Marilyn Russell joined the Peace Corps and worked in Burkina Faso, Africa, which her lifelong passion for travel and helping others and her already well-developed appreciation of Indigenous culture grew.

Upon returning, she wanted to donate to something she thought would help contribute to an area related to her appreciation, and it was only natural that she wanted to help people in her beloved state of Alaska. Recently, she found a cause that she believes in, the One Health program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

This scholarship is offered in loving memory of lifelong learners Sam and Dubie Sloan It is dedicated to the sharing of knowledge and wisdom across generations, cultures, disciplines and species. Through education and by sharing our talents, traditions and gifts we become good stewards of our Earth and all its inhabitants.