For over twenty years, Marilee Swirczek's creative writing classes at Western Nevada College (WNC) inspired many students. Her influence continues through a memorial scholarship established in her honor.
"We want to continue to honor and remember her while supporting her view that higher education opens the doors to countless possibilities," said Marilee’s daughter, Stephanie Swart. "She strived to empower her students to make a difference in their own lives and communities."
Stephanie Swart, alongside her husband Jorden, stepfather Ron Swirczek, and grandfather Thomas Tyson, initiated the Marilee Swirczek Memorial Scholarship through the WNC Foundation in 2016. As of this year, the scholarship has been expanded into an endowment aimed at assisting students in the long term.
"Through our Foundation scholarships we are able to honor and remember those who have shown students the importance of higher education and guided them to fulfilling professional careers," stated WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe.
Those interested in contributing to this scholarship or establishing a new one can contact the WNC Foundation office at 775-445-3240 or foundation@wnc.edu.