LSSU Scholarships

Bonnie Crabb-Tremblay was a 1976 graduate of Lake Superior State College, earning degrees in both nursing and psychology. Her love and support for her patients came with many hugs and phenomenal clinical skills. Bonnie earned the respect of her peers and doctors alike as her clinical assessment skills were profoundly accurate. Early on in her career, she was given the title of “The IV Queen”. Bonnie was one that regularly challenged the status quo for the benefit of her patients. That said, she was never boastful, as she knew her biggest gift was the ability to take care of any person in any situation. Her lifelong goal was to make sure the nurses she mentored delivered the most exceptional patient care. In keeping with their mother’s wishes, her family established this named scholarship to recognize a unique, driven, and compassionate nursing student as they pursue their BSN and begin their own life’s journey in a career that Bonnie loved.

Bruce and Marian Huston lived in Lewiston, Michigan for more than 60 years. Having always been strong supporters of their local schools, they wanted to offer the opportunity to help the students of the community that supported them throughout their many years in business.  The Hustons always felt that LSSU offered their family a quality education. Two of the Huston’s daughters, Cindy and Susan, graduated from LSSU in the 1970s where they met their husbands Neil Gallaway and Maurice Evans. Cindy and Neil’s two children Tim and Cory and her husband, Kelsey Andersen also graduated from Lake Superior State. In this spirit, the Huston’s established an endowment to help Johannesburg-Lewiston high school students attend LSSU with selection based on academic excellence and a recommendation of the Johannesburg Lewiston High School Academic Committee.

The named award is established by the I-500 Parking Committee to benefit a student who has successfully completed the LPN program and is accepted in the LSSU School of Nursing to pursue a bachelor of science nursing (BSN) degree. Proceeds are derived from the annual I-500 snowmobile race parking fees. The race is held the first Saturday in February in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. It is the collaborative efforts of this volunteer committee and its members that contribute to the success of the I-500 race. In 2012 the I-500 Parking Committee changed the award’s name to honor long-time I-500 Committee chair, Bud Clarke, who passed away in 2011.

C. Ernest Kemp was one of the original instructors of the Sault Branch of Michigan College of Mining and Technology in 1946 and developed the LSSU Geology program. The world-renowned geologist was the recipient of LSSU’s Distinguished Citizen Award in 1981, the first and only full-time faculty member to be selected for the award. He retired in 1980 and was awarded dean emeritus status, but continued teaching at LSSU until 1993. This scholarship is awarded to an incoming freshman majoring in the geology program with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

This named endowment was established by C. Eugene Chang, former member of the LSSU Board of Trustees and long-time friend and supporter of Lake Superior State University. The International Studies Scholarship supports international students with funding for tutoring, ESL support, or other academic needs of students and those LSSU students who study abroad.

“Sandy” Sanderson was a local aviator-businessman and longtime Sault Ste. Marie resident. He was one of the most highly decorated pilots in World War II and one of the founders of the Western Michigan University School of Aviation. He had a high regard for education as exemplified in a letter to his grandson, Terry. Upon learning Terry was returning to LSSU to complete his education, he stated, “Education cannot be taken from you nor can it be transferred, there is no reasonable way to measure its value. It will enhance your entire life.” Successful candidates must be a graduate of a Michigan Upper Peninsula high school with selection based on academic excellence.

This named scholarship was established by the children of Carl and Bernitta Burtt to benefit a student majoring in any course of study in the College of Arts & Letters. Carl dropped out of school at the age of twelve in order to support his 12 brothers and sisters. He married Bernitta Wilcox in 1944 and together raised their family of six children. Though Carl and Bernitta did not finish high school, they valued the importance of education and vowed that their children would complete high school and to support their efforts in attending college. Recipients must be of sophomore status with a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need.

For 30 years, Central Savings Bank has been assisting Lake Superior State University students who are majoring in Finance and Economics and wish to pursue a career in banking by providing a scholarship in its name, The Central Savings Bank Scholarship. Central Savings Bank has been a full service hometown bank in Sault Ste. Marie since 1902.

The annual scholarship, which may have a value of up to full tuition, was established to support students who graduate from Michigan’s EUP and The Algoma District of Ontario, Canada.  To be eligible, the student must meet the following criteria: be full time, at least a sophomore (26 credits) majoring in a LSSU School of Business program, preferably in Finance and Economics or in Accounting with a minor in Finance, successfully completed at least two (2) 300 level courses in finance, economics, or accounting and has earned a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA.

Past recipients who currently work for Central Savings Bank are Mark Savoie, President (1992-93);  Erin Albrecht, Assistant Vice President (2009-10); and Autumn VanDonkelaar, Credit Analyst (2019-20).

This named scholarship is established by Chan and Marjorie Huff of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Chan graduated from LSSU in 1981 with a degree in Business Education and a MBA in 1983. Marjorie graduated in 1970 from Michigan State University with a degree in Teacher Education. She taught in the Sault Area Public Elementary Schools for over 38 years. The Huffs believe in the importance of a college education and to provide the possibility of life changing opportunities so that students may focus on their chosen field of study and career path.

Established to provide financial assistance and recognition to students entering in the LSSU engineering and technology majors, this endowment is named in memory of Charlie Snyder of Delco Electronics. Charlie’s years of leadership on the Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) and unsurpassed contributions to LSSU engineering and technology and its students left an indelible mark. Charlie had an infectious enthusiasm and brought skill, experience and understanding to LSSU senior project students. Successful candidates must be an incoming freshman or transfer student majoring in engineering or engineering technology with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Selection is based on the recommendation of the School of Engineering & Technology faculty.

The Dr. Sarah Mae Foster Memorial Pre-Professional Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Dr. Sarah Mae Foster by supporting a Lake Superior State University student pursuing a pre-professional academic track, particularly those preparing for careers in medicine or other health-related fields. Established through the generosity of her family, friends, alumni, and community members, this scholarship reflects Sarah’s passion for helping others, her dedication to academics, and her love of hockey as a former member of the LSSU Women’s Hockey Club. Sarah passed away at the age of 33 after a courageous battle with cancer, and this scholarship continues her commitment to serving others. This award supports a full-time LSSU student who is a member of the Women’s ACHA Hockey team, has achieved sophomore status, and maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA, with consideration also given to other qualified female student-athletes in pre-professional programs. Recipients are expected to uphold strong academic standing and character while carrying forward Sarah’s legacy of compassion, determination, and commitment to serving others in the healthcare field.

This named endowment honors Gil Somes (1929-2015), a man who was a part of Laker Athletics for over 20 years. Starting in 1981 and until his retirement in 1994, Gil worked as the equipment manager for Laker Athletics. He was with the Lakers through each of their three NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) titles in 1988, 1992, and 1994. Recipients may major in any course of study with a minimum 2.5 GPA and is employed as a student equipment manager or athletic trainer. Selection is based on the recommendation of the Athletic Director and coaching staff.

Established in 1993 by the Sault Ste. Marie Gus Macker Committee, this scholarship is awarded to an entering LSSU freshman who resides and is a high school graduate from the Eastern Upper Peninsula. The student must demonstrate academic excellence and civic and school commitment.

This award is named in honor of Jim Fallis (wrestler), the first four-time All-American at Lake Superior State College. Following graduation, Jim coached and taught for 12 years at LSSU. He served as the University’s director of Athletics from 1986-1993. In 2005, he was inducted to the LSSU Athletic Hall of Fame for his achievements as a LSSU athlete, coach and athletic director. A merit based award, the recipient be an All-American honoree, in any sport, the previous academic year with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Selection is based on the  recommendation of the LSSU Athletics Department.

This endowed scholarship was established by Galen H. Harrison (1938-2022), a graduate of Pickford High School and LSSU Professor of Mathematics (1963-1996). Mr. Harrison believed in the importance of higher education and understood that many students need financial support while working towards their educational and career goals. Successful candidates must be an incoming freshman who is a Pickford High School graduate with a minimum 3.0 GPA majoring in biology, chemistry, geology, nursing, mathematics, computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, environmental chemistry, or environmental science.

This scholarship endowment was established by Jacki (Brinker) Saunders and David O. Saunders, 1975 graduates of LSSU. The Saunders understand the importance of higher education and know that many students need financial support while working towards their education goals. Successful candidates must have earned at least 26 LSSU credits and a minimum 3.0 GPA and may major in a Business, Biology, or Chemistry program.

Jim Smith and Tom Wiles are both graduates of Bedford High School (1972) and classmates at Lake Superior State College. Upon their retirement, they returned to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. “Our experiences as students at Lake Superior State College in the 1970s to our present stage of life, have been the foundation for our desire to fund an award for an incoming freshman and a science scholarship to a current student. They have issued their recipients a challenge: To apply all the knowledge that you have/will learn for the benefit of generations present and future.

The science scholarship is given to a student of sophomore status with a minimum 3.0 GPA who is seeking a career path as a scientist. The hope of the future lies not in curbing the influence of human occupancy – it is already too late for that – but in creating a better understanding of the extent of that influence and a new ethic for its governance. ― Aldo Leopold, Game Management

The Joseph and Bonnie Halvorsen Memorial Endowment was established by the Halvorsen’s five children to honor their parents and to provide financial assistance to a sophomore student pursuing a career as a park ranger for the State of Michigan or National Park Service. Joseph and Bonnie were married in 1952 shortly after Halvorsen began his career with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Between 1963 and 1977, Halvorsen managed F. J. McLain State Park in Hancock, Grand Haven State Park, Brimley State Park, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park until his retirement in 1991. Despite all these accomplishments, Halvorsen always felt his advancement was curtailed because he lacked a college degree. He spent the last years of his career training people who would go on to surpass him, always willing to assist and provide advice because of his love and commitment for the job.

Professor Emeritus Raymond Chelberg and his wife Marian were one of the original faculty families at the Michigan College of Mining and Technology, Sault Branch in 1946. From that time until he retired in 1970, Professor Chelberg was chair of the Chemistry Department. He was a dedicated teacher for more than 44 years and was remembered for his personal, caring and effective approach to teaching. Marian taught music appreciation at Lake State and was one of the founders of the Musicale. She was choir director at Central United Methodist Church and was one of the first women invited to join the Rotary Club. Together, Raymond and Marian significantly enhanced the scientific, athletic and cultural aspects of Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding community. The Chelberg scholarship is awarded to a natural science major, with a minimum 3.0 GPA, who demonstrates leadership abilities and contributes significantly to the success of the athletic team on which he or she is a letter-winner.

This scholarship was established by the family of Eugene Orlando to honor his legacy of commitment to hard work and the importance of an education. After graduating from LSSU in 1981, Eugene passionately served his Sault Ste. Marie Ontario community as an accountant for over 30 years. His untimely passing meant that he never had the opportunity to enjoy retirement, which would have been the ideal reward after so many years of hard work. All of Eugene’s success can be attributed to his unyielding work ethic, a willingness to take risks, and ultimately a love for his profession. He had the courage and vision to forge his own path and become a highly-respected part of the business community. Outside of the office Eugene was a gifted musician, a proud family-man, and is fondly remembered for his sense of humor and positive outlook. Eugene was a life-long learner, and firmly believed in the importance of an education.  Successful candidates must be a student of junior status with a minimum 3.0 GPA who is pursuing a Lukenda School of Business Accounting degree.

This scholarship was established in honor of Frank Fazi, a longtime supporter to the Sault area community and to Lake Superior State University. Frank played an active role in many organizations and projects for the betterment of the community. He was an outstanding athlete, playing for the Michigan Tech-Sault Branch Hornet’s basketball team. He was inducted into the LSSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995. This scholarship is awarded to an incoming freshman from an Eastern U.P. high school. The student must demonstrate academic excellence and major in business and economics.

Married in 1947, Gordon and Geraldine Cooper raised 15 children in Sault Ste. Marie. The daughter of Italian immigrants, Geraldine’s career was raising their family until her death from breast cancer in 1981. Gordon, a World War II veteran, supported them through work as Sunlight Dairy and then, later, as a building attendant at Lake Superior State College. The College was also a gateway for opportunity for their family. Through the G.I. Bill and hard work, several of their children enrolled and graduated from LSSC. Later, many of their grandchildren either started their postsecondary education at Lake State, or earned degrees from there. The opportunities that Lake State offered allowed the family to build better lives for themselves and others. Successful candidates must an incoming freshman who is a graduate of a Michigan Eastern Upper Peninsula high school majoring in a Lukenda School of Business program with preference to a student majoring in Accounting with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

This scholarship endowment was established by Jacki (Brinker) Saunders and David O. Saunders, 1975 graduates of LSSU. The Saunders understand the importance of higher education and know that many students need financial support while working towards their education goals. Successful candidates must have earned at least 26 LSSU credits and a minimum 3.0 GPA and may major in a Business, Biology, or Chemistry program.

Judson (Bucky) Swart was a lifetime resident of Sault Ste. Marie. He was a career banker working for Huntington Bank (formerly Sault Bank) for 35 years. A strong supporter of his community, Bucky gave much of his time to help others. With the financial support of friends, family and the Sault Ste. Marie Lions Club, of which Bucky was an active member, a scholarship was established in 1999. Awarded to a graduating senior of any high school in Chippewa, Luce or Mackinac Counties, recipients must be a major in any program of the Lukenda School of Business. Selection is based on academic excellence.

This scholarship honors Michael Della-Moretta, a 1977 alumnus and Navy pilot killed in 1981 while serving aboard the USS Independence off the coast of Iran. He once said the happiest years of his life were at Lake Superior State University. The award is given to an Eastern U.P. resident with an interest in biological science or lab science major (including math and computer science) who has achieved academic excellence.

This scholarship endowment is established by Robert and Sally Wiles to honor the memory of Sally’s brother, Richard W. “Dick” White ‘60. White graduated from Rudyard High School in 1954, enlisted in the Marines, served and was honorably discharged. He then entered Soo Tech, branch of Michigan Technological University. Dick was a much focused student of Geology and truly became a legend at Soo Tech and Michigan Technological University. After receiving his Doctorate from the University of California – Berkley, he traveled the World with the U.S. Geological Survey with his last stop in Denver at USGS headquarters. Premature death attributed to Leukemia at age 40 abruptly halted Dick’s list of geological discoveries in his prime. Successful candidates must major in one of the LSSU physical sciences programs with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

The named award is established by Robert J. McEnroe, a 1975 LSSU graduate who wished to give back to alma mater.  In appreciation for the education he received at Lake Superior State University, this award benefits students majoring in Biology or Chemistry who are residents of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Dr. Timothy A. Farmer established this scholarship in 2012 to benefit students majoring in one of the physical sciences programs who wish to pursue a education and career path in scientific research. A 1979 LSSU graduate, Dr. Farmer went on to earn a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees at the Ohio State University. His career was spent in higher education, holding faculty positions at University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Missouri-St. Louis. In 2010, Dr. Farmer received the LSSU Kenneth J. Shouldice Award that honors alumni for their personal and professional achievements. Recipients must be of least sophomore status majoring in Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Science or Geology with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Through a trust established in 2008, Kaleel and Josephine Jones chose to support students in four academic areas at LSSU. In doing so, their gift became the second largest bequest in LSSU history.

Kaleel (Kal) Jones and his wife of 68 years founded A & K Cartage, a trucking company servicing the Detroit area. Over 44 years, the company’s fleet grew to eight trucks and maintained the longest running private contract with the city.

With the passing of Josephine in April 2014 and Kal that June, their trust stipulates that a scholarship supporting LSSU criminal justice students will be named the John Williams Jones VIII Scholarship in memory of their son who was a Detroit police officer for 22 years, while engineering, nursing and education students will benefit from the Kaleel (Kal) and Josephine I. Jones Scholarships. Successful candidates must major in one of the four programs with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

This scholarship was established in 2015 to provide financial assistance to a Sault Area High School student majoring in the Education or Fisheries & Wildlife program. Don and Arlyce devoted their teaching careers to the Sault Area Public Schools. Originally from a Nebraska farming community, they moved to Sault Ste Marie and fell in love with the area and all it had to offer. They have one son, Brian, who graduated from Sault Area High School and Lake Superior State University. The Ausdemore’s understand the importance of a good education and the need to preserve the Sault Ste. Marie area for future generations.

Dr. Lou Lukenda attended LSSU from 1948-1950 before completing the academic requirements for a doctor of dental surgery degree from University of Toronto. His fondness for LSSU always remained strong. He was the recipient of LSSU’s Outstanding Alumnus Award in 1983, and he served on the LSSU Foundation’s board of directors from 1987-2005. He received an LSSU honorary doctorate degree in 2007. In May 2001, when the Lou and Mae Lukenda Alumni House was established and dedicated, Dr. Lukenda remarked, “My central interests in life over the years…have been in education and health.” He and his wife, Mae, passed along the passion for those causes to their seven children; four of them are teachers and three work in health care. It is in this spirit that the Lukendas established this scholarship to benefit LSSU students.

Lake Superior State University continues its celebrated history and tradition by inviting a very special group of our alumni, the Golden Graduates – to be a special part of the LSSU Commencement ceremony each year. Since 2000, the Golden Grads have receive a special invitation to come back to campus to attend a special reception and lead the Commencement procession. In 2014, this special group established – the Golden Graduate Society Scholarship – as a way to give back to the University that has made such a difference in their lives. The scholarship was endowed in 2019, and is awarded to a student who has earned at least sophomore status with a minimum 3.0 GPA and is majoring in any course of study at the University, with preference given to students majoring in Engineering or Education. Eligible candidates must also submit a minimum 250-word essay answering the questions: Why did you choose to attend LSSU? And, what unique historical fact have you learned about LSSU during your time at the University?

John Ramsey, a long time resident of Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., established this named endowment through a bequest provision in his trust. John was a graduate of Sault Area High School and earned a degree in pharmacy at the University of Michigan. He was the War Memorial Hospital pharmacist for many years and also serviced other pharmacies in Sault Ste Marie and throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Mr. Ramsey served in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II. He was a navigator with the 493rd Bomb Group in England and flew 33 missions over Germany. After the war he was in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel. Successful candidates must be a resident of Chippewa County who is majoring in elementary or secondary education, nursing or pre-pharmacy with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Through a trust established in 2008, Kaleel and Josephine Jones chose to support students in four academic areas at LSSU. In doing so, their gift became the second largest bequest in LSSU history.

Kaleel (Kal) Jones and his wife of 68 years founded A & K Cartage, a trucking company servicing the Detroit area. Over 44 years, the company’s fleet grew to eight trucks and maintained the longest running private contract with the city.

With the passing of Josephine in April 2014 and Kal that June, their trust stipulates that a scholarship supporting LSSU criminal justice students will be named the John Williams Jones VIII Scholarship in memory of their son who was a Detroit police officer for 22 years, while engineering, nursing and education students will benefit from the Kaleel (Kal) and Josephine I. Jones Scholarships. Successful candidates must major in one of the four programs with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

This scholarship was established by Stan Starks, a 1976 LSSU Engineering graduate in honor of his parents. The Starks were average hard working folks who never had the opportunity to go to college. Nonetheless, they were strong believers in higher education. They were very familiar with Lake Superior State and the Sault from numerous summer vacations. Insistent that their two sons get a college education, they made numerous sacrifices and were very proud that their sons graduated from LSSU. Successful candidates must be a student majoring in the electrical engineering, electrical engineering technology, or computer engineering field who has earned a minimum 3.0 GPA with selection based on the LSSU Engineering faculty recommendation.

This endowed scholarship was established by Galen H. Harrison (1938-2022), a graduate of Pickford High School and LSSU Professor of Mathematics (1963-1996). Mr. Harrison believed in the importance of higher education and understood that many students need financial support while working towards their educational and career goals. Successful candidates must be an incoming freshman who is a Pickford High School graduate with a minimum 3.0 GPA majoring in biology, chemistry, geology, nursing, mathematics, computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, environmental chemistry, or environmental science.

Lake Superior State University continues its celebrated history and tradition by inviting a very special group of our alumni, the Golden Graduates – to be a special part of the LSSU Commencement ceremony each year. Since 2000, the Golden Grads have receive a special invitation to come back to campus to attend a special reception and lead the Commencement procession. In 2014, this special group established – the Golden Graduate Society Scholarship – as a way to give back to the University that has made such a difference in their lives. The scholarship was endowed in 2019, and is awarded to a student who has earned at least sophomore status with a minimum 3.0 GPA and is majoring in any course of study at the University, with preference given to students majoring in Engineering or Education. Eligible candidates must also submit a minimum 250-word essay answering the questions: Why did you choose to attend LSSU? And, what unique historical fact have you learned about LSSU during your time at the University?

The purpose of this award is to benefit a deserving student pursuing a LSSU manufacturing engineering degree. John began teaching in the Engineering Department at the Soo Branch of MTU in 1967 after finishing his MSME at Michigan Technological University. He retired in 2002 after 34 years of service to the University. Jan (Osterhout) was born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.. She received her RN from LSSU in 1982 and has since retired from War Memorial Hospital. Successful candidates must be a manufacturing engineering major with at least 26 LSSU credits.

The Joseph and Bonnie Halvorsen Memorial Endowment was established by the Halvorsen’s five children to honor their parents and to provide financial assistance to a sophomore student pursuing a career as a park ranger for the State of Michigan or National Park Service. Joseph and Bonnie were married in 1952 shortly after Halvorsen began his career with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Between 1963 and 1977, Halvorsen managed F. J. McLain State Park in Hancock, Grand Haven State Park, Brimley State Park, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park until his retirement in 1991. Despite all these accomplishments, Halvorsen always felt his advancement was curtailed because he lacked a college degree. He spent the last years of his career training people who would go on to surpass him, always willing to assist and provide advice because of his love and commitment for the job.

Since its founding in 1975 by three avid fly-fishermen, the Headwaters Chapter has grown to encompass five northeast Lower Michigan counties, including Otsego, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, Alpena, and Montmorency. Trout Unlimited’s national mission is to conserve, protect, and restore watersheds that support wild trout and salmon. Successful candidates must be majoring in the Fisheries & Wildlife Management program, with a focus on fisheries who is a Michigan resident with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Selection is based on the recommendation of the LSSU Biological Sciences faculty.

The Hiawatha Sportsman’s Club was organized in 1927 and established an area of land to serve as a vacation center for people from all walks of life. Members of the Club enjoy 35,000 acres of wilderness located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a region rich in history, hunting, fishing, canoeing, hiking and more. Hiawatha Sportsman’s Club Scholarship is open to any LSSU student majoring in Fisheries and Wildlife Management. Successful candidates must have at least 26 credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Preference is given to graduates of Engadine or Newberry High Schools and to those students who participate in any ongoing wildlife management studies on HSC land.

The Joseph and Bonnie Halvorsen Memorial Endowment was established by the Halvorsen’s five children to honor their parents and to provide financial assistance to a sophomore student pursuing a career as a park ranger for the State of Michigan or National Park Service. Joseph and Bonnie were married in 1952 shortly after Halvorsen began his career with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Between 1963 and 1977, Halvorsen managed F. J. McLain State Park in Hancock, Grand Haven State Park, Brimley State Park, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park until his retirement in 1991. Despite all these accomplishments, Halvorsen always felt his advancement was curtailed because he lacked a college degree. He spent the last years of his career training people who would go on to surpass him, always willing to assist and provide advice because of his love and commitment for the job.

This scholarship is established by Kim ‘68 and Nancy Strawe of Curtis, Michigan. Kim graduated from LSSU in 1968 with a degree in biological science and has always had a passion for the outdoors and a love for nature. Since 1998 Nancy has been a volunteer at the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. She has also served on the board of directors for the Seney Natural History Association (a non-profit organization that funds programs and interns at the Refuge). It is Kim and Nancy’s wish to provide financial assistance to those students who also have an appreciation for the outdoor environment. Successful candidates must be a Fisheries & Wildlife Management major of at least sophomore status and a Michigan resident who has earned a minimum 3.0 GPA. Selection is based on the recommendation of the Fisheries & Wildlife faculty.

Renamed in January 2026, the MCBA–LSSU Rich and Linda Haslett Scholarship Award (formerly the Michigan Charter Boat Association Fisheries Scholarship) continues the same scholarship originally established in 2018 by the Michigan Charter Boat Association, Inc. (MCBA). The MCBA is a nonprofit organization of professional, United States Coast Guard–licensed captains operating safety-inspected vessels, with a flawless safety record spanning several decades while guiding anglers on sport-fishing excursions across the four Great Lakes surrounding Michigan. The name change honors Rich and Linda Haslett for their instrumental role in the scholarship’s creation, while the annual award continues to provide financial assistance to Lake Superior State University students majoring in Fisheries and Wildlife Management or Biology, with a focus on fisheries studies.

Jim Smith and Tom Wiles are both graduates of Bedford High School (1972) and classmates at Lake Superior State College. Upon their retirement, they returned to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. “Our experiences as students at Lake Superior State College in the 1970s to our present stage of life, have been the foundation for our desire to fund an award for an incoming freshman and a science scholarship to a current student. They have issued their recipients a challenge: To apply all the knowledge that you have/will learn for the benefit of generations present and future.

The science scholarship is given to a student of sophomore status with a minimum 3.0 GPA who is seeking a career path as a scientist. The hope of the future lies not in curbing the influence of human occupancy – it is already too late for that – but in creating a better understanding of the extent of that influence and a new ethic for its governance. ― Aldo Leopold, Game Management

This scholarship was established by Elizabeth Kalesky in memory of her son, John, a 1985 LSSU geology alumnus. In 1987, he was a recipient of the prestigious American Association of Petroleum Geologists Foundation Grant-in-aid for pursuit of graduate studies. Only 74 such grants were awarded nationwide. John was a very creative thinker, highly inquisitive, and always aggressively wanting action and results. He worked hard and took his coursework very seriously and he also enjoyed life to the fullest. At the time of his death in 1989, he was employed with Shell Oil Company in Houston, Texas. Awarded to an incoming freshman majoring in geology, the recipient must have a minimum 3.0 GPA with selection based on ACT score and class rank.

The named scholarship was established by LSSU Professor Emeritus John Lehman to benefit qualified students entering into the chemistry or environmental chemistry baccalaureate degree programs. Professor Lehman was a long-time faculty member who taught at Lake State from 1966 until his retirement in 2001. The recipient is selected by the LSSU Chemistry faculty and has demonstrated the potential to excel in their major field and to make significant contributions to society through the application of chemistry.

The Joseph and Bonnie Halvorsen Memorial Endowment was established by the Halvorsen’s five children to honor their parents and to provide financial assistance to a sophomore student pursuing a career as a park ranger for the State of Michigan or National Park Service. Joseph and Bonnie were married in 1952 shortly after Halvorsen began his career with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Between 1963 and 1977, Halvorsen managed F. J. McLain State Park in Hancock, Grand Haven State Park, Brimley State Park, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park until his retirement in 1991. Despite all these accomplishments, Halvorsen always felt his advancement was curtailed because he lacked a college degree. He spent the last years of his career training people who would go on to surpass him, always willing to assist and provide advice because of his love and commitment for the job.

Founded in 1946 by Professor Emeritus C. Ernest Kemp, the Geology Club is considered one of the oldest established clubs at the University. The club’s purpose is to foster personal and professional growth through geology-related activities. Established in 1982, the scholarship is funded by proceeds from the sale of a geology lab manual written by Professor Lew Brown and LSSU geology students.

Clifford (Rube) Waybrant of Pickford, Michigan established this scholarship in recognition of the quality of care his wife, Berniece, received in the War Memorial Hospital Long Term Care Unit. Successful candidates must be graduate of a Chippewa, Mackinac or Luce County High School who has successfully completed the LPN or CENA program and demonstrates at least one year experience in that role with a minimum 2.7 GPA. Selection is based on the recommendation of the LSSU Nursing faculty.

This named scholarship was established in 2002 by Barbara (Cunningham ’79) and Chuck (’77) Cliff to honor Barbara’s mother, Margie Cunningham, who graduated from nursing school in 1945. Margie was the inspiration for Barbara to pursue a career in nursing. Barbara attended the LSSU Nursing program from 1976-79 and was appointed as a LSSU Board of Trustees member from 2002-2009. Chuck served as a member of the LSSU Foundation Board of Directors. This scholarship benefits a nursing student of sophomore or junior status who demonstrates a passion and dedication to working in a nursing field.

Dixie Light came to LSSU in 1974 as an instructor, shortly thereafter helping to create Lake State’s BSN program and developing the LSSU Health Care Center, which now serves the campus and public. Morton was a school psychologist in the Sault Area Public Schools for a number of years. Their son, Daniel graduated from Lake Superior State in 1988. In 1990 the Light family moved to Houston, Alaska to open a health clinic and continued to provide medical care and treatment to the people of the Houston community until Dixie’s death in 2011. Successful candidates must be a registered nurse from Michigan or Ontario, Canada who is admitted to the LSSU baccalaureate nursing post-licensure track OR a non-traditional student who has earned a college degree but now chooses to pursue a BSN degree with minimum 3.0 GPA.

Dr. Donald Finlayson and his wife, Catherine established this endowed scholarship in 1997 to enhance financial support for nursing students at LSSU. Dr. Finlayson practiced medicine in Sault Ste. Marie from 1946-1982 and was the LSSU physician from 1946-1978. Two of their children attended Lake State – one in pre-nursing and one in pre-physical therapy. Having always been impressed with the LSSU nursing program, the Finlaysons formed the endowment through a charitable remainder trust. A successful candidate must be a sophomore student with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a demonstrated empathy with patients.

Dr. Kevin and Pamela Cooper established their named scholarship to benefit students enrolled in the LSSU pre-dentistry  or pre-med program.  Successful candidates must have earned at least 26 LSSU credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA and preference given to students who are graduates of a Michigan Upper Peninsula high school. Son of Laker legend Ronald “Bud” Cooper, Kevin grew up on the LSSU campus. He attended LSSU earning his B.S. and his dental degree at the University of Michigan. Pam also attended LSSU earning her Associates Degree and a dental hygiene degree from the University of Michigan. The Coopers are very involved with the local community and are strong supporters of Lake Superior State University.

The Colleen and Charles MacDonald Annual Scholarship supports transfer students pursuing majors in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) or Education with a focus on STEM curricula. Established by long-time Michigan residents Colleen and Chuck MacDonald, the scholarship reflects their deep belief in the value of education and the importance of helping students overcome financial barriers. It provides assistance with tuition and class-related fees to deserving students, supporting their success in STEM fields.

This scholarship was created in 2006 by the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science faculty as a tool to retain highly qualified students at LSSU. Successful recipients must be a major in mathematics or computer science or pursuing a degree in math education with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

This endowed scholarship was established to honor one of the charter faculty of Sault Branch of Michigan College of Mining and Technology. Franklin spent 30 years (1948-1978) as a mathematics professor and was the University’s first faculty athletic representative, serving 12 years during the early development of the Laker athletic program. He was instrumental in the development of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) and the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA). In 1999, Franklin was posthumously inducted to the LSSU Athletic Hall of Fame for his invaluable contributions to the Laker athletic program. Wanda was a homemaker who was very active in her church, the LSSU Faculty Wives’ organization, and a strong supporter of the University and of her husband’s participation in a wide range of academic and athletic interests. The recipient must be a sophomore mathematics or computer science major with a minimum 3.0 GPA in their major courses.

This scholarship was established in 2001 by Galen Harrison (1938-2022) to provide financial assistance to math and computer science majors. Harrison was a long-time LSSU Professor of Mathematics who taught at Lake State from 1963 until his retirement in 1996. Mr. Harrison believed in the importance of higher education and understood that many students need financial support while working towards their educational and career goals.

This endowed scholarship was established by Galen H. Harrison (1938-2022), a graduate of Pickford High School and LSSU Professor of Mathematics (1963-1996). Mr. Harrison believed in the importance of higher education and understood that many students need financial support while working towards their educational and career goals. Successful candidates must be an incoming freshman who is a Pickford High School graduate with a minimum 3.0 GPA majoring in biology, chemistry, geology, nursing, mathematics, computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, environmental chemistry, or environmental science.

This endowed scholarship was established by LSSU professor emeritus Gerald Samson (1928-2022). During his career at LSSU, Professor Samson received the LSSU Distinguished Teacher award in 1974 and Emeritus Status in 1990. He could recite a plethora of poems he learned in grade school, remember all the words to the songs he loved from the 30s and 40s (anything after 1950 wasn’t music), solve complex math equations just for fun, read books, books, and more books from the classics, to science, to mysteries and was known as a crossword puzzle aficionado. He loved the phrase “look it up” and spent much time doing just that about any topic that interested him. Selection is based on the recommendation of the LSSU mathematics and computer science faculty.

This scholarship honors Michael Della-Moretta, a 1977 alumnus and Navy pilot killed in 1981 while serving aboard the USS Independence off the coast of Iran. He once said the happiest years of his life were at Lake Superior State University. The award is given to an Eastern U.P. resident with an interest in biological science or lab science major (including math and computer science) who has achieved academic excellence.

This endowment was established by Catherine Gianakura Rogg to honor her parents, Peter and Georgia. At the time of her high school graduation, Georgia was planning to attend Michigan State University to become a mathematics teacher until her father became ill. She made the choice to care for her father and attend to the needs of her family. Longing for a career as a photojournalist, Peter was unable to pursue his education due to his commitment to his father’s business, The American Café, and to his family. In honor of her parents who sacrificed their education and career dreams for the care and well being of their families, Catherine created two scholarships to be granted annually to a student who is seeking a career in Journalism and to a student who is pursuing a degree in Education with a major in Mathematics.

A founder of the Chippewa County Employees Credit Union and a longtime Sault High School math teacher, Rosa Grout, enlightened more than 2,000 students on the beauty and precision of math. “I still hear from many of them who thank me for the structure and discipline that geometry instilled into their lives,” she recalled shortly before her death in 2004 at the age of 95. Grout’s spirit of education carries on in the form of a math, science and technical studies scholarship endowment she created in 1992. The student recipient is a major in engineering technology, mathematics, or computer science. Selection of the award is based upon high school GPA, ACT score and high school class rank.

This scholarship was established to honor William Gregory, former president of Edison Sault Electric Company. He served as a member of the LSSU Board of Trustees, the LSSU Foundation Board of Directors, and received LSSU’s Distinguished Citizen Award in 1986.  LSSU President Robert Arbuckle once stated, “Bill Gregory has actively supported the University with his talent and treasure for over 25 years. No one in this region is more devoted to Lake State.” Successful candidates must be a junior majoring in engineering, mathematics, business, biology or fisheries and wildlife management with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

This endowment was established by family and friends in memory of Chris Reinke, a natural resources technology (NRT) student, 1986-88. Chris was known as a free-spirited, independent young man who had a great love for the outdoors. It was because of his love for the woods and water that he chose the natural resources program at LSSU. His untimely death in 1988 left an indelible mark on Lake State students and to all who knew him. One of his friends, Cindy (Nocerini) Dingell, commented that Chris lived by the old phrase, “live each day like it was your first and every minute like it was your last.” This award assists a sophomore NRT student with a minimum 2.0 GPA who has a sincere dedication to the NRT field. Selection is based on the recommendation of the NRT faculty.

The Clifford and Pearl Nesseth Memorial Scholarship supports full-time Lake Superior State University students enrolled in a College of Great Lakes Ecology and Education program. Established in honor of Clifford and Pearl Nesseth by their son, Clifford “Bryce” Nesseth (1929–2022), the scholarship carries forward the family’s commitment to community and innovation. It supports students who share Bryce’s passion for protecting Michigan’s land and waterways and his dedication to environmental stewardship.

This named scholarship was established in 2002 by Barbara (Cunningham ’79) and Chuck (’77) Cliff to honor Barbara’s mother, Margie Cunningham, who graduated from nursing school in 1945. Margie was the inspiration for Barbara to pursue a career in nursing. Barbara attended the LSSU Nursing program from 1976-79 and was appointed as a LSSU Board of Trustees member from 2002-2009. Chuck served as a member of the LSSU Foundation Board of Directors. This scholarship benefits a nursing student of sophomore or junior status who demonstrates a passion and dedication to working in a nursing field.

Dixie Light came to LSSU in 1974 as an instructor, shortly thereafter helping to create Lake State’s BSN program and developing the LSSU Health Care Center, which now serves the campus and public. Morton was a school psychologist in the Sault Area Public Schools for a number of years. Their son, Daniel graduated from Lake Superior State in 1988. In 1990 the Light family moved to Houston, Alaska to open a health clinic and continued to provide medical care and treatment to the people of the Houston community until Dixie’s death in 2011. Successful candidates must be a registered nurse from Michigan or Ontario, Canada who is admitted to the LSSU baccalaureate nursing post-licensure track OR a non-traditional student who has earned a college degree but now chooses to pursue a BSN degree with minimum 3.0 GPA.

Dr. Donald Finlayson and his wife, Catherine established this endowed scholarship in 1997 to enhance financial support for nursing students at LSSU. Dr. Finlayson practiced medicine in Sault Ste. Marie from 1946-1982 and was the LSSU physician from 1946-1978. Two of their children attended Lake State – one in pre-nursing and one in pre-physical therapy. Having always been impressed with the LSSU nursing program, the Finlaysons formed the endowment through a charitable remainder trust. A successful candidate must be a sophomore student with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a demonstrated empathy with patients.

Dr. Lou Lukenda attended LSSU from 1948-1950 before completing the academic requirements for a doctor of dental surgery degree from University of Toronto. His fondness for LSSU always remained strong. He was the recipient of LSSU’s Outstanding Alumnus Award in 1983, and he served on the LSSU Foundation’s board of directors from 1987-2005. He received an LSSU honorary doctorate degree in 2007. In May 2001, when the Lou and Mae Lukenda Alumni House was established and dedicated, Dr. Lukenda remarked, “My central interests in life over the years…have been in education and health.” He and his wife, Mae, passed along the passion for those causes to their seven children; four of them are teachers and three work in health care. It is in this spirit that the Lukendas established this scholarship to benefit LSSU students.

This endowed scholarship was established by Galen H. Harrison (1938-2022), a graduate of Pickford High School and LSSU Professor of Mathematics (1963-1996). Mr. Harrison believed in the importance of higher education and understood that many students need financial support while working towards their educational and career goals. Successful candidates must be an incoming freshman who is a Pickford High School graduate with a minimum 3.0 GPA majoring in biology, chemistry, geology, nursing, mathematics, computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, environmental chemistry, or environmental science.