The Matt Christensen Scholarship was established by Judi and Alyssa Christensen to honor their son and brother Matt, who was a former Caledonia student. Matt was an outgoing, loving, hardworking, free-spirited individual who lived his life to the fullest. He had a passion for trying new things and working with his hands including sports and being in the outdoors. Matt was also an entrepreneur who gave back to others from a young age including raising money for the Van Andel Institute and would lend a hand to anyone in need. His personality always lit up a room and he loved meeting new people and considered everyone he met his family. The Matt Christensen Scholarship will honor a Caledonia high school senior who has an interest in attending post high school education including vocational (including tech or trade) school, community college or university.
Administrative Guidelines
The Matt Christensen Scholarship will honor a high school senior who meets the following criteria:
High School Senior enrolled at the Caledonia High School
Planning to attend a two to four-year college or university, or vocational program
Cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above
Applicants will write a paragraph that answers the following questions: What makes you a good leader? What leadership skills you possess? How do you advocate for and help others? What are your personal and professional goals for the future?
Evidence of demonstrated qualities of importance: hardworking, kind, dependable and responsible
Provides 2 letters of recommendation from a teacher, employer, coach or mentor
Scholarship
The Scholarship is for $500.00 and is non-renewable. The funds can be used on college or trade school tuition and/or books. It is awarded at the annual senior awards evening in May.
Process
The application is due April 1st with letters of recommendation and a copy of your transcript. It will be reviewed by the Caledonia Education Foundation representatives in partnership with CHS staff and Christensen family representatives.