About This Scholarship:

Tanya Terpylak was a dedicated, enthusiastic, fun-loving, and committed member of the Heartbeats Jump Rope Team for 10 years. Her life was cut short by a drunk driver in a tragic automobile accident that took her life on May 8, 2011.  She was only 19 years old and a student at the University of Akron.  Throughout her years on the Heartbeats, Tania participated in National and World jump rope competitions, workshops, and camps. She was an accomplished athlete and passionate instructor, earning distinction as a National Champion and World Competition medalist.  Her vivacious personality was bright, bubbly, and effervescent. She had a contagious laugh that could ease the tension of the most intense competition. Tania dreamed big, lived life to its utmost, and enjoyed an inseparable bond with her teammates and friends. Her friendships throughout the world exemplified her vibrant joy of living. Words fall short of describing the magic she brought to those around her. 

In 2012, the Heartbeats [recognized by IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization c/o 18399 Yorktown Oval, Cleveland, OH 44136] began a Tania Terpylak Memorial Scholarship for jump rope athletes in her honor. This scholarship assists a graduating high school student active in jump rope to attend a post-secondary institution with a non-renewable $1,000 scholarship. Applications are accepted from the jump rope athletes across the United States. Tax-deductible donations to the scholarship fund are gratefully accepted. Since 2012, fourteen athletes from teams across the country have been selected as recipients of the Tania Terpylak Memorial Scholarship. (Due to the pandemic, no award was made in 2021)