Every student’s journey is a unique blend of milestones, challenges, and moments of growth. For Marissa Jo Taylor, a 2022 graduate of Greenville High School, one constant has been a scholarship from GACF. The Stanley & Blanche Ash Educational Fund awards renewable scholarships to area graduates, providing reliable support that minimizes financial uncertainty during the college years.
Currently in her first semester at Western Michigan University, Taylor is majoring in Child Development and Services with a Child Life track, preparing for a career dedicated to supporting children and families during hospital experiences. But her college journey began at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, where she spent two years excelling in her classes and playing softball. Thanks to the Ash scholarship, combined with another scholarship, she was able to attend without any tuition costs.
Now at a four-year university, the cost to attend has increased, but her scholarship continues to make a difference. “It is so helpful to have the scholarship guaranteed each semester to lean on,” she shared, “Any type of assistance is so helpful when it comes to lowering the cost of tuition even a little bit. My scholarship from GACF has helped to make college more affordable.”
The decision to pursue higher education is one she urges others to consider thoughtfully. “College is such a great life experience. It’s an opportunity to meet new people, (potentially) live in a new city, make incredible memories, and push yourself out of your comfort zone.” And she encourages students to be open to taking a nontraditional route. “There is nothing wrong with going to community college first to figure out what career you truly want to pursue as well as save so much money in the long run. I’m so thankful for the people I’ve met and the memories I’ve made throughout college so far. I wouldn’t trade my college experience for the world.”
As GACF celebrates its 35th anniversary, we bring together the collective stories of donors, nonprofits, students, and community members to demonstrate the power of philanthropy in creating lasting impact and a stronger future.
