Our Story
Grace Johansen was born and raised in Narrowsburg, New York, on the banks of the Delaware River. She dedicated her life to volunteerism and community service, helping to found the Narrowsburg branch of the Western-Sullivan Library and the Tusten Historical Society, which she served as president of for more than 25 years. Throughout her life, Grace was deeply passionate about supporting local youth and helping others feel invested in the success of the region. Her family established the Grace Johansen Memorial Foundation after her death to further this mission by providing scholarships to local high school students who demonstrate an interest in bettering their community. Grace’s legacy lives on in the kindness we share with each other as we strive to create a friendlier, more cohesive Catskills community.
Our Board
Leif Johansen, President and Treasurer
Sommer Johansen, Vice President
Peggy Johansen, Secretary
Jeffrey Michel, Board Member
Kerrie Johansen Nowak, Board Member
Emma P. Mantel, Board Member
Scholarships
The Grace Johansen Memorial Foundation is committed to providing annual scholarships to college-bound high school seniors from Sullivan County, New York who have demonstrated significant, impactful, and meaningful engagement with their communities. As of 2023, each scholarship is $750.
Grants
In 2022, the Grace Johansen Memorial Foundation launched an annual “Grace Grant” intended for libraries and historical organizations in the Upper Delaware and Catskills regions to help expand opportunities for young people to engage with their communities. Grants are available in amounts of up to $1,500.
Grace Johansen Memorial Foundation 