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The Joe Brisson Scholarship was set up in honor of Traverse City, Michigan native Joe Brisson. Joe was an avid explorer, adventurer and sportsman. His passions took him across the US and the world. Everywhere he went, he
made an indelible impression as a lover of
people and life. The scholarship is open to graduating seniors who demonstrate passion for life and sports, particularly soccer or any of the sports Joe loved: hiking, rockclimbing, cycling, ultimate frisbee — to name a few!
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Since we partnered with the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation in 2000 to establish the endowment, we have awarded 23 scholarships, totalling $20,000. The scholarships help graduating seniors get off to a good start by helping pay for their higher education, whether that's at a vocational school or a four-year institution.
Chris Chang, 2014 Recipient
"I am currently attending my dream school UCSB thanks to the Joe Brisson Memorial Scholarship and I am studying Environmental Science working as an Resident Assistant to improve environmental activism. At UCSB I get to enjoy the amazing scenery and wildlife and I go in the ocean everyday. Thanks again for the award and for making my dreams come true."
Nathan Lodge, 2012 Recipient
"I am currently a senior at University of Utah, and plan to graduate in December of 2016. I am extremely thankful I received this scholarship, which was useful the first year I attended college here in Utah - I had to pay out of state tuition before earning residency.
I am graduating with a BA in Economics. I am actually planning to be a Navy SEAL if all goes well. I thrive on adventure and challenging myself. I have loved living so close to the mountains, I hike almost every day. During the ski season, you'll find me on the slopes when I'm not in school or working.
I'm not exactly sure what the future holds, but I know this scholarship helped me get my start. Thank you again!"
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Joe's scholarship is an endowed fund that is run by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation. Please help us keep the endowment alive by donating.
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Joe Brisson loved athletics, particularly soccer, which was a passion he held throughout his life. He played on Traverse City's varsity soccer team for three years and later for the Traverse City Trappers. In addition, Joe had a true adventurous spirit and a passion and zest for life. He was an avid swimmer, a mountain and rock climber, a cyclist, a runner, a golfer and an ultimate Frisbee player. In 1990, he climbed Mount Rainier.
