The Sonny Kovatch Scholarship was created in honor and memory of John J. "Sonny" Kovatch, a lifelong resident of Nesquehoning, a business pioneer and community leader who devoted 65 years to building success in business and the local community. Sonny Kovatch was a strong believer in the principle that one should give back to the community. He had a multi-faceted approach to fulfilling this commitment, ranging from simply making financial contributions to worthy organizations, to providing on-the-job training for people just starting out, to devoting countless hours and financial resources to area economic development efforts, as he knew that thriving businesses meant thriving communities.

The annual scholarships that carry Sonny Kovatch's name are awarded on the basis of several criteria, with a primary focus on community service, and taking into account each individual applicant's particular circumstances and worthiness, as evaluated and determined by the Board of Directors of The Sonny Kovatch Scholarship Foundation.In this inaugural year of the Sonny Kovatch Scholarship, it was announced that the Foundation has made a total of nine awards, with the maximum individual award being $5,000. The following individuals have been awarded scholarships: Ashley N. Jennings, Camara M. Klotz, Tyler D. Kunkel, Tiffany J. Miller, Kayla M. Pecha, Kyle G. Picht, Elizabeth M. Shober, Amy N. Smith and Christopher J. Terefinko.It is significant to note that most of these funds came from private individual donations, and the Foundation is grateful for the generosity of all who have contributed to the Scholarship Fund.