When Aidan McCracken graduated from Franklin High School, he knew that his next step needed to be something that matched his learning style and his drive to build things with his own hands. That next step took him to the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, where he’s now enrolled in the Building Construction Technology program — and thriving.
For Aidan, success doesn’t happen behind a desk. “I like the program because it is mostly hands-on,” he said. “We do lots of individual and group projects in the lab and have very little time in an actual classroom, which is very beneficial for me because I learn by doing hands-on work.”
That opportunity to learn through doing — and to pursue a future in construction — was made possible in part by the George J. Vergis Family Scholarship.
Honoring a Legacy Through Education
The George J. Vergis Family Scholarship was established in 2021 by Mary Denk to honor the memory of George J. Vergis and his family. Each year, it provides $2,500 scholarships to one male and one female graduating senior from Franklin High School who plan to attend a university.
In just a few short years, this fund has already made a remarkable impact — awarding more than $23,000 to 10 individual students since its creation. What began as one family’s tribute to a loved one has become a growing source of encouragement for Franklin students pursuing their dreams.
“The Vergis Family Scholarship is a great example of how a single family’s story can inspire opportunity for others,” said a BBCF representative. “It reflects the power of community generosity and how one act of giving can multiply into many student successes.”
Building a Foundation for the Future
For Aidan, the scholarship didn’t just make college possible — it made it affordable. “BBCF helped me pay for a decent chunk of my first two semesters and made it more affordable to pay without taking out a loan,” he shared. “Any scholarship helps, and I am very thankful for everything I received from Bridge Builders.”
Aidan’s gratitude echoes the purpose of the fund’s founder: to give young people in Franklin the chance to pursue higher education without being limited by financial barriers.
Beyond the financial help, Aidan’s story represents a broader truth about the trades: hands-on careers are vital to every community. From homes to hospitals, schools to small businesses, skilled builders and craftspeople shape the spaces where life happens. By investing in students like Aidan, the George J. Vergis Family Scholarship is helping to ensure those skills — and the people who master them — continue to thrive.
Carrying Forward a Spirit of Giving
Through the ongoing generosity of donors like Mary Denk and the stewardship of Bridge Builders Community Foundations, scholarships like this one continue to open doors for students across Venango County and beyond. Each award carries with it the memory of George J. Vergis and the values he embodied — hard work, family, and dedication to community.
As Aidan continues his studies in Building Construction Technology, he’s not just preparing for a career — he’s building on a legacy of craftsmanship, perseverance, and generosity that began long before he entered the classroom.
Supporting the Next Generation
Scholarships like the George J. Vergis Family Scholarship remind us that investing in education doesn’t just change one student’s life — it strengthens an entire community.
To help continue that legacy, contributions can be made directly to the George J. Vergis Family Scholarship Fund.
Donate online or mail a check to Bridge Builders Community Foundations.
