The Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Fund (BEWSF) held the 14th annual Bags for Wags bean bag tournament at Visitation Parish. The event raised approximately $9500. All proceeds will benefit the scholarship award which recognizes college bound seniors who will graduate this year. The BEWSF’s mission is to encourage high school students to serve as leaders in their community by exercising sound judgement and committing themselves to volunteer programs that make a positive impact. The cause was established in memory of Brian Edwin Wagner was an Elmhurst native whose life was cut short in an auto accident during the early nineties. Since that time his legacy of resilience shines forth through the scholarship program that bears his name. Those that receive this award are commended for their accomplishments and are prepared for a rigorous college curriculum. The ideal candidates for this honor will embody Brian’s most admirable qualities: determination, kindness and integrity.
The current board members of the BEWSF are: Barbara Wagner–Lackey, Mike Wagner, Ed Lackey, Rebecca Lawton-Wagner, Tracey Degnan, Nicola and Brian Doherty, Jason and Michelle Gentile, Debbie and Tom Hagensee, John Halloran, Theresa Stubitz and Pete Zamar. They have granted this distinguished scholarship to 44 high school graduates thus far from: Fenwick, IC Catholic Prep, Montini, Timothy Christian and York Community High Schools.
The first place finishers of the tournament were Kevin and Stephanie Vance. The long standing tradition of uniting members of the Elmhurst community and surrounding suburbs celebrate Brian Wagner’s memory. In addition, to the bags tournament thousands of dollars in silent auction items and raffle prizes were donated by organizations from the Chicagoland area. The Chicago Blackhawks skybox experience was the grand prize in the live auction. Thanks to the generosity of Republic Bank $2700 was raised for the winning bid, placed by Sal Stangarone.
Left to Right: Mike Wagner (BEWSF Director), Rocky DeCarlo and Brian Doherty at the 2025 BEWSF Bags for Wags chartiable event
Rocky De Carlo (Brian’s childhood friend and classmate) stated, “Brian was someone who brought out the best in everyone. He had the ability to inspire; not just with words, he also lead by example. Brian left a lasting impression and made every moment meaningful and memorable. He left a lasting imprint in my life and I know he continues to watch over me like a guardian angel on my shoulder.”
The BEWSF graciously acknowledges their sponsors: Linda Roberts at Visitation School, John Noldan at Guaranteed Rate, Nancy Brook from Community Bank of Elmhurst, Mickey Weiss from Giuliano’s Restaurant in Hinsdale and Phil Limonciello from Mama Maria’s Restaurant in Elmhurst. Students who wish to apply for the scholarship will have the opportunity to share their personal stories and leadership experiences to illustrate how they have impacted their own lives and the lives of others in a positive way. The deadline to submit is February 28. More information can be found at https://BrianEWagnerFund.org.