$5,000 Travel Award to London, England
for Versailles H.S. Class of 2027
One Student and One Parent
sponsored by the James & Alice Kruckeberg Swinger Fund
of the Darke County Foundation
"This trip will help students enlarge, deepen and strengthen their vision of the world and its people. It will also help students expand their vision of themselves and their hopes for the future by broadening their view of the planet and the different cultures in it.”
-- Dr. Alice K. Swinger
​Who is eligible?
Any Versailles H.S. junior who has not previously traveled to England.
How do you apply?
Click the APPLY button at the BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE. The application includes parts for both student and parent. Deadline is Dec. 31, 2025.
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How many award recipients are chosen?
Each year, the fund will sponsor one student and one parent from the Versailles junior class. The experience is intended for two travelers, not additional family members. Interviews may be conducted. The selection committee consists of representatives of the Darke County Foundation and Versailles H.S.
When and how long is the trip?
The trip may be taken at any time within one year of winning the award. The trip may be any length, but at least 7 days is recommended.
What is the selection criteria?
Criteria is based on character, leadership, responsibility, essay and communication skills. Preference is given to students who have never traveled to Europe. The intent of the award is for a student to learn to plan and execute the trip with limited assistance from the parent. The pair must acquire passports, purchase airline tickets and arrange accommodations on their own. Taking an all-arranged tour is discouraged.
When do you receive the money?
The Darke County Foundation will issue the entire amount prior to the trip. Timing and terms of the payment(s) will be written into the signed agreement.
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Can someone other than one parent accompany the student?
One grandparent or other family member may accompany the student with approval from DCF.
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Why London?
Dr. Swinger designated London as an appropriate international travel destination because of the English language and relative ease in following signs, instructions, menus, etc. Dr. Swinger also preferred that the travelers stay in the greater London area and countryside, savoring the simple, classic pleasures of England without trying to go too far or do too much. Dr. Swinger said, “The trip is not meant to squeeze in as much of England as you can. It is meant to nurture and learn, to savor and share.”
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Questions?
Contact the Darke County Foundation at (937) 548-4673 or dcf@darkecountyfoundation.org.​​
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