Roxanne and Terry Eberle founded the Kelsey Eberle Memorial Scholarship in April of 2009 through the SMSU Foundation in honor of their daughter.

Kelsey Eberle, an SMSU graduate with a degree in elementary education, was killed on June 28, 2008 by a drunk driver at the age of 22.

The driver caused a three car accident when he crossed into oncoming traffic, hitting a Dodge Caravan which in turn struck the vehicle Eberle was in. Eberle “loved her family, adored working with children, and lived a truly virtuous life,” according to her obituary.

Stacy Frost, SMSU Director of Development, says the parents of Kelsey have made an effort to personally contact winners of the scholarship.

“The Kelsey Eberle Memorial Scholarship is significant because Roxanne and Terry have been intentional about meeting the scholarship recipient in person,” said Frost. “I introduced the first scholarship recipient to Roxanne and Terry at the SMSU Foundation Scholarship Recipient Lunch in February 2010. It was amazing to witness the deep connection the scholarship creates between the families when they meet face to face. In fact, the scholarship recipient and her mother made plans to meet up with Roxanne in the Twin Cities later that year.”

Based on academic and leadership performance, this scholarship is awarded to a full-time student majoring in education with a junior standing. The SMSU Foundation accepts donations from those wanting to contribute.

“The Eberle’s generosity will continue to impact the lives of students for years to come,” said Frost.