Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation

For good. For ever.

306 South University Avenue Mount Pleasant, MI, 48858 United States

(989) 773-7322

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Isabella County, now and for generations to come, by attracting and holding permanent endowed funds from a wide range of donors, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

 Stella Travis Memorial Scholarship

Established in May 2023, The Stella Travis Memorial Scholarship honors Stella Mae Travis who passed away in 2010 at 8 months old following open-heart surgery.

Stella is the daughter of Bryan and Katie Travis, both graduates of Shepherd High School. At the time of her passing she also had one older brother, Jake Travis. Stella was the light of their lives and was the daughter and sister they wished for. Stella’s passing taught everyone who knew her a lot about life, and what we can and can’t control.

In the following years, the Travis family would grow, adding two more boys to the mix, Grant and Brock Travis. It was then that the Travis family had a group discussion about opening their home to foster care. They knew they loved children and again dreamt of expanding their family. They began their foster journey in 2019 and since have adopted two more kids, Desarae and Jude Travis.

The foster care journey has been long and at times very difficult. The Travis Family has welcomed numerous children into their home, they have seen some tragic things and helped children grow through the events they cannot control.

This scholarship is all about giving a helping hand to two amazing groups of young people: those who've aged out of foster care and those who've faced tough challenges. For foster care alumni, this scholarship is here to make that jump into adulthood a little easier. It will help with finances so you can go to school, learn, and set out on their own with confidence. For those who've faced health battles, the scholarship celebrates your courage and determination. The Stella Travis Memorial Scholarship is here to support your education dreams and show that nothing can hold you back.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria to apply for the Stella Travis Memorial Scholarship:

  • Student shall be a Shepherd Public Schools graduate or graduating senior; and

  • Student shall be planning to enroll at an accredited college, university or trade school.

Preferences

In selecting the most qualified applicant to receive the scholarship among those meeting all the criteria above, reviewers should give preference to the following, listed in priority order:

  1. Student has been in or is currently in foster care.

  2. Student has personally overcome a life-altering experience.

*This fund will award scholarships once it’s fully funded*