Carolynn Cosan Memorial Scholarship Fund
Scholarship Sponsored by Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation
Introduction and purpose
Carolynn Cosan was a beloved friend, leader, and role model whose life, though brief, left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She consistently put teammates and friends before herself, showing compassion, integrity, and responsibility. Carolynn’s courage and conviction drove her to stand up for what she believed was right. Academically and athletically accomplished, she made history as the first female senior from Mt. Pleasant High School to earn a combined academic and athletic scholarship to play Division II soccer. Tragically, she was lost in an automobile accident just two weeks before graduation. Carolynn’s bright, energetic presence is often remembered as a comet streaking through our lives—brief, brilliant, and unforgettable.
About Carolynn
Carolynn lived a full, active life. She was a Girl Scout and a Police Academy Youth Services Cadet; played four years of varsity soccer and served as team captain in her senior year; and competed in track, cross country, gymnastics, softball, and freestyle snowboarding. She belonged to the National Wild Turkey Federation and took part as an AKC junior dog handler. Beyond competing, Carolynn coached youth soccer in Mt. Pleasant, became a certified snowboard instructor through the Professional Snowboarding Instructors of America, and earned soccer referee certification from both the Michigan Youth Soccer Association and the Michigan High School Athletic Association.
Scholarship overview
The Carolynn Cosan Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating female senior from an Isabella County high school. The scholarship honors Carolynn’s spirit by recognizing young women who have participated in varsity or club sports, served as referees, coached or taught a sport, or been active in Girl Scouts. Recipients should reflect Carolynn’s positive attitude, leadership, team commitment, respect for rules and others’ rights, and a strong work ethic. The Cosan family hopes awardees will go on to be engaged, caring citizens who support those in need and brighten the lives of others—much like the memory Carolynn left behind.
Eligibility requirements
- Applicant must be a female graduating senior from an Isabella County high school.
- Minimum cumulative grade point average: 2.5.
- Applicant must plan to enroll at an accredited college or university.
- Applicant must have participated in at least one of the following: varsity sport, club sport, served as a referee, coached or taught a sport, or been a member of Girl Scouts USA.
Selection preferences
When choosing the scholarship recipient, preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate the following:
- Evidence of positive attitude and leadership both on and off the field or in the classroom/club. Applicants must explain this in their personal essay and provide supporting recommendations from instructors, mentors, scout leaders, or coaches.
- Commitment to community service and volunteerism.
- A reflective account of how involvement in sports or Girl Scouts shaped their character and the skills they gained that will help them serve their community.
- Intention to attend Northern Michigan University (this is a preference, not a requirement).
- Financial need may be considered as a tiebreaker or additional factor, but it is not required for selection.
Application materials and instructions
(If applicable, insert here any submission details, deadlines, essay prompts, and recommendation requirements consistent with the above eligibility and preference criteria.)
The scholarship honors Carolynn’s legacy by supporting young women who combine athletic or scouting involvement with leadership, service, and good character—qualities she lived every day.