Susan and Wiliam Ehlers Scholarship Endowment

Established in memory of Susan Jo Ehlers and William (Bill) Ehlers, this endowment supports a scholarship for a West Valley College student from a marginalized community, financially disadvantaged background, and/or a student interested in teaching or social science.

About Susan and William Ehlers
Sue was a true San Diego native. Born at Scripps Hospital to Dolores and Walter Phillips, she spent her early years in Ramona before moving with her family to La Mesa. She graduated as valedictorian of the Class of 1957 from Grossmont High School and went on to attend Pomona College before transferring to San Diego State College, where she majored in Social Science and received her B.A. with Honors and Distinction. She also earned her general secondary teaching credential and joined the Social Science faculty at Helix High School in the fall of 1962.

It was at Helix that Sue met second-year math teacher Bill Ehlers. Their shared passions extended considerably beyond education, and they married on June 12, 1964. Sue stepped away from teaching in 1966 to begin their family, creating a loving, supportive, and happy home for their children.

As their children grew older, Sue returned to the classroom at Helix. She became known for teaching AP European History and for welcoming all students who wanted to take on the rigorous course. She devoted countless hours to making the curriculum meaningful while helping her students develop the reading, writing, and critical-thinking skills necessary for academic success. Her compassion extended particularly to students facing challenges in their own lives.

Sue and Bill were devoted members of Kensington Community Church, and Sue was active in PEO Chapter FW. Education, service, family, and community remained important parts of their lives together. In retirement and as empty-nesters, they enjoyed traveling both domestically and internationally, spending time with family, and making frequent visits to Pasadena and San Jose to be with their children, extended family, and granddaughter Lara.

Together, Sue and Bill built a life rooted in education, generosity, curiosity, and care for others. Their influence continues through their family, the many students and people whose lives they touched, and the opportunities this scholarship provides to future generations.