Susan Jo Ehlers Scholarship Endowment

Established in memory of Susan Jo 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 Jo Ehlers
Sue was a true San Diego native. Born at Scripps Hospital to Dolores and Walter Phillips, she spent her early years in Ramona and then moved with her family to La Mesa. She attended Ramona Elementary, Ramona Junior High and Ramona High School and graduated as valedictorian of the Class of 57 from Grossmont High School. She then attended Pomona College and transferred to San Diego State College where she majored in Social Science and received her BA with Honors and Distinction. She also received her general secondary teaching credential at SDSC and joined the Social Science faculty at Helix High School in the fall of 1962.

Sue quickly got the attention of Helix second-year math teacher, Bill Ehlers. Their joint passions extended considerably beyond education and they married on June 12, 1964. In 1966, she resigned from teaching to begin her family which she provided with a loving, supportive and very happy life. They enjoyed many vacations to places like Arizona and Disneyland.

Sue and Bill were devoted members of the Kensington Community Church and Sue was active in PEO Chapter FW. After her children got older, Sue returned to teaching at Helix. She was known for teaching AP European History and accepted all students who wanted to take the rigorous class. She spent countless hours making the curriculum meaningful while helping her students build the reading, writing, and critical thinking skills necessary for academic success. Her compassion extended particularly to students who faced challenges in their own lives.

When Sue and Bill became empty-nesters, they spent their time enjoying each other and on travel both domestic and international. They made frequent visits to Pasadena to join son Jim and partner George enjoying the music and good food of the L.A. area. They also spent much time in San Jose visiting Sue's sister and her partner and helping daughter Gretchen and husband John with granddaughter Lara.