About Hyeholde and the Barbara K.S. McKenna Scholarship Program:
Nestled in a serene corner of Western Pennsylvania, Hyeholde is a modern beacon of French-inspired culinary artistry rooted in tradition. Since its founding in 1937, the restaurant has evolved under a new generation of stewards committed to celebrating Pennsylvania’s local ingredients, culinary heritage, and creating unforgettable dining experiences.
Chef Chris O’Brien, who first became Hyeholde’s executive chef in 1997, returned in 2021 and took ownership in 2023 from the McKenna family. Under his leadership, Hyeholde continues to thrive as a five-star dining destination. The chef-driven menu combines nostalgic culinary techniques—like cassoulets, housemade foie gras, and expertly prepared game meats—with a seasonal and sustainable approach.
Situated on four pastoral acres, Hyeholde grows its own herbs, harvests fruit from small orchards, and produces honey from onsite apiaries. These elements embody a deep respect for the land while enhancing the flavors on every plate. Guests enjoy world-class service whether seated at the renowned Chef’s Table or celebrating milestones on the bucolic property.
In addition to its culinary excellence, Hyeholde honors its rich legacy through the Barbara KS McKenna Scholarship Program, which awards a $5,000 annual scholarship to aspiring culinary professionals. This program celebrates Barbara McKenna’s lifelong commitment to inspiring the next generation, ensuring her passion for the culinary arts continues to thrive.
The program is administered by Scholarship America®, the nation’s largest designer and manager of scholarships and other education support programs for corporations, foundations, associations, and individuals. Eligibility for individual programs is determined at the sole discretion of the sponsor and eligible applications are reviewed by Scholarship America’s evaluation team.
Applicants to The Barbara K.S. Mckenna Scholarship Program must:
Up to one (1) award of $5,000 will be granted.
Awards are not renewable, but students may reapply to the program each year they meet eligibility requirements.
Awards are for qualified education-related expenses only (tuition, fees, books, and required supplies/equipment). Award amounts may be adjusted if the award exceeds the cost of qualified education-related expenses.
All applicants will be notified in May.
Scholarship America processes scholarship payments on behalf of Hyeholde Restaurant. Payment is made in early August.
Scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of:
Financial need is not considered.
Selection of recipients is made by Scholarship America. In no instance does any officer or employee of Hyeholde Restaurant play a part in the selection. Not all applicants to the program will be selected as recipients. All applicants agree to accept the decision as final. Students may reapply to the program each year they meet eligibility requirements.
As part of your application, you must upload the following:
NOTE: If you are providing SAT or ACT test scores, and those scores are not listed on your high school transcript, you will need to upload a copy of your test score report(s) separately. If you are uploading a college transcript, those scores are not required.
One online recommendation form must be submitted on your behalf no later than April 1, 2025 3:00 pm Central Time.
Your application is not complete unless all required materials are submitted electronically.
