About John Freehafer

John Freehafer was a graduate of LR 17 and met his wife, Deb, during the program. He was the proud father of Grayson, an alumnus of UNC, a loyal employee of RBC Centura, and a season ticketholder for the Carolina Hurricanes. Freehafer was one of those special personalities that never failed to light up a room, and anyone who met him instantly warmed to his optimism and good humor. He was someone who cared deeply about the values that make our community one of the world’s best — faith, family, and friendship. He led a purposeful life and was committed to many organizations including the American Diabetes Association's Leadership Council, Boys & Girls Club's Breakfast of Champions, Raleigh Chamber (chair of the Greater Raleigh Sports Council at the time of his death), Prison MATCH, and Hayes Barton Baptist Church. Freehafer passed away in December 2004. His absence is constantly felt in the Leadership Raleigh family, and we continuously strive to achieve the level of excitement he held for the program. The scholarship fund was established to honor his memory and to remind all LR graduates of the value of service in all its forms—to community, family, faith, and friendship.

Click here to make an additional contribution to the John Freehafer Scholarship Fund. Please note all gifts are tax deductible and used to rebuild the Scholarship Fund. Contact Shana Overdorf, Vice President of Leadership Development for more information at [email protected].