Investing in Dreams

The Kathryn Leigh Thurgaland Memorial Scholarship

One of the greatest privileges of our work is seeing Kathryn’s legacy continue to touch lives in ways we never expected. 

Each year, the Foundation awards a scholarship to a graduating senior who reflects the values Kathryn lived every day—love and inclusivity, curiosity and learning, honesty and self-reflection, authenticity and joy, bravery and determination, and a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

This year’s recipient, Sidney Brooks, reminded us that the scholarship is about far more than financial assistance. Before she ever applied, Sidney spent time learning about Kathryn through our website and through people whose lives Kathryn touched.

In the letter she wrote to us after receiving the scholarship, she shared:

“Getting to know about who she was was truly enough for me. Hearing of her is life changing on its own. So receiving your scholarship has been absolutely nothing short of surreal and humbling.”

Later in her letter, she wrote words that will stay with us for a long time:

“Time continues on. It has accidentally left its mark on both of our lives in different ways, but thank you for purposefully spending your time on me. You’ve surely left a mark.”

Reading those words reminded us why this scholarship exists.

We cannot change what happened to Kathryn. But through this scholarship, her kindness, her joy, and her love of life continue to ripple outward, encouraging students to pursue their dreams while carrying compassion into the world around them.

Sidney, thank you for your beautiful letter and for allowing Kathryn’s story to become part of yours. We are honored to be a small part of your journey, and we cannot wait to see where your future takes you.

Thank You

Scholarships like this are only possible because of the generosity of our donors, sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who supports the KLT Foundation throughout the year.

Whether you attend the Love of Life Festival, make a donation, volunteer your time, or simply help spread awareness of our mission, you are helping invest in the lives of young people while honoring Kathryn’s memory.

Thank you for helping us celebrate lives, encourage dreams, and continue Kathryn’s legacy for generations to come.