Those who knew Olivia Jean Griffin Scott describe her as a vibrant, ambitious teenager who loved her family, friends, and her life. Born in December 1991 to Marc and Ann Scott, Olivia grew into a caring and charismatic young lady who delighted in the excitement of Pittsburgh Penguin games and the music of her favorite band, the Clarks. This member of the National Honor Society was also a skilled athlete, having earned three letters in volleyball and a place on the track team.
In February 2009, doctors discovered that Olivia had a large tumor in her liver. Sadly, this vibrant young lady with such a bright future ahead of her was diagnosed with cancer, and the prognosis was grim.
Throughout her fight, Olivia demonstrated incredible strength, remarkable courage, and a positive attitude. It was that perseverance that gave Olivia’s family and friends the ability to face the challenge that lay ahead: helping her through her final days.
On July 1, 2009, Olivia received a phone call from two of her heroes, Max Talbot and Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Moments after finishing the conversation, she lost her battle with cancer. Olivia was only 17 years old.
To honor her memory, Olivia's family and friends created the Olivia Scott Foundation in 2009. Two of its most popular events include a Christmas stocking drive that benefits the children in the cancer unit at Children's Hospital and a prom/formal wear fundraiser.
The Olivia Scott Foundation recently established the Olivia Scott Scholarship Fund at the Community Foundation. The fund will annually award two scholarships to deserving students. Applicants must be a graduating senior of any Washington County high school. One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior from McGuffey High School. A second $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student from any other high school in Washington County.