Leo Ethier Memorial Scholarship/Memorial Fund Information 

Mr. Leo Ethier: A Lasting Legacy

Mr. Leo Ethier served as principal and classroom teacher at Stamford School in Stamford, Vermont, from 1972 until his passing in 2006. Affectionately known as “Mr. E.,” he led by example, teaching his students that real success and happiness come from using their skills and talents to help others—especially when it’s not expected. He encouraged children to set goals and to keep striving to attain them, even when the path forward seemed impossible.

His presence left an indelible mark on Stamford and continues to shape the values we uphold at Stamford School today. His legacy lives on in the hearts of our students, families, and community.

Honoring a Legacy: The Leo Ethier Memorial Scholarship

We are extremely proud of the twenty-four recipients of the Leo Ethier Memorial  Scholarship over the past sixteen years.  We are truly honored to have been able to assist them with financial support in his memory toward furthering their college education.  

Recipients Are:

• 2023 - Camryn Belisle

• 2022 - Madilyn Brothers

• 2021 - Ashlyn Belisle

• 2020 - Julianne Sullivan and Hunter Sarkis

• 2018 - Aimee Dowling and Chad Lawrence

• 2017 - Lorenzo Cristofolini

• 2016 - Olivia Carlson and Jillian Tietgens

• 2014 - Matthew Lawrence and S. Steven Tworig

• 2013 - Alex Dargie and Zia O'Neill

• 2012 - Theodore Dobbert, Jr. and Jacob Tietgens

• 2011 - Samuel Carlson

• 2010 - Elijah Coniglio, Jenna McShane, and Jordan McShane

• 2009 - John Tietgens, III and Michael Bullett

• 2008 - Benjamin Carlson

• 2007 - Taylor Erdeski

🕊️ Continuing the Legacy: The Leo Ethier Memorial Fund

Beginning in 2023, the Leo Ethier Memorial Scholarship Fund was renamed the Leo Ethier Memorial Fund to support organizations within the Town of Stamford, with a particular focus on the Stamford School and the Stamford Volunteer Fire Company—two institutions that held great significance in Leo’s life.

In addition to his decades-long service as principal and teacher at Stamford School, Leo Ethier was a dedicated member of the Stamford Volunteer Fire Company for 32 years, including four years as chief. He gave greatly of himself to the town throughout his life, and this fund honors his lasting contributions by helping to strengthen the very community he so deeply loved.

The fund has contributed to the purchase of a new fire truck for the Stamford Volunteer Fire Company, strengthening emergency services in our town. In addition, during the 2025 academic year, the fund made it possible to:

• Welcome the Berkshire Theatre Group to our school for a live performance of Magic Tree House, which brought literature to life through the arts.

• Provided two brand-new books to every student in Grades K–8, which promoted literacy to foster a lifelong love of reading.

“A true leader ignites minds and opens hearts—long after their voice has grown quiet.”

Leo’s spirit lives on in the classrooms, stories, and future dreams of our students.