In a move to support youth demonstrating exceptional character and leadership, Missouri Valley College unveiled its Million Dollar Character Scholarship program on Monday, aiming to foster community service and youth leadership across mid-Missouri. The announcement was made by College President Joe Parisi during a Scout Day celebration at the Missouri State Capitol, amidst a gathering of scouts, legislators, and community members.

The innovative scholarship program pledges $250,000 annually to establish renewable four-year scholarships for high-character youth who have shown a commitment to serving their communities through volunteer work with premier youth service agencies in the area. The Great Rivers Council of the Boy Scouts became the program’s inaugural participant, with Missouri Valley College introducing its Eagle Scout Scholarship last fall.

Addressing the crowd, Parisi highlighted the importance of recognizing and rewarding character, community service, and leadership among young people. “You are exactly the students we want to invest in,” Parisi told the Scouts. He emphasized the rarity of scholarships that focus on co-curricular achievements outside of academics and athletics, praising the scouts for embodying the values Missouri Valley seeks to honor.

The college’s connection to scouting and community service is deeply rooted in its history, particularly through its relationship with H. Roe Bartle, a former mayor of Kansas City and a long-standing scout executive. Bartle, who also served as president of Missouri Valley College, founded the American Humanics program on campus, solidifying a legacy of civic engagement and leadership development that continues to this day.

Parisi aptly noted the significance of making the scholarship announcement on President’s Day and Scout Day, underscoring the program’s alignment with the values of leadership and service. With plans to expand the Million Dollar Character Scholarship program through additional partnerships with youth service agencies, Missouri Valley College is set to enhance its commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders.

Further details on the scholarship program and upcoming partnerships are expected to be announced in the near future, as Missouri Valley College continues to build on its tradition of supporting character-driven education and leadership among youth in Missouri.