When John F. and Marilyn (Stauffer) Murray scheduled an appointment with a financial planner, their main goal was to ensure they were being financially responsible in their retirement. But when they discovered they could cover their living costs and still have a little cushion, they decided to do something meaningful with the extra funds.

That’s how the Uriah and Edna (Troyer) Stauffer Scholarship was established. The scholarship was named in honor of Marilyn’s parents, who lived and worked in the Milford, Neb., area.

Though neither Uriah nor Edna attended Hesston College, several of their descendents did including Marilyn (Stauffer) Murray, C. David ’66, John C. Murray ’81, John N. Murray ’10 and current freshman Joel Murray.

Since moving to Hesston in 2008, John F. and Marilyn have attended college events and have seen firsthand the effect that Hesston College has on students. They established the scholarship as a way to help students who might not otherwise attend Hesston College.

“We want to have an influence beyond ourselves,” said John. “Hesston College offers such a unique experience that many students miss out on because they think public education is cheaper, which isn’t always the case.”

By naming the scholarship in her parents’ honor, Marilyn also hopes to reconnect with families from Milford. Students from the Mennonite churches in Milford are targeted as recipients for the scholarship. Students studying business or finance will also receive consideration.

“Education and friendships are more important than the dollar sign,” said Marilyn. “Hesston College provides high quality in both. I hope having this scholarship and others like it will encourage more students to consider Hesston College.”