The Tari L. Cruse Memorial Scholarship

This fund was started November 21 of 2008 by the family of Tari L. Cruse. The primary purpose of the Fund shall be to make an annual scholarship grant from the fund in memory of Tari L. Cruse to assist deserving single parent students who have never been married, or are widowed or divorced who desire to pursue an education in nursing from the OSF Saint Francis College of Nursing.

The Tari L. Cruse Nursing Scholarship was established in memory of Tari Louise Cruse as a tribute to her dedication, hard work and perseverance. Tari was born and raised in Central Illinois and she had many challenges throughout her life. She struggled to provide for her children through many personal hardships and as a single parent. She struggled to complete her nursing degree. But she overcame her many struggles and she persevered. She became a powerful voice for nursing who wanted to serve others in a very personal way. And she will be remembered as a nurse who made a permanent impact on those for whom she cared.

Tari was known by her patients as a devoted, loving caretaker who treasured her role as a nurse. She left this world far too soon and it is fitting that in her memory, this scholarship can assist nursing students who are going through the same struggles that she did. The intention of this financial assistance is to enrich the lives of those who choose to serve others in the field of nursing with the same love and compassion that Tari Louise Cruse did.

By Scott Cruse (Tari’s brother)

Qualifications for this Scholarship:

  • Full-time enrollment at OSF College of Nursing (OSF CON), Peoria, IL

  • Be a single widowed or divorced parent.

  • Has demonstrated the following attributes: Positive attitude, Encourages others, Charitable, Free spirited, Hard working, Compassionate, Fun loving, Non-judgmental/Open-minded, Role model to underclassmen. Financial need may be considered but is not the primary consideration in the selection process.

If you would like to make a tax deductible donation to this endowment fund, please click the button below for online donations.  Or, you can mail a check to 135 S First Ave, Morton, IL 61550.