Tom & Dorothy Lutton Memorial Scholarship
The Tom & Dorothy Lutton Memorial Scholarship
Beginning in 2027, The Tom & Dorothy Lutton Memorial Scholarship will award $10,000 to a prior year Student of Promise who exemplifies these traits, who has overcome significant personal or academic challenges to remain on a steadfast path toward success, and who is in need of financial support to turn their resilient spirit into long-term career achievement.
Seniors who were honored the previous year as Students of Promise are eligible to apply for the Tom & Dorothy Lutton Memorial Scholarship during their senior year. The scholarship winner will be recognized during the Students of Promise Dinner & Awards Gala their senior year, along with the juniors who are being celebrated as Students of Promise.
Donate Today
To donate to the Tom & Dorothy Lutton Memorial Scholarship Fund within the Students of Promise program, you may:
1. Donate Online: Donate online by clicking the button below.
2. Donate by Check: Mail a check made out to “Foundation for Clovis Schools” and note “Lutton Scholarship” in the memo, then mail to: Foundation for Clovis Schools, 1450 Herndon Avenue, Clovis, CA 93611
About Tom Lutton
Who was Dr. Tom Lutton?
Dr. Tom Lutton was more than just a teacher, coach, and administrator; he was a champion for every student he met. A "Fresno State Bulldog" and a doctoral graduate of the University of La Verne, Tom spent 33 years in the Clovis Unified School District (CUSD) family.
Whether he was the Principal at Weldon, Lincoln, or Pinedale, Tom was known for one incredible feat: he knew the name of every single student in his school. He believed that for a child to succeed, they first had to feel valued and seen.
A Foundation of Integrity and Empathy
Tom’s character was shaped by his family’s journey. The youngest of five children, his family immigrated to the United States from Belfast, Northern Ireland. This heritage gave Tom a deep sense of empathy for others, especially those facing the challenges of starting over in a new place.
Tom was a man of "steadfast values." In the CUSD community, he was remembered for:
- His Word: If Tom made a promise, he followed through without fail.
- His Wit: He led with a legendary sense of humor and an infectious smile.
- His Excellence: Under his leadership, Lincoln Elementary earned the prestigious title of a California Distinguished School.
A Story of Potential
Tom had a special gift for seeing potential in students who were "running down the wrong path." One of his former students, Gary Gonzales, shared “I was a little troublemaker in elementary school. While attending Weldon elementary, where Mr. Lutton was principal, I was running down the wrong path. He once negotiated with my mom to let me compete in cross country and track, but first made me promise I would stay out of trouble. The deal was signed by All and I ran my heart out for him. You could say he was my first running coach. It was a huge honor to know such a good man.”
Because of that mentorship, Gary went on to be one of the best runners in Clovis High and Central Section history. He held the school record in the 1600 for over 40 years.
About the Scholarship
Upon his passing, family and friends established the Tom and Dorothy Lutton Memorial Scholarship. This award is designed for students who are ready to look beyond their challenges and become their best selves.
As you apply for this scholarship, remember the man behind the name: a leader who believed that with integrity, hard work, and a little bit of heart, every student can leave an indelible mark on the world.