CCHS.
“Our family would like to thank the coaches, players, booster club, cheerleaders, families and the entire community who helped us grieve and to celebrate Tyler’s life,” said Tyler’s father, Bill Andreas, during his speech at the CCHS football awards ceremony on November 30.
The family of Tyler Andreas established the memorial scholarship in tribute to the CCHS athlete who passed away unexpectedly this summer. Memorial contributions throughout the community and a matching grant from the Community Foundation helped to create the scholarship which will be awarded annually.
“I have always felt that an athlete can only control two aspects and those would be their effort and their attitude,” said assistant football coach John Slavich. “Jacob has a work ethic similar to Tyler’s in that a coach never has to be concerned that he will not give 100% in practice and in games. His attitude was exemplary.”