AUGUSTA COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge and Augusta County Public Schools have unveiled a new scholarship created to honor retiring Superintendent Dr. Eric Bond, who has led the division since 2014.

Colleagues proposed the idea to the School Board as a tribute to Bond’s service, and the announcement was delivered as a surprise during the board’s meeting on Thursday, Dec. 4. Bond is set to retire on Dec. 31, 2025.

The scholarship program will award at least two annual scholarships to graduating seniors in Augusta County Public Schools—one to a student pursuing a four-year degree and another to a student entering post-secondary technical training that leads to a two-year degree or trade certification.

Initial funding will come from an existing endowment managed by the Community Foundation on behalf of the school division since 2002. Bond will help shape the selection criteria for recipients, with the first awards scheduled for the Class of 2026.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve Augusta County Public Schools under Dr. Bond’s leadership,” said Dr. Kelly Troxell, who will assume the superintendent role on Jan. 1, 2026. “As an administrator—and a parent—I can personally attest to the care and compassion he has held for each and every student. His vision and example will leave a lasting legacy on our school division.”

Alongside the new scholarship, The Community Foundation has also created the Dr. Eric W. Bond Scholarship Fund to accept contributions from community members, alumni, parents, and others who wish to support the initiative.

“Dr. Bond has not only been an outstanding Superintendent dedicated to the success of Augusta County’s youth, but also an exceptional human being and community member,” said Dan Layman, the foundation’s president and CEO. “It is our great privilege to play a role in honoring his legacy through the administration of this new scholarship fund.”

Contributions may be mailed to the Community Foundation, P.O. Box 815, Staunton, VA 24402, or made online at the foundation’s website. Donors are asked to note Dr. Eric W. Bond Scholarship Fund in the memo line.