United Way Announces Mike Munchak Scholarship Recipient

The United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties awarded the Mike Munchak Community Service Scholarship to Michael Watkins, a 2022 graduate of Scranton Preparatory High School. The scholarship award was officially presented as part of the 26^th Annual Mike Munchak Charity Golf Classic to benefit the United Way held at the Country Club of Scranton.  Over $1,000,000 have been raised during the 26 years of this golf outing and remains to be the premiere golf outing in NEPA. 

“For the past 26 years it has been our honor to welcome Mike home to Scranton, and we remain grateful to him for his unwavering commitment to the people of our community,” said Gary Drapek, President and CEO of the United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties.

The United Way established the Mike Munchak Community Service Scholarship to assist high school students from Lackawanna and Wayne Counties, who plan to continue their education in an accredited university, college, or trade school in a two or four-year degree program. The amount of the scholarship is $6,300 in honor of Mike’s #63, retired by the Houston Oilers in 1994.  Completing the scholarships 11^th year of existence, a total amount of $69,300 in scholarship funds have been distributed to local graduates.

To be eligible, candidates must be participants in partner agency programs funded by United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties, have a demonstrated commitment through community service activities and be full-time residents and/or students of a school district within Lackawanna or Wayne Counties.  Additional requirements include a demonstrated financial need, academic achievement, agency recommendation and a strong track record of community service.

“Education is one of our pillars here at the United Way.  This scholarship is a prime example of how important a good education along with strong community involvement is in helping ensure Lackawanna and Wayne Counties continue to Live United.  Every year we are amazed at the amount of Hall-of-Fame caliber seniors who apply for this scholarship.  The future certainly remains bright here in Lackawanna and Wayne Counties,” added Drapek.

The 2022 scholarship recipient is Michael Watkins, a Scranton Preparatory High School graduate.  His community service accomplishments include the United Way Day of Caring, Boys and Girls Club, Scranton Cultural Center Food and Clothing Drives, St. Paul’s Block Party, Kettle Basketball Camp, visits to Mountain View Nursing Center, Peer Tutoring and Orientation at Scranton Prep. 

Additionally, Michael is a member of the National Honor Society, Dean’s Team, Vice President of the Business Club, Treasurer of Kiva Microfinance Club, President of Advanced Strategical Minds as well as an array of other clubs and activities.  The Scholarship Committee noted Michael’s superior GPA as well as the leadership qualities he exhibited throughout his time at Scranton Prep.

This fall, Michael will be attending Fordham University to pursue a degree in Finance/Prelaw.

“Funding essential programs throughout Lackawanna and Wayne Counties as well as running our own community outreach programs has led us into our 2^nd Century of Service in Northeastern Pennsylvania.  Continuously evolving each and every year has been the key to our success.  Like the mindset of a Hall-of-Fame Athlete, we set a goal every year and do everything in our power to achieve that goal, just like our homegrown football legend himself, Mike Munchak,” Drapek concluded.

For further comment, call the Barry Snyder, Vice President, Community Outreach, United Way at (570) 343-1267 x237.