<p>PHILOMATH, Ore. -- Since the early 1960s, a foundation created by a wealthy couple named Rex and Ethel Clemens has fulfilled an extraordinary promise: college scholarships for any Philomath High School graduate who resides in this faded logging town.</p>
<p>The promise has broadened the horizons of Philomath's sons and daughters, helping to lift the local college-attendance rate, from next to nothing to about 69%. Over the years, the foundation has paid $15.5 million in tuition. Right now, 520 students are on its rolls.</p>