The Meritus Legacy of Service Scholarship was established to honor the lasting impact of individuals who dedicate their lives to serving their communities. Inspired by the legacy of a lifelong educator who devoted 35 years to teaching, this scholarship recognizes the sacrifices made not only by those in service professions, but also by their families. Behind every teacher, first responder, and law enforcement officer is a family shaped by that commitment—often navigating long hours, emotional demands, and financial tradeoffs. This scholarship was created in recognition of those realities, with the goal of expanding opportunities for the next generation. Through this fund, we aim to support students who have grown up in service-oriented households and who carry forward the values of dedication, resilience, and community impact.