Melissa Morrison Memorial Scholarship 


This college scholarship fund has been established to honor the memory of Melissa Morrison, a woman of remarkable enthusiasm, generosity, and dedication. Melissa had a deep passion for many aspects of life, but she especially embodied the spirit of volunteerism and giving.

For over 25 years, she was a devoted member of the Girl Scout Community. Even after her daughter moved on to college, Melissa continued to serve tirelessly, mentoring young girls and fostering leadership skills. Her commitment extended beyond scouting - she was also an accomplished and passionate soccer player. After relocating to Humboldt County from Southern California, she became an active member of the local adult soccer league. In the early 2000s, she and her husband began coaching soccer for the Humboldt Youth Soccer League, where they inspired countless young players to develop a love for the game.

Melissa’s dedication to soccer extended into her professional life. For over 14 years, she was the backbone of Inside Sports, managing every aspect of the organization from registration and referees to field operations. She continued playing both indoor and outdoor soccer until 2019, when physical challenges led to her eventual diagnosis of ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that weakens muscles, making it increasingly difficult to walk, talk, eat, and breathe. While treatments can slow its progression, there is currently no cure. On April 13, 2022, Melissa’s courageous battle with ALS came to an end.

Melissa was passionate about providing young people with opportunities for growth, leadership, and self-discovery. She believed deeply in giving back to the organizations that uplifted and shaped individuals, whether through civic engagement or sports. This scholarship celebrates her legacy by recognizing students who embody her values of volunteerism, leadership, and community involvement. By actively participating in their communities, young people not only enrich their own lives but also help their communities thrive, just as Melissa did through hers.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate a history of volunteering with local youth organizations or giving back to the a community that has positively impacted them. Examples may include serving as a referee for youth sports or mentoring and volunteering with local youth programs.

2025 Scholarship Award:  At least two awards will be given this year; minimum amount of first award to be $1000.00, second award minimum amount $500.00.

Scholarship criteria:

  • Scholarship is available for any accredited two-year or four-year school, including trade schools, or programs that will help applicant to acquire higher level of skills to enhance  career growth

  • Must be Humboldt County high school senior or graduate, up to age 22, by March 31 of current year

  • Bad spelling/poor grammar were pet peeves of Melissa’s and will be counted against applicant

  • Must provide proof of enrollment and registration for course/s in order to receive funds

    • Recipients will be required to provide proof of school enrollment document that shows their name, identifies school of enrollment, indicates dates of courses and the course titles (12 units minimum to be eligible for disbursement) Recipients must also provide mailing address for school finance office. Check payment will be sent to the school of enrollment for reconciliation with the student's account.

To apply, complete the application, found here: Melissa Morrison Memorial Scholarship Application with all required documents by 5 pm on April 30, 2025:

  • Provide history of volunteerism, leadership and/or community involvment

  • Answer two prompts; 1. Passion/Commitment, and 2. Volunteerism; What Does It Mean To Me (500 word limit per prompt, separate files, pdf only)

  • Provide copy of official, signed, current high school or college transcript

  • Provide one to two letters of recommendation from a non-relative instructor, principal, counselor, supervisor, employer, or community leader