In 2006, the IHS Class of 1960 celebrated 46 years since graduation with a reunion in Point Pleasant. The reunion committee was not sure how many people would attend, so they "guesstimated" the cost per person. It turned out that the number of people planning to attend was much larger than anticipated and it was realized that there would be money left over. Emails from committee members went back and forth considering ideas such as an extra chafing dish of shrimp, flowers for class members, favors, etc. Finally, the class vice president Alex Trento suggested the remaining $1000 be given to an IHS senior as a scholarship for college. Everyone agreed and Alex made the announcement at the reunion. It was met with tremendous enthusiasm and some people were ready to make additional donations on the spot.

The reunion was in September, nine months before the scholarship was awarded. During that period it was suggested that there be a continuing fund and by June of 2007 the IHS Class of 1960 Scholarship Fund had been formed with seven class members. By-laws were written and tax exempt 501 C (3) status prepared. Because of the enthusiasm of the class it was decided to have an annual campaign to enable a yearly scholarship award, and, to give the recipient the opportunity to receive additional funds for each successful year of college.

Nancy Sieffert presented the first scholarship to Ronald Josias on Class Day, June 2007. Her description of the day back at Irvington High was incorporated into a newsletter mailed to the entire class that fall, along with an appeal for additional funds. The response was remarkable and over $6,000 was received.

It was decided to grow the fund and include other classes. About that time Judy Manz Henderson saw that the Class of 1962 was planning a reunion. She contacted Susan Russell Walsh, explained about the scholarship fund and the idea to expand it to other classes. Susan was immediately supportive, received approval from her class, and a mailing went out to members of that class. Again, the response was wonderful, and it was decided that the fund's name should be changed to indicate that it was an Alumni Fund ..... all classes!!

When the Class of 1959 began planning their 50th reunion they heard about the fund and incorporated events at the reunion to raise money for it. Since then they also have done a mailing to class members.

As of 2018 the fund has received contributions from members of the classes from 1942 all the way to the present, with substantial gifts from the classes of 52, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 65, and 66. The 2018 winners are featured in the photo portion of the website. As an expansion of the program, applications from students who are planning to attend two-year programs or trade schools are now also encouraged to apply. Each year the committee presents information on the scholarships at the all class reunion. The ultimate goal is to raise enough funds to perpetuate the scholarships for many years to come.

The fund is beginning to expand to also include mentoring. This is much needed by many Irvington students and is something that can be coordinated with other organizations and programs.