MELISSA EDUCATION FOUNDATION ENTERS THREE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH CROSSLAND CONSTRUCTION
MELISSA, Texas, Jan. 2023 – Melissa Education Foundation has entered into a three-year, $100k sponsorship agreement with Crossland Construction Company Inc. Crossland will serve as the presenting sponsor for MEF’s Annual Gala fundraising event through 2024. In addition, the construction company will sponsor an annual scholarship for a Melissa student interested in pursuing a career in construction management. This is a first-of-a-kind partnership for MEF that supports the foundation’s vision to align with partnerships that enrich the lives of Melissa ISD students.
“At Crossland, we believe in the power of education and community. That's why we are thrilled to partner with the Melissa Education Foundation to support their mission. Together, we hope to positively impact students' lives and prepare them for successful futures through scholarships and programs that help them reach their full potential," said Rocky Hussman, Vice President/Division Manager, Texas at Crossland.
“Crossland is an ideal partner for MEF, as it works to not only provide scholarships and teacher grants but also support Melissa ISD career and tech ed programs. Crossland has elected to invest in the Melissa community to support our schools and our students in meaningful ways. We are thrilled at their interest in an ongoing partnership with MEF.” said Becki Girouard, executive director of the Melissa Education Foundation.
The Melissa Education Foundation is a 501c3 dedicated to enriching the lives of Melissa ISD students through student scholarships, teacher grants and other education opportunities. Since 2006, MEF has provided more than $1 million in scholarships to graduating seniors and grants to Melissa ISD teachers.
2022 Gala Raises Record Amount For Scholarships and Teacher Grants
The Melissa Education Foundation raised a record-breaking $139,215 for scholarships and teacher grants at its annual Gala fundraiser over the weekend.
“This was a true community effort,” said MEF Executive Director Becki Girouard. “Generous sponsors, dedicated board members, hard-working volunteers, and our supportive community came together to raise funds that will help MISD students reach their full potential. It was an incredible evening.”
The sold-out event included a live and silent auction comprised of items donated by individuals, organizations and businesses in the Melissa community. In addition, hundreds of hours were given by dozens of volunteers to ensure the Gala’s success.
“This year’s event was an incredible success. We far surpassed our fundraising goals and will be able to enrich the lives of more Melissa students than ever before,” said MEF Board Member Bruce Minchey.
Gala is MEF’s largest fundraiser of the year. Since 2006, the organization has provided more than $1 million in scholarships to graduating seniors and grants to Melissa ISD teachers.
“With increased funds this year, we plan to expand our teacher grant program designed to promote, encourage and recognized the creativity among Melissa’s outstanding educators, and provide students with incredible enrichment opportunities.” Girouard said. “In addition, we will be able to meet or goal of increasing the number of scholarship recipients each year.”
MEF SCHOLARSHIP AWARD CEREMONY
The Melissa Education Foundation awarded 133 scholarships to Melissa High School seniors during a ceremony on Monday, May 9, 2022, at the MHS performing arts center. Awards ranged from $500 to $5,000 and totaled $173,000.
“This is one of my favorite nights of the year,” said George James, MEF board president. “We have the opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of graduating seniors and give them a gift from the community to help further their education.”
MEF, founded in 2006, raises funds each year for scholarships and teacher grants. To date, the organization has awarded more than $1 million to Melissa ISD students and teachers.
“The generosity of our community and the value local individuals and organizations place on our kids and education is evident at the MEF scholarship awards night,” said Becki Girouard, MEF executive director. “These values make Melissa a great place to live and raise a family.”