History of the Scholarship
Carry The Load is a non-profit organization that exists to preserve the sanctity of Memorial Day through community gatherings and storytelling to unite Americans in appreciation for the sacrifices made by a few who carried the load for all. What started in 2011 as a grassroots effort by two veteran U.S. Navy SEALs has now grown into a nationwide movement with people honoring and remembering our nation’s heroes throughout the year.
In 2023 Carry the Load and Stelos joined forces to create Carry the Load Scholarships. The aim of the scholarships is to provide financial support deserving students who have lost a parent in the line of duty. in three years the scholarship has awarded $154,000 and plans to award an additional $125,000 in 2026!
The 2025 Awards are proudly supported by our generous sponsors — we are endlessly grateful for their commitment!
Behr
Criticalops
Indco Partners
Keith and Sandy Oden
Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals
Prologis
The Texas Irish Foundation
TradeLane Properties
Must be a child of a fallen first responder or military personnel, currently attending or planning to attend college as a freshman in the Fall.
Must live and plan to attend college in the Continental US.
Student plans to or is pursuing higher education (2 year, 4 year, trade school qualify)
Student must demonstrate a strong desire to pursue a college degree and a commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.
Student must exhibit high-quality character and leadership.
An overall grade point average of 2.5 or higher at the time of application.
Student must complete the application and attach a copy of unofficial transcript and a 500 maximum word essay explaining the applicants need for the scholarship.
Past applicants and recipients may apply again.
The Scholarship shall be presented annually at the Stelos Alliance Scholarship Awards Banquet. The time and place are to be determined by Stelos Alliance but will be in San Marcos, TX.
Beginning in 2026, Clinton B. Morris will fund a $4,000 annual scholarship for the next five years recognizing an outstanding senior in the Texas State Construction Science & Management Program. The award honors a graduating senior with strong potential in the construction industry.
In 2026, friends, family, and alumni partnered with the Stelos Alliance to establish a scholarship for the Eta Rho Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi, recognizing undergraduate brothers who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and pride in their chapter and Texas State University.
The Bustillos Mariachi Excellence Awards, established in 2025 by Sheila Bustillos, Ph.D. to provide two $500 annual scholarships to help Texas State students pursue their goals without financial barriers.