With their future goals set on serving others, the International Code Council Foundation’s (ICCF) 2007 Scholarship recipients are using their talents to impact those within their communities and beyond.
J.W. “Bill” Neese scholarship recipient Justin Finan earned his undergraduate degree in Fire Safety from Eastern Kentucky University and is currently enrolled in the university’s Master of Science in Loss Prevention Safety program and Safety, Security and Emergency Management program. While pursuing his education, Finan serves as a fire fighter and is certified for large animal rescue.
“I embrace every opportunity I get to further my education, including sessions at fire conferences, schools, code classes, OSHA classes, etc.,” Finan sais. “I hope and anticipate that my specialized field of study will one day benefit my community. I participate in regular preventions at schools, geriatric facilities, on campus, and also partake in home safety inspections and smoke detector battery programs. I eagerly wait for the day when my education and drive will make an impact and possibly prevent an injury or save a life.”
Finan said he has learned the importance of proactive and preventive measures as a means for protecting lives and property in times of emergencies. “I began to understand that solid code enforcement and building and code education is a crucial part to the fire safety field,” he explained. “If buildings are properly inspected, then they are less likely to have issues later on down the road. If you attack the problems up front, it will save lives later on. This realization was a huge factor for me becoming interested in the code enforcement profession.”
ICCF’s Scholarship Program traces its roots back to 1974 when the legacy organizations developed an incentive to honor the service of its members, specifically those in a code-related profession. The most exceptional quality of the program is that it pays tribute to those who enforce codes and safety on a daily basis by assisting their children with higher education. Among those selected for 2007, several chose to follow a similar path as their parents.
Brian Walkenhauer, recipient of the 2007 William J. Tangye Scholarship, is pursuing a career as a Civil Engineer. Like his father John, who is a code enforcement officer for the City of Yakima, Washington, Walkenhauer sees a code-related career as an opportunity to serve. Even now, as he studies engineering at Washington State University (WSU), Walkenhauer makes time to give something back to those around him. “During my first three years at WSU, I have balanced a challenging course load with extracurricular activities,” said Walkenhauer. “One project with the American Society of Civil Engineers is Adopt-a-Highway. Another is participating in Career Day where I assist children in designing load-supporting structures out of paper clips and index cards.”
Kevin Ossege, recipient of the 2007 Charlie O'Meilia Scholarship, is studying mechanical engineering and hopes to be a steward to his community. “One of my major career goals is to make great strides in designing. . . to make life easier for all people,” Ossege stated. “Currently, I volunteer at the Free Store Food Bank. There, I collect donations and sort food and clothing that will be distributed to those in need. I also deliver bread to the Bethany House, for homeless women and their children.”
Other 2007 ICCF scholarship recipients include Christie Baxter, who is studying pharmacy at Ohio State University, and Heather Rybak, who is studying Marketing at the University of Minnesota. Knight Bently, who is currently studying engineering at the University of Alabama, received the C.D. Howard Scholarship.
“On behalf of the ICCF, I would like to thank the generous chapters, members and employees who have supported these scholarships over the years,” said Code Council CEO Rick Weiland. “Your support has assisted many deserving students who have gone on to contribute so much to the building safety industry and their communities.”
ICCF is currently accepting applications for 2008–2009 through June 30. Six scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 each, will be awarded in August. For more information or to contribute to the ICCF Scholarship Program, please visit the website, or contact at 1-888-ICC-SAFE (422-7233), ext. 5243.
