History of the Scholarship
The Nations Family are passionate advocates for inclusion, equity, and access to higher education—particularly for transgender students and the broader LGBTQIA+ community. They established the Nations Family Scholarship to support undergraduate students who demonstrate a deep commitment to the values of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA), with a particular focus on advancing the rights and well-being of the queer community.
● Must be pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Texas State University
● Must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours (full-time status) at the time of selection.
● Must have an overall GPA of at least 2.5.
● Must have completed a minimum of 50 credit hours
● Must be in good standing with the university during the time of selection.
● Must be an active member of an LGBTQIA+ organization that is open to all and demonstrate experience in or a commitment to supporting and promoting the needs of transgender individuals.
● Students must complete the full application process by the due date.
● As part of the application process, applicants must submit a 250–500-word essay outlining the importance of this scholarship in their educational journey. The essay should highlight leadership roles, advocacy efforts, extracurricular involvement, personal challenges, and their lived experience as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. This essay should be written personally by the applicant, in their own voice, with no help from ChatGPT or other auto-generated sources.
The Scholarship shall be presented annually at the Stelos Alliance Scholarship Awards Banquet. The time and place are to be determined by Stelos Alliance but will be in San Marcos, TX.
Beginning in 2026, Clinton B. Morris will fund a $4,000 annual scholarship for the next five years recognizing an outstanding senior in the Texas State Construction Science & Management Program. The award honors a graduating senior with strong potential in the construction industry.
In 2026, friends, family, and alumni partnered with the Stelos Alliance to establish a scholarship for the Eta Rho Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi, recognizing undergraduate brothers who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and pride in their chapter and Texas State University.
The Bustillos Mariachi Excellence Awards, established in 2025 by Sheila Bustillos, Ph.D. to provide two $500 annual scholarships to help Texas State students pursue their goals without financial barriers.