The Dr. George Tombaugh Fund

Dr. Tombaugh dedicated his professional life to the service and betterment of public education in Ohio. His many professional accomplishments include serving as Superintendent of Springfield City Schools and Westerville City Schools. Dr. Tombaugh was also Governor Bob Taft's first executive assistant for education. During his 20 years in Springfield City schools Dr. Tombaugh oversaw the conversion of the the school gym into a modern 800-seat auditorium and the construction of a 2,450-seat field house. The auditorium was later named in Tombaugh's honor. Dr. Tombaugh was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. Following his passing 2019, his family worked with the Westerville Education Foundation to establish a charitable fund to honor his memory and build on his contributions to public education.

The Tombaugh Fund Story

When former Westerville City School District (WCSD) Superintendent Dr. George Tombaugh passed away on February 20, 2019, family members approached the Westerville Education Foundation with a desire to establish a fund to which individuals could make a donation in lieu of flowers to honor the late educator.

At its conclusion, the initiative raised nearly $5,000 and allowed the family to establish the Dr. George Tombaugh Fund. This fund, managed through the WEF’s competitive grants program, supports innovative instructional programming and unique learning experiences for WCSD students.

Dr. Tombaugh loved education, his family, his animals, and his exercise! It only made sense to establish a family-focused fitness event in his name and thus replenish the fund year over year.