Former Dishwasher Creates Trade School Scholarship Fund

Chads Mullinary knows what it's like to graduate without encouragement or financial support for continuing your education.

The 1998 North Hills High School graduate spent 21 years in restaurants, starting as a dishwasher and working up to management. He later became a Realtor, a career he's now thrived in for five years. But the West View resident never forgot what it felt like to face the world alone after graduation.

"I came from a poor family," Mullinary said. "I've made my way. I'd like to help other kids who maybe could use a hand."

Now 46, Mullinary has created the Chads Mullinary Real Estate Trade & Technical Scholarship for students at his alma mater. The scholarship supports graduating seniors pursuing hands-on careers through two-year colleges, vocational schools, technical institutes, or accredited training programs.

For 2026, Mullinary will award at least two scholarships worth a minimum of $500 each. But he's not stopping there. He's committing to fund additional scholarships with proceeds from every home he sells in the North Hills School District, which serves Ross and West View.

"I work a lot in this area and I want to be able to give back," he said. "It's hard to find ways to give back that actually make a difference."

North Hills Superintendent Patrick Mannarino praised the initiative. "Chads understands our community in a meaningful way," he said. "We're grateful for his support and his investment in students pursuing careers in the trades and technical fields."

The Ripple Effect

Mullinary's scholarship fills a critical gap. While four-year college scholarships are common, vocational students often struggle to find financial support for programs that lead directly to good-paying careers. His focus on trade education recognizes the skilled workers shortage facing communities nationwide.

The scholarship applications are due April 15 each year through the North Hills website. Recipients will be recognized at the high school's annual senior awards night in May. Others who want to support the cause can contribute through the North Hills Foundation.

"This is a new idea for me," Mullinary said. "I just want to keep growing it."

Mullinary and his wife Margaret have two sons in the district, ages 13 and 10. His personal investment in the community runs deep, making this more than just charitable giving. It's one graduate ensuring the next generation doesn't face the same barriers he did.

"If I can encourage somebody who might not get any further education to get them to educate themselves and have a better life, that's all I'm looking to do."