Joe & Sue Kaesbauer Memorial Scholarship

Growing up in Dubuque, Joe and Sue Kaesbauer were high school sweethearts. Married for 54 years and blessed with five children, they instilled family as a priority, along with the importance of taking care of others and giving back to the community. Joe became Superintendent of A.Y. McDonald’s Manufacturing, and Sue owned two businesses. Joe saw the good in people and believed in leading by example. He stressed the importance of character, hard work, and enjoying life.

Sue loved learning and was fearless in trying new things. She was a great motivator and mentor. Joe and Sue Kaesbauer enjoyed many visits to Pleasant Valley events and were very proud of their youngest daughter, Julie (Kaesbauer) Spelhaug, a retired PVHS Math Teacher, her husband Jim, former PV Superintendent, and their four grandchildren, Lexi, Ryan, Ellie, and Carli.

Upon their passing, the family established memorial scholarships at Dubuque Hempstead, Dubuque Senior, and Pleasant Valley to honor their parents and the values important to them.

Criteria to Apply:

Be a graduating senior of PVHS
Applicants should have a positive attitude, display leadership skills, good character, and strong work ethic

Scholarship Personal Statement/Essay:

In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us why you've chosen your field of study.
In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us what your plans are after your post-secondary education is complete.
In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us about one of the following: your ability to problem solve, work with others, and/or your dedication to the community.
In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us how you've overcome an obstacle.
In less than 250 words (1700 characters), please tell us anything else about yourself you think the selection committee would like to know.