For the past seven years, St. Louis Center benefactor Willard Johnson has funded a college scholarship for the children or grandchildren of Center staff. Mr. Johnson also provides the same opportunity to the staff of Chelsea Retirement Community and Silver Maples of Chelsea.

The Tradition Continues

The scholarship awardees this year include from St. Louis Center: Brandon Davey, son of Social Services Assistant Stephanie Lyerla; and  Mitchell Reynolds, son of the Human Resources Director JoAnn Reynolds of Silver Maples of Chelsea.

JoLadies in a conference room at St. Louis CenterA reception was held on August 10th at St. Louis Center, giving Mr. Johnson the opportunity to meet the awardees and their families. Brandon, who is planning to use the scholarship to get a degree in nursing, attended with his mother. JoAnne accepted the award on her son’s behalf.

Two ladies listen to Fr. EnzoJoining Will in attendance at the reception included: Will’s friend Jennifer Kurtz, Shelly MacMillen, Director of Development at Silver Maples; Sheri Hardcastle, Major Gifts Officer at UMRC & Porter Hills Foundation; Fr. Enzo Addari, SdC, CEO; Wendy Zielen, Development Director;  Michelle Mikolaczyk, Event and Volunteer Coordinator;  Kassandra Lewis, Development and Communications Administrative Assistant; and Kelly Flaherty, Special Projects Assistant all from St. Louis Center.

During the reception Will talked about his experience as the CEO of Chelsea Hospital. This topic is very pertinent to Brandon and his future career.

Will Johnson and Brandon Davey

Will presented the recipients with a certificate as well as a book. Will likes to keep informed about the success of the students that he has helped through this scholarship campaign.

Cake and light refreshments were served.

Be a Part of the Tradition

The next round of scholarship applications will be announced soon. If you are a staff member at St. Louis Center, Silver Maples of Chelsea or UMRC & Porter Hills be prepared to submit an application. Each award is $1,000.


This article appears in the Fall 2022 issue of St. Louis Spirit newsletter.

You can read it online or download the issue in its entirety here.


Scholarships and other educational opportunities are just some of the perks of being par of the  #SLCcultureofcare. Apply to join the team by filling out the form below!