Tyler Hitchcock is the first recipient of the Bill Hammer Memorial Scholarship. Tyler is the son of Scott Hitchcock and Jennifer Lloyd-Benson and will be attending Sioux Falls University this fall pursuing a career in business marketing and media.

Bill passed away on Feb. 1, 2008, from pancreatic cancer. He was a graduate of Albert Lea High School, then continued his education at Mankato University in accounting and afterwards became a C.P.A in Albert Lea for 35 years. He retired from Hammer, Dieser & Mangskau PLLP in October 2007. Bill had an interest in youth programs within his hometown of Albert Lea and maintained a deep faith.

The family and friends of Bill Hammer who were of utmost importance to him, have started a scholarship in his memory. This scholarship is meant to help a high school senior begin a career study of business or accounting at a four year institution. It is offered through First Lutheran Church of Albert Lea and Albert Lea High School.