Industry Professionals Launch the Matt Sittloh Memorial Scholarship
A group of AV industry professionals have banded together to create the Matt Sittloh Memorial Scholarship, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) fund. The newly created scholarship aims to support students pursuing technical programs or advanced degrees related to the audiovisual (AV) field.
“In 2021, the AV industry lost an exceptional talent and dear friend, Matt Sittloh. He was a masterful technician and served as an inspiration to many, myself included” said Jeremy Caldera, CTS-D, CTS-I, president, Matt Sittloh Memorial Scholarship. “Matt was passionate about helping people get their start in the ProAV industry, and we are honored to continue his mission through the Matt Sittloh Memorial Scholarship, ensuring his legacy of mentorship and excellence lives on.”
This scholarship will provide a one-time yearly award towards tuition or other worthy expenses for a student studying an AV-related subject at a community or technical college; it is currently tax-deductible donations from both companies and individuals in the AV industry interested in curating the next generation of professionals.
“We all recognize the gap in experience and opportunities for young professionals in the AV industry,” said Cy Furst, vice president of the fund. “This challenge can only be addressed with the active support of the ProAV community. Your contributions are crucial in nurturing the next generation of talent for our beloved industry. Every donation — no matter the size — helps us grow this scholarship fund and invest in the future.”
The first scholarship will be issued in 2025, and additional information — including eligibility requirements and the application and selection process — will be forthcoming. The foundation’s board of directors consists of Caldera, Furst, Carl Howell, CTS-D, CTS-I, L. William Nattress III, CTS-D, CTS-I and Melissa Lawyer-Zoccola.
To learn more, visit https://mattsittlohscholarship.org/. Tax-deductible contributions can be made via PayPal, GoFundMe or check; checks should be made payable to the Matt Sittloh Memorial Scholarship and mailed to 109 Dennis Dr., Eureka, IL, 61530.