Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded each year to graduating seniors from Marion High School and Marion Home School Assistance Program. To be considered for a scholarship, students must complete and submit the online form (available in December on this page) by Monday, February 17, 2025.

Each scholarship has unique requirements and eligibility as designated by the fund donor(s). The scholarship selection committee will determine which awards each applicant is eligible for. Applicants are NOT guaranteed to receive an award just by completing the application.

To prepare your application, you may use this application worksheet.

Application Worksheet

 

Scholarship Final Application

 

List of Awards

Many thanks to our generous donors for providing assistance to Marion graduates as they continue their education after high school. These profiles give a glimpse of the “Marion Pride” felt by our alumni, teachers and community members. Additional contributions may be made at any time to these existing scholarship funds. Please visit our Donate page  and note the scholarship’s name in the comments section. If you are interested in establishing your own scholarship fund, please visit Establish A Fund. Of course, you may also contact the Foundation staff at any time to discuss gifting opportunities.

 

	Joseph William Bigger Scholarship The Joseph William Bigger Scholarship was set up to financially assist an MISD graduate pursuing a career in medicine or nursing. It may be used towards the benefit of four years in becoming a nurse or eight years in becoming a physician. Requirements: A graduating senior who has attended MISD K-12, or has transferred to Marion from Linn-Mar, where the student was enrolled from K through transfer to Marion. The applicant must have maintained a 3.5 grade point average from 9th through 12th grades. Renewal Requirements: The scholarship applicant must maintain a 3.5 GPA while in college and continue with nursing or medicine as a major, as well as re-applying for the scholarship annually. A change in major will result in discontinuation of the scholarship funds.
	Morgan (Kelley) Blomme Memorial Scholarship Morgan attended MISD from K-12. She was an honor student and was involved in many activities. After he graduation in 2003, Morgan knew she wanted to further her education in a career that would involve helping others. A few years after graduating from UNI with a degree in Athletic Training, she decided to go to Mount Mercy University of pursue a career in elementary education. This proved to be her true calling. Morgan passed away in August, 2022, at the age of 37 after a 15-month battle with a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. Her family offers this scholarship in memory of Morgan’s love of education and passion to help others. Requirements: Marion High School graduate pursuing a career in health care or education.
	Denny Burgess Memorial Scholarship Denny Burgess, a graduate of MHS Class of 1966, was drafted by the United States Army to serve in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970 after attending Mason City Junior College. Upon returning, he went to Kirkwood Community College and obtained his Associates degree in Business. In 1974, he opened his first Automotive store, Denny's Muffler Center, which proved to be successful, leading to the opening of two additional stores. He retired in 2007, but continued to give back to the community. Denny served on the Marion Foundation Board in 1999 and taught Junior Achievement at Marion High School for several years. To honor his memory, his family has established a scholarship. Requirements: A MHS graduating senior attending a 2 or 4-year college or university pursuing a trade. Candidates must have a GPA of 2.0 of above.
	David Cahalan Memorial Scholarship Mr. Cahalan taught at MISD for over 30 years, primarily in Industrial Arts. He loved Marion as a teacher and community member. He wanted to help all students find a love of learning. He was excited to share his knowledge with his students, young and old. Mr. Cahalan believed in his students even when they didn’t believe in themselves. He was a true champion for the underdog. He lived life by the Golden Rule and wanted to leave this place better than he found it. Mr. Cahalan led by example, he was kind to everyone he met, leaving a lasting impression. His family established this fund in his memory. Requirements: A MHS or MHSAP graduating senior who will be a first-generation college student pursuing a degree in Industrial Technology or studying a trade. Priority will be given to a student that wants to teach Industrial Tech.
	Henry "Harry" Carson Endowed Scholarship Henry “Harry” Carson graduated from Marion High School in 1976. He also attended Oberlin College, Cornell College, and the University of Iowa College of Medicine. He trained in Chicago, IL and Kansas City, MO. He earned four board certifications in pathology, including forensic pathology which he practiced in eastern Iowa. Harry was widely published in medical journals with original research. He was known for his love of music, photography, poetry, and cats. Requirements: Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending a two-year, vocational or four-year educational institution. Preference given to students who have shown aptitude in non-traditional measures.
	James & Teresa Conklin Soccer Scholarship Jim and Teresa’s children graduated from Marion High School. Teresa is a retiree of the district and Jim coached soccer at the high school. They established this scholarship to commemorate their love of soccer. Requirements: An MHS or MHSAP graduating senior attending a two-year, vocational or four-year educational institution with preference given to applicants who have lettered in varsity soccer and have at least one 1st Team Award in soccer (State, Conference or Metro levels).
	George, Gladys and Ruth Drips Endowed Scholarship Ruth Drips graduated from Marion High School in 1953, Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, in 1955, and the University of Iowa, with a bachelor’s degree in Commerce in 1957. She worked in the office of Armstrongs Department Store in Cedar Rapids for 33 years. Ruth enjoyed reading, knitting, traveling, cooking and being with her relatives and friends. Her passion was showing American Saddlebred horses in horse shows and spending one week in Louisville, Kentucky, in August at the World’s Championship Horse Show for several years. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending a two or four-year educational institution.
	Darrell and Dorothy (Merritt) Fisher Scholarship Dorothy (Merritt) Fisher graduated from Marion High School in 1959. She and her husband, Darrell established this fund to honor the academic achievement and hard work of Marion High School students recognizing that not all deserving students have the financial means to continue their education and that education is vitally important to future success. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending Kirkwood Community College. Preference will be given to students who have maintained a 3.0 GPA, have shown excellent work ethic, and have demonstrated financial need in their application. Renewal Requirements: Scholarship recipients must maintain a minimum 2.7 GPA while attending Kirkwood. They must submit a transcript by June 15 following their first year at Kirkwood. along with a brief letter describing their campus and/or community involvement.
	Kelly Grishaber Memorial Scholarship Kelly Grishaber was completing her freshman year at MHS in the spring of 1979 when she was diagnosed with leukemia. For the next two years she courageously battled this illness while continuing to attend classes and school activities, always with the positive attitude that she would overcome her illness. Kelly is remembered for her enthusiastic participation in and total devotion to the cheerleading squad, highlighted by the MHS football class 3A 1980 State Championship. Kelly succumbed to leukemia on May 9, 1981. Her family and friends learned much from her positive attitude toward life, her joyous creativity and most of all, her courage in facing her terminal illness. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending a two or four-year college who exhibits good character and a positive attitude. The applicant must demonstrate involvement in co-curricular activities and/or community service.
	Ruth S. Henderson Memorial Scholarship Ruth Henderson moved to Cedar Rapids, IA in 1964, with a Business and Commerce degree from Bucknell University. With her 3 children in school Ruth went back to college to earn her teaching certificate. After student teaching at Washington HS (Cedar Rapids) Ruth went on to teach business, and later computer, classes at Marion HS for 20 years. She was engaged with her students as a teacher and mentor, and made life-long friendships with her fellow teachers. Her family established this fund in her recognition of service to Marion High School. Requirements: A MHS or MHSAP graduating senior attending a 2-year, vocational or 4-year educational institution who has an above average GPA, has participated in extra-curricular activities at Marion High School, has been involved in community service, and has demonstrated financial need in their application.
	Todd Little Memorial Scholarship Todd Little was a senior at Marion High School when he died of sudden heart failure on April 21, 1999. Todd was a member of SODA, Teens Against Tobacco Use (TATU), and Take Charge and Win With Wellness. He was a leader in track, baseball, football and basketball and was the 1998 Homecoming King. Todd received 1st Team All-Conference and 1st Team All-Metro honors in football, 2nd Team All –Conference and All Metro Honorable mention in basketball. Coaching for Unified Sports was one way Todd worked with younger children. His family offers this scholarship in Todd’s memory. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Applicants must be involved in athletics and community service, and demonstrate financial need in their application.
	Marion Firefighters Association Scholarship The Marion Firefighters Association (MFFA) is an independent body of Volunteer and Career Firefighters that serve the City of Marion, Iowa and the Marion Township. The purpose of this scholarship is to provide financial assistance to students in the community seeking a career path in Fire Science or EMT/Paramedic fields. In order to obtain careers in these fields, people are required to obtain many designations that can be costly. By providing such a scholarship, it is MFFA’s desire to encourage students to seek such a rewarding and needed career path for not only the Marion community but all communities. Requirements: A MHS or MHSAP graduating senior with a minimum 2.0 GPA pursuing a degree in Fire Science or EMT/Paramedic fields. If there is no such applicant, a student pursuing a career in the healthcare field may be considered.
	Mike McGrew Memorial Scholarship Michael McGrew attended Marion schools from K-12th grade (’88). He was a member of the basketball team, golf team and video club. Michael was also active in the Marion YMCA where he enjoyed working with younger children. He was working in Lawrenceville, Georgia when he died following injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident. Michael will be remembered as fun loving, strong-minded and a sensitive loving son and brother who loved people and the outdoors. This scholarship has been established for a hard-working student who wants to achieve by furthering his or her education. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School who is hardworking and is attending a two-year, vocational or four-year educational institution. Preference given to students who have overcome a disability during the course of their education.
	John Scarborough Miller Memorial Scholarship This scholarship was established in 1974 by Inez S. Miller in memory of her son, John who died in 1945 while serving in World War II. John Miller achieved the rank of Lieutenant and was a member of a B-29 flight crew. At the time of his death, he was stationed in Saipan. John graduated MHS in 1941 and attended the University of Iowa for eighteen months prior to serving in the military. While he was in high school, John participated in band, glee club, chorus, and other music groups. He served on the staff of the VOX and the Quill. John was a member of Delta Sigma Delta and Zeta Mu Epsilon. He served his community as a Gazette carrier. Requirements: Graduating seniors of Marion High School and residents of Marion attending an accredited Iowa college or university will be considered.
	Veda Pollock Moore Scholarship This scholarship was established by Mrs. Moore. Veda Pollock graduated from Marion High School in 1950. She married Keith Moore shortly after and moved around the country as he was a store manager for JC Penney. The Moore’s had 2 children, a son currently in California and a daughter in Lake Geneva, WI. Mrs. Moore wanted to establish a permanent scholarship purely out of her love for the Marion Independent School District. As she said “the Marion High School class of 1950 was absolutely wonderful”. Ms. Moore passed away in 2021 but her legacy of giving lives on. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School demonstrating excellent academic performance, extracurricular involvement, civic involvement, and financial need. Renewal Requirements: Scholarship recipients must maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA while attending the school of their choice. They must submit a transcript by June 15 each year, along with a brief letter describing their campus and/or community involvement.
	Lowell Morgan Service & Character Memorial Scholarship Lowell Morgan served as principal of Marion High School from 1965-1977 and continued his career as a junior high teacher until his retirement. He is quoted in a yearbook as saying, “It is my sincere hope that Marion Public Schools have helped to create in each graduating senior an open mind, a zeal for learning, and earnest quest for truth.” This scholarship is offered in honor of Lowell Morgan’s humanity, commitment to community and love of youth. Requirements: Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending a two-year, vocational or four-year educational institution who has participated in exemplary acts of volunteer service and has demonstrated uncommonly positive character. Preference will be given to students who achieved Eagle Scout rank in the Boy Scouts or Gold Award rank in the Girl Scouts; or church choir members and related activities.
	Morris F. Neighbor Scholarship Morris Neighbor was born March 18, 1918 in LaFayette, Iowa. He graduated from Alburnett High School in 1935 and attended Banking School at Coe College, Iowa State University and University of Wisconsin. After graduation, Morris operated a grocery and egg buying business from his father’s general store in LaFayette. In 1941 he married Betty Lucille Oliphant and that same year joined the U.S. Army where he was awarded several medals, including the Bronze Star. In 1945, Morris joined Farmers State Bank as a teller. He advanced to President in 1968 when he purchased controlling interest in FSB. Morris helped FSB grow its assets from $2 million in 1945 to over $845 million today. His civic pride is evidenced by numerous volunteer duties and FSB’s annual gifts to area schools. His strong sense of community can be easily traced to the belief that it’s important to give back to the communities in which we live and work. Requirements: A MHS or MHSAP graduating senior who is hardworking and is attending a two-year, vocational or four-year educational institution. An applicant’s eligibility will be based on academic performance, extracurricular and civic involvement, and financial need.
	Michelle Fluckiger Niles Memorial Scholarship This scholarship was established in 2009 by Michelle’s husband, John Niles and their daughters, Kelsey and Lindsey. Michelle graduated from Marion High School in 1977 and Kirkwood Community College in 1979. For 28 years, Michelle was a Dental Technician at Tyler, Berkhof and Link Dental Office in Cedar Rapids. Michelle passed away from injuries suffered in an automobile accident on March 26, 2007. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending an accredited dental program with the intention of becoming a Dentist, Dental Hygienist, or Dental Technician. If there is no such applicant, a student pursuing a career in the healthcare field may be considered.
	Duane Ockenfels Memorial Scholarship Duane Ockenfels graduated from Marion High School in 1995. He was an above average middle school student getting mostly A’s and B’s. Then a close friend got an Apple II and he wanted one. His father challenged Duane, that if he got straight A’s he would receive his own. He fell short in one subject with a high B. That was the last B he ever received! Duane got a PC when needed in high school. As soon as he got the Apple II he went to the library, got a book and started programing a game. Duane also enjoyed building PC’s and playing video games, and loved playing board games. Despite his over 4.0 GPA, Duane was humble; willing to share his knowledge and help others. Requirements: A MHS or MHSAP graduating senior attending Kirkwood Community College who has a minimum 3.25 GPA. Preference given to those with a minimum 3.5 GPA with Junior and Senior years weighted more heavily. Must have good character and a passion for at least one area of IT (Examples: Extracurricular IT-related course or member of a programming club). Preference given to those demonstrating financial need. Students with a disability are encouraged to apply.
	Rebecca Paulson Memorial Scholarship Rebecca taught at Starry Elementary for many years and her passion was helping her students achieve their goals. She had a positive influence on her students, their parents, and her peers in education through kindness, commitment, and desire to always improve. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School pursuing a degree in education.
	Ratliff-Ames Scholarship The Ratliff-Ames Scholarship has been established to honor the dedication and success of Dr. Dorothy Jean Ratliff, a 1944 MHS grad, her brother, Dr. Jack Ratliff, a 1948 MHS grad, and their younger cousin, Anne Christine Ames, a 1979 MHS grad. Dorothy was an instructor of Advanced English and Creative Writing at Virgil Grissom High School in Huntsville, Alabama; and Jack is a professor of higher mathematics at University of Southern California, Riverside. Anne, was a very talented graphic artist earning both state and national awards. To honor their commitment to education excellence, this endowment has been established for students demonstrating motivation and a desire to succeed. Requirements: A MHS or MHSAP graduating senior attending a four-year college or university. One scholarship will be awarded to students pursuing each of the following fields: English, creative writing, advanced math and graphic arts.
	Jeff Rehnstrom Memorial Scholarship Jeffrey Alan Rehnstrom was a 1997 graduate. During his years at MHS, Jeff participated in many activities with football being his favorite. Following high school, Jeff attended Kirkwood Community College where he was studying business at the time of his death. This scholarship was established by Jeff’s family. Requirements: An MHS or MHSAP graduating senior attending Kirkwood Community College who has a minimum 2.5 GPA, has superior community service involvement, and has demonstrated financial need in their application.
	John Schlotterback Memorial Business Scholarship John Schlotterback was a 1947 graduate of Marion High School. He participated in track, basketball, baseball and football while attending MHS, earning a varsity letter in football his senior year. After graduating, John worked in sales for several local dairies. In 1967, he began a 45-year career as a realtor in Marion. This scholarship was established by his wife Marilyn and his children Lyn ’76, Lori ’77 and JD ’86. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School who lettered in a varsity sport. The applicant must be attending a four-year college or university to pursue a Business-related degree.
	Gerald A. Senninger / Trojan Lodge #548 Scholarship Gerald Senninger was a former Linn County Auditor and Lodge member. Upon his death, he left a trust fund to the Lodge to provide scholarships to Marion students. In 2016, the Lodge donated the funds to the Foundation to continue the legacy of giving started in 1971. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending a two-year, vocational or four-year educational institution. Preference given to students demonstrating financial need.
	Soccer Officiating Scholarship This scholarship recognizes and celebrates the dedication, service, and contribution that referees make so youth can play the sport that they love while ensuring a safe, fair, and fun competition for participants. Recipients of this scholarship have learned leadership, how to operate under pressure, and demonstrated a commitment to service above themselves. This award is funded by the Dan Tuuri family, a local soccer coach and referee, in honor and appreciation of all youth referees who serve the game. Requirements: An MHS or MHSAP graduating senior attending a two-year, vocational or four-year educational institution with recent experience (within the past year) as an AYSO, NFHS, or US Soccer Referee. Preference given to those with experience mentoring or developing other officials, or working/traveling to out of area tournaments (State Cup, etc.)
	Dr. Robert L. Thurness Memorial Scholarship Dr. Robert Thurness was known to thousands in the Marion/Cedar Rapids area most commonly as “Coach Thurny”. He and wife Carol called Marion home for more than 40 years. Thurny was a husband, father, educator, coach, administrator, giver and friend. He held strong beliefs that through education, athletics and community involvement, anyone could improve not only their own life but those of others around them. He was well known for helping many, whether it was to get a job after school, start a business or find a place to live. Coach Thurny led Marion High School to their only Iowa State Championship in football in 1980. Requirements: A MHS or MHSAP graduating senior attending a 2 or 4-year college or university. Candidates must be in good standing with the Marion High School code of conduct and possess a desire to improve the lives of those around them through leadership, commitment, education and giving. Preference will be given to those who showed dedication by participating in at least one sport for all four years of high school.
	Dennis "Barney" Trout Scholarship Dennis “Barney” Trout, graduated from Marion High School in 1966 as class Vice-President. Dennis cherished his close friends; many he’s known since he was a teenager playing football, wrestling and running track. His commitment to the Marion community was well known. He was an active school board member for Marion Independent Schools since 2008. He was proud of his contributions to improve both education and facilities. Barney worked in the plumbing trade since 1966 and was an active member of Plumber & Pipe Fitters UA Local 12. Requirements: applicants must be pursuing an apprenticeship with Plumbers & Pipefitters UA Local 125.
	Justin Turner Memorial Scholarship Justin Turner graduated from MHS is 1992. He ranked 4th in his class academically and was active in many school activities including Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), band, sports and National Honor Society. Justin was chosen for National Council on Youth Leadership and was in Who’s Who Among American High School Students for three years. He was a Business Horizons graduate and also went to the Soviet Union with his Russian class. Justin was an Eagle Scout with 52 merit badges and all 3 palms. He attended Brigham Young University and was majoring in International Business and Russian. He was serving a 2-year mission in Chile for the LDS Church when he died of heart arrhythmia on February 21, 1994. Justin is remembered for his zest for life, sense of humor, love of adventure and positive outlook. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending a four-year college with preference given to those demonstrating interest in foreign language or business.
	West Family Scholarships The West family had four students who graduated from MISD; Dale ‘80, Connie ‘81, Kathryn ‘87 and Julie ‘90. All of them had the opportunity to complete education beyond high school. Joan West and her family are all vested in education whether it is to pursue a trade, attend a two or four-year college or another form of education. Three of Joan’s granddaughters also graduated from MISD and completed 4-6 year degrees. The West family believes MISD gave all of them a firm foundation on which to achieve goals. They would like to give current students the opportunity to achieve the goals of further education. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending a two-year, vocational or four-year educational institution. Preference for one scholarship will be to a first-generation college student, someone whose parents did not attend education beyond high school. Preference for the second scholarship will be given to students who through their experiences, activities, and academic work will contribute to student body diversity, as determined by the scholarship committee.
	Jason “Jay” White Memorial Scholarship An honor roll student and a 1992 graduate of Marion High School, Jason “Jay” White was a member of the National Honor Society, the Thespian Club and SADD. Jay’s interest in foreign languages enabled him to receive the Fulbright Medal in French. Jay was involved in many sports, including track, baseball, basketball and football. His love for football and the respect from his teammates enabled him to play his senior year as a Varsity Football Captain. He loved weight lifting and spent many hours in the weight room with friends. Jay was a member of the Screen Actors Guild. By doing national commercials and print work, he was able to travel and meet many people. His love for the Marion community and his many friends made him appreciate the education he was able to gain throughout his years at MISD. Requirements: A graduating senior of Marion High School attending a two or four-year educational institution with preference given to students majoring in a foreign language.