GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Matthew Britenbaugh, of Glenshaw, Pa., has been awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Thiel College, becoming the third recipient of five such scholarships the College will award for the 2026–27 academic year. The scholarship is valued at $158,080.
The scholarship was presented during a ceremony held Jan. 16, 2026.
“I think I am going to shine and grow at Thiel College. I am nervous and excited. This means that my future of becoming a teacher is one step closer,” Britenbaugh said. “And now my family doesn’t have to worry about putting me through school with college being more expensive than it was when they went.”
An accomplished student at Shaler Area High School north of Pittsburgh, Britenbaugh is deeply involved in academic, artistic and service-oriented organizations. His activities include serving as a School Board senior class representative, participating in the Lutheran Student Movement, performing with the Chambers Orchestra, and five years of involvement in the marching band. He is also active in theatre and is a member of the English Honors Society, Art National Honors Society and Tri-Music National Honors Society.
In addition to his academic and creative pursuits, Britenbaugh earned the rank of Eagle Scout and balances his commitments with part-time employment as a Burger King team member.
“Matt exemplifies the type of student we seek to support through this scholarship—someone who combines academic excellence, leadership and service with creativity and dedication,” said Sonya Lapikas, director of admission at Thiel College. “His broad involvement and commitment to making a positive impact reflect Thiel’s mission, and we are excited to welcome him to campus.”
The full-tuition scholarship program is designed to recognize exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership and a commitment to service.
“At Thiel, we believe a great education should be affordable,” Lapikas said. “That’s why we go out of our way to support students through generous merit aid and scholarships—so cost never stands in the way of opportunity.”
Britenbaugh is the son of Brandy and Kevin Britenbaugh and the brother of Katelynn Britenbaugh. His grandparents include Viola Fulmer and the late David Fulmer Sr., as well as Dennis and Denise Britenbaugh.
Conneaut (Linesville, Pa.) High School senior Abigail Beightol was awarded the first scholarship on Jan. 15. South Side (Hookstown, Pa.) High School senior Paxton Short was the second scholarship recipient on Jan. 16.
Students and families interested in learning more about other scholarship opportunities at Thiel College should contact the Thiel College Office of Admission at 724-589-2345 or admissions@thiel.edu.
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