- 4000 S. Method, Lufkin, TX 75901
- info@bonehillfoundation.org
Recipients have gone on to attend colleges and universities, complete workforce certification programs, and establish successful careers in fields such as healthcare, education, business, and technology.
The Bone Hill Foundation (BHF) was established in 1967 by Will Bridges with the goal of helping those in need. Originally the property linked to the Foundation was called the Bone Hill Ranch. During a very long drought, many cows died and were dragged to the top of a hill. The story goes that since the land was more pasture than timber, for miles around a person could see the white bones of the cows... thus the name "Bone Hill Ranch". In 1991, the board linked to the Foundation was reorganized and the focus was placed on scholarships for students to attend traditional or vocational colleges. A major part of Bone Hill assets, and what generates funds for distribution, is timber resources. A management plan has been developed that includes timber, wildlife, and the entire property providing a balanced plan for natural resources. The Bone Hill Foundation currently awards scholarships to each high school in Shelby County as well as scholarship funds to Angelina College, Panola College, The University of Texas system, Texas A&M University, Stephen F. Austin State University, and Sam Houston State University. Shelby County students who attend one of the colleges/universities listed are encouraged to apply for a Bone Hill Foundation scholarship.

“Thanks to the scholarship I received, I’ve been able to attend college so far, and feel I have grown since starting. So I am deeply grateful for this opportunity.”
Panola College

“Thank you so much for awarding me this scholarship. I truly appreciate this support. This money will help out with the hardship of finding how to pay for class and will help me continue on with pursing my education and goals.”
Angelina College

“I am truly honored and grateful for your generosity and support toward my education and future goals. I plan to pursue my degree with determination and continue working hard to make a positive impact in my community…”
Shelbyville High School

“…your support will help me continue working toward my goal of becoming a criminal psychologist and a first generation college graduate. Receiving this scholarship means to much to me and motivates me to keep working hard and striving for success.”
Shelbyville High School

“Thank you for your generous support. Receiving this scholarship means more to me than financial assistance – it gives me confidence and opportunity as I continue my education. Thank you, again, for making a real difference in my life.”
Joaquin High School

“As a student preparing for my first steps for college, this scholarship means a great deal to me and my family. It will provide support for me to complete my degree in Elementary Education at Panola and SFA with less financial stress. I hope to use my education to become an elementary teacher and give back to my community….”
Joaquin High School

“ I want to write this letter as a thank you! Becoming first in my family to receive a scholarship is a big deal for me knowing I have the same potential in the future as people with more education. I’m very blessed to be one of the eight selected for the Bone Hill Scholarship…”
Tenaha High School

“I appreciate the time effort and resources your Foundation dedicates to helping students pursue higher education. I am honored to be chosen for the scholarship and for your kindness and commitment to the community…”
Tenaha High School

“Your generosity allows me to invest more fully in my learning, community involvement, and the service-oriented work I have carried throughout my high school years. I am dedicating my life to helping others improve their quality of life – beginning with my major in social work at UT Tyler and continuing through my goal of attending law school to become a child advocate…”
Center High School

“I am one of many who was chosen for the scholarship and am thankful. I plan to attend TJC and majoring in Opthalmic Medical Assisting. With this scholarship my goals are closer to me. Your investment in me will forever hold a place in my heart. Thank you, Bone Hill…”
Center High School

"The Bone Hill Foundation has made my life as an Aggie significantly easier. Their financial contributions to my education have enabled me to worry less about financial matters and focus more on my coursework. The Bone Hill Foundation's continued generosity is a fine embodiment of the Aggie Spirit I hold so dear and I am very thankful to be a recipient."
Texas A & M
These success stories reflect the program’s commitment to investing in the next generation and empowering students to achieve their goals