Matthew J. Boles Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Matthew J. Boles Memorial Scholarship Fund remembers Matt Boles, who died tragically in 2009 a few weeks before he was to enter college at Michigan State University.

Matt was charismatic, involved, intelligent, funny and very kind. He loved leading whether it was a Boy Scout program, directing a high school play, presenting his case at the Business Professionals of America, or arguing endlessly for something he believed in. Matt believed leadership was a responsibility as well as a privilege, and he sought always to accomplish a good purpose through his persuasive powers. Matt was an excellent student who committed himself to maintaining good grades and, more importantly, to learning all he could about everything that interested him. For example, he left behind three bibles; one Catholic, one Protestant, and the Book of Mormon, each marked up for discussion with his friends.

Matt Boles

Matt was fun. He loved to laugh and he loved to make others laugh with him. His room was full of happy memories, from a Jolly Roger he flew on “Pirate Wednesday” at Boy Scout camps to a variety of mementos reminding him of good times with his friends. Matt was also concerned for his friends. When friends or acquaintances shared their troubles he would always seek to bring them peace, often using his favorite phrase, “calm your waters, killer.”

Two scholarships have been created in Matt’s memory to benefit local high school graduates who share many of Matt’s personal characteristics. One will be awarded to a graduate who has been deeply involved in theater, choir and/or orchestra. And, one will be awarded to a graduate who has been admitted to Michigan State University, preferably to MSU’s James Madison College. At James Madison, Matt planned to begin studies that he hoped would lead to a law degree, and a career as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Hopefully Matt’s spirit will live on in the leaders of tomorrow through these modest gifts.

MSU Scholarship Eligibility Criteria:

A) Graduating senior from Mt. Pleasant High School

B) Admitted to Michigan State University