Inspiration for the Trails of Service Nursing Scholarship

EverGreen founders Tara and Jonathan Stewart are members of a multi-generational family of community servants, and were raised by educators, military leaders, and farmers. A commitment to serve others for the greater good, and not for personal wealth or notoriety was instilled in them from childhood. 

Tara’s dad, a dairy farmer, chose to also pursue a life in the U.S. Army, followed by a distinguished career as a civil servant in the U.S. government. Her mom, while breaking stereotypes and traditional milestones of farm wives and families, took to the classroom to serve as an early child educator. Today, they remain active serving their community through food bank deliveries, veterans support, national park volunteerism, and community events. 

Jonathan’s parents both built storied careers as teachers, until a desire to serve in a different capacity pulled his dad into active duty U.S. Army service. His mom maintained her elementary-level teaching career throughout the 20+ years of his military service, finding a new classroom in each town they called home. Regardless of their location, they both contributed to the community through volunteering for school initiatives, coaching, and the Boy Scouts. Today, his parents remain active in philanthropic missions like United Through Reading, EverGreen, and other community focused initiatives. Jonathan’s brother also followed suit, serving approximately 20 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, and decided to continue his career as a federal civil servant. 

The Trails of Service scholarship fund was established to recognize the dedicated service of their respective families, and support the future of nursing across the country. Those who choose nursing share Jonthan and Tara’s learned values of compassion, service, and care.

Click here to learn more about the Trails of Service scholarship fund.

Scholarship applications or donations to support the fund can be submitted here. Donations to support the scholarship fund may also be made through our donation page.