Encouraging, hardworking, disciplined, stylish, athletic, inclusive, kind, generous; these are just some of the words friends used to describe Julie Dimperio Holowach. The Harpswell resident, 63, died in July 2020 after a rare shark attack while she swam off her beloved Bailey Island.
Keeping her inspiring spirit alive is why two friends, Sandy Thulis and Patti Neuhof, were moved to start the Julie Dimperio Holowach Scholarship Fund at MaineCF.
Holowach was a mother and successful fashion executive who read 50 pages in the morning before tending to her garden. She encouraged a group of women to take up golf, completed triathlons, and was active within the Harpswell community.
“The combination of her qualities were extremely rare,” Neuhof said. “She was one of those people in the world you’re lucky to meet.”
Neuhof and Thulis quickly raised money for the scholarship fund: “The community was so encouraging, and we received so much support,” Thulis said. A lifelong learner, inspiring mentor, and valued friend, Holowach uniquely touched the lives of all knew her.
The scholarship honors Holowach’s legacy by supporting young women who exemplify her enthusiasm for life, generosity of spirit, dynamic leadership, and community engagement. Seniors at Mt. Ararat High School are eligible to apply if they demonstrate academic, social, and extracurricular skills needed for success at a four-year college or university. Recipients will have been active in their communities, approach challenges with enthusiasm and determination, and show support for others and equal rights for all.
Julie Dimperio Holowach Scholarship recipients will have the honor of carrying her legacy forward.
“We didn’t want her to be forgotten and wanted to keep all of her amazing qualities alive,” Thulis said.
For more information about applying for the Julie Dimperio Holowach Scholarship, contact the Mt. Ararat guidance office.
