October 4, 2017
Torrance, CA – The Dee Hardison Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established at Torrance Education Foundation, in honor of the late Dee Hardison. Hardison, a beloved public figure who served two terms as Mayor of Torrance (1994-2002), passed away on September 30th after a short illness.
At the request of Hardison’s husband Lowell, and sons Brad and Mark Hardison, the Foundation is accepting contributions from the community to create a scholarship that will provide annual financial support to a graduating senior from Torrance Unified School District.
Dee Hardison dedicated much of her life and career to education. After retiring from Torrance Unified School District and being elected to Torrance City Council, she dove in with her typical vigor to create the Torrance Education Foundation with a group of community volunteers, and to raising funds to support the schools. She was a charter board member of the Foundation, and remained an active member until her death. Dee served two terms as Foundation President and chaired numerous work groups and committees, including the annual Scholarship Committee.
“Nothing gave Dee greater pleasure than chairing the TEF Scholarship Committee,” says Lowell Hardison. “She took tremendous delight in presenting the scholarship awards every year. Dee especially loved corresponding with and personally congratulating each winner, and looked forward each year to welcoming the students and their families to a reception in their honor.”
“The imprint Dee Hardison leaves on Torrance Education Foundation and Torrance Unified School District will never fade,” says current TEF President, Dr. Chad Mabery. “Dee set high standards, and was tireless in her commitment to achieving them. She gave unstintingly of herself to the cause of excellence in education for Torrance students. All of us at TEF are proud to carry forward her vision.”
The Dee Hardison Memorial Scholarship Fund will be a lasting tribute to one of our community’s most vital, selfless, and dedicated public servants.
To make a contribution to support the Dee Hardison Scholarship, please visit our Scholarships page. Gifts may also be mailed to the Foundation at P.O. Box 1397, Torrance, CA 90505.
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