K-State student awarded Morse family scholarship to support local veterans
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Mihwa Gassett, the 2025 recipient of the Morse Family and Community Public Policy Scholarship from K-State Libraries, will use her award to provide community support to local veterans.
This $5,000 scholarship supports a project or internship that allows a student to gain experience working in community, state or federal government, or within nonprofit organizations. It also aims to encourage the development of public policy that improves the quality of family and community life.
Gassett, a senior in social work and addiction counseling, Seoul, South Korea, will use the scholarship to launch a collaborative initiative directed toward enhancing community support for veterans in the Manhattan area who face substance abuse and mental health challenges. Her project addresses the growing need for tailored resources to help veterans successfully transition back into civilian life.
"I have seen a lot of military personnel struggle with mental health," Gassett said. "They can be confused and feel like they don't have a home when they get out of the military. I've heard veterans talk about not knowing where to go, and that's why we need some new nonprofit communities."
Through partnerships with Fort Riley, K-State and local establishments, Gassett will work to build a reliable network through which service members can seek help, find connections and feel valued.
This summer, she will coordinate a series of uplifting activities for veterans, including motivational lectures, book clubs and volunteer opportunities. Gassett also plans to organize small acts of kindness, such as writing hand-written notes, assembling care packages and engaging in personal conversations to reduce feelings of isolation and foster a stronger sense of confidence and belonging.
"It's important to help our veterans because they served our community and nation with their hearts and lives," Gasset said. "People need to be cared for, and they deserve it."
The Morse scholarship honors Richard L. D. and Marjorie J. Morse's lifetime commitment to improving family and community life through public service and advocacy. For more information about the scholarship, visit the K-State Libraries website.