Mabel Kidwell was born on October 18, 1911 to Ira and Clara Kidwell. She graduated from Brazil High School and soon became known for her ability in the field of decorating and paints which earned her a national status. Kidwell went on to work in an aircraft manufacturing facility where she worked as an accounting supervisor before moving up to an office manager position. She was employed at Tri Industries until her retirement in 1975 due to heart disease.

Mabel’s passion to “Pay It Forward” began with her involvement with Business & Professional Women early in her career. She was active in the Wabash Valley chapter until her death. She was an integral player in the yearly presentation of the Reality Store for local high school students.

Mabel’s greatest love may have been the literacy program she started at the Brazil Public Library. She gave the gift of reading to countless people in Clay County. In fact, at 93, she was organizing a book sale at the library the week of her death.  Dedication to the Berea Christian Church and her family were also at the top of Mabel’s priorities, and she always managed to find time for both.

Mabel was loved by all and revered for her dedication to impart the power of knowledge to all. This scholarship is named in memory of Mabel Kidwell because of her legacy for education.

The Mabel Kidwell Scholarship Foundation was established with the Clay County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Wabash Valley Community Foundation, to provide post-secondary educational scholarships to residents of Clay County, Indiana who are graduating from a Clay County High School.

Eligibility requires that:

• You are a Clay County resident and a current graduate of a Clay County High school.