Melinda Jean Tillett Memorial Scholarship

In the mid-1990s, Melinda Jean Donawick-Tillett began visiting the Tillett Guest Ranch located near Lovell, Wyoming. In 1998 she moved to Lovell to marry William Earl Tillett. Her daughter, Billie Katelyn Tillett, was born in 1999. In 2007 Melinda and Will adopted two other daughters, Richellena Rule, then 8 years old, and Freedom Rule, 6 years old. The family resided on a farm just east of Lovell on Route 14A. Melinda became a cherished and respected friend and confidante of many residents, families and businesspeople in the region. Her smile and laugh were infectious and brightened everyone's day. The Tillett front door was always open to friends, acquaintances, and even strangers just passing by. Inside, there was always space at the table, a fresh pot of coffee brewing, and a gourmet meal for sharing. Melinda was active in Lovell community activities and freely shared her time, knowledge, skills and facilities with the community and its residents. She was an accomplished equestrian and horse trainer and her proactive nature and knowledge saved many valuable local horses and cattle stricken by disease or accident. She was an avid hunter and was proud to have taken a mountain lion, black bear and a large non-typical mule deer in her beloved Pryor Mountains. She loved being a part of the traditional lifestyle in Wyoming and Montana. Above all things, Melinda pursued her dreams and lived life on her terms. She was an inspiration to many people. She knew the value of, and believed strongly in, the education of young people. We sincerely believe it would have given her great pleasure to inspire local young people to continue their education and pursue their dreams. It is in that spirit that the Melinda Jean Tillett Scholarship Endowment Fund has been created - to perpetuate her memory and foster that spark in youth that leads to greatness. 

Who is eligible? 

Any graduate or graduating senior of Lovell High School.

Students must have an expressed interest in the fields of business or science.

What is the amount of the scholarship? 

$4,000 

What is the length of the scholarship? 

1 year 

Essay questions and additional materials: 

None: If you are eligible for this scholarship, you will only need to fill out the common questions on the application.