The Walpole Footlighters have been awarding an annual scholarship since 2013 and in 2022 the scholarship was renamed in memory of Kathleen R. Hardigan, past member and President of the Walpole Footlighters.  Kathleen was a talented singer and actress who was a stand out performer since childhood.  The energy she brought to the roles she portrayed made them memorable.  Kathleen loved the theater and entertaining the audience.  It is fitting that a scholarship for students active in the theater arts be named in her honor.  This scholarship is possible because of the generosity of the Schapiro-Scott Charitable Foundation, contributors who have donated in memory of Kathleen, and profits from concession sales at Footlighters’ performances. 

This college scholarship in the amount of $1,000.00 will be awarded to one person selected from the pool of applicants by the Walpole Footlighters Board of Directors.  Candidates must be a graduating high school senior currently residing in Walpole who has been involved in theater in some capacity during their high school career.  Once awarded, the scholarship funds will be sent directly to the winner’s college to be used toward their college tuition and fees. Proof of registration at the college will be required. 

To be eligible for the scholarship, students must

• Be a graduating high school senior from any high school
• Reside in Walpole
• Have been involved in theater in some capacity during their high school career
• Be enrolled in college for the 2023-2024 school year
• Complete the application form
• Submit a personal essay​​

Past Recipients

2022: Sophia Goodsell
​2021: Mahoney Cyr
           Brenna Hughes
           Cate Lightbody
2020: No award
​2019: No award
2018: Riley Mulroy
2017: Mia Straccia
2016: Bridget Connell
2015: Marc Sheehan
2014: Michael McKeon
2013: Jackie Gately