Over fifty guests joined FIRST, as we proudly honored David and Valerie Scholl, on Sept. 6, at FIRST’s Annual Testimonial Dinner at the Heritage Club in Mason, Ohio. The Scholls have been fiercely committed to the mission of FIRST since their very first introduction to the organization nearly ten years ago, when they became the proud and loving grandparents to their first-born grandchild, Payton Scholl. Payton was born with congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma (CIE).  From that day forward, they both have taken an extremely active role in the FIRST organization. Dave has been a dedicated and enthusiastic member of FIRST’s Board of Directors for nine years, serving as Board President from 2004 – 2011. Valerie, a kind, caring, and compassionate advocate for FIRST, has been a dedicated volunteer in our Ambassador Program, as well as an active participant in the Regional Support Network for Region 4. As individuals they are outstanding advocates, and as a couple, they possess a truly unique blend of compassion and drive. . As individuals, they are outstanding advocates, and as a couple, they possess a truly unique blend of passion, compassion, and drive…like no other.

FIRST was delighted to present them with this honor.

The event, raising over $33,000, was a spirited evening of friends and family reuniting, guests mingling, and a special video presentation regarding the mission and accomplishments of FIRST. A touching tribute video was also presented, comprised of personal messages from former and current board members, who served alongside Dave, and who had become acquainted with the many contributions from Valerie.  Speakers for the evening included friend and mentor, Jack Ellis, Vice President for Development Emeritus, Ohio University, along with President of the FIRST Board of Directors Michael Briggs, incoming President of the Board of Directors, Jeff A. Hoerle, Leonard Milstone, MD, Board Member Emeritus and Chair of the Medical & Scientific Advisory Board of FIRST, and sons Aaron Scholl and Justin Scholl.  Board member Eric Schweighoffer was also in attendance.  When speeches and tributes commenced, it was clear that FIRST had made the very best decision for their 2014 honorees, and that each and every attendee was proud to take part in such a deserving tribute. We’d like to again offer a heartfelt thank you to Valerie and Dave for their unwavering devotion to the FIRST community.