In a recent interview with KPCW’s Local News Hour, Dr. Barbara Wirostko, founder of the Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation, shared heartfelt reflections on the Foundation’s journey and its transition into a new chapter. Created in memory of her son Joseph, the Foundation has awarded nearly $900,000 in scholarships to students with dyslexia and learning differences since 2014.
What began as a grassroots effort with just two $5,000 scholarships has grown into a nationally recognized program supporting hundreds of students across the U.S. As the program expanded, so did the administrative demands—prompting Dr. Wirostko and her team of volunteers to seek a long-term partner that could continue and grow the mission.
That partner is Montana State University (MSU)—the college Joseph Morelli attended. MSU’s commitment to educational equity aligns with the Foundation’s core values. As part of the transition, the scholarship program will now be administered by MSU and awarded to students enrolled at the university. MSU also plans to hire a dedicated learning strategist to help students with learning differences succeed academically and thrive in college life.
To mark this milestone and celebrate the Foundation’s impact, a final community event will be held Sunday, August 10, from 4–8 p.m. at The Shed at Promontory. The event is free and open to all, with donations encouraged to help expand the endowment before the official transfer at year’s end.
Read the full article and listen to the interview on KPCW:
Local dyslexia foundation to transfer program to Montana school
