Bio
Biography:
The Mell Ree Perkes Andersen Non-Traditional Student Scholarship honors a remarkable woman whose life embodied resilience, service, faith, and the lifelong pursuit of education.
Born on September 14, 1922, in Hyde Park, Utah, Mell Ree was the 11th of 14 children. She married Zeno H. Andersen in 1943 and spent decades raising five children, serving in her church and community, and working alongside her husband on their farm in Petersboro, Utah.
At age 47, after years devoted to her family and community, Mell Ree fulfilled a lifelong dream by earning her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Utah State University. She went on to serve others through her work in local schools and through decades of volunteer service, including 23 years in the Stake Young Women program, 20 years in 4-H, Daughters of Utah Pioneers, missionary service in Georgia, Meals on Wheels, and numerous civic organizations.
Mell Ree believed service was "a blessing, privilege, and joy," and she demonstrated that it is never too late to pursue education, purpose, and impact.
Criteria
Must be a nontraditional student who has not been in higher education for at least (3) years, with financial need, and is a parent or caretaker. Demonstrates community impact and service via volunteering in the community Must have a minimum GPA of 2.8