North Star Academy

In 1959, amid Alaska being admitted as the 50th state, the Cold War, and Eisenhower’s Presidency, there was a group of students at Mt. Pleasant High School busy with senior year festivities, Friday night plans, and preparing for graduation.  “We were a fun class who enjoyed being where we were, enjoyed the moments,” said class member Janice Brien Huffman.  “We...

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation manages more than 85 permanently endowed scholarship fundswhich provide opportunities for a growing number of young people (and some not so young) in our community. Scholarships have been established by local individuals, businesses, and organizations wanting to help students achieve their educational goals. Some funds award multiple scholarships, but not all funds award scholarships...

For Dr. Joyce Ann Carter, higher education and student success were the backbone of her life and career. Both she and her husband, Gerry, obtained Ph.D. degrees and were long-time faculty at Central Michigan University where she held the Director of Academic Assistance position. By working in academic assistance, Dr. Carter developed a passion for aiding struggling students in non-traditional...

For the 2025/2026 school year, the benefit amount awarded to members pursing higher education will be increased to $110,000 in total. BetterLife members may apply for BetterLife’s National Scholarship benefit consisting of up to 61 scholarships. They are as follows:One (1) $10,000 Annual Scholarship awarded to a deserving BetterLife memberNine (9) $5,000 Annual Scholarships awarded to deserving BetterLife membersOne (1)...

Scholarship CriteriaGraduating high school senior; full-time enrollment at a college/university; dedication to competitive swimming or diving during high school; minimum 3.0 GPA.Type of StudentGraduating High School SeniorsAward Amount Range$500-$1,000Required to Demonstrate Financial NeedNoResidence EligibilityKalamazoo County residentHigh School EligibilityKalamazoo County High SchoolScholarship InformationRemembered for his competitive, yet caring nature when working with the young people he coached, Bob Block's memory continues...

Carolynn Cosan was an inspiration and a mentor to her friends. Carolynn touched the lives of so many and was loved by all. She demonstrated kindness, respect, and responsibility throughout her life by taking care of the needs of her teammates and friends before considering her own well-being. Her love and deep affection for others also helped her develop the...