The Rowe Family Legacy Scholarship is a story rooted in love, learning, and the enduring impact of a family devoted to education and community.
It all began in 1989, when the Howard and Juanita Rowe Scholarship was established by family and friends to honor a devoted couple whose lifelong commitment to education and support for students left an enduring mark on Grays Harbor College. Juanita Rowe spent years at the college as Scholarship Secretary, offering not only administrative support but heartfelt encouragement to students navigating their academic journeys. Her warmth, generosity, and steadfast belief in education touched the lives of many.
Her husband, Howard Rowe, shared that passion. A strong advocate for learning, Howard believed in the transformative power of education. He actively supported his daughters, Janet and Judy, as they began their educational journeys at Grays Harbor College—an experience that laid the foundation for their future achievements.
Janet Rowe Erickson followed in her parents’ footsteps, embracing education as both a profession and a calling. A graduate of Grays Harbor College and later St. Martin’s University, Janet served as a beloved elementary school teacher in Olympia. She was a tireless advocate for her students and a mentor to many, known for her compassion, dedication, and unwavering belief in the potential of every child.
Her sister, Dr. Judy Rowe Reault, also carved out a distinguished career in education. After graduating from Aberdeen High School and beginning her college journey at Grays Harbor College, Judy earned her degrees from Washington State University, eventually obtaining a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. Over the decades, she served as a teacher, principal, and educational leader across Washington State, before co-founding an educational consulting firm with her husband. Together, they have nurtured the next generation of educators while enjoying a full life of family, nature, and service.
In 2025, after the passing of Janet Rowe Erickson, her sister Judy and Janet’s husband, Mike Erickson, expanded the original scholarship into a permanent endowment—now known as the Rowe Family Legacy Scholarship. This transformation honors not only Howard and Juanita, but also Janet and Judy, and the enduring legacy of a family that has poured its heart into uplifting students and strengthening communities.
The Rowe family’s story is a powerful reminder of how one family’s values can shape lives far beyond their own. By establishing a permanent endowment, the Rowes ensured that future generations of students will continue to benefit from their commitment to education.
You can create a legacy, too. If you believe in the power of education to change lives, consider establishing a named scholarship endowment in honor of your family, a loved one, or a personal passion. With your support, we can open doors for students and invest in the future of our community—forever.
Contact the Grays Harbor College Foundation to learn how you can leave your legacy today.
