Scholarship Program
Montana State University is honored to announce a new investment in student support and scholarships through the generosity and vision of the Joseph James Legacy Foundation.
As of December 31, 2025, the Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation is dissolving and transferring to Montana State University, who is endowing a scholarship for Joseph James Morelli Scholars, students pursuing an education in STEM, in perpetuity. Starting in 2026, the scholarship is only available to students attending MSU.
A Legacy of Empowerment
The Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation was established in 2014 to honor Joseph Morelli and support students with dyslexia who aspire to careers in STEM. Joseph was an MSU student when he tragically passed in a car accident during a camping trip. Ensuring some good came from this tragedy, the foundation has awarded nearly $900,000 in 496 scholarships to 250 students across 44 states, creating a national impact and fostering a community of resilience, advocacy, and opportunity.
Montana State University (MSU), a public land grant and top tier research institution, known for its commitment to student success and innovation, will now serve as the new home for the foundation’s scholarship and student support programs. This transition ensures the long-term sustainability and infrastructure needed to reach and support even more students. The partnership provides new momentum to MSU’s public land grant mission – framing access and success as a central part of our work to welcome more students, local and national,  into our university community.
Expanded Scholarships and Support
MSU will continue the remarkable efforts of Joseph James Legacy Foundation by awarding the Hilleman/Morelli Scholarship. This 4-year scholarship provides a unique blend of financial, academic, leadership, and mentoring support for students. Beyond demonstrating learning differences, Hilleman/Morelli scholars will be selected on their academic, leadership, and career potential.
To apply or learn more about this Hilleman/Morelli scholarship, please visit the Hilleman Scholars Application page for more information
